The island of Kauai has many tourist destinations and special attractions. One that you should be sure to visit if you are in the area is Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is located in the town of Kilauea just off of State Highway 56 or Kuhio Highway and Lighthouse Road.
Kilauea Lighthouse was built in 1913 and used as a navigational shipping aid between Hawaii and the orient. In 1976 the Coast Guard deactivated the lighthouse and replaced it with an automated beacon. In 1979, the lighthouse was placed on the National Register of Historic places. In 1985, the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge was established to protect the native Hawaiian seabirds and nene geese that live here.
Red footed boobies, Laysan albatrosses, wedge tailed shearwaters are among the protected birds that live and breed here. Hawaiian monk seals, green turtles, and humpback whales can also be found in the waters off Kilauea point.
When visiting Kilauea Point you can view the breathtaking sights of the ocean and cliffs below and watch the seabirds in their natural habitat from the lookout above. For a closer view and to learn more about the refuge you can drive down closer to the lighthouse and pay the $5 per person entrance fee (children under 16 are free). This brings you into the refuge and allows access to interactive panels, the visitor center, and bookstore.
The refuge is open daily 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and closed major holidays.
View from Kilauea Point Lookout
Tags: Kauai, Kilauea, Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, Refuge, Wildlife
I have gotta get out more often and especially to Kauai! Terrific article, and that photo, wow, dizzying plus I am a fan of lighthouses (can I move in?). Great info and an excellent reason to run away to Kauai.