Here you will find all 120 Super Mario 64 Stars locations! Look no further than this guide, which will show you in both text and video form how to find every one of them so that you can complete this awesome 64-bit game 100%.
Although there are 120 Stars hidden within Princess Peach’s castle, you only need 70 of them to actually beat the game and defeat the final boss. But finding all 120 gives you a certain satisfaction that is indeed worth it. Besides, this game is fun as heck! Super Mario 64 was originally released for the N64, but you can also download the N64 version for the Wii Virtual Console. There is also a “Super Mario 64 DS” version that has a bunch of extras. Although this guide can help with the DS version, it is specific to the N64/Wii version.
Where to Find All Stars on Bob-Omb Battlefield
Star #1 – Big Bomb-Omb On the Summit
Fight the Big Bomb-Omb boss on top of the mountain. Pick him up and throw him back down onto the summit three times to beat him (if you throw him off the summit he’ll just jump back up it and it won’t count as a hit). Backflip over him to easily grab him from behind.
Star #2 – Footrace With Koopa the Quick
Simply beat Koopa the Quick in a race from the beginning of the course to the summit of the mountain.
Star #3 – Shoot to the Island in the Sky
Located on top of the floating island in a Yellow Box. Talk to one of the pink-colored, friendly “Bob-Omb Buddies” and they’ll open the level’s cannons for you. Use one to shoot onto the floating island.
Star #4 – Find the 8 Red Coins
Find the 8 Red Coins hidden in the level. Each world has a single Star that you’ll need to find all the Red Coins to get. Pause the game to see how many Red Coins you’ve found. This video shows you where to find all 8 Red Coins.
Star #5 – Mario Wings to the Sky
To get this Star you will need to activate the cannons, and shoot yourself through the floating rings of coins acessible from the floating island. Use the Red Cap Switch Box to get a Wing Cap, then shoot Mario out of the cannon towards the rings (he must collect the middle coin in each ring). Don’t touch any button on the controller when shooting Mario out and he should go through all five. This will make the Star appear. If you don’t hit all five rings on the first try, simply keep doing it until you’ve hit each circle. Remember to try and not collect the coins that make up the ring, or you’ll lose position of the ring or make the ring disappear entirely, making it harder to hit.
Start #6 – Behind Chomp’s Gate
Located behind the giant Chain Chomp. Carefully slam down on his stake three times to release him. He will then bust open the gate, giving you access to the Star. Atlernatively, simply pick up a Bob-Omb enemy and carry him to the gate. Hold him away from the gate with your back towards it. As he is about to explode, jump. The blast should knock you through the gate, allowing you to easily get the Star without freeing the Chain Chomp.
Star #7 – One Hundred Coins
Each world has one Star that requires you to collect 100 regular coins in order to make the Star appear. Note that the Star will appear exactly above where you collect the 100th Coin. So be careful to make sure the Star doesn’t appear to high for you to grab it.
This video shows you where to find all 100 coins to get the Star.
Where to Find All Stars on Whomp’s Fortress
Star #1 – Chip Off Whomp’s Block
Defeat the giant “Whomp” stone-slab boss located at the top of the Fortress. To defeat him easily, stand close to the front of him in between his legs, and run through them as he starts to fall. Then leap onto his back and perform a Butt Stomp (jump and press Z in the air). Butt-Stomp his back three times to defeat him and earn the Star.
Star #2 – To the Top of the Fortress
You’ll find this Star in the tower at the top of the Fortress. Simply follow the main path to the Star.
Star #3 – Shoot Into the Wild Blue
This is one of the tougher Stars to find if you don’t know how to get it. To get this Star you will need to use the cannon (talk to the Bob-Omb Buddy to open it) to shoot yourself onto the platform held up with stone pillars. Aim so that Mario will shoot into the far pillar. This will stop Mario from flying past the platform and dying in the empty void.
Star #4 – Red Coins On the Floating Isle
Collect all 8 Red Coins in the level to get this Star. Here is a video showing you the location of each Red Coin.
Star #5 – Fall Onto the Caged Island
This is another Star that is difficult to get if you don’t know the proper procedure to do so. The Star is located inside of a floating platform with a metal gate surrounding it on all sides. It is very difficult to get into this island without using . . . . THE OWL! This owl is your key to getting this Star. Jump into the tree at the beginning of the level to make the owl pop out. He’ll talk to you. You then need to jump into the owl and hold the A Button. This will let the owl grab you. He’ll then carry you up into the sky. From here, you will see the caged island with a Star inside. You will need to DROP ONTO the island from the owl. If you wait around ten seconds or so, the owl should be at a lower point to make the drop easier. Try to wait until Mario’s shadow is over the island before you let go of the A Button to drop yourself. Either way, it can be hard to actually hit the island and you may miss on your first couple tries. Keep trying until you land on the island and can get the Star.
Star #6 – Blast Away the Wall
This Star is another hard one to find if you don’t know where it’s located. This Star is held inside the corner edge of a part of the level. To find it, you’ll need to enter the cannon, and shoot Mario into this edge, breaking it open to reveal the Star. The edge is part of the wall where the dark slope below the spinning wooden platform is. Both corners of each wall will break, one contains the Star.
Star #7 – 100 Hundred Coins
You will need to collect 100 coins on Whomp’s Fortress in order to earn this Star. This video will show you where to find and how to collect all 100 Coins.
Where to Find All Stars on Jolly Roger Bay
Start #1 – Plunder in the Sunken Ship
To get this Star, swim to the bottom of the lake where you’ll find a sunken pirate ship. You’ll see a Giant Eel sticking it’s head out of a broken window in the back. Carefully swim in front of it without touching it (or you’ll get hit). Now swim back up to the surface of the water to take a breath (this will refill your health back up). Now swim back down to the sunken ship again. You’ll notice that the Giant Eel has left the window and is now swimming around. Go in the window that you can now enter. Inside you’ll find several Treasure Chests. You need to open them (by touching them) in the correct order. Do it in the wrong order and you’ll be electrocuted and lose some health. Collect the air bubble from the chest to refill your health. Watch this video to see the correct order.
Star #2 – Can the Eel Come Out to Play?
You’ll find the Giant Eel in a wall around the area where the sunken ship is. Swim near him carefully and then swim back up to the top of the water again to get your breath. Now swim back underwater and you’ll notice the Giant Eel swimming around the area. Attached to his tail will be the Star. Now you just need to touch the Star by swimming close enough to touch it.
Star #3 – Treasure of the Ocean Cave
This Star is located in the cave at the bottom of the ocean. Near the back of the cave you’ll find several treasure chests which must be touched in the correct order. Here is the order that you need to touch the chests in to earn the Star.
Star #4 – Red Coins on Ship Afloat
You’ll need to collect all of the Red Coins to get this Star. This video will show you where they are all located.
Star #5 – Blast to the Stone Pillar
Talk to the Pink Bob-Omb to open the cannon near the start of the level. Use the cannon to shoot you to one of the tall, sharp pillars. Leap from them to the platform nearby and hit the Yellow Box to collect this Star.
Star #6 – Through the Jet Stream
Use the purple button located near the Pirate Ship to activate the Green Box that contains the Metal Cap. Collect the Cap to turn into Metal Mario. You’ll now be able to walk through the jet stream at the bottom of the ocean to get the Star. The easiest way to get there though is to Long Jump towards the Pirate Ship (but not on it) as Metal Mario, you’ll then sink towards the jet stream and hopefully be close enough to it to collect the Star without your Metal Mario power running out.
Star #7 – One Hundred Coins
Collect 100 Coins hidden within Jolly Roger Bay in order to get this Star. This can be somewhat difficult. Here is a video showing you how to do it.
Where to Find All Stars on Cool Cool Mountain
Star #1 – Slip Slidin’ Away
Enter the house at the beginning through the chimney and make it to the bottom of the long ice slide to find this Star. Try to hold back on the Control Stick to slide down as slow as possible so you don’t fall of the edges (which don’t have any railings). There is a shortcut if you go into the wall at the part where you see a few coins going towards the wall.
Star #2 – Li’l Penguin Lost
Grab the penguin near the beginning with the B Button and carry him to his mother located in the pond by the house (the exit to the long slide).
Star #3 – Big Penguin Race
To get this Star you’ll need to race a Giant Penguin down the Icy Slide from the house at the beginning of the course. However you can’t cheat by using the shortcut on the slide and must hold forward on the Control Stick to race at top speed in order to beat him.
Star #4 – Frosty Slide for 8 Red Coins
You’ll need to collect all 8 Red Coins strewn throughout this snowy stage in order to earn this Star. This video will show you how to get all of the Red Coins.
Star #5 – Snowman’s Lost His Head
Near the house at the beginning of the level on the platform behind the house you’ll see a snowball. Your job is to lead that snowball down the slide nearby and all the way thorugh the slide to the Snowman’s head. This can be quite tricky and will probably take a few tries before you can get the body together.
Star #6 – Wall Kicks Will Work
Across from the pond with the mother penguin (near the lift) is an area on the other side that is seemingly unreachable. Get over there but long-jumping towards it. Don’t worry, some wind will blow up and carry you to the other side (using the cannon to reach it is dangerous and harder to do). From there you’ll find an area that you can walk jump up to reach the Star. Here is a video showing you how to get it.
Star #7 – One Hundred Coins
You’ll need to find 100 coins hidden throughout this chilly stage to get the final Star. This video will show you how to do so.
Where to Find All Stars on Big Boo’s Haunt
Star #1 – Go On A Ghost Hunt
To get this Star you will need to kill all of the ghosts you find in the level by Butt Stomping them (which will give you a Blue Coin). Kill all of them and you’ll hear a sound. Return to the main hall where you will find a Giant Boo. He’s come to avenge the death of his friends! Defeat him and you’ll earn the Star.
Here is a video showing where to find the ghosts.
Star #2 – Ride Big Boo’s Merry-Go-Round
Enter the small house to the side of the big house to find a Merry-Go-Round. Kill all of the ghosts then take out the Big Boo to earn this Star.
Star #3 – Secret of the Haunted Books
Go through the second door to your left after climbing the Stairs in the hall to enter a haunted library. At the end you’ll see some books sticking out at the end of the hall. Jump kick or punch them in the proper order to gain access to the Star.
Star #4 – Seek the 8 Red Coins
Find all of the 8 Red Coins in Big Boo’s Huant to earn the Star. Here is a video showing where to find each Red Coin.
Star #5 – Big Boo’s Balcony
Go through the dar on the far right on the second floor. This is the room with the trap door. Run towards the wall at top speed, leap and Wall Jump off it to reach a ledge on the other side of the room at the top. This will take you to the roof where you’ll need to beat the Big Boo to make the Star appear and then carefully navigate to reach it.
Star #6 – Eye to Eye in the Secret Room
You’ll need to get the Vanish Cap from the Vanish Cap Box on the second floor and use it to wall jump to the ledge mentioned in the Star above. But before exiting to reach the roof, look around in that room to find a blue wall that you can go through as Vanish Mario. Run around the Big Eye enemy to make him spin out and reveal the Star.
Star #7 – One Hundred Coins
Collect 100 Coins to get this Star. Here is a video showing you how.
Where to Find All Stars on Hazy Maze Cave
Star #1 – Swimming Beast in the Cavern
Take the left branch from the fork at the beginning and down the elevator you should eventually reach to find a big lake within the cave. You’ll see a gentle dino that you can ride. The Star is located in the floating island in the middle. Get on the Loch Ness Monster and Butt Stomp his back to make him point his neck down. Now stand on top of his head and he’ll rise his neck again, allowing you to jump onto the island to get the Star.
Star #2 – Elevate for 8 Red Coins
Collect all the Red Coins in the level to earn this Star. Most of them are in the same room. Here is a video showing how to get them.
Star #3 – Metal Head Mario Can Move
Use Metal Mario in the same lake mentioned above with Dorrie (the big purple dino) to run to the bottom of the water there. Follow the path and you’ll pop up on the other side where you can hit a floor switch to open the gates. You’ll find the Star inside.
Star #4 – Navigating the Toxic Maze
Turn right at the fiork in the beginning, through the door to your left in the middle of the next room, and down the hole to find a room that is full of toxic gas. Become Metal Mario (who can’t be hurt by the gas) and navigate through the maze to find a wall with green sludge. Jump up to the ledge there and go through the door to find the Star. Here is a video on how to get this Star.
Star #5 – A-MAZE-ING Emergency Exit
Located in the same hazy maze area with the toxic gas as in the Star above, you’ll find another ledge you can climb with a door at the top that leads to this Star.
Star #6 – Watch for Falling Rocks
Go left from the fork at the beginning to the room with rolling boulders. There is an area here that you can wall kick up to find this Star.
Star #7 – One Hundred Coins
Collect one hundred coins in Hazy Maze Cave to earn yourself this Star. Here is a video showing how to collect all those coins.
Where to Find All Stars on Lethal Lava Land
Star #1 – Boil the Big Bully
You’ll find a platform a horned Big Bully all by himself. Knock him into the lava to earn the Star.
Star #2 – Bully the Bullies
This Star is similar to the first one. You’ll find a platform with three smaller Bullies. Knocking them into the lava will make a fourth enemy appear, this time a Big Bully. Knock him into the lava to earn this Star.
Star #3 – 8-Coin Puzzle with 15 Pieces
Collect all 8 Red Coins that are located ontop of shifting puzzles pieces to earn this Star. These coins are easily grabbed, but here is a video showing how anyway.
Star #4 – Red-Hot Log Rolling
You’ll find a giant log tucked in the corner of this level. You must roll across it to the Star on the other side.
Star #5 – Hot-Foot-It Into the Volcano
You’ll find this Star located INSIDE of the volcano, at the top of the climb.
Star #6 – Elevator Tour in the Volcano
Likewise, this one is inside of the Volcano, where you will find an elevator that you can ride to the Star.
Star #7 – One Hundred Coins
This one can be pretty tricky to get. You must collect 100 coins scattered about this level to earn this Star. Dont’ forget that there are more coins inside the volcano. This video will show you where to find all the coins.
Where to Find All Stars on Shifting Sand Land
Star #1 – In the Talons of the Big Bird
You will need to get the Star from the big Vulture bird that flies around the pillars. You can do this by jumping into the bird from there or flying into it with the Wing Cap.
Star #2 – Shining Atop the Pyramid
You will need to navigate your way atop the outside of the pyramid in the middle of the stage to find this Star. You can also reach it using the Wing Cap.
Star #3 – Inside the Ancient Pyramid
Head inside of the pyramid and navigate your way through it to the top to find this Star.
Star #4 – Stand Tall on the Four Pillars
Remember the four pillars that the Vulture flies around? Get on top of each one of them (run up the sides or use the Wing Cap). Doing so will cause the top of the pyramid to fly up and then break apart! Use the Wing Cap to get up there and go through the hole. You will then fight a boss made up of two hands with eyes in it’s palms. The eyes are its weak point. Attack him there and defeat both hands to earn the Star.
Star #5 – Free Flying For 8 Red Coins
Use the Wing Cap to fly around this level and collect all the Red Coins strewn throughout, most of which are in the sky. Here is a video showing you where they are.
Star #6 – Pyramid Puzzle
To earn this Star you will need to touch a number of points in the level. It’s much easier to understand if I just show you, so here is a video on how to get this Star.
Star #7 – One Hundred Coins
Collect 100 Coins on Shifting Sand Land to earn this Star. Here is the video showing the locations of all the coins. This Star can be a bit tough if you don’t know where to look.
Where to Find All Stars on Dire Dire Docks
Star #1 – Board Bowser’s Sub
You’ll find a giant floating submarine with a Star on top.
Star #2 – Chests in the Current
This is a difficult Star to get and might take you a few tries to do it successfully without dying. Use the coins scattered about to refill your health. You’ll find various chests that need to be open in the first area, with a tornado in the middle. You’ll need to open the chests in the correct order WHILE swimming against the tornados current which tries to suck you in. If you don’t hit the correct order you’ll be electricuted which can cause you to be sucked into the whirlpool and die. Here is a video showing you the correct order.
Star #3 – Pole-Jumping For Red Coins
You’ll need to collect all 8 Red Coins in this level to earn this Star. You’ll find the coins in the second area (where Bowser’s ship is/was) and will need to climb and leap across the poles on the roof to get them all. The poles will only appear though if you have already got the first two Stars of Dire Dire Docks and beaten Bowser in the Lava Sea already. This video will show you how to get all the red coins.
Star #4 – Through the Jet Stream
You’ll find a jetstream at the bottom of the level in the area with the Bowser sub. If you have a good eye, you will notice that rings come out of the top of the jetstream. Swim through five of them as they come out to earn this Star. However the Star will appear in the MIDDLE of the jetstream. In order to get it you’ll need to use the Metal Cap located above, at the surface. Dive into the water and hurry towards the Star to grab it before your Metal Cap wears off.
Star #5 – The Manta Ray’s Reward
There is more ring-swimming fun ahead of you for this Star. In the beginning area you’ll find a manta ray swimming around who releases rings. Swim through five of them to earn this Star.
Star #6 – Collect the Caps
This Star is interesting because it is the ONLY time in the game where you will be required to wear more than one cap at a time! In order to get this Star, you will need to collect the Metal and Vanish caps at the same time to become Metal Mario Vanish! (Yes, I made that up myself!). Grab the Vanish Cap, then the Metal Cap, and leap into the water. Head towards the mesh gate and pass through it to collect the Star. Note that you can also do get this Star by simply grabbing the Vanish Cap and SWIMMING toward’s the Star. But that’s for wimps!
Star #7 – One Hundred Coins
Collect 100 Coins on Dire Dire Docks in order to get this Star. It might be easier to select the Red Coins Star when attempting this, that way you can gain the extra points from the Red Coins. Here is a video showing you where to find all the Coins to earn this Star. Note that this is one of the most difficult 100 Coin Stars to get, especially cause of the Tornado that can suck you in while trying to collect coins. So you may have to try more than once to succeed.
Where to Find All Stars on Snowman’s Land
Star #1 – Snowman’s Big Head
Climb the giant Snowman to the top in order to get this Star. Beware of crossing the bridge in front of his mouth, because he will try to blow you off. If so you may lose Mario’s cap (making him weaker so you die quicker when hit). You’ll then have to find his cap again in this level in order to regain it.
Star #2 – Chill With the Bully
You’ll find an ice platform above an Frigid Lake that contains an Iced Bully. Knock him off his platform to earn this Star.
Star #3 – In the Deep Freeze
You’ll find this Star within a frozen Ice Maze-style structure near the beginning of the level. Get inside to gain this Star. This video shows you an easy way how.
Star #4 – Whirl From the Freezing Pond
Near the end of this level you’ll find a large Frigid Pond (which means it damages you if you stay in the super cold water for too long). You’ll need to use one of the Flower Enemies walking in the water and jump on their heads in order to make Mario float. Then float behind the wall/edge at the end where you’ll find this Star in the Yellow Box.
Star #5 – Shell Shreddin’ for Red Coins
You’ll need to collect all 8 Red Coins to get this Star, some of which require you to ride a Koopa Shell, which you’ll find next to the box containing the Star above. This video will show you how to collect all the Red Coins.
Star #6 – Into the Igloo
You’ll find an Igloo at near the large Frigid Ice Lake. Crawl inside it to find an area with Ice Blocks all over. Use this video to find out how to get this Star.
Star #7 – One Hundred Coins
Get all 100 Coins scattered about Snowman’s Land and you’ll earn this Star. As always, here is a video showing you where to get each coin.
Where to Find All Stars on Wet-Dry World
Star #1 – Shocking Arrow Lifts
This Star can be a bit complicated to explain (you need to navigate some moving boxes with arrows on them), so I’ll just show you the video so you can easily see how to get it. Note that the water level can be raised or lowered in this level by hitting the diamonds. not only that, but you can start the level with the water level higher or lower depending on how high you are when you jump into the painting!
Star #2 – Top O’ the Town
This Star is located at the very top of the level. Jump in the painting at it’s highest point to make this Star easier to get. Beyond the Purple Bomb enemy is a thin wooden plank that you can walk across. This will lead you to the Star which is in a Yellow Box. This video shows you how to get it.
Star #3 – Secrets in the Shallows and Sky
Enter the painting at the lowest possible level for this Star. This is another Star where you will need to touch several points of the level in order to earn the Star (Five in total). It is complex to write it out, so here is a video showing you how to do it.
Star #4 – Express Elevator – Hurry Up!
You will find an elevator that raises you up to get this Star. Starting out, enter the painting at the lowest point. Watch this video to see how to get it.
Star #5 – Go to the Town for Red Coins
In order to get this Star, you will need to use the cannon at the top of the level to shoot yourself into the deep rectangle “cage” in the corner of the level. Of course ,there’s always alternate ways to do things in this game, so the easiest way is to simply enter the level with the water at it’s highest point (by jumping high into the painting) then simply swim over the cage and jump over it. You’re then required to swim below the current town and through an underwater tunnel which will take you to an all-new ghost-town section of this level which contains the 8 Red Coins! This video will show you how to reach the new town and get the 8 Red Coins to earn the Star.
Star #6 – Quick Race Through Downtown!
To get this Star, you will need to go back to the ghost town (or “downtown”) by entering the painting at it’s highest point so the water level is at the top. After swimming to the new town, hit the lowest diamond to drain the water all the way. Look around the large wall and you’ll find a Blue Box that cnotains the Vanish Cap. Become Vanish Mario so you can pass through objects and quickly run around the wall to the opposite side, where you’ll find a large mesh fence that you can now pass through. Once you have gone through the fence, wait for the Vanish Cap power to wear off so you return to solid form. Now wall jump off the fence and the platforms here to reach the Star at the top.
Star #7 – One Hundred Coins
Find 100 Coins hidden throughout Wet-Dry World in order to earn this Star. This isn’t too hard to accomplish since there are a lot of coins in this level, but this level can be difficult. You may want to try this challenge by selecting the “Go to Town for Red Coins” Star so that you can collect the 8-Red Coins and have them go towards the 100-Coin Star.
Here is a video showing you where to find 100 Coins.
Where to Find All Stars on Tall Tall Mountain
Star #1 – Scale the Mountain
This is probably my favorite level in the game! To earn this Star, simply reach the very top, the summit, of this large mountain level. You’ll find the Star sitting all lonely and easily grabbable at the top.
Star #2 – Mystery of the Monkey Cage
You’ll find a monkey hanging around at the top of the waterfall on a platform. Catch this monkey just like you do with the rabbits in the Castle by getting close enough to grab him with the B Button (Punch). Once you’ve grabbed him, choose to free him and he’ll run down to a caged Star at the bottom of the waterfall. You can now get the Star.
Star #3 – Scary ‘Shrooms, Red Coins
You’ll need to carefully navigate a series of Mushroom Platforms by jumping from each one to get the Red Coins, without falling off and into the abyss in order to successfully earn this Star. Here is a video showing you how to do so without losing one of your lives.
Star #4 – Mysterious Mountainside
Directly beyond the top of the waterfall you’ll see a large square in the wall. Turn the corner to find a second large square (avoid standing near the cloud enemy or he may blow you off the stage!). Stand close to this wall and you’ll notice that it ripples, just like a painting! Leap into it and you’ll find yourself at a secret slide! This is the most difficult slide in the game, as it features nearly no railings, is easy to fall off of, is very long, features tight turns and corners, and has a part where you MUST turn right onto a new wooden section of the slide (take a hard right) or else you’ll keep going to a dead end and die! If you fall off you’ll also die, but jump back into the painting again and it’ll start you at the beginning of the slide! There’s also 1UPs on the slide to give you an extra life if you can get them. Now simply make it all the way down this slide alive and to the goal hole at the end and you’ll earn this Star.
Here is a video showing you how to best the slide.
Star #5 – Breathtaking View From the Bridge
To get this Star you’ll need to climb near the summit of the mountain. There is a thin land-bridge that you’ll need to cross to reach the top. But if you look from the bridge to the Waterfall, you’ll notice there is a Star within a square section of the wall behind the Waterfall. Long jump from the bridge to get that Star. Alternatively, you can hit a switch at the top of the mountain which will put a box under where you need to jump, making it easier to get the Star.
This video shows you how to get it.
Star #6 – Blast to the Lonely Mushroom
This is one of the most difficult Stars to find if you don’t know where it is located, and the only way to get it is to find a well-hidden path below the main path (located below the Mushroom Platforms with the Red Coins), that leads to a cannon. You’ll find a Bob-Omb Buddy to open the cannon located after the Purple Bomb enemy that tosses you. Once the cannon is open, you will want to stand on the Mushroom where the Red Coins Star appears, and long jump to the lower path that you can see from this Mushroom. You then blast yourself from the cannon to a lone Mushroom platform in the distance that holds this Star. The blast itself can be difficult because you will be launched into the abyss and die if you don’t aim just perfectly to either land safely on the Mushroom without sliding off or land directly on the Star. This video will show you how to get this difficult Star.
Star #7 – One Hundred Coins
Collect 100 Coins on Tall Tall Mountain in order to earn this Star. This is pretty easy as there are a ton of coins on this mountain. But this video will show you where to find them all.
Where to Find All Stars on Tiny-Huge Island
Star #1 – Pluck the Piranha Flower
You must defeat five large Piranha Plants in the Tiny World. Doing so will net you this Star. Remember that there are TWO paintings you can enter to get inside this level. If you jump into the large painting, you’ll start the level off on “Huge Island” where Mario is smaller than everything else. If you jump into the small painting, you’ll start the level off in “Tiny Island” where Mario is giant and everything else is small!
Star #2 – The Tip Top of the Huge Island
You’ll need to reach the top of the Mountain in Huge Island in order to find this Star. Although it’s easier to accomplish if you start the level off in Tiny Island where Mario is huge himself.
Star #3 – Rematch with Koopa the Quick
Remember “Koopa the Quick” from the first world in the game, Bob-Omb Battlefield? Well he returns in this Star! You must race him across Tiny-Huge Island on the Huge Island (with everything else big) in order to earn this Star.
Star #4 – Five Itty-Bitty Secrets
This is another one of those Stars that requires you to hit five different points around the level in order to make the star appear. These aren’t too hard to find, but here is a video showing you where to easily get them.
Star #5 – Wiggler’s Red Coins
Use a Koopa Shell to surf up the slanted slope adjacent to the wooden walkway. You’ll need to enter the hole at the end of the walkway in Huge Island (where Mario is tiny), inside you’ll find an area with 8 Red Coins. Alternatively you can use a cannon to shoot yourself up there. Here is how to collect all the Rec Coins to earn the Star.
Star #6 – Make Wiggler Squirm
To get this Star, you will need to butt-stomp the pool of water at the top of the mountain as Huge Mario, and then enter the hole that is created when the water drains as Tiny Mario. Inside you will face off against the last boss who is a Giant Wiggler! Stomp on his head three times to defeat him and earn your Star.
Star #7 – One Hundred Coins
You’ll need to collect 100 Coins on Tiny-Huge Island in order to earn this Star. Here is a video showing you how.
Where to Find All Stars on Tick Tock Clock
Star #1 – Roll Into the Cage
This Star isn’t hard to miss. You’ll find it within a cage as you climb your way up thrrough the level. By the way a cool trick with this stage is to enter the clock directly on the hour (12:00, 3:00, 6:00 and 9:00 exaclty for example), doing so will cause all the clock parts to be frozen. And depending on what time is displayed on the clock when you enter it, the moving parts of the clock will either be faster or slower (depending on how late the Minute Hand is)! Enter this stage to freeze the parts to make this Star easier to get.
This video shows you exactly how to get this Star.
Star #2 – The Pit and the Pendulum
To get this Star you’ll want to enter the clock so the parts are moving normally. Make your way beyond the cage and all the way to the top of the level until you can’t go any further. You’ll find an area with two swinging pendulums that you’ll need to jump through without it hitting you to get the Star on the other side.
Star #3 – Get A Hand
To get this Star, make your way to an area before the Caged Star where you will find a black sphere that spits fire. Around this area you’ll notice a clock hand that makes it’s way horizontally around the room. You’ll need to wait for it to overlap with the ground you are standing on. Jump on it, and ride it over to the Star (you may have to carefully navigate to the head of the clockhand).
Star #4 – Stomp A Thwomp
This Star is located at the very, very, very tip top of the clock. So keep climbing until you can’t climb no more, and then hop a ride on the rotating clockhand as in the last Star. This will take you around to the other side of the room where you need to get on top of the blue Thwomp. As he rises you’ll be able to jump up and nab the Star. This one can be difficult to obtain, so here is a video guiding you to the Star.
Star #5 – Timed Jumps on Moving Bars
Beyond one of the spinning hearts, you’ll find three bars that jut and move in and out of the wall. Climb these and leap over to the cage neaby to get this easy Star. Here is a video showing the exact location.
Star #6 – Stop Time for Red Coins
This one is pretty easy to get, and the hint is right in the name. Enter the clock so that time is stopped, allowing you to collect the coins near the start of the stage. Here’s a video showing you how.
Star #7 – One Hundred Coins
This can be one of the hardest 100 Coins Missions because it is so easy to fall off of the level and die before you collect all 100 coins. This video will guide you.
Where to Find All Stars on Rainbow Ride
Star #1 – Cruiser Crossing the Rainbow
This Star is located on an airship. To get there, ride the main carpet until you reach the fork in the road, and when you do take the left path and the carpet beyond the spinning brick platforms. This video shows you how to get it.
Star #2 – The Big House in the Sky
After reaching the fork, take the carpet on the right and ride it all the way to the end of the level, where you will enter a house with a fire spitting object. At the very top is the Star you want. Here is a video guide.
Star #3 – Coins Amassed In A Maze
Nearby the three spinning stone platforms you’ll see a giant, large maze that holds the 8 Red Coins you need to nab. This isn’t too hard to accomplish to earn the Star, but here is a video to show you how to get each one.
Star #4 – Swingin’ In the Breeze
From the very start of the level, instead of taking the carpet, turn around and you should spot a pole in the distance. Long jump to it, and then follow the path to find this next Star.
Here is a video go guide you.
Star #5 – Tricky Triangles!
Just like the last Star, turn around and jump onto the pole from the start for this one. When you reach the fork in the path, keep going the same direction instead of up the slope. You’ll find a button that activates some triangles ahead of you which you must navigate to reach this Star. See my text in video form with this guide.
Star #6 – Somewhere Over the Rainbow
Towards the back of the airship on this level, you’ll find a cannon! Use it to launch you to the Star. The Pink Bob-Omb Buddy that you need to talk to in order to open the cannon is located next to the Blue Coin Button near the 8 Red Coins maze. This video will make it easier to understand.
Star #7 – One Hundred Coins
Another one of the most difficult Stars to get in the game, you’ll need to collect 100 Coins on this difficult level in order to earn this Star. This can be hard to do due to how easy it is to fall off the level before you reach the 100th coin. Watch this video to show you how to find every coin to earn the Star.
Where to Find the Cap Switches (Metal, Wing, Vanish Caps)
In order to complete a lot of the Stars listed above (as well as get three extras Stars), you will need to activate the Cap Switches by finding the switch for the Metal Cap (Metal Mario), Wing Cap (Wing Mario) and Vanish Cap (Vanish Mario), which give you new abilities.
Metal Mario can walk through fire and will sink to the bottom of water. He’s also impervious to gas. Vanish Mario can walk through certain objects. And Wing Mario can fly (obviously). Within the worlds of Mario 64 you’ll find Green (Metal Cap), Blue (Vanish Cap) and Red (Wing Cap) blocks. However if you haven’t hit the Cap Switch yet, then the blocks in the levels will appear as transluscent outlines so you can’t get access to the cap inside. Finding the Cap Switch and pressing it will make these blocks solid. Here is where to find each of the Cap Switches.
How do I find the Wing Cap for Wing Mario? (Red Switch – Tower of the Wing Cap)
The Wing Cap is accessible after collecting 10 Stars, and you will find the “Tower of the Wing Cap” level by looking into the light shining down from the ceiling on the first floor, in the main hall of the castle. To get an additional Star you’ll want to collect all 8 Red Coins around the tower. Land on the tower and hit the Red Cap Switch to activate the Wing Cap Blocks. Here is a video guide.
How do I find the Metal Cap for Metal Mario? (Green Switch – Cavern of the Metal Cap)
This unique and well hidden cap is actually hidden within a level. You can’t get this Cap until you have access to the basement of the Castle. You’ll find this level within Hazy-Maze Cave (located in the basement as a door with a Star on it and a liquid pool you need to jump into). Make it to the bottom level where Dorrie the Dinosaur is and ride her to the other side. Go through the door and you’ll see another pool of liquid. Jump into it and you’ll be in the Cavern of the Metal Cap!
Like with the Wing Cap, you can earn an additional Star here by collecting all 8 Red Coins. Here is a video to guide you to the Metal Cap Switch in this level.
How do I find the Vanish Cap for Vanish Mario? (Blue Switch – Vanish Cap Course)
In order to reach this level, you will need to have entered the basement of the Castle. Within the basement, you will find a wooden door with no Star on it (next to a Blue Flame on the wall). Enter this door and swim under into a room that contains two pillars. Butt-Stomp the pillars and the water to the castle moat outside will be drained. Go out the door in this room to the outside of the castle and drop into the hole to find the Vanish Cap Switch Course! Like with the others, you can earn an additional “Castle Secret Star” by collecting all 8 Red Coins in this course. Hit the switch at the end to activate the Vanish Cap Blocks throughout the game.
This video will show you how to complete it.
How to Beat Bowser in Battles 1, 2 and 3
Throughout the game, you will reach certain large, double sliding doors where you will face off against Bowser. You will need to beat him three times. The first and second times will allow you to access further parts of the Castle. Beat Bowser #1 to gain access to the basement and beat Bowser #2 to gain access to the second and third floors of the castle. In addition, each Bowser stage holds a single Star for you to earn. Beat the 3rd Bowser to properly “beat” the game, which can be done with only 70 Stars. Although to really “finish” the game you will need to find all 120 Stars.
How to Beat Bowser #1 – Bowser in the Dark World and get the Red Coins Star
This is the first Bowser level. You will need 8 Stars in order to unlock this dual-sliding door and face off against the Koopa King. This video guide will take you through the stage and show you how to beat Bowser to earn your first Bowser Key. You’ll also see how to get all 8 of the Red Coins to earn the Star.
How to Beat Bowser #2 – Bowser in the Fire Sea and get the Red Coins Star
In order to face off against Bowser for the second time (where he is more difficult and has new abilities), you’ll need to enter the dual doors in the basement. Which requires at least 30 Stars. Once inside, you’ll want to collect all 8 Red Coins to make the Star appear at the end, and defeat Bowser to earn your second Bowser Key. This will gain you access to the second and third floors of the Castle.
How to Beat Bowser #3 – Bowser in the Sky and get the Red Coins Star
The final Bowser is accessible via the “Endless Stairway”, a magical staircase which only has an end once you climb it with at least 70 Stars. As before, you can gain one of the 15 Castle Secret Stars by collecting all 8 Red Coins in this level. If you just want to collect the Red Coins and don’t want to beat Bowser yet (which will end the game), then simly pause the game after getting the Star, and select “Exit Course” which will take you back to the main Castle hall.
Where to Find All the Castle Secret Stars
In order to collect all 120 Stars in order to finish Super Mario 64 (which rewards you with a cannon outside the castle that allows you to launch yourself to the roof, talk to Yoshi, and earn 100 lives as well as a glowing trail when you Triple Jump), you’ll need to earn all 15 of the “Castle’s Secret Stars”.
These Stars are well-hidden within the Castle and are not included as part of a level/painting, but are hidden somewhere else. Six of them have already been detailed above (hidden in the Bowser and Cap Switch stages), here are how to get the rest.
Castle Secret Star #1 – Tower of the Wing Cap
Read above about how to activate the red Cap Switch to earn the Wing Cap. Within that course you will also earn this Secret Star by collecting all 8 Red Coins in the Tower of the Wing Cap stage.
Castle Secret Star #2 – Cavern of the Metal Cap
Read above about how to activate the green Cap Switch to earn the Metal Cap. Within that course you will also earn this Secret Star by collecting all 8 Red Coins in the Cavern of the Metal Cap stage.
Castle Secret Star #3 – Vanish Cap Under the Moat
Read above about how to activate the blue Cap Switch to earn the Vanish Cap. Within that course you will also earn this Secret Star by collecting all 8 Red Coins in the Vanish Cap Switch Course stage.
Castle Secret Star #4 – The Princess’s Secret Slide
Go up the stairs in the main hall, first floor of the castle and through the door on the right (Cost 1 Star to enter). You’ll be in a room with three Stain Glass Windows depicting Princess Peach. The right window can be entered to find a hidden course! Make it to the bottom of the slide to earn this Star.
Castle Secret Star #5 – Slide in Under 21 Seconds!
Now this Star is much more difficult to get. On the same slide as above, you are tasked with making it to the bottom of the slide in under 21 seconds. Hold up on the Control Stick to speed up, hold down to slow down, and remember that you can jump if you are sliding on Mario’s butt. Can’t jump if you’re sliding on his belly. This can be a difficult Star to earn but just keep at it until you pass and earn the Star.
Castle Secret Star #6 – The Secret Aquarium
This Secret Star is located in the Jolly Roger Bay room, before you jump in the painting. You’ll notice that there is a Toad in the corner, and then two black spaces above that you can leap to on either side. One of them contains a 1UP Mushroom, the other is a secret area! Jump up and enter it (the left one) and you’ll be inside one of the aquariums. There is no air in here, so make sure you grab the Coins to refill your health. Collect all 8 Red Coins here to earn the Star.
Castle Secret Star #7 – Wing Mario Over the Rainbow
This is the last Secret Star that you will have access to outside of the final Bowser stage, and you’ll find this Secret Star couse directly opposite of the Rainbow Ride stage in the room with the Giant Clock that leads to the “Tick Tock Clock level.” Jump in the hole (which has light shining out) and you will be on another Wing Mario course, somewhat similar to the actual Tower of the Wing Cap stage, but much more difficult. This course tasks you with collecting 8 Red Coins by flying from cloud to cloud. You can stand on the clouds, but they get higher into the air and can be hard to land on. If you miss a cloud you risk flying into the abyss or having your Wing Cap run out. At which point you’ll fall into the abyss and have to start the stage all over again. Because of these realities, this course can be pretty difficult.
Here is a video showing you how to collect all the Red Coins.
Castle Secret Star #8 – Catch the Bunny
When you first arrive in the Castle’s basement, there will be a brown rabbit running around the basement area. You need to catch this bunny in order for him to give you this Star. There is a technique to catching him, as you can see in this video.
Castle Secret Star #9 – Catch the Bunny Again
After you have caught the bunny for the first time, he will reappear in the basement again later on. Catch him a second time and you will earn this Star.
Castle Secret Star #10 – Gift From Toad 1
You probably have noticed that there are many different Toads tucked in the corners of the Castle. You should always talk to them because he offers some helpful advice on how to play the game. Not only that however, but there are a few times where Toad will even give you a gift . . . in the form of a Secret Star! Toad holds the first Star in the Hazy Maze Cave room level with the metalic pool in the Castle Basement. Instead of jumping into the pool, talk to Toad first and he will give you this Star.
Castle Secret Star #11 – Gift From Toad 2
The second time Toad will gift you with a Star, you will find him located in the upstairs of the Castle on the second floor. He will be standing against an inner wall in the main hall where the main second floor pictures are. Talk to him here and he’ll give you another Star.
Castle Secret Star #12 – Gift From Toad 3
Toad is the gift that just keeps on giving! The last time he will give you a Star, you will find him in the Grandfather Clock room where the entrances for the Tick Tock Clock and Rainbow Ride levels are located. Talk to Toad who is standing by the Grandfather Clock and you will be given this Star.
Castle Secret Star #13 – Bowser In the Dark World
This Secret Star is located in the first Bowser stage. Collect all 8 Red Coins to earn the Star. Read above for tips and a video guide on how to do so.
Castle Secret Star #14 – Bowser in the Fire Sea
This Secret Star is located within the second Bowser stage, the Fire Sea. You will need to collect all 8 Red Coins to make this Star appear. Read above for tips and a video guide on how to do so.
Castle Secret Star #15 – Bowser in the Sky
The final Castle Secret Star is located within the grand finale Bowser stage, “Bowser in the Sky”. Within this level, you will need to collect all 8 Red Coins to make the Star appear. Fighting Bowser will beat the game and roll the credits, pause and select “Exit” if you just want to earn the Star and keep playing without fighting Bowser. Read above for tips and a video guide on how to get this final Secret Star.
Thanks to JarvisGanon, GamrTV, Filimonas, mikelat, NewEraWalkthrough, SM64Zobec, DarkAlexthunder and more for the videos.