Daniel K. Inouye Kilauea Point Lighthouse
The Basics
Most tours of Kauai’s North Shore include a visit to the lighthouse, which is part of the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. Some North Shore tours visit other top attractions as well, such as Wailua Falls and Kauai’s Hindu Monastery. Other options include helicopter and flightseeing tours, and combination air and land adventures. Or, opt for a movie-themed tour that takes you to the filming locations of hit movies such asJurassic Park andPirates of the Caribbean.
At the lighthouse, stop by the visitor center to learn about native Hawaiian animal and plant life. Then, walk out to Kilauea Point for panoramic views of the ocean and the opportunity to see migrating seabirds in their natural habitat.
Things to Know Before You Go
The Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is a must-see for first-time travelers to Kauai, especially bird-watchers and nature lovers.
There’s an entrance fee for older children and adults.
Don’t forget your camera—Kilauea Point is a favorite of photographers.
The path to the lighthouse is paved and fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The Daniel K. Inouye Kilauea Point Lighthouse is located on Kilauea Point, 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) north of the historic town of Kilauea. From Lihue, drive north to Kilauea on the Kuhio Highway for about 23 miles (37 kilometers), then follow Kilauea Road to Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge isn’t accessible via public transit.To avoid renting a car, book a tour of Kauai’s North Shore that includes round-trip transportation to the refuge.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
The Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is open year-round (except for major holidays), Tuesday through Saturday, morning and afternoon. Free tours are sometimes offered two days per week—call ahead, and sign up an hour in advance. To avoid crowds, visit in the afternoon.
Daniel K. Inouye Kilauea Point Lighthouse Wildlife
The cliffs and grassy slopes of the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge provide a safe breeding ground for Hawaiian seabirds. Red-footed boobies, Laysan albatrosses, great frigatebirds, and wedge-tailed shearwaters all visit throughout the year. Between November and March, the coast is a haven for humpback whales, and in spring and summer, you might see dolphins there.