Mauna Kea Observatory

Things to do near Mauna Kea Observatory

At Mauna Kea Observatory, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including guided observatory tours that provide insight into astronomical research. Stargazing tours offer the chance to witness the breathtaking night sky, while free stargazing events allow you to marvel at celestial wonders without charge. Don't miss the opportunity to observe meteor showers, making your visit truly unforgettable amidst the stunning Hawaiian landscape.

Shopping

The Hilo Farmers Market, located 41.8km away, offers a vibrant public market atmosphere perfect for local gifts. If you're up for a drive, the Hilo Shopping Center, 43.5km away, features entertainment and family-friendly options, while Hilo Coffee Mill, 49.9km away, is a charming store for coffee lovers.

Recreation

At Mauna Kea Golf Course, enjoy a round of golf with breathtaking views and a refreshing outdoor atmosphere, just 966m from the observatory. For relaxation, visit Mauna Kea State Recreation Area, 9.7km away, or Kalopa State Recreation Area, 24.1km away, both offering serene environments for wellness and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Embark on the Pu'u 'O'o Trailhead for an exhilarating hike 20.9km from Mauna Kea Observatory, surrounded by stunning scenery. Alternatively, explore the Waipio Na'alapa Trail, 29.0km away, for a refreshing outdoor experience. Don't miss the thrilling zipline at Umauma Falls, located 35.4km from the observatory.

Nightlife

At Mauna Kea Observatory, the Subaru Telescope offers a captivating planetarium experience just 322m away, while the Keck Observatory, located right next door, presents stellar entertainment vibes. Additionally, the WM Keck Observatory, 16.1km away, provides an enchanting atmosphere for stargazing enthusiasts.

Find the best attractions near Mauna Kea Observatory

At Mauna Kea Observatory, visitors can explore captivating waterfalls, stunning lookouts, and the informative visitor centre. This destination is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Notable activities include visiting the Mauna Kea Observatories and the new observatory, as well as enjoying exceptional stargazing opportunities at this renowned location. With its natural beauty and scientific significance, Mauna Kea promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

• Hamakua Heritage Corridor: Experience the lush landscapes and vibrant flora of this enchanting forest, located 30.6km from Mauna Kea Observatory. The corridor offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and natural beauty, ideal for hiking and exploring.
• Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station: Situated 8.0km away, this visitor centre is an excellent starting point for families and adventurers. Engage in informative exhibits, enjoy local insights, and embark on stargazing excursions in the surrounding outdoor setting.
• Mauna Kea Ice Age Reserve: Just 4.8km from the observatory, this reserve showcases unique geological formations and ancient landscapes, making it a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts and those interested in Hawaii's natural history.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mauna Kea Observatory

To save money while visiting Mauna Kea Observatory, consider travelling during the cheaper months of May or September to October, and aim to book your accommodation about a month in advance for the best rates. Saturday is the most affordable day to stay, while Sunday tends to be pricier. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly hotels and consider combining your bookings for flights and activities to secure additional savings. Don’t forget to look for last-minute deals and eco-certified options for a more sustainable stay.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Mauna Kea Observatory are May and September to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Mauna Kea Observatory about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Mauna Kea Observatory is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Mauna Kea Observatory is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel booking at Mauna Kea Observatory with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.