Mauna Kea Summit
Island of Hawai'i, Hawaii, US
Mauna Kea Summit, the island’s third‑most visited peak, rises to 13,796 feet on Hawai‘i Island. From its rim you see lava fields, desert‑like terrain, the surrounding valley and the massive Mauna Loa volcano.
Why choose Mauna Kea Summit
Standing at the summit lets you experience a landscape that feels otherworldly, a perspective you can’t find at lower elevations or coastal sites. The sheer height and clear air give you a sense of scale that’s unique to Hawai‘i’s volcanic heart.
Best for: Photography · Nature · First-timers · Couples
Start your Mauna Kea summit morning here
Anchor your half‑day here, then unwind with a coffee nearby before heading back.
- Morning — Mauna Kea Summit
- Lunch — Coffee nearby
Visit tips
- Dress in layers; summit temps can be near freezing.
- Spend a few minutes at the visitor center to acclimate before climbing.
- Arrive early morning to avoid afternoon clouds and cooler temperatures.
- Bring warm layers; the summit can be near freezing even when the coast is warm.
Plan your visit
- Best time of day: Early morning, before 9:00
- Entry: Free to visit
- Category: mountain
- Rated 4.7 by 4647 reviewers
- Tags: high altitude, volcanic views, photo opportunities, seasonal access
More things to do in Island of Hawai'i
- Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
- ʻAkaka Falls State Park
- Rainbow Falls
- Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
- Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park
- Papakōlea Green Sand Beach
See all things to do in Island of Hawai'i or plan a full Island of Hawai'i itinerary with Next Getaway.