Big Island Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stargazing

5.0 ★ · 66 reviews · from USD320

Experience the magic of Mauna Kea at nearly 14,000 feet above the Pacific Ocean. Watch a breathtaking sunset from the summit, then enjoy expert-led stargazing with a professional telescope in one of the world’s best night-sky locations. This small-group tour has been operated continuously since 1989 by a trusted, fully permitted local company. Travel in luxury 4WD vans with professionally trained guides who prioritize safety, comfort, and personalized service. Learn about the cultural significance of Mauna Kea and the wonders of the universe—where ancient Hawaiians believed the Earth meets the heavens. Heavy-duty parkas, local snacks, and hot chocolate are included. Convenient pickups in Kailua-Kona and Waikoloa Beach Resort.

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What Travelers Say5.0 ★ · 66 reviews

Mauna Kea sunset and stargazing tour earns strong praise for guides Shin and John, cited for engaging commentary and attentive care during the altitude change to the summit.
Reviewers highlight the surreal experience of watching sunset above the clouds followed by stargazing at nearly 14,000 feet.
Cold-weather gear is strongly recommended, as temperatures at the summit are noted as a significant contrast to tropical lowland weather.
One tour had to reroute due to a summit road closure from hurricane impacts, and the operator adapted the itinerary accordingly.

Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor.

What's Included

✓ A required $20/person passenger fee for the Center for Maunakea Stewardship (University of Hawaiʻi) to support the care and preservation of the mountain's natural and cultural resources.

✓ Private stargazing with a professional telescope

✓ Heavy-duty hooded parka (If you need an XL parka, please request the quantity at booking.)

✓ All local snacks. Hot chocolate is served during the stargazing.

✕ Please bring your own warm layers—sweater/hoodie, warm socks, beanie, and gloves.

✕ Must wear toe closed shoes and long pants.

✕ Bring your own water. Drinking water will reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

✕ Tips for your guide are greatly appreciated.

Itinerary

45 min

We take time at the Visitor Center to safely acclimate to the high altitude while exploring the gift shop and educational displays that highlight Maunakea’s world-class observatories, unique environment, and deep cultural significance.

1 hr

Explore the summit, home to world-renowned observatories, and watch a stunning sunset sink into the clouds and horizon.

1 hr

Descend to a lower-elevation stargazing site (between 13,000 and 9,000 feet) after sunset, and experience the night sky from one of the best viewing locations on Earth. Your expert guide will bring the stars to life with fascinating insights into the universe, while a professional telescope reveals breathtaking celestial objects up close.

Meeting Point

Meet us at the shuttle bus stop by the curb in the back side of the Queen's Marketplace in Waikoloa Beach Resort. Look for the large yellow sunshade umbrellas as a landmark. ⭐⭐⭐IMPORTANT: Please contact us for your pickup time

Good to Know

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
The tour may be canceled before departure due to weather or road closures. If that happens, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund.
If the weather turns unfavorable during the tour, we’ll still do our best to provide a great experience. If we cannot reach the summit due to road closures or other unforeseen issues, you’ll receive a full refund or credit.
Alcohol beverages are not allowed.
Drunk or intoxicated guests are not allowed.
A minimum of 3 guests is required to hold a tour. If we have fewer than 3 bookings 24 hours before departure, the tour will be canceled unless existing guests choose to pay the difference.
Pets, including service animals, are not allowed to ensure the comfort and safety of guests with allergies or animal phobias.
No meals are included. Please eat a full meal before the tour. We do provide some nice local snacks.
A cup of hot chocolate will be served during the stargazing.
If a guest becomes ill or injured and cannot continue, the group may need to adjust the itinerary. Anyone leaving the tour must be accompanied by a companion (if applicable) and arrange their own return transportation at their own expense.
If you need an XL parka, please request the quantity at booking.
Age restriction: 13-80 yrs old (Guests ages 13–17 must be accompanied by a responsible adult)
Guests with heart conditions, lung disease, or serious medical issues are not allowed.
Pregnant guests are not allowed.
Guests who have been scuba diving within 24 hours are not allowed.
Severely obese guests (BMI over 40.0) are not allowed.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.