If you’re looking for the best stargazing in Hawaii, look no further than Haleakalā National Park on Maui. Considered one of Hawaii’s best dark sky parks, this location is perfect for viewing the sky without much light pollution. Haleakalā National Park is the place to go the next time you want to catch a show in the night sky.
Hawaii is known for its vast natural beauty: waterfalls, beautiful beaches, and even volcanoes.
Haleakalā National Park / National Park website But did you know that the islands light up with magic even when the sun sets? It’s no surprise that Hawaii is home to 18 different dark sky reserves.
Our favorite dark sky park is located inside Haleakalā National Park.
HaizhanZheng / E+ Collection / Getty Images The high elevation means less humidity and a clearer atmosphere. This means you can see stars lighting up the sky without interference.
The park features many wide open spaces without buildings or electricity.
jimfeng / iStock / Getty Images Plus This accounts for a low light pollution index, creating the perfect viewing conditions on a clear night.
Haleakalā National Park has a Bortle Score of 2.
Kyle Kempf / iStock / Getty Images Plus The Bortle scores reflect how much light pollution will affect your stargazing. A score of 2 means the area has very little light pollution, and is an excellent spot for looking at the night sky. Make sure you turn off all white lights while stargazing, including your phones, to maximize the sights you will be able to see.
When you head to stargaze at Haleakalā National Park, make sure to pack warm clothes.
wes_mcallister / iStock / Getty Images Plus The temperature drops at night, especially at this high elevation, and you don’t want to get cold. And make sure to bring your own snacks; there aren’t any available inside the park.
If you find you can’t bear to leave, book a night at the Hosmer Grove Campground on the summit.
Kyle Kempf / iStock / Getty Images Plus Don’t forget — entrance fees are $30 per private vehicle.
This epic location is guaranteed to give you fantastic star gazing.
Haleakalā National Park / National Park website If you have the opportunity to visit the Haleakalā National Park after dark, don’t miss out. It’s a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Have you ever visited Haleakalā National Park for the best stargazing in Hawaii? What did you think? Would you recommend it? Let us know in the comments!
Haleakalā National Park / National Park website
But did you know that the islands light up with magic even when the sun sets? It’s no surprise that Hawaii is home to 18 different dark sky reserves.
HaizhanZheng / E+ Collection / Getty Images
The high elevation means less humidity and a clearer atmosphere. This means you can see stars lighting up the sky without interference.
jimfeng / iStock / Getty Images Plus
This accounts for a low light pollution index, creating the perfect viewing conditions on a clear night.
Kyle Kempf / iStock / Getty Images Plus
The Bortle scores reflect how much light pollution will affect your stargazing. A score of 2 means the area has very little light pollution, and is an excellent spot for looking at the night sky. Make sure you turn off all white lights while stargazing, including your phones, to maximize the sights you will be able to see.
wes_mcallister / iStock / Getty Images Plus
The temperature drops at night, especially at this high elevation, and you don’t want to get cold. And make sure to bring your own snacks; there aren’t any available inside the park.
Kyle Kempf / iStock / Getty Images Plus
Don’t forget — entrance fees are $30 per private vehicle.
If you have the opportunity to visit the Haleakalā National Park after dark, don’t miss out. It’s a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Looking to extend your stargazing? Check out this hotel in Maui that offers a one-hour “Tour of the Stars.”
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Address: Haleakal? National Park, Hawaii, USA