Watch a high-altitude sunset then explore the night sky through a guided telescope session.
7–8 hrs
Parka, snacks, telescope use
Witness a breathtaking Mauna Kea summit sunset nearly 14,000 feet above the Pacific, then marvel at a laser-guided stargazing session. Your guide provides warm parkas, snacks and expert telescope insights.
Participants must be between 13 and 80 years old. Alcohol and large luggage are prohibited. Wear warm clothing and drink plenty of water to reduce altitude sickness.
Parties of up to 4 receive a full refund when cancelling by 12:00 noon Hawaii time one day before the tour. Parties of 5 or more must cancel by noon two days before, and private tours by noon three days before. Full refunds are issued for operator cancellations due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. No-shows are charged in full. Reservations with incorrect information may be cancelled.
This Mauna Kea sunset and stargazing tour delivers an unforgettable experience that guests consistently describe as breathtaking and magical. The guides, particularly John and Shin, earn exceptional praise for their astronomy expertise, warmth, and dedication to making every tour memorable. They handle both English and Japanese-speaking groups seamlessly, and reviewers love how they go above and beyond—spotting rare moonbows, capturing stunning Milky Way photos with professional equipment, and using computerized telescopes to reveal stars and galaxies in incredible detail. The comfortable Mercedes van, thoughtful touches like hot chocolate and local snacks, and proper cold-weather gear all contribute to a well-organized adventure. What really stands out is how the guides adapt to conditions. Even when weather doesn't cooperate for stargazing, they find creative ways to make the experience special, whether that's photographing volcanic glows or seeking out alternative viewing spots. Multiple reviewers mention this as a top highlight of their entire Big Island visit, with families and couples alike treasuring the professional photos and the rare opportunity to experience complete silence under a star-filled sky. The attention to individual guests and their backgrounds—like photographing southern hemisphere visitors with the North Star—shows genuine care that turns a great tour into something truly personal.
Absolute wonderful experience on the Sunset and Stars tour with John as our guide. Going to the summit of Mauna Kea was a breathtaking experience for my Wife and I and absolutely a must do when visiting the big island. What made it even more amazing was John our tour guide. Unfortunately, we didn't have great weather for the star gazing (high overcast) but John, determined to make the most of the tour for us was able to take an amazing night photo with kilauea volcano erupting glow in the background. Spectacular.
Michael Elam
a week ago
Absolute wonderful experience on the Sunset and Stars tour with John as our guide. Going to the summit of Mauna Kea was a breathtaking experience for my Wife and I and absolutely a must do when visiting the big island. What made it even more amazing was John our tour guide. Unfortunately, we didn't have great weather for the star gazing (high overcast) but John, determined to make the most of the tour for us was able to take an amazing night photo with kilauea volcano erupting glow in the background. Spectacular.
Michael Elam
a week ago