Dark Sky Maps and Stargazing Spots in Hawaii (HI)

Kualoa Regional Park, located on the northeastern coast of Oahu, offers a tranquil escape from the busy urban areas. The park features serene beaches, lush green landscapes, and stunning views of the iconic Ko'olau mountains. With ample parking and restrooms available, it's a practical choice for families and groups. The calm waters make it suitable for swimming and other water activities like fishing and skimboarding. Visitors often enjoy sunset and sunrise views here, capturing the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. This park is also a fantastic spot for stargazing, thanks to its dark skies and minimal light pollution.

Hilina Pali Overlook is located within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park in the southeastern region of the island. Accessible via a winding paved road, this overlook offers visitors stunning coastal views. A short, slightly overgrown hike leads to the best vantage point. The area is known for its remote beauty, making it ideal for stargazing due to minimal light pollution. Amenities include a vault toilet that is well-maintained. The weather can be windy, so plan accordingly. This overlook is not just a stopping point; it serves as a gateway to further trails leading down to captivating beaches and other natural attractions.

Papakōlea Green Sand Beach, located on the southern coast of the Big Island, is one of only four green sand beaches in the world. The beach gets its unique color from olivine crystals, a result of volcanic activity. Accessing the beach involves a rugged journey, with options for hiking 2.8 miles or taking a local shuttle service through steep terrain. Visitors should be prepared with water, sun protection, and sturdy footwear. The beach features strong waves and stunning views, making it perfect for experienced swimmers. While amenities are limited, the natural beauty and unique geological features make it a noteworthy destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Dragon's Teeth Access Trail offers a short yet scenic hike along the rugged coastline of Lahaina. This trail features unique rock formations resembling dragon's teeth, providing stunning views of the ocean. The initial parts of the trail are relatively gentle, making it suitable for families and visitors of various fitness levels. However, the terrain can become rocky and uneven near the end, so good hiking shoes are recommended. Be mindful of the area's cultural significance; it is close to sacred burial grounds. The small parking area can fill quickly, so plan accordingly. Visitors also report enjoyable sightings of sea turtles and tide pools. The trail's exposure means sun protection is essential.

China Walls, located in the southeast of Oahu, offers stunning ocean vistas and unique cliff jumping spots. This popular shoreline destination is known for its strong waves, making it ideal for experienced surfers and adventurous swimmers. Visitors can enjoy picnics or simply relax while taking in the breathtaking views of the Pacific. The area has no designated amenities, so guests should prepare for a natural experience. With ample street parking, China Walls provides easy access to its dramatic scenery. Just be cautious of slippery rocks and unpredictable surf conditions. It’s best suited for confident swimmers and adults, as the currents can be strong.

Laupāhoehoe Beach Park, located on the northeastern coast of Hawaii, offers a serene escape with stunning ocean views and a variety of amenities. The park is known for its natural swimming pools formed by volcanic rock, making it a unique spot for a quick dip. Visitors will find ample open space for picnicking, complete with picnic tables and fire pits. The area is family-friendly and often frequented by locals, particularly on weekends. The dramatic waves and beautiful landscape provide an impressive backdrop for photography and stargazing, especially on clear nights. Restroom facilities are also available for convenience.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, located on the Big Island, features active volcanoes, lava tubes, and diverse ecosystems. The park is home to Mauna Loa and Kilauea, two of the world's most active volcanoes. Visitors can explore unique landscapes, including barren lava fields and lush rainforests. The park offers well-maintained trails that allow for close-up views of craters and steam vents. It's recognized for its dark skies, making it an excellent location for stargazing. Facilities include a visitor center, restrooms, and picnic areas. Camping is available, but food options are limited, so bringing your own supplies is recommended. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially in the rainforest areas.

Haleakalā National Park, located on Maui's south side, is a stunning destination for nature enthusiasts and stargazers. The park features diverse landscapes, from volcanic craters to lush rainforests, offering excellent hiking trails and wildlife observation. Visitors can experience breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, with viewing points at the summit reaching over 10,000 feet. The park is known for its dark skies, making it perfect for stargazing with minimal light pollution. It has amenities like picnic areas and a visitor center, but be prepared for cold temperatures at high elevations. Reservations are required for sunrise viewing, ensuring a unique experience at this remarkable location.

Haleakalā Observatory offers stunning panoramic views of Maui and is renowned for its exceptional stargazing opportunities. Located on the volcano’s summit, visitors can witness spectacular sunrises and sunsets, with clear skies providing an ideal backdrop for astronomical observation. The scenic drive to the summit includes twisting roads and numerous lookout points, enhancing the experience. Bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly. The observatory features visitor centers with restrooms, but no food or gas is available. An admission fee is required, and reservations are needed for sunrise visits. This site is well-maintained, making it a cherished spot for both daytime and nighttime adventures.

Haleakalā National Park's Summit District is a stunning destination on Maui, known for its breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage. Located at an elevation of over 10,000 feet, this area offers visitors a chance to experience clear dark skies, making it a premier location for stargazing. The park's nickname, "House of the Sun," reflects its connection to Hawaiian mythology. Visitors can explore hiking trails, enjoy panoramic views of volcanic landscapes, and witness unforgettable sunrises and sunsets. Be prepared for chilly conditions and strong winds at the summit. Reservations are required for sunrise viewing, ensuring an intimate experience with nature's beauty.

Mauna Kea is a prominent mountain located on the Big Island of Hawaii, known for its stunning views and world-class stargazing opportunities. The park features a series of observatories at its summit, making it a key destination for astronomical research. Visitors can access the summit via a rugged mountain road, best suited for 4x4 vehicles due to its steep terrain. The altitude can cause altitude sickness, so it's advisable to take precautions. The temperature drops significantly at the top, especially during sunset and nighttime, so warm clothing is essential. This location offers a unique experience for enthusiasts of both sunrise and stargazing, with clear dark skies that reveal countless stars.

Mauna Ulu Lookout offers stunning panoramic views of Kilauea Volcano’s expansive lava fields. Located within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, this lookout provides visitors a unique perspective on the dynamic volcanic landscape. The hike to the lookout is easy and family-friendly, featuring interpretive signs about the area's geological history. On clear nights, the dark skies above make it an excellent spot for stargazing, allowing for clear views of celestial wonders away from city lights. With its striking contrast of black lava and lush greenery, Mauna Ulu is a remarkable destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Keanakako'i Overlook offers a scenic vista of the active Kīlauea volcano, nestled within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The area is known for its panoramic views, particularly at sunset, which many visitors highly recommend. Access to the overlook involves an easy walk along a closed road, making it suitable for hikers of all ages. The trail meanders through lush forests of koa and ʻōhiʻa trees, contributing to the park's serene atmosphere. Ideal for stargazing, the park experiences minimal light pollution, allowing for clear views of the night sky. Facilities are limited, so plan accordingly for a comfortable visit.

Waimea Canyon State Park is often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." It features stunning vistas, deep valleys, and vibrant greenery. Located in the northwest region of Kauai, this park offers several scenic overlooks for photography and appreciation of the landscape. Visitors can access various hiking trails with differing difficulty levels. Weather can be unpredictable, so early visits may provide clearer views. The park charges a parking fee, which is applicable throughout the day at different sites. Facilities like restrooms are available, enhancing the visitor experience. It’s also known for its dark skies, making it an excellent spot for stargazing after sunset.

Pu'u Kalepeamoa, located near the Mauna Kea Visitor Center in Hawaii, offers stunning views, particularly for stargazers. The hike to the summit is short but steep, making it accessible for those who prefer not to trek for hours. At an elevation of around 9,000 feet, it presents an ideal spot to enjoy sunrises and sunsets above the clouds. Visitors often recommend bringing warm clothing as temperatures can drop significantly, and it can be quite windy. The park opens 24/7, making it perfect for late-night stargazing. With no cabins or lakes, the focus here is on the natural beauty and pristine night sky.

Ke Ala Hele Makalae is a scenic multi-use path on the eastern shore of Kauai. Stretching approximately 8 miles along the coastline, it offers a flat and accessible route perfect for walking, biking, or jogging. Along the path, visitors can enjoy stunning ocean views, the sound of crashing waves, and the chance to spot local wildlife, including monk seals. The trail is equipped with several restrooms and picnic spots. Key attractions include access to Donkey Beach, where you might glimpse whales during migration seasons. Interpretive signs provide insights into Kauai's history and marine life, making it both a recreational and educational experience.

Kīlauea Iki Crater offers a unique opportunity to explore a solidified lava lake within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Located on the Big Island, this crater provides an otherworldly landscape that transitions from lush jungle to barren lava plains. The trail begins at the Thurston Lava Tube parking area and descends about 4 miles of switchbacks into the crater. This park is also recognized for its dark skies, making it an excellent spot for stargazing away from city lights. Visitors can spot unique olivine crystals and witness volcanic vents, providing insight into the area's geological activity. Be prepared for variable weather and plan your hike accordingly.

Kalahaku Overlook is a scenic viewpoint situated within the Haleakalā National Park on Maui. Nestled at a high elevation, it offers stunning vistas of the volcanic landscape and the surrounding island. Visitors can enjoy spectacular sunrises and sunsets, with unobstructed views of the sky above a sea of clouds. The area is known for its dark skies, making it an excellent spot for stargazing. Be prepared for cooler temperatures and changing weather conditions, and bring appropriate layers for warmth. This overlook can be quieter than the summit, allowing for a more peaceful experience. It’s a worthwhile stop on your journey through the park.

Manuka State Wayside offers a unique experience for nature enthusiasts and stargazers alike. Located in the lush landscapes of Hawaii, this park features a variety of trails, including a short loop that showcases a forested area. The terrain can be uneven, with lava rocks making the hike a bit challenging. Though views of the nearby pit crater may be limited due to vegetation, the park provides picnic areas and clean restrooms. Wildlife is also present, with occasional sightings of wild pigs and chickens. The park's remote location makes it a good spot for dark sky viewing, ideal for those looking to explore the stars at night.

Cliff Trail Lookout offers a unique hiking experience on the scenic island of Kauai. Situated in a rugged, northwest landscape, this trail presents a moderately challenging route with varied terrains, including mud and steep climbs. Hikers can expect a trek of about four miles round-trip. While the final destination features a smaller waterfall, stunning panoramic views of the canyon are a highlight along the way. Watch for local wildlife, including goats, and enjoy the lush vegetation typical of Hawaii. There are no restroom facilities after the parking lot, so plan accordingly. This area is also known for its dark skies, making it a potential spot for stargazing post-hike.

Paradise Cove Public Beach is a small, family-friendly beach located in Kapolei, HI. Known for its calm waters, it’s an ideal spot for snorkeling and swimming, especially for young children. The cove features rich marine life, including sea turtles and a variety of fish. Although parking is limited to just a few spaces, visitors can find additional options at nearby resorts or shopping centers (at a cost). There are no restrooms or rinse-off facilities directly at the beach, so plan accordingly. With beautiful sand and scenic surroundings, this cozy beach offers a relaxing getaway for locals and tourists alike.

Wailua Valley State Wayside offers stunning views of Maui’s lush landscapes and rugged coastlines. Located along the scenic road to Hana, the park features a small parking area and a short walk up a set of stairs to reach the lookout. Visitors can enjoy sweeping vistas of the ocean, mountains, and, on clear days, distant waterfalls. It's a popular stop for those traveling to Hana, making it an ideal spot for a quick break. The site is particularly well-suited for stargazing, away from city lights, providing an excellent backdrop for viewing the night sky. Amenities are limited, so plan accordingly.