Where can you make eye contact with a great frigatebird?
Or watch Laysan albatrosses taxi down their own runway for takeoff?
On the north coast of Kauai, where Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is alive with permanent and migrating seabirds.
This giant rookery is where the nene, wedgetail shearwaters, red- and white-tailed tropicbirds and red-footed boobies are among thousands of birds sharing cliff space and offshore sea- stack Moku’ae’ae in the raucous day-to-day activities at the point.
Nearby Albatross Hill is a nesting habitat for Laysan albatrosses during winter months.
At certain times of the year, Hawaiian monk seals and green sea turtles can be seen along the shore. Dolphins visit during spring and summer months, and from November to March, the waters are a temporary home for humpback whales as part of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary.
A short walk leads to the Daniel K. Inouye Kilauea Point Lighthouse and Visitor Center, where information on bird life, plant life and a history of the lighthouse is available.
Hours of Operation
The refuge and lighthouse are open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday – Saturday, and is closed on major federal holidays. Admission is $5 for adults; children under 16 admitted free. America the Beautiful passes are honored. Lighthouse tours are conducted every Wednesday and Saturday as staffing allows.
Driving Directions
Take route 56 north from Lihuʻe to Kilauea. Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is about a 30-minute drive.
Look for directions to the refuge on the roadside.
Parking
The Refuge provides two accessible parking spots (vehicle placard required) and golf cart transportation for those with disabilities. Please contact the Refuge at (808) 828-1413 if you need further assistance.
Amenities
Restrooms, a drinking fountain, and water refilling station are available.
Restrictions
Pets, food, and drink and firearms are prohibited. Water is permitted.
For more information on this attraction, visit the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge website.
