Known for its hiking, sightseeing, and stargazing, a trip to Mauna Kea on the Big Island means adventure and excitement for visitors of any inclination. Due to the dark skies, lack of artificial light pollution, and low humidity, Mauna Kea offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the island and the night sky from an unreal vantage point. The stargazing program, sponsored by the University of Hawaii, is a fun and educational opportunity to learn about the universe.
You can learn about Mauna Kea on your own and even take your own adventures around the area. Or you can use one of the oldest and most prolific tour operators on the Big Island, Mauna Kea Summit Adventures to learn everything there is to know about this dormant volcano.
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Mauna Kea is the tallest sea mountain in the world, offering unprecedented views of the heavens above. So get ready for some stargazing like you’ve never seen before.
Polynesian Voyaging was a nearly lost art and science that has been revived in recent years
Mauna Kea is the highest point in the state of Hawaii, that’s why it’s so important to stay safe and take every precaution before venturing up the summit.
A highly regarded scientific site, Mauna Kea is one of the world’s most important astronomical research centers, allowing mankind a portal to see the Universe.
The alpine environment that lies below Mauna Kea is home to startlingly unique and ruggedly-beautiful flora and fauna that you can’t find anywhere else.
There are two major hikes on Mauna Kea that attract most hikers: The full Mauna Kea Summit Trail and a shorter hike to Lake Waiau, both are amazing.
Also known as Mauna O Wakea, or Mountain of the Sky Father, Mauna Kea, the White Mountain is an important cultural site.
For all its splendor, Mauna Kea is a remote location without basic amenities like food and gas, so you will want to fill up and stock up before you go.
The Institute for Astronomy at the University of Hawaii is one of the world’s most influential and impactful astronomical research centers.
A brief, entertaining look at the world of astronomy, the Stargazer Radio Program is an excellent listen for astronomy buffs and lay people alike.
More than 11 countries, non-profit institutions, and scientific cooperatives have established, funded, and maintained 13 telescopes atop Mauna Kea.
