Oahu is the perfect place to indulge in some of the best stargazing in the world if you’re a fan of celestial sights. The island’s clear, dark skies make it a prime location for catching a glimpse of the cosmos, and there are plenty of spots where you can soak up the beauty of the stars.
Whether you’re an amateur astronomer or just looking for a romantic way to spend an evening, the best stargazing Oahu has to offer is sure to be a highlight of your trip.
In this article, you get
Tips on when and where you can see the Milky Way on Oahu
A light pollution map of Oahu
A look at unique events and tours that go beyond just stargazing Honolulu
A free Google Map of the best stargazing spots Oahu offers
By the end of the article, you’ll have all the info you need to plan your next adventure full of star gazing in Oahu.
Let’s dive right in.
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IS OAHU GOOD FOR STARGAZING?
Yes, Oahu is an excellent place for stargazing.
The island’s clear, dark skies and favorable weather make it a prime location for catching a glimpse of the cosmos.
There are also numerous events and tours available for those interested in stargazing, making it easy for visitors to experience the beauty of the night sky.
Oahu is an excellent destination for stargazing and offers some of the best opportunities to see stars worldwide.
WHEN CAN YOU SEE THE MILKY WAY IN OAHU?
The Milky Way is visible in Oahu throughout the year, but it is most visible from April to October. During this time, the Milky Way is the highest in the sky and easily visible from sunset until midnight.
The best time to see the Milky Way is during the new moon phase when the Moon is not visible in the sky, and the darkness allows for better visibility of the stars.
OAHU LIGHT POLLUTION MAP
Finding a location with a low level of light pollution is essential to get the Milky Way’s best view on O’ahu. For more info, read my article on the effects of light pollution.
WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO STARGAZE ON OAHU ISLAND?
In the following section, I’ll provide details on each of these stargazing spots on Oahu:
- Ala Wai Canal
- Bishop Museum
- China Walls
- Diamond Head State Monument
- Dillingham Airfield
- Halona Blowhole
- Hanauma Bay
- Hokulani Imaginarium
- Ka’ena Point State Park
- Lanai Lookout
- Mokule’ia Beach Park
- Puʻu o Mahuka Heiau
- Royal Hawaiian Center Rooftop Stargazing
- Sandy Beach Park
- Spitting Caves
- Tantalus Summit
- Wahiawa
- Waikiki Beach
- Night Sky Photo and Light Painting Tour
- Stargazers of Hawaii
- Stars Above Hawaii
THE BEST STARGAZING OAHU HAS TO OFFER
The following list of Oahu stargazing locations is in alphabetical order. The last few locations are Oahu stargazing tours I recommend.
Let’s get started.
ALA WAI CANAL
The Ala Wai Canal is an artificial waterway located in the heart of Oahu, running through the neighborhoods of Waikiki and McCully.
Despite being located in a busy urban area, the canal is a popular spot for stargazing Honolulu due to its relatively low light pollution. The wide open spaces and unobstructed sky views make it a great place to catch a glimpse of the stars and constellations.
The canal’s central location makes it easily accessible for visitors in Waikiki. For amazing views of the Honolulu night sky, add Ala Wai Canal to your list of Honolulu star gazing stops!
BISHOP MUSEUM
The Bishop Museum is a famous cultural and scientific institution located in the heart of Oahu, dedicated to preserving and sharing Hawaii’s natural and cultural history.
The Bishop Museum is excellent for anyone interested in stargazing, as it offers several events and programs focused on astronomy and the night sky. These events often include stargazing parties, lectures by experts, and educational activities for visitors of all ages.
Additionally, the museum’s location in the center of Oahu makes it an easily accessible destination for stargazing enthusiasts. The open-air courtyard and surrounding grounds provide plenty of space for gazing up at the stars and pondering what lies at the center of the Milky Way.
CHINA WALLS
China Walls is a popular spot for stargazing on Oahu, located on the island’s eastern side near the Hawaii Kai neighborhood. The area is known for its rugged coastline and rocky cliffs, which offer unobstructed views of the sky and the surrounding waters.
The wide open spaces provide plenty of room for setting up telescopes or just lying back to take in the beauty of the night sky. The lack of light pollution in the area makes China Walls ideal for stargazing.
The area’s cooler temperatures and refreshing ocean breeze make it a pleasant spot for stargazing, especially on warm summer nights.
FREE STARGAZING CHECKLIST
My 5-page Stargazing Checklist will enhance your astronomical observations.
Follow this free checklist to navigate the night sky with confidence, clarity, and a sense of preparedness for a rewarding stargazing experience.
DIAMOND HEAD STATE MONUMENT
Diamond Head State Monument is on the island’s southeastern coast near the neighborhood of Waikiki. The area is known for its iconic volcanic cone and surrounding park, which offer stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.
To get to Diamond Head State Monument, you can take the H-1 freeway to the Waikiki/Kapahulu exit, then follow the signs to Diamond Head Road. Plenty of parking is available within the park, and you can also take the bus or a taxi to get there.
Once you arrive at Diamond Head, you can spend the evening stargazing from the summit of the cone or one of the nearby viewpoints. Several hiking trails lead up to the summit, and the views from the top are breathtaking.
If you want to spend the night stargazing, you can set up a telescope or just lay back and enjoy the view.
Just be sure to bring a flashlight or headlamp to help navigate the trails in the dark. Be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially strong winds at the top of the cone.
DILLINGHAM AIRFIELD
The Hawaii Astronomical Society (HAS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the study of astronomy and the night sky in Hawaii. The organization hosts regular stargazing events at Dillingham Airfield, located on the North Shore of Oahu.
These events are open to the public and are an incredible opportunity for amateur astronomers and anyone interested in stargazing to learn more about the night sky and see it up close.
At the stargazing events at Dillingham Airfield, attendees can expect to see a variety of celestial objects through telescopes provided by HAS members.
These may include planets, stars, constellations, nebulae, and other celestial phenomena. HAS members are also on hand to provide guidance and answer questions about the night sky.
Weather permitting, the stargazing events at Dillingham Airfield are on the first and third Saturday of each month. They usually run from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm and are free to attend.
Bring a flashlight or headlamp to help navigate the airfield in the dark, and dress in warm layers, as the temperatures can be cooler at night.
HALONA BLOWHOLE
Halona Blowhole is on the island’s southeastern coast near the neighborhood of Hanauma Bay. The area is known for its geological features, including a blowhole that shoots water into the air when the waves are strong.
The best time to arrive at Halona Blowhole to enjoy the sunset and stargazing is around an hour before sunset. This will give you plenty of time to find an excellent spot to view the sunset, set up any equipment you might use for stargazing, and get settled in for the evening.
Sunset in Oahu typically occurs around 6:30 pm in the summer and around 6:00 pm in the winter, so you’ll want to plan your arrival accordingly.
After sunset, you’ll want to give your eyes a few minutes to adjust to the darkness before starting your stargazing. This will allow you to see more stars and celestial objects in the sky.
HANAUMA BAY
Hanauma Bay is on the island’s southeastern coast near the Hawaii Kai neighborhood. The area is known for its stunning natural beauty and crystal clear waters, which make it a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and other outdoor activities.
One of the main reasons stargazing at Hanauma Bay is unique is the breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape, which are even more stunning when viewed at night.
HOKULANI IMAGINARIUM
The Hokulani Imaginarium is a popular destination for amateur astronomers and stargazing enthusiasts on Oahu.
It is on the campus of the University of Hawaii at Manoa. The Imaginarium is a state-of-the-art planetarium that offers various educational and entertaining programs on astronomy and the night sky.
Visiting the Hokulani Imaginarium is a great way to learn more about the night sky and see it up close. The Imaginarium’s state-of-the-art technology and expert staff provide a unique and immersive experience.
At the Hokulani Imaginarium, you can expect to see numerous celestial objects through the planetarium’s high-resolution dome, including planets, stars, constellations, nebulae, and other celestial phenomena.
The Imaginarium also offers a range of educational programs, including lectures by experts, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities for visitors of all ages.
The Hokulani Imaginarium is open to the public and offers a variety of programs throughout the year. There is an admission fee.
I recommend you check the Imaginarium’s website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information on programming and hours.
KA’ENA POINT STATE PARK
There are many things to do at Ka’ena Point State Park on Oahu. The park is known for its rugged coastline and natural beauty, which make it a popular destination for hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities.
Some of the activities that visitors can enjoy at Ka’ena Point State Park include:
- Hiking: The park offers many hiking trails that lead through the park’s diverse landscapes, including coastal bluffs, sandy beaches, and rocky cliffs. The trails offer breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. They are a great way to explore the park and take in the area’s natural beauty.
- Birdwatching: Ka’ena Point State Park is home to various bird species, including endangered seabirds such as the Laysan albatross and the wedge-tailed shearwater. The park’s rocky cliffs and sandy beaches provide important nesting and roosting sites for these birds. The park is a great place to observe them in their natural habitat.
- Stargazing: Kaena Point stargazing is of course a great activity thanks to the wide open spaces and unobstructed sky panoramas.
LANAI LOOKOUT
Lanai Lookout is named after the nearby island of Lanai, which is visible from the lookout on a clear day. Lanai Lookout is known for its panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the Pacific Ocean and the Ko’olau mountain range.
The lookout is located on the island’s eastern side and offers a great spot to watch the sunrise or sunset and enjoy the beauty of the night sky. The lookout is located on a hilltop and is accessible by car or on foot via a short hiking trail.
From the lookout, you can see a wide variety of natural and cultural features, including the city of Honolulu, the Waianae Range, and the Mokulua Islands.
MOKULE’IA BEACH PARK
Mokule’ia Beach Park is located on the North Shore of Oahu and is known for its long stretch of sandy beach and natural beauty.
The park is relatively light pollution-free, making it a superb spot for stargazing.
The sunset at Mokule’ia Beach Park is truly breathtaking as the sun sinks below the horizon and casts a golden glow over the ocean and the surrounding landscape.
PU’U O MAHUKA HEIAU
Pu’u o Mahuka Heiau is on the North Shore of the island near the town of Pupukea. The heiau, or Hawaiian temple, is a historical and cultural site.
In addition to stargazing, amateur astronomers visiting Pu’u o Mahuka Heiau can participate in educational programs and events hosted by the Hawaii Astronomical Society.
The society regularly hosts public stargazing events at the heiau.
ROYAL HAWAIIAN CENTER ROOFTOP STARGAZING
The Royal Hawaiian Center is a shopping center located in the heart of Waikiki on Oahu. The center is home to several shops, restaurants, and other amenities and is known for its rooftop stargazing events.
The Royal Hawaiian Center’s rooftop stargazing events are on the fourth floor of the center’s parking garage, offering unobstructed night sky views. The events are typically held once a month and are open to the public, with an admission fee.>
The events provide an immersive and educational experience that is not to be missed and are a great way to enjoy the wonders of the night sky in the heart of Waikiki.
SANDY BEACH
Sandy Beach is known for its beautiful white sandy beach, clear blue waters, strong waves, and powerful shore break. It’s a popular spot for bodyboarding and bodysurfing.
Sandy Beach is on the southeastern coast of Oahu, near Hawaii Kai. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. It is also a popular location for beach weddings and other events.
In addition to its beautiful setting, Sandy Beach is also a fabulous spot for stargazing due to its clear skies and minimal light pollution.
Be sure to dress warmly, as the temperature can drop significantly at night, especially at the beach.
SPITTING CAVES
Spitting Caves is on the island’s eastern side near the Hawaii Kai neighborhood. The shoreline here is full of natural caves and grottos formed by the waves crashing against the cliffs.
The caves are a popular spot for swimming, diving, and exploring. This area is known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful coral formations.
TANTALUS SUMMIT
Mount Tantalus is a mountain peak located in the eastern part of the island of Oahu. It is located in the Koolau Range, which runs along the island’s eastern side, and is part of the Hawaii State Parks system.
The mountain is a popular spot for hiking, with trails that lead to the summit and offer panoramic views of the surrounding area.
From the summit of Mount Tantalus, you can see a wide variety of natural and cultural features, including the city of Honolulu, the Pacific Ocean, and the Ko’olau mountain range. Mount Tantalus stargazing is popular due to its high elevation and clear skies.
If you’re interested in hiking to the summit of Mount Tantalus, it’s essential to be prepared. The trail can be steep and rocky, and the weather can change quickly at higher elevations.
Be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, appropriate clothing, and footwear.
It’s also a good idea to let someone know your plans and to check the weather forecast before you start your hike.
WAHIAWA
Wahiawa is a town situated at a relatively high elevation, which makes it a good spot for stargazing.
There are several parks and trailheads located in and around the town of Wahiawa that offer quiet, peaceful settings for outdoor activities like stargazing. Some options include:
- Wahiawa Botanical Garden: This beautiful garden features a variety of plants and flowers, as well as a peaceful pond and walking trails.
- Wahiawa Freshwater State Recreational Area: This park offers hiking and fishing opportunities, picnic areas, and a playground.
- Schofield Barracks: This military base is home to some recreational areas and trails, including the Schofield Barracks Trail System, which offers a network of trails for hiking and mountain biking.
- Wahiawa Hills Trail: This moderate-difficulty trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and is an excellent spot for a quiet hike or to enjoy the stars.
WAIKIKI BEACH, HONOLULU
Waikiki Beach is a popular tourist destination for its beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife. While Waikiki Beach is not typically considered a good spot for stargazing due to its high levels of light pollution, it is still possible to see some celestial objects.
Suppose you’re interested in stargazing while in Waikiki; you can do a few things to improve your chances of seeing the stars.
One option is to look for a spot farther away from the city’s bright lights, such as the beach at the south end of Waikiki or one of the nearby parks.
If you are interested in closer looking at the stars, you can bring binoculars or a telescope. Download a stargazing app on your phone to help you identify the different constellations and celestial objects visible in the sky.
NIGHT SKY PHOTO AND LIGHT PAINTING TOUR
This unique Oahu stargazing tour is a great way to learn how to capture beautiful night sky images.
They provide tripods for every guest and instructions on how to get the perfect shot. Oahu is one of the best places to view the stars, and on this tour, you’ll learn about the settings and techniques needed to create stunning images at night.
The tour starts by capturing the beautiful sunset and then heads out to see the night sky and all the stars. Your guide will be nearby to help you get the best photos possible, even if this is your first time using a camera at night.
You’ll visit different locations on Oahu to capture the night sky. The guide will also be available to set you up and help you along the way. You can even create more dynamic images using props and posing for the photos.
If you’ve always wanted to capture the beauty of the night sky, this is an excellent opportunity on Oahu.
STARGAZERS OF HAWAII
Stargazers of Hawaii offers the best private stargazing Oahu tour. A local astronomer leads the tours.
They include a tour of the constellations using a green laser pointer, mythology stories of the night sky, and information about Hawaiian/Polynesian celestial navigation and wayfinding techniques.
You can view the Moon, planets, and other deep sky objects through large telescopes with up to 600x magnification power and special nebula filters.
The astronomer will assist you in taking photos of the Moon with your camera and will identify satellites in the twilight sky, including the International Space Station and the Hubble Space Telescope, if they are visible.
The shows also include scientific explanations, the history of astronomical objects, and anything space-related. The shows can last up to 3 hours and be set up as early as sunset, depending on the Moon phase.
All-night shows are also available for die-hard enthusiasts. The astronomer can bring up to two large portable telescopes to your location anywhere on Oahu.
The astronomer can work with you to choose a good observing location and the best nights to view the Moon, planets, or other objects of interest.
STARS ABOVE HAWAII
Stars Above Hawaii is different from a typical tour operator. They offer Star Shows at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina.
The star show begins with an introduction to the night sky. The show explains how the stars move across the sky and how the Polynesians used them for navigation. A powerful green laser traces the Hawaii Star Lines.
You will then use a giant computerized telescope to view the universe up close. You’ll be able to see inside the craters of the Moon, the rings of Saturn, Jupiter in color with its moons, and other planets and galaxies. A camera telescope will also project deep-space images onto a screen for all to see and take home digitally.
The show will also cover the life cycle of stars and discuss other topics of interest, including the science behind astronomy and cultural mythologies around the world. An astronomer hosts the show.
Bonus: Secluded Romantic Stargazing Oahu
If you’re looking for a secluded and romantic spot for stargazing on Oahu, consider the following options:
- Kaena Point State Park: It’s an excellent spot for stargazing away from the city lights. Located at the westernmost tip of Oahu, Kaena Point offers a remote and rugged coastline with minimal light pollution.
- Tantalus Lookout: It’s a popular spot for romantic stargazing. The Tantalus Lookout provides a stunning panoramic view of the city lights below and the starry sky above.
- Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail: The remote location and relatively low light pollution make it a good choice for stargazing.
- North Shore Beaches: The North Shore of Oahu has several beautiful beaches where you can enjoy stargazing in a quieter setting. Sunset Beach and Waimea Bay are popular options.
FREE GOOGLE MAP OF THE BEST STARGAZING ON OAHU
I’ve put together this free Google Map of the best stargazing Oahu has to offer to help you enjoy the night sky on the island.
If you’re a serious stargazer, consider this your Oahu Tourist Map. With this tourist map of Oahu, you’ll be sure to find the best place to stargaze in Oahu.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT EQUIPMENT DO I NEED FOR STARGAZING ON OAHU?
You don’t need any special equipment to enjoy stargazing on Oahu. Still, a pair of binoculars or a telescope can help you get a closer look at the objects in the sky. Download a stargazing app to help you identify the different constellations and celestial objects. Be sure to dress warmly, as the temperature can drop significantly at night, especially at higher elevations.
WHAT CELESTIAL OBJECTS CAN I SEE FROM OAHU?
From Oahu, you can see a wide variety of celestial objects, including stars, planets, and galaxies. On a clear night, you may see the Milky Way, which is visible as a band of light stretching across the sky. You may also see other planets, such as Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars, as well as the Moon and various deep-sky objects, including nebulae and star clusters. The visibility of different celestial objects can vary depending on the time of year and the weather conditions. It’s good to check a stargazing forecast before heading out to enjoy the night sky.
Summary: Oahu Stargazing
Thank you for reading my article on the Best Stargazing Oahu offers.
As the sun sets over the beautiful island of Oahu, the night sky comes alive with a dazzling array of stars and celestial objects. Star gazing Oahu offers a wealth of opportunities for connecting with the beauty of the cosmos, from the sandy beaches to the mountain peaks.
Whether you are a seasoned astronomer or a beginner looking to explore the wonders of the night sky, Oahu has something to offer everyone. With its clear, dark skies and minimal light pollution, the island is an ideal destination for stargazing and taking in the beauty of the universe. But, can you visit the observatory on Oahu?
So grab a telescope, a pair of binoculars, or just your naked eye, and head out into the night. Let the stars above inspire you and remind you of the endless possibilities that await us.
Embrace the magic and mystery of the night sky, and let it guide you on an unforgettable journey of discovery and wonder as you explore stargazing in Oahu.
If your travel plans take you to other Hawaiian islands, read my articles on the best stargazing Maui has to offer and the best stargazing on Kauai. And if you’re feeling adventurous, see if you can answer this question: Can You See the Big Dipper in Hawaii?
If you’re headed to the mainland US, read my articles on the best stargazing in California, Arizona, Utah, Colorado, and Florida.
Read my other articles in my Best Stargazing in US series:
