Information
Landmark: Kilauea Point National Wildlife RefugeCity: Hilo
Country: USA Hawaii
Continent: North America
Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, Hilo, USA Hawaii, North America
Overview
Perched at the far northern tip of the Hawaiian Islands, Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge sits on Kauai’s wild north shore, where waves crash hard against the cliffs.You’ll find it at 3500 Kīlauea Road, Kīlauea, HI 96754, just two miles north of the little town where roosters wander by the roadside.Perched on Kauai’s rugged northern tip, the Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1985 to safeguard native seabirds, coastal plants, and other wildlife.The refuge surrounds the historic Kīlauea Lighthouse, where you can look out over the deep blue Pacific and watch waves crash against sheer, wind-carved cliffs.It’s a safe haven for some of Hawaii’s rarest creatures-endangered seabirds wheeling over the waves, Hawaiian monk seals stretched on sun‑warmed sand, and humpback whales rising slow and heavy from the deep.Main Features.Wildlife Viewing: The refuge teems with life, from deer moving quietly through the tall grass to dolphins cutting through the waves offshore.The refuge teems with life: Laysan albatross wheeling overhead, red-footed boobies and great frigatebirds riding the wind, and wedge-tailed shearwaters nesting in the grass.It shelters endangered species too, like the Hawaiian goose, Hawai‘i’s state bird.Offshore, winter seas may hold breaching humpbacks, playful spinner dolphins, and monk seals stretched out on warm rocks.Perched on a cliff since 1913, the Kīlauea Lighthouse once guided Pacific ships with its brilliant Fresnel lens, now carefully preserved.From its promontory, you can take in sweeping views of the blue Pacific, the jagged Nā Pali Coast, and Kaua‘i’s steep cliffs.Around it, conservation teams work to restore native coastal plants, rebuilding the fragile habitat that sustains this wildlife.Keep an eye out for native plants-like the bright yellow ‘ilima, the salty-leafed naupaka, and the small, sturdy ‘akia.Things to do at the Refuge, from quiet birdwatching at dawn to hiking shaded trails.Bring binoculars to catch seabirds wheeling overhead, nesting on rocky cliffs, and marine life gliding through the clear water below; snap photos of birds in their element or the lighthouse standing bright against the deep blue; explore exhibits and join ranger talks to learn about Hawaii’s native species and ongoing conservation work; and, from November to April, watch humpback whales breach and send up glittering plumes just offshore - all at Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a $10 admission for adults, free entry for kids under sixteen, and facilities that include a visitor center, restrooms, and a small gift shop, plus tips like arriving early for parking, wearing comfortable shoes, carrying sun protection, and staying on marked trails, with nearby attractions from Kīlauea’s shops to Anini Beach, the Nā Pali Coast, and Hanalei Bay adding to the refuge’s perfect blend of scenery, wildlife, and history.From lush green cliffs to the flash of a bright red ‘i‘iwi in the trees, its beauty, wildlife, and rich culture make it a must-see for nature lovers and anyone eager to explore Hawaii’s one-of-a-kind ecology.From the weathered red-and-white lighthouse to the cry of gulls wheeling overhead, the refuge leaves you inspired and sure you’ll never forget it.
