Stargazing with Epic Tours was an unforgettable experience. Words really can't adequately express…read morehow stunning the stars are from that location on Mauna Kea. They supply coats and blankets, but it's cold up there, so don't forget to dress as warm as you can. I loved being able to learn about the stars and planets and constellations and galaxies and ask all the questions I wanted to ask of Dylan. They use a laser pointer to show us everything, and if you have a question, they hand it to you to point out what you're talking about. They are so knowledgeable and have really thought of it all to make the experience special. James has some really impressive camera equipment and took some of the most stunning pics I've ever seen. (I tried to take a couple with my phone, but they were all blurry, so I was so happy to have a bunch of gorgeous pics sent to me.) The whole experience was absolutely beautiful and I would do it again in a heartbeat.

Once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! I have never seen so many stars in my entire life and having a…read moreprofessional who was super knowledgeable made it the perfect experience! We went as a group of eight and had a blast! My one piece of advice would be to dress SUPER warm! I've never been so grateful for layers!!! (They provide parkas/jackets but dress warm under!). Definitely recommend!

The Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station, located at an elevation of 9,200 ft above sea level, is…read moremanaged and operated by the University of Hawai'i. Currently, the University of Hawai'i Institute for Astronomy also co-manages Mauna Kea Observatories. Mauna Kea Observatories is a group of ten independent astronomical research institutions. These non-profit institutions from various nations operate telescopes atop Mauna Kea on the Big Island of Hawai'i. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ASTRO DAY 2026 Presented by Mauna Kea Observatories 10am-4pm on Saturday, May 2, 2026 At Prince Kuhio Plaza I seriously became immersed with interest and curiosity for over 2+ hours, visiting nine of many participants spread throughout the plaza. I started at 9:40am and ended well past noon. Interacting, watching demonstrations, speaking to passionate and knowledgeable individuals. To actual professionals of the industry, with students and volunteers as well. In full awe and amazement, learning as an adult alongside kids who were with their parents. I couldn't have asked for a better Saturday. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ W.M. Keck Observatory explained how infrared astronomy allows their telescopes to see through cosmic dust and gas found in galaxies. I watched as infrared radiation or heat was shown on their tablet through a demonstration. I selected a galaxy print that was carved out from a calendar as it was quickly transformed into a button by members of the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station. Personalizing a bookmark from the International Gemini Observatory, the meaning of this educational material was shared to myself and others with astronomical and Hawai'i values combined. Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park had me view ash and Pele's hair through a magniscope, residue from an actual volcanic eruption on our island. I also saw a camera which got too close to the heat of magma and melted. Shared surface = shared energy by the University of Hawai'i Department of Physics & Astronomy. A cool and effective demonstration with metronomes. I was told Snoopy went onboard the NASA ARTEMIS I mission, and was given a NASA Solar System activity pack from the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy. I remember vividly the visit to my school by Hawai'i astronaut, Ellison Onizuka. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ I spoke to a Hilo High School student about their robotics team and how they build, code and operate robots for official competitions. I watched a robot controlled + in-action by those who built it. A student at the Hawai'i Science Tech Museum table explained to me the difference between VEX IQ, VRC and VEX V5 robotics material systems used for different age groups. Similar to BattleBots on TV, I cheered with the crowd as two grade school students went into robotics combat. From various sponsors including Imiloa Astronomy Center, I received a commemorative Mauna Kea coin featuring a winning design by a Pāhoa student. Before leaving, Thelma Parker Memorial Public Library from Kamuela offered me a NASA@My Library packet. It brought me joy to see our community in a purposeful gathering, united by a goal to build relationships and exchange knowledge. Connecting expertise of all levels, a diverse group of participants and attendees of all ages fostering a collaborative environment. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As a supporter of astronomy in Hawai'i, I have a deep appreciation for Mauna Kea Observatories. As a current resident who was born and raised on the Big Island, there's also respect for the rich culture of Hawai'i and for Mauna Kea. A dormant volcano and sacred mountain that has meaning to many, standing 13,796 ft above sea level. I believe balance is possible, a compromise moving forward. For the cultural significance of Mauna Kea connecting with science and technology. Respectfully, in harmony. To an industry that has a huge economic impact to this island, to our State. Positive and empowering. Giving back, inspiring and educating the community in more ways than ASTRO DAY 2026.

This was my 2nd time to the Big Island and 3rd attempt to see the stars. (Too much fog) The night…read morebefore we attempted to see the sunset but we missed it by 2 cars. The line was very backed up to get up to the summit because they had closed the road before, so make sure to give yourself plenty of time to make it up to the summit. It was our last night on the Big Island and we rented a 4x wheel drive car just for this adventure for the day. So we woke up very early the next morning and saw the sunrise. It was beautiful! We were up at the visitor center at 4:15am and saw so many stars!!! The drive up to the summit isn't too bad, just make sure your body can handle the extreme elevation.

What an amazing experience! Addison was our tour guide and did amazing with our 9 person group. He…read morewas extremely knowledgeable about every single aspect of this tour, we absolutely loved that he spoke about the Hawaiian history and explained everything very thoroughly. During the summit trip I personally did not adjust well to the high elevation but Addison reassured me and was great at helping me to stay calm. Regardless of my elevation problems I still had an amazing time and still got to experience a lot! Well done Addison, we appreciate you!

Excellent experience! 10/10…read more Highly recommended! Bring layers! It gets pretty cold. Jackets are supplied but that may not be enough with the wind.

I totally 100% agree with another fellow Yelper that I'd give this place 1M stars if I could!!!…read moreThis is such an amazing life experience and a MUST when you visit the island. Please go.... You will be in love with what you see. I am still in awe over the experience!! The sky was absolutely beautiful with all the stars and seeing the Milky Way. Just wow!! Helps to put into perspective just how amazing God is with his creation! My only regret is I wish I had a better camera to have taken better pictures to remember what we saw and share with others. Gets really cold so bring your jacket!!

A must-go when coming to the big island. However, to get to the summit you must have a 4x4. We had…read morea crappy Dodge van so we weren't going to even try to go up. They wont let you go unless you do have a 4x4. However, the visitor center is a good enough area to be able to see the sunset as well as the night sky. It was about an hour 20 minute drive from our hotel in Kona and about the same drive back. The road is paved all the way up to the visitor center, but once you start making your way to the summit after acclimating to the 9,000 ft. altitude, there is a stretch of dirt trail on the way up, which is why you'll need a 4WD or 4x4. Also, I had read online that the center is open certain days of the week: this is a lie, the center is open every day. The visitor center has awesome workers and a cool little gift shop. If you decide to make the trip definitely bring layers and even blankets as well. It gets cold up there. I would also recommend arriving there about an hour before sunset, otherwise it can be pretty packed.

I cannot say enough wonderful things about Wilson and the Mauna Kea Summit & Stars excursion…read more Wilson was incredibly well spoken and knowledgeable and I learned so much! He did all of this while navigating steep roads (not all paved) and feeding us amazing chicken stew, cookies, and hot cocoa. This was a truly memorable and magical trip and the weather was just perfect! Everything was well organized and I cannot recommend them enough

We went on an almost 100% full (flower) moon. It was special to see the terminator line on the…read moreCelestron telescope - it had such great definition! The color of Mauna Kea with the moon shining on it was so magical all around us. There were some clouds that cleared pretty well by the end of our star gazing. We were the last ones up there so it got dark enough to see more than you'd expect with the moon. Jeff, our awesome tour guide, used a laser pointer to help us see the constellations we usually can't back at home. The images on the digital telescope like nebulas, the moon & star clusters were an amazing addition to have as keepsakes. My husband and I felt he made the tour a great balance of learning and fun. He had the group feeling like family before we even left from the pickup lot. Things to consider: I do recommend following the moons cycles booking this tour/your trip if this is especially important for you to see as many stars as possible. The sunset and views of the observatory's make it awesome anyways :) I struggled with altitude sickness around 12,000 ft. Jeff had made sure to let us know beforehand if we experienced any issues to speak up. I was hesitant as I know it would mean turning the whole tour around, but some tingling turned to dizziness and then a brief fainting. He immediately stopped the bus and helped ground me and make sure I was completely okay & coherent before letting me know our options for the tour. We made it up to the top with 2 more (included in tour) stops and I felt better with each one having more time to acclimate :) Thank you Jeff!! You handled this so professionally and I appreciate your check-ins for the rest of the trip. It's cold even with parka and gloves. It's so worth packing warm shoes and layers. The bus had ac and heat so that was great! Do it if you can! Awe-inspiring! Such an unreal environment that makes you wonder about so many things. Just take the precautions seriously, move slow and breathe deep.

What an amazing experience. We booked a tour to see the lava fields and enjoy a snorkeling…read moreadventure and it was a full day of adventure. Keep in mind there is no snorkeling on this excursion and the area around the Hilton is not safe or appropriate for snorkeling. I am writing the review solely on the lava field excursion part. My wife was very dissapointed that there was no snorkeling as we purchased new snorkeling equipment. Roxy was our tour guide and was probably the most knowledgeable and professional tour guide we have ever had the pleasure of experiencing. Roxy was knowledgeable in the history of volcanoes on Hilo and elsewhere, horticulture, bird species, animals, Hawaiian culture, tourist attractions, history of the Hawaiian Islands, tribes and Capt. Cook, beaches, teachings, burial practices and so much more. Roxy told stories of the early days in Hawaii and how it evolved. Also as a noted her driving and safety practices were impeccable. If you are planning to come to Hilo you must make it a point to reach out to Roxy. We spent approximately 8 hours on the tour and it was so enriching although the lack of snorkeling was a dissapointment . Highly recommended Mahalo

This company did not disappoint! Mac was a phenomenal guide--extremely knowledgeable, professional,…read morecourteous, and accommodating. He didn't just share information about the places we visited; he brought them to life and made the entire experience memorable. I highly recommend this company, and if you can, be sure to ask for Mac.

Starry Starry Night in Hapuna! Wonderful telescope tour…read moregreat for ages 6 and up. It was an out of this world experience! Our guide was helpful and professional. We had so much fun- we saw a dead star, globular cluster, stargate cluster in addition to the usual constellations and planets. Jupiter and Saturn shine brightly tonight. Highly recommended!!

I really loved this event! Well-priced, quality service by two very knowledgeable and kind people…read more We got to see awesome sights such as a close-up moon, Saturn and Jupiter, Orion's nebula, several constellations, and a couple galaxies.

This place is the perfect restroom stop on the way from Hilo to Kona…read more Beautiful and super clean with plenty of toilet paper ! It's high up so I bet it's gorgeous to look for the Milky Way and stars! Gorgeous surroundings and Mountain View to see! Enjoy!

Looking for beautiful sunrises o , sunsets or rainbows? This…read moreis the spot to see them all. I was blown away every day at the gorgeousness of this spot. It is on the long storied Saddle Road and you will have to drive through the clouds to get there, but it is worth it!! Be cautious, careful and drive safe. Afternoon rains are normal and cold! Pack your warm weather gear, scarves, hats and gloves and warm jackets. Oh? And your camera! The stars here are fantastic. If you need to connect with yourself and nature, go here.

OMG, what a fantastic excursion! Jan had all the bases covered, you can tell that she cares deeply…read morefor her guests and that she's got the experience necessary to anticipate everyone's needs. We loved not having to drive all the way up the mountain and were completely confident in her skill navigating that winding road. Jan gave us plenty of breaks on the way up and the group got a chance to get to get comfortable with one another before star gazing time. I must admit that I was a little concerned that she "only" had a manual telescope and not a computerized, motor driven one but Jan doesn't need anything like that. She put all the electronic ones I experienced to shame. She is able to slew to targets far more quickly and accurately than any computer can guide a scope. Furthermore, she keeps her 12" Dobsonian finely tuned and the stars appear crystal clear and her telescope, with its large aperture, can resolve individual stars in tight globular clusters. This was a great experience and not one to be missed, I highly recommend it.

I want to start with the disclaimer that everyone is on their own journey in life, and because of…read morethat, experiences are personal and may be seen differently by others. I also want to apologize for revising this review twice; my first attempt was rushed and full of misspellings, and the second was a quick fix of those errors. However, after being home and having the time to relax and reflect, I realized there were details gnawing at my soul that I needed to share. While I could have justified the $250 price tag if the experience had met my expectations of what was included, I simply cannot justify it for the experience we actually had. I am left with a soured, bitter aftertaste in my heart for an experience that I wanted with my family. It is hard for me to give a five-star rating just because someone "tried"; I believe a top-tier rating must be earned through the experience one had, and Jan lacked in presentation, friendliness, and overall value. For our party of four, we paid $1,000, and in hindsight, we could have had a significantly better experience by using our own rental car and buying a high-quality telescope for half the cost. Don't get me wrong, the views were amazing, but Jan expected the National Park (which she did not create) to carry the entire value of the tour. There was no historical context shared about the land; she simply relied on the scenery to do the work. The lack of consideration for her guests was most apparent in how she rushed us. Both of my parents have medical limitations--my mother is a brain surgery survivor and my stepfather was recently diagnosed with Parkinson's. Both were medically cleared by their doctors for this visit, so while their conditions were not life-threatening, they naturally move at a slower pace, or what some would refer to as "Hawaii time." At the stop at the top of the mountain, Jan initially told us we would have an hour to look around, then suddenly changed it to 15 minutes. This was incredibly insensitive; 15 minutes is a rush for someone physically fit, let alone for people managing mobility issues. The actual stargazing was equally frustrating and felt hypocritical. Jan would complain if someone accidentally turned on a phone screen, claiming it affected her dilated pupils, yet she had no problem using a high-powered laser pointer against rocks instead of the sky, refracting the light directly into our eyes. Furthermore, none of us got long at the telescope because she insisted on refocusing it after every two people, all while a personal friend of hers joined for free and took up our paid telescope time. To put the lack of value in perspective, we recently paid $165 for a snorkeling tour on a catamaran that included a crew of five, two full meals, and equipment. Here, we had to bring our own snacks and water, and Jan even requested to use our personal National Park passes to get the group through the gate. Between the conspiracy theories playing loudly on the radio, her robotic and demanding attitude, and the underwhelming equipment, we felt massively overcharged. You can find better value elsewhere or by driving yourself at your own pace.

The Big Island tour was excellent! Our guide, Chris, provided a lot of history, which was awesome…read more Learned a lot from Chris! The island is beautiful and seeing the Kilauea volcano was a high light. Chris' driving was good and lunch provided hit the spot.

Mia was our driver. It was so great doing an all day tour with someone who lives on the island…read more Mia was able to point out so many places that would not be on a scripted tour. Great value for the price.