Mauna Kea Stargazing Experience + Photos

The only tour company to start at least 1.5 hours after sunset when the stars will be the clearest.

Rent a Jeep and use it as a prop on the tour. :)

We only do tours when the moon is less than 20% bright or is setting during the tour. Other companies do tours regardless if the full moon is out. :/

The most light sensitive deep space camera/telescope setup out of any company in Hawaii.

Star Trails over the mountain - This is a stack of 400 photos blended together to show you the rotation of Earth.

Duration2h

Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before

Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesEnglish

Group sizeUp to 30 travelers

Overview

Led by an astronomer and astrophotographer, our stargazing experience combines expert astronomy, astrophotography, uncrowded locations, and our stargazing guarantee.

Part 1 –
All ages welcome. Meet at our dark-sky location on the slopes of Mauna Kea or Mauna Loa. Relax in a reclining chair, sip hot chocolate, and watch the stars appear overhead.

Part 2 –
Explore the universe with our Celestron Origin smart telescope. See live images of galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters on-screen while your astronomer explains each object and answers questions. Upon availability, we also include a night vision scope and our 9.25-inch telescope for traditional eyepiece viewing.

Part 3 –
Our astrophotographer captures epic images of you under the night sky. Couples, families, and special occasions are welcome. Planning a proposal or engagement? The stars create an unforgettable backdrop. Medium-size digital photos are emailed within 48 hours, with high-resolution upgrades available.

What's included

Parka Jackets
Professional photographer guide
All activities
Complimentary Medium Resolution Photos

Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Optional Photo Upgrades Available

What to expect

Onizuka Astronomy Complex
1h 30m

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 90 minute 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

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Text us 6 hours before your tour for the updated meeting location. We may meet at different locations on Mauna Kea or Mauna Loa.

International number? Send us a local contact number once available.

Want your photos? Send us your email address.

End point

Text us 6 hours before your tour for the updated meeting location. We may meet at different locations on Mauna Kea or Mauna Loa.

International number? Send us a local contact number once available.

Want your photos? Send us your email address.

Additional 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 ;)

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.8 (276)