Sunset and Stargazing on the Big Island
- Kona, Big Island, Hawaii
Spend an evening on Big Island’s Mauna Kea summit watching the sunset and taking in the stars of the night sky. The view of the night sky is unmatched from atop the highest volcanic peak on the islands. A hot dinner al fresco and cultural storytelling and lore is included. Transportation is also included. The tour is 7-8 hours in total. Book now.
MaunaKea Sunset & Stargazing Features
Spectacular Views from the Summit
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the sunset as the sky transforms into a mesmerizing palette of vibrant oranges and pinks. And as darkness descends, prepare to be awe-struck by the astonishing visibility of the stars. Discover constellations and planets while delighting in the sheer magnificence of the night sky. For an unforgettable encounter with the celestial wonders, we'll venture down the mountain to observe them through the remarkable 11" Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope.
Professional Guide
We understand that a great tour starts with a great guide, which is why we've carefully chosen individuals who not only have extensive knowledge but also possess a genuine curiosity and a desire to share the treasures of Hawaii with you. Our guides go beyond simply reciting facts, they immerse you in the natural and cultural wonders, ensuring your comfort and safety throughout your journey. Join us as we show, rather than just tell, what makes our home so special.
Dark Sky in Hawaii
Discover the hidden wonders of the night sky amidst the darkness of Hawaii's island paradise. With only 20 stars visible in the light-polluted city of Honolulu, contrast that with the breathtaking spectacle of up to 2,000 stars twinkling above in places with a truly dark night sky.
The cutting-edge facilities on Mauna Kea rely on the blackness of the night sky to unlock the mysteries of the cosmos, enabling telescopes to reveal the faintest objects scattered across space.
However, it's not just scientists who benefit from this celestial sanctuary. The dark night sky has captured the hearts of over 100,000 tourists each year, who flock to the island of Hawaii for a chance to witness the incredible display overhead. Join them at the world-famous Mauna Kea summit, where the night sky boasts darkness and clarity unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Maunakea Sunset & Stargazing Adventure Details
Elements
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Enjoy a picnic dinner
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Your guide will share historic accounts of early travelers through the mountain lands
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Delight in the awe-inspiring sunset over the Pacific
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Sip hot chocolate during your private star show with an 11” Celestron telescope
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Hotel Pickup
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Small Groups
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Star Filled Skies
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Warm Gear Provided
Insight
An unforgettable evening under the brilliant night sky on Hawaii's tallest volcano. The visibility from Mauna Kea is unmatched, attracting both star-gazing enthusiasts and respected scientists. As the sun slowly sets, the stars come out and dot the sky in a dazzling display of soft light. Begin the adventure with a picnic dinner, accompanied by stories from our knowledgeable tour leader about the ancient navigators and mountaineers of Hawaii. Discover the constellations that guided their journeys. Thanks to the remote location of the island chain and the elevation of Mauna Kea, this spectacle is exclusive to the Big Island. Whether you choose to observe with the naked eye or through our powerful telescope, stargazing from Mauna Kea will inspire awe and a deep appreciation for the vastness of the universe. This extraordinary tour lasts approximately 7-8 hours and is open to participants aged 16 and above.
Cost & Schedule
7.5-Hour Summit Sunset & Stargazing Tour From Kona Resorts
AdultsAges 13 yrs+ | $295.00 |
- Total round-trip travel time from Waikoloa Resorts is approximately 3.5 hours.
- This experience is not available for children under the age of 13.
Program
Tour duration: 7-8 hours
- Hotel pickups are scheduled between 1:55 PM and 2:40 PM; timing may vary throughout the year to match prime sunset conditions.
- Travel duration to the summit from Waikoloa is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
- Sunset viewing and dinner featuring cultural storytelling last about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- The stargazing session is planned for roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes.
- Return transportation to the hotel.
Meals
Picnic style dinner, assorted teas, hot chocolate, and dessert.
Guidance
- Provided Equipment: We supply warm clothing, including hooded parkas and gloves.
- Items to Bring & Attire: Please bring a reusable water bottle and wear closed-toe shoes, warm socks and/or leggings, long pants, and a sweatshirt or sweater. We provide winter parkas and gloves.
- Requirements: Weather conditions can change rapidly, and the summit access road may close without notice; therefore, we cannot guarantee access to the summit or favorable conditions. Guests should be prepared to walk on uneven or rocky terrain. Temperatures can drop below freezing at high elevations on the mountain, and we may encounter cold, wet, or muddy conditions. Due to the high altitude, this tour is not recommended for those with respiratory, circulatory, or heart conditions, pregnancy, or poor health. If you plan to scuba dive, do not go to the summit within 24 hours after diving due to the altitude.
Booking
Any request for a refund prior to 72 hours is honored with a full cash refund. No refunds issued for any tours within the 72 hour period, prior to the start of your tour.