Mauna Kea Stargazing Experience + Photos
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Led by both an astronomer and an astro-photographer, we’re the only stargazing tour that combines expert guidance with astrophotography, offers two-hour experiences, avoids bright crowds, and has a stargazing guarantee.
Part 1 –
All ages welcome. We meet at our dark-sky location on the safe, comfortable slopes of Mauna Kea or Mauna Loa—away from city lights. Relax in a reclining folding chair, sip hot chocolate, enjoy the cool mountain air, and watch the stars appear.
Part 2 –
Using our Celestron Origin smart telescope, we bring the universe to you—no eyepiece required. Controlled by an iPad or smartphone, it produces stunning live images on-screen. See galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters in real time while your astronomer explains each object and answers your questions.
Part 3 –
While you enjoy the view, our astro-photographer captures epic images of you and your group under the Milky Way. Medium-size digital files are included, with high-resolution upgrades available.
Available options
Mauna Kea Stargazing Experience + Free Photos
What's included
Parka Jackets
Professional photographer guide
All activities
Complimentary Medium Resolution Photos
Detailed itinerary
1
Led by an astronomer and astro-photographer, our tours avoid the crowded Onizuka Visitor Center and take place at quiet, remote locations on Mauna Kea or Mauna Loa. Time slots are handpicked to avoid bright moonlight and maximize your view of the night sky.
Each 2-hour experience includes:
• A guided star talk by our astronomer using a Celestron Origin smart telescope
• Close-up telescope views of deep sky objects like nebulas, star clusters, and galaxies
• Complimentary portraits taken by our astro-photographer with the Milky Way as your backdrop
• Medium-resolution photos included at no extra cost
• A stargazing guarantee — if the stars don’t show, the tour is free
What's not included
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Optional Photo Upgrades Available
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
82 reviews
5★
72
4★
4
3★
1
2★
2
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.8
168 reviews
5★
156
4★
5
3★
3
2★
1
1★
3
Important information
Service animals allowed
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Dress code: Wear pants and closed-toed shoes
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Weather can reach 30F. We have parka jackets that have pockets and a hood, although that may not be enough for some
Not recommended for travelers with any mobility/ambulatory restrictions, back, heart and hearing problems or other serious medical conditions
Pregnant Travelers should discuss with their doctor before hand.
Not suitable for some senior citizens
Not recommended for chronic complainers ;)
Meeting point
Text us 6 hours prior to your tour for an updated meeting location, we meet at other locations on Mauna Kea or Mauna Loa.
If you have an international phone number, please send us a local contact number once you have it.
Send us your email address if you want the photos after the tour.
Important notes
• Reach out to us on Instagram @EpicTours or text +1 808 747 1211 for waivers/photo upgrades as well as the updated meeting location
• It is highly recommended to have a rental car to meet at the starting location.
• The nearest gas station is 20 miles away
Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions and weather
About Big Island of Hawaii
The Big Island of Hawaii is the largest and youngest of the Hawaiian Islands, known for its diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, active volcanoes, and lush rainforests. It offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.
Top Attractions
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
This national park is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. It offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and the opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
Moderate ($30 per vehicle)
Mauna Kea Summit
Mauna Kea is the highest point in Hawaii and offers stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a unique alpine environment.
Nature/Adventure
Half day to full day
Free (but requires acclimatization)
Waipio Valley
Waipio Valley is a lush, scenic valley known for its taro farms, waterfalls, and black sand beach. It is also a significant cultural site for Native Hawaiians.
Nature/Cultural
Half day
Free (but parking fee applies)
Hapuna Beach State Park
Hapuna Beach is one of the largest white sand beaches on the Big Island, offering swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing opportunities.
Beach
Half day
Free (but parking fee applies)
Akaka Falls State Park
Akaka Falls is a stunning 442-foot waterfall surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The park offers a scenic loop trail leading to the falls.
Nature
1-2 hours
Moderate ($5 per person)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Poke
A raw fish salad marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions, often served with rice.
Appetizer
Contains fish, can be made with various types of seafood
Loco Moco
A hearty dish consisting of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.
Main Course
Contains beef, eggs, and gluten (from the gravy)
Shave Ice
Finely shaved ice flavored with syrups and often topped with sweetened condensed milk or ice cream.
Dessert
Vegetarian, can be made with various toppings
Kona Coffee
A premium coffee grown in the Kona region, known for its rich and smooth flavor.
Drink
Caffeinated, can be decaffeinated
Popular Activities
Hiking
Volcano exploration
Water sports
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Scenic drives
Traditional Hawaiian luaus
Local markets
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
This is the best time to visit the Big Island, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists. The ocean is warm, and the weather is generally dry and sunny.
21-30°C
70-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Japanese, Tagalog
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST, GMT-10:00)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
The Big Island is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware of natural hazards such as volcanic activity and ocean conditions.
Important Precautions:
- • Rent a car with full insurance coverage
- • Be cautious when purchasing souvenirs and tours, and research options in advance
- • Be aware of ocean conditions and currents when swimming and snorkeling
Getting there
By air
- Kona International Airport • 20 km from Kona
- Hilo International Airport • 10 km from Hilo
By bus
Hilo, Kona
Getting around
Public transport
The Hele-On Bus is the public bus system on the Big Island. It is affordable but has limited routes and schedules.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Kona
Hilo
Waimea
Day trips
Mauna Kea Summit
30 km from Waimea • Half day to full day
Mauna Kea is the highest point in Hawaii and offers stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a unique alpine environment.
Waipio Valley
60 km from Hilo • Half day
Waipio Valley is a lush, scenic valley known for its taro farms, waterfalls, and black sand beach. It is also a significant cultural site for Native Hawaiians.
Hapuna Beach State Park
30 km from Waimea • Half day
Hapuna Beach is one of the largest white sand beaches on the Big Island, offering swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing opportunities.
Festivals
Merrie Monarch Festival • April
Kona Coffee Cultural Festival • November
Ironman World Championship • October
Pro tips
- Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace and access remote areas
- Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park early in the day to avoid crowds and see the best views
- Pack layers, as temperatures can vary significantly depending on the elevation and location
- Try local dishes like poke, loco moco, and shave ice for an authentic taste of the Big Island
- Respect the environment and local culture, and follow guidelines for visiting protected areas and sacred sites
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
