
Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars
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September 2026
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Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 1,856 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars worth booking?
Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars is a 7-hour experience in Big Island of Hawaii, United States, from $289 per person. It scores 87 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 1,856 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 87 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (1,856)
- Duration
- 7 hours
- From
- $289 per person
Delight in the awe-inspiring sunset at the top of Mauna Kea, the highest point in the Pacific. Your guide will share historic accounts of the Big Island. Stand amidst the world’s largest collection of research telescop
What you get
About this experience
Delight in the awe-inspiring sunset at the top of Mauna Kea, the highest point in the Pacific. Your guide will share historic accounts of the Big Island. Stand amidst the world’s largest collection of research telescopes. Two of the eight telescopes which took the first photos of the black hole are here. Sip a hot beverage during your private star show and view planets with a professional telescope (Weather Permitting). Your guide will take astrophotography photos of you with our camera and email them to you.
What's included
Included
- Experienced tour guide
- FREE night photo with our professional camera
- Snacks and a hot beverage
- Jackets and gloves to keep you warm
- Transportation in a comfortable 4X4 van
- Professional telescope (Weather Permitting)
Not included
- Dinner (Travelers may bring their own)
- Private Tour
What you'll see and do
Mauna Kea Summit
One of the best places to see the sunset and stargazing and it's also the highest mountain on earth. Comfortable 4X4 passenger van as transportation.Jackets and gloves provided to keep you warm. Experienced tour guide to talk about our history and show you our amazing night with a laser pointer. Get close to the stars with our professional Celestron telescope and get a nice photo with our DSLR camera.
240 minutes here · Admission included
Maunakea is a celebrated and storied place in the cultural traditions of Hawai'i. While it is the dwelling place of the goddess Poli'ahu it is also associated with the Hawaiian deities Lilinoe and Waiau. The summit was considered the realm of the gods and in ancient times was kapu (forbidden) to all but the highest chiefs and priests. Occasionally Hawaiian ali'i (royalty) would make the long trek to the top, the last royal visitor being Queen Emma in 1881 who led her companions on the arduous 6 hour journey to the top to see the summit and rejuvenate herself in sacred Lake Waiau. The White Mountain Legends of the Mountain - Poli´ahu While today Maunakea is home to 13 international observatories and recieves thousands of visitors every year it remains a sacred place for the people of Hawai'i. On the the fourth Saturday of every month MKVIS hosts community speakers who speak about Mauna O Wakea from a cultural perspective.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Big Island of Hawaii
Maunakea Visitor Information Station https://maps.app.goo.gl/nBuxZDm7CspDMiJV7
Meeting point
Big Island of Hawaii
Bank of Hawaii ATM 74-5457 Makala Blvd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 https://maps.app.goo.gl/hToV4BhqeoBmnR918
Meeting point
Big Island of Hawaii
Waikoloa Queens’ Marketplace(Tour Shuttle Pick-Up Point) https://maps.app.goo.gl/tdgkU7q7kjwXnMWF6
Meeting point
Big Island of Hawaii
Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo - a DoubleTree by Hilton, 93 Banyan Dr, Hilo, HI 96720 until 9/30/2026
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Maunakea Visitor Information Station https://maps.app.goo.gl/nBuxZDm7CspDMiJV7
Ends at
Bank of Hawaii ATM 74-5457 Makala Blvd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 https://maps.app.goo.gl/hToV4BhqeoBmnR918
Ends at
Waikoloa Queens’ Marketplace(Tour Shuttle Pick-Up Point) https://maps.app.goo.gl/tdgkU7q7kjwXnMWF6
Ends at
Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo - a DoubleTree by Hilton, 93 Banyan Dr, Hilo, HI 96720 until 9/30/2026
Options you can book
Waikoloa Queens’ Marketplace
Waikoloa Queens’ Marketplace : Waikoloa Queens’ Marketplace(Tour Shuttle Pick-Up Point) https://maps.app.goo.gl/tdgkU7q7kjwXnMWF6
Kona Bank Of Hawaii Pick Up
Kona BOH Pick Up : Kona Commons shopping center Bank of Hawaii (across the lot from the Kona Target) https://maps.app.goo.gl/hToV4BhqeoBmnR918 Starting point: Bank of Hawaii, 74-5457 Makala Blvd Ste 102, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA
Maunakea Visitor Information
Starting point: Maunakea Visitor Information Station, Mauna Kea Access Rd, Hilo, HI, USA
Hilo Naniloa Hotel Pick Up
Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo - a DoubleTree by Hilton “A” lot, near Crowns nightclub
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- de, ko, pt, cmn, ja, en, it, fr, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 14 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Hawaii Island Holidays
Know before you go
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Weather can change rapidly (snow, fog, 120+ mph winds are possible year-round)
- Road closures may occur due to ice, snow, poor visibility, strong winds, or safety conditions
- No smoking, alcohol, or illegal drugs at any time.
- Please respect the mountain — leave no trash behind.
- Not allowed for travelers under 13 years old
- Not allowed for travelers with heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Not allowed for pregnant travelers
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 1,854 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
6 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Traveler reviews
1,854 verified traveler reviews for Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great communication
I had been planning to do this tour, but plans were squashed due to hurricane Lala. I was impressed with the communication and handling of the cancellation, and definitely plan to try again next time I’m on the island.
via Tripadvisor
GOAT indeed
One of the most amazing experiences I’ve ever had, seeing the Milky Way with the naked eye was beautiful. Chris was an amazing tour guide and storyteller. Chris, if you’re seeing this, give us your Venmo to tip you since it didn’t go through!
via Tripadvisor
Mauna Kea—celestial experience!
This is an experience that cannot be missed! Seeing the sunset atop Mauna Kea, considered the tallest mountain in the world, literally above the clouds, is truly one of a kind. The landscape itself is otherworldly. When people say it looks like another planet, they aren’t lying. It’s how I imagine Mars would look! After sunset, we gathered under the clear night sky and gazed at the thousands of stars dotting the vast darkness. Coming from a big city, I have never seen a night sky with that many stars—and shooting stars too! It was absolutely surreal! Our guides, John and Chris, were awesome and made the experience even more memorable. They showed us the constellations and had a telescope that allowed us to see celestial objects I had only ever seen in pictures. Holy smokes! What I saw through that telescope was spectacular! Seeing nebulae and distant stars with my own eyes gave me an entirely different appreciation for the sheer scale of the universe. And somehow, one of my favorite little details was enjoying hot cocoa while stargazing. There was something wonderfully cozy about holding a warm cup of cocoa while peering into the vastness of a cosmos so far beyond our ability to fully comprehend. You feel incredibly small looking out into that immensity, yet at the same time, the warmth of the cocoa makes you feel grounded and present in that exact moment. More than anything, though, this was a deeply spiritual experience for me. Mauna Kea is sacred in Native Hawaiian culture, and standing there, I could appreciate why this mountain has held such profound significance for generations. You feel so close to the celestial heavens when you’re there. The experience also gave me an even greater appreciation for the extraordinary astronomical and navigational knowledge of Native Hawaiians and other Polynesian voyagers. Just wow. Between the sunset above the clouds, the otherworldly landscape, the incredible night sky, the telescope, the shooting stars, the hot cocoa, and our fantastic guides, this was an unforgettable experience from beginning to end. I feel incredibly grateful and fortunate to have experienced Mauna Kea in this way.
via Viator
This was truly a...
This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one of the most unforgettable nights of our trip! Watching the sunset from the summit of Mauna Kea was absolutely breathtaking. The views were unlike anything we had ever seen. Kella was an AMAZING guide! She was so knowledgeable throughout the entire tour and took the most incredible photos for us, giving us beautiful memories to take home from such a special experience. As if the sunset wasn’t amazing enough, we were lucky enough to see a volcano erupting in the distance and even spotted shooting stars across the night sky. Standing on top of Mauna Kea surrounded by such incredible scenery felt completely surreal. From the breathtaking sunset to the volcano, shooting stars, and amazing photos, this was a night we will cherish forever. An absolute must-do on the Big Island!
via Viator
Despite the extremely...
Despite the extremely rare cloud activity, our tour guides went out of their way to find us a clear night sky for stargazing. They made sure we got our money’s worth.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 7 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 650
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Why this scores 87
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Big Island of Hawaii.
How much does Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars cost?
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Prices start at $289 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Big Island of Hawaii usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars take?
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Plan for about 7 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Big Island of Hawaii is not rushed.
Is Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 87 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 1,856 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Big Island of Hawaii, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 7-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars?
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Around 650 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Big Island of Hawaii can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Big Island of Hawaii and add a light layer if any part of the 7-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Big Island of Hawaii within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Big Island of Hawaii?
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The Big Island is volcano country: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tours, Mauna Kea summit stargazing, night manta ray snorkels off Kona, Waipio Valley lookouts and coffee farm visits. Summit tours have real altitude rules, so we weight safety detail. On Outty we rank every Big Island of Hawaii experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include KONA Manta Ray Night Snorkel - FREE re-ride if no Sightings, Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History, Big Island: Captain Cook Snorkel On A Power Catamaran With Lunch. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Big Island of Hawaii?
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April to October, though the island runs year round. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Big Island of Hawaii?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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