13 Remote Stargazing Getaways With Pure Darkness And Pure Wonder

5. Mauna Kea, Hawaii, USA

Towering nearly 14,000 feet above sea level, Mauna Kea is both a sacred Hawaiian peak and one of the most revered stargazing sites in the world. Rising above the cloud line and far from city lights, its summit provides crystal-clear views of the Northern Hemisphere’s night sky. The thin atmosphere and minimal moisture allow stars, planets, and distant galaxies to shine with piercing intensity. It’s no surprise that some of the world’s most powerful observatories are perched here. The experience is otherworldly, but not without caution—acclimating to the altitude is essential.