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Compare hotels close to Mauna Kea Observatory with room rates, reviews, and availability. Most hotels are fully refundable.

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Find out more about Mauna Kea Observatory

Find out more about Mauna Kea Observatory

Top reasons to visit Mauna Kea Observatory

  • Stargazing Tours: Experience unparalleled night skies with stargazing tours at high altitude, revealing a breathtaking view of stars and planets.
  • Scenic Hiking Trails: Explore stunning hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the landscape surrounding Mauna Kea.
  • Beautiful Beaches: Enjoy nearby pristine beaches like Hāpuna and Kaunaʻoa, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
  • Warm Local Culture: Interact with friendly locals, creating a welcoming atmosphere for families and couples.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from cozy guesthouses and charming bed & breakfasts, catering to various travelers' needs.

Find great hotels near Mauna Kea Observatory

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mauna Kea Observatory with a variety of hotel accommodations to suit every traveler. From cozy guesthouses to charming bed & breakfasts, you'll find options perfect for adventure seekers, romantic getaways, or family vacations. Enjoy convenient access to the observatory and explore the stunning landscapes of Hawaii while indulging in the warm hospitality of local hotels. Your perfect Hawaiian escape awaits.

  • Paniolo Greens At Waikoloa: Nestled 35.4km from the Mauna Kea Observatory, Paniolo Greens At Waikoloa is a charming 3-star hotel that embodies a golf-themed retreat. Ideal for business travelers and adventure enthusiasts alike, this property offers an array of recreational activities. Guests can indulge in thrilling experiences such as mountain biking, horseback riding, sailing, and kayaking, all easily accessible nearby. The lush surroundings create a tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to combine relaxation with outdoor adventures.
  • Castle Waimea Country Lodge: Located 30.6km from the Mauna Kea Observatory, Castle Waimea Country Lodge offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This hotel is perfect for guests seeking a blend of sports and leisure, featuring various recreational activities like mountain biking, hiking, and golf in close proximity. The lodge also provides entertainment options such as television, flatscreen TV, and cable TV, ensuring guests have a comfortable stay. With its warm ambiance, this lodge is an excellent choice for travelers looking to unwind after a day of exploration.
  • Mahana House Country Inn: Just 35.4km from the Mauna Kea Observatory, Mahana House Country Inn is a 4-star accommodation that welcomes LGBTQIA travelers with open arms. This nature-themed inn offers a serene escape surrounded by stunning landscapes, perfect for those who appreciate the great outdoors. With its affiliation to LGBTQI travel guides, the inn ensures a supportive and inclusive environment. Guests can enjoy the beauty of nature while relishing the comfort and charm that this delightful inn provides.

Where to stay near Mauna Kea Observatory

Your visit to Mauna Kea Observatory promises an unforgettable experience surrounded by breathtaking views and stargazing opportunities. Explore the Mauna Kea area, where friendly locals create a warm atmosphere, perfect for families and couples alike. Discover the incredible scenery and immerse yourself in the tropical vibes, making this destination a romantic getaway or a family-friendly adventure.

  • Mana: Located 20.9km from Mauna Kea Observatory, Mana is a charming village that offers a serene escape into nature. The area sees a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, with peaks in March and during the summer months. Travelers flock to Mana for outdoor adventures, picturesque scenery, and family-friendly experiences. Notable attractions include beautiful beaches, tranquil lagoons, and well-maintained parks, making it an ideal spot for picnics, hiking, or simply relaxing amid stunning landscapes.
  • Paauilo: Situated 25.7km from Mauna Kea Observatory, Paauilo is a vibrant city known for its blend of adventure and natural beauty. The city experiences moderate tourism fluctuations, peaking in February, April, and July. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the local golf courses and public markets, which offer a taste of the local culture and cuisine. Nearby attractions include pristine beaches, the breathtaking national state park, and majestic mountains, perfect for hiking and exploration.
  • Honokaa: Just 27.4km from Mauna Kea Observatory, Honokaa is a lively city that attracts visitors year-round, especially in January and from April to May. Known for its adventurous spirit and scenic vistas, Honokaa offers a variety of outdoor activities, including access to golf courses and recreational areas. Visitors can enjoy stunning views from lookout points, explore nearby beaches, and take in the breathtaking mountain scenery, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

Things to do near Mauna Kea Observatory

Experience a memorable stay at Mauna Kea Observatory, where you can explore stunning hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the landscape. Don't miss the chance to participate in stargazing tours, providing an unforgettable opportunity to witness the night sky like never before, thanks to the observatory's high altitude and clear atmosphere. It's a perfect destination for nature lovers and astronomy enthusiasts alike.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, Kings Shops is located 43.5km away and offers a lively shopping experience with entertainment and family vibes. Hilo Farmers Market, 41.8km away, features local goods in a vibrant city setting. Hilo Coffee Mill, 49.9km away, specializes in coffee and unique gifts.

Recreation

Mauna Kea Golf Course, located 966m from the observatory, offers a scenic outdoor atmosphere for golf enthusiasts. For relaxation, visit Kalopa State Recreation Area, 24.1km away, where you can unwind amidst nature. Alternatively, the nearby Mauna Kea State Recreation Area, 9.7km away, provides tranquil spaces for rejuvenation.

Adventure

At Pu'u 'O'o Trailhead, located 20.9km from Mauna Kea Observatory, enjoy a thrilling hike with breathtaking scenery. Venture 29.0km to the Waipio Na'alapa Trail for a refreshing outdoor experience. For an adrenaline rush, try the zipline ropes course at Umauma Falls, 35.4km away, surrounded by stunning landscapes.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Mauna Kea Observatory features stellar experiences at the WM Keck Observatory, Subaru Telescope, and Keck Observatory, all offering family-friendly entertainment. Enjoy immersive planetarium shows and breathtaking stargazing, making for a captivating evening under the Hawaiian sky.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mauna Kea Observatory

To save money on your trip to Mauna Kea Observatory, consider visiting in the off-peak months of May and September to October for lower accommodation prices. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can yield better rates, and Saturday stays are typically cheaper than Sundays. Use Expedia to find discounted last-minute deals and filter by budget or Eco-certified hotels. Additionally, bundling your hotel with flights and activities can lead to significant savings. Make sure to explore flexible booking options for added convenience.

  • 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Mauna Kea Observatory is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • 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 specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can arrange your results to display prices from the lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; 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 save money by combining your hotel stay at the Mauna Kea Observatory with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Mauna Kea Observatory

Visiting Mauna Kea Observatory offers a blend of adventure and cultural experiences, with popular attractions like waterfalls, lookouts, and nearby state parks. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy stunning beaches such as Hāpuna, Kaunaʻoa, and Mau'umae, all while soaking in the beauty of the observatory itself. This destination is perfect for travelers seeking memorable adventures and breathtaking scenery.

  • Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station: Located 8.0km from Mauna Kea Observatory, this visitor center offers a family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor adventure opportunities. It serves as a great starting point for stargazing and learning about the unique ecosystems of Mauna Kea.
  • Hawaiian Vanilla Company: Situated 18.0km away, this eco-friendly plantation provides an immersive experience into the world of vanilla farming. Guests can enjoy guided tours and tastings while appreciating the beautiful outdoor surroundings.
  • Lake Waiau: Found 16.1km from the observatory, Lake Waiau is a serene spot ideal for romantic outings and scenic views. The picturesque landscape and tranquil environment make it perfect for relaxation and reflection.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Mauna Kea Observatory

Traveling to Mauna Kea Observatory is convenient from three major airports. Kailua-Kona International Airport (KOA) is 59.5km away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, 11.3km from the airport, and the 3.5-star Royal Kona Resort, 12.9km away. Hilo International Airport (ITO) is 46.7km from the observatory, offering options like the 4-star Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo, just 3.2km away. Kamuela's Waimea-Kohala Airport (MUE) is the closest at 112.9km, with excellent accommodation such as the 4.5-star Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, 16.1km away. Each airport provides easy access to these hotels for a comfortable stay.

Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around Mauna Kea Observatory?

If you're planning to come to the area to visit Mauna Kea Observatory, take some time to see the rest of the sights while you're in town. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, you might search for properties close to public transportation so it's easy to get around.

What's the best place to stay near Mauna Kea Observatory?

Castle Waimea Country Lodge is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveler data, and this hotel offers free parking and free WiFi. You'll find it 18.5 mi (29.8 km) from Mauna Kea Observatory. Other good choices in the area include Paniolo Greens At Waikoloa and Kikala Waterfall Lodge.

If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Mauna Kea Observatory, will I receive a refund?

Yes! Most hotel room reservations are fully refundable as long as you cancel before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before check in. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, it may still be possible to cancel it and get a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Add dates, click "Search", then use the filter option "fully refundable" to review top deals close to Mauna Kea Observatory.

Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip in the area near Mauna Kea Observatory?

To find more details about changing or cancelling your stay near Mauna Kea Observatory, head over to our customer service page.

What can I see and do near Mauna Kea Observatory?

Keck Observatory, Subaru Telescope, and WM Keck Observatory are fun stops for the whole family while you're in town. Explore nature at Mauna Kea and Mauna Kea Ice Age Reserve. A visit to Onizuka Center for International Astronomy is worth the trip when you're visiting.

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