Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge

Overview

Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is a stunning coastal habitat on the Big Island of Hawaii, known for its diverse birdlife and scenic ocean views. It is a protected area managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The refuge is important for its role in the protection and conservation of native seabirds and other wildlife, as well as its historical significance related to the Kilauea Lighthouse.

Wildlife Refuge Scenic Lookout

Location

Address

Kilauea, Big Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

Neighborhood: North Shore

Coordinates

22.200500, -159.367800

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$15

Children

$10

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

October-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Fewer crowds and better wildlife viewing

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

Half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Warm and pleasant

• Seabird nesting season
• Wildflowers

summer

Hot and humid

• Long daylight hours

autumn

Cool and comfortable

• Cooler temperatures
• Whale watching

winter

Warm and pleasant

• Humpback whale migration

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Check for lighthouse tour availability
Bring binoculars for birdwatching
Wear comfortable shoes

What to Bring

essential

Binoculars Water Sunscreen

seasonal

Light jacket Rain gear

not allowed

Drones Pets

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate

• Stay on marked paths
• Be cautious of steep cliffs

Medical facilities: First aid available at visitor center

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $10

lighthouse tour $25

parking $5

souvenirs $10

Dress Code

Casual and comfortable, Hiking shoes, light clothing, Comfortable walking shoes, Inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks for lighthouse tours
• Official website or by phone
• 24 hours in advance
• Available for lighthouse tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Kilauea Point NWR

Size: 30 MB

Features: Trail maps, Birdwatching guides, Event calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Lighthouse area

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Kona International Airport

Distance: 45 km

Travel Time: 45 minutes

taxi

$80 45 min

public_transport

$10 1 hour 15 min

From City Center

Distance: 15 km

bus

$2 30 min

taxi

$25 20 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Important for local wildlife and stunning views

Historical Significance: The lighthouse has guided ships since 1913

Insider Tips

Early morning visits offer the best wildlife viewing
The visitor center has excellent educational exhibits

Local Recommendations

• Visit the nearby Kilauea Store for local snacks
• Ask rangers about hidden gems

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Aloha

thank_you Mahalo

where_is No wehe mai

how_much Pehea ke kiko`i

beautiful Nani

ticket Tiketi

Guide Languages: English, Hawaiian

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Kilauea Lighthouse

Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon

Tips: Capture the lighthouse against the ocean backdrop

Result: Stunning coastal photographs

#Hawaii #Wildlife #Nature

Photography Rules

allowed areas Visitor center, Trails, Lookout points

prohibited areas Lighthouse interior during tours

flash photography Not allowed in sensitive areas

commercial photography Permit required

drone policy Prohibited without special permit

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Anini Beach

Distance: 2km

Walking: 25 min

Type: Beach