RESERVATIONSThere’s a famous tune in The Lone Star State that goes, “The stars at night/are big and bright/deep in the heart of Texas.” But even in West Texas’ flat and dry terrain, you can’t get as close to the stars as you can here on the Valley Isle.
One activity that isn’t as well-known as skiing and snorkeling is seeing Maui’s incredible starry night skies. Because Maui doesn’t have as much “light pollution” as The Big Island, the stars are much more visible than they are elsewhere. If you live in a big city or even a big suburb, the night lights obscure the view. Here, the lack of lights at night lets the sky illuminate the land.
Stargazing at Haleakala National Park
Haleakala Crater towers over 10,000 feet above the Pacific Ocean and comprises three-quarters of Maui’s 727 square miles. It’s also one of the world’s dormant volcanoes. Visiting the park takes you to one of the highest places in the Pacific. And at night, it’s one of the coldest.
Many people come here to see the amazing sunrise. So many that you must have advance reservations. But sunset is different, and stargazers come here for an amazing view not available anywhere else.
There is a $30 entrance fee to enter Haleakala National Park. You’ll need to pack food, water, and other supplies, and bring cold-weather gear, including a jacket, a blanket, and layers, since the temperatures at night can get below freezing on the summit.
There are no concessions or vendors here, so you must bring your own supplies, including food, water, and warm clothes. Shaka Guide offers a packing list and additional information on the park, packing for your visit, and a map for a driving tour.
Astronomy Tours
If you’d rather not drive, book a tour and let someone else do the driving while you enjoy the view. There are multiple tours available with local vendors who will get you there and back without the stress of navigating in an unfamiliar area.
Maui Stargazing is one company that does guided tours for the Halakela sunset and includes stargazing. The tour also includes a “science-based, 60 to 90-minute guided telescope tour of the cosmos.” After pickup at the Food Truck Court in Makawao, you’ll spend six hours with them visiting the Park. Learn more about the company and about the tour on their FAQ page. The company recommends arriving early to order food for your journey.
Maui Stargazing is just one of the companies that offers astronomy tours here. Hawaii Tours and Volcano Tours also offer sunset tours in the park. Trip Advisor also has listings of stargazing and astronomy tours that are available in Maui.
Astronomy and Stargazing at Hana Kai Maui
Maui is a great place for stargazing. When you’re planning your Maui getaway, call us to book your next reservations at 1-800-346-2772, or book directly online. We’re open 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Hawaii time to answer all your questions and book your perfect Hana vacation. Get in touch today to book your stay at Hana Kai Maui.
