Mauna Kea Summit and Observatory
Mauna Kea Access Road, Hilo, Big Island of Hawaii, HI, 96720
The Mauna Kea Summit and Observatory is a top destination for stargazing. Located on Hawaii’s tallest mountain at 13,796 feet (4,138 meters), the observatory information center is a highlight of many visitors’ trips to the Big Island of Hawaii. Here, you can see some of the world’s largest telescopes, including equipment from Canada, France, and the University of Hawaii.
The Basics
There are several ways to visit the Mauna Kea Summit and Observatory. Some people only visit the observatory information center, which is home to interactive displays, telescopes, talks, and tours. Others choose to combine a visit to the telescopes with an independent excursion or guided tour to the summit. You can choose between a challenging hike or a scenic drive in a 4x4 vehicle. Both sunrise and sunset are popular times for visiting the summit.
Things to know before you go
The hike from the information center is challenging and lengthy; expect 10 hours for the round-trip hike and be aware that the trail has no amenities.
The observatory information center is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, but the hiking trail to the summit is not.
Wheelchair users can access the summit by 4x4 vehicle.
Camping is not permitted on Mauna Kea.
How to Get There
The visitor information station is about an hour’s drive from Hilo, via Highway 200. From Kailua-Kona, the drive takes about 1.5 hours along Highway 190. From Waikoloa, the drive is about 50 minutes via the Saddle Road. Tours are available from each of these three origin points. Some visitors choose to rent a car and explore independently.
When to get there
Clear sky conditions are essential for those seeking to check out the telescopes at Mauna Kea Observatory. The months that coincide with the least amount of rain on the Big Island are from March through September; this time of year offers the best conditions for the telescopes. Sunrise and sunset tours are beautiful year-round.
The Milky Way at Mauna Kea
Dark skies at Mauna Kea make this location one of the best in the world for viewing the Milky Way. While it is possible to see the Milky Way with the naked eye when conditions are right, the telescopes here offer the chance to see even more detail. Nightly, ranger-led programs shed even more light on astronomy and what visitors are seeing through the telescopes.
Ways to explore
There are several ways to experience the Mauna Kea Summit and Observatory. Some people only visit the observatory information center, home to interactive displays, telescopes, talks, and tours. Others combine a visit to the telescopes with an independent excursion or guided tour to the summit. You can choose between a challenging hike or a scenic drive in a 4x4 vehicle. Full-day tours tend to last 7–8 hours, while the round-trip hike takes 10–12 hours.
Accessibility
The observatory information center is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, but the hiking trail to the summit is not.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Sun protection—UV is strong at high altitudes
What to wear
Due to the altitude, it can feel super cold at the mountain summit; bring warm layers even if it’s hot at sea level.
Not allowed
Camping
Amenities
Nothing at the summit, though there’s a snack bar and visitor center on the way up.
Address
The visitor information station is about an hour’s drive from Hilo, via Highway 200. Tours are available from each of these three origin points. Some visitors choose to rent a car and explore independently.
Driving
From Kailua-Kona, the drive takes about 1.5 hours along Highway 190. From Waikoloa, the drive is about 50 minutes via the Saddle Road. There’s a parking lot at the visitor center.
Public transportation
It’s difficult to reach the summit via public transportation. Only 4WD vehicles are allowed to the summit of Mauna Kea; rangers will stop 2WD vehicles at the visitors center, which is 30 minutes away from the summit. You can take a shuttle the rest of the way or arrange transport with a tour.
Best times to visit
Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most impressive views, or towards the end of the evening for stargazing opportunities (the center closes at 9:30pm).
Best days to visit
The weather determines which days are best to visit the observatory; check the forecast before planning your journey.
Best months to visit
March through September see the least rain on the Big Island; this time of year offers the clearest skies and best conditions for stargazing through the telescopes.
Special events
The town of Kona at the foot of the mountain hosts a brewing festival every March.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!