Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Perched on the northern shore of Kauai, the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is a breathtaking natural sanctuary that offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe a wide variety of seabirds and wildlife in their natural habitat. The refuge is home to one of the largest populations of nesting seabirds in the main Hawaiian Islands, including red-footed boobies, Laysan albatrosses, and wedge-tailed shearwaters.
The highlight of the refuge is the historic Kilauea Lighthouse, which was built in 1913 and has since become a symbol of Kauai's natural beauty. Visitors can take a guided tour of the lighthouse and learn about its fascinating history and the important role it played in maritime navigation. From the top of the lighthouse, breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline and the Pacific Ocean can be enjoyed, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.
In addition to its diverse bird population, the refuge is also home to Hawaiian monk seals and the endangered nene goose, the state bird of Hawaii. Visitors can explore the refuge's scenic walking trails and experience the tranquility of the natural surroundings while keeping an eye out for the diverse wildlife that call the area home.
For those interested in marine life, the refuge's coastal waters are a popular spot for whale watching during the winter months, as humpback whales migrate to the warm Hawaiian waters to breed and give birth. The refuge also offers stunning panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the majestic cliffs that stretch along the shore, providing an ideal setting for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge Attractions - What to See and Explore
Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Kilauea Light. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Best Time To Visit Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge
Learn when is the best time to travel to Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Hawaiian monk seal
The Hawaiian monk seal, an earless seal endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, is an endangered species with a fascinating yet precarious existence. It shares its lineage with just one other monk seal species, the Mediterranean monk seal, while the Caribbean monk seal has...
Mammals
Nene
The nene, or Hawaiian goose, is a unique bird endemic to the Hawaiian Islands and proudly holds the title of Hawaii's state bird. These fascinating creatures can be spotted on islands such as Oahu, Maui, Kaua'i, Molokai, and Hawai'i.
Birds
Humpback whale
The humpback whale is one of the most captivating creatures of the sea, easily recognized by its unique body shape, impressive breaching behavior, and intricate songs sung by males. These magnificent whales can grow up to 16 meters (about 52 feet) in length and weigh...
Mammals
Black-footed albatross
The black-footed albatross is a captivating seabird from the albatross family, Diomedeidae. Predominantly found in the North Pacific, these birds primarily inhabit the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Notably, they are among the few albatross species that nest in the...
Birds
Great frigatebird
The great frigatebird is a captivating seabird from the frigatebird family, predominantly inhabiting the tropical Pacific and Indian Oceans, with a smaller population residing in the South Atlantic. One of the most striking features of these birds is the pronounced...
Birds
Hawaii