Daniel K. Inouye Kīlauea 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.

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.

Ways to explore

The Daniel K. Inouye Kīlauea Point Lighthouse is typically visited on sightseeing tours that explore Kauai’s North Shore, though you can also visit independently if you reserve an entry time online. Many tours include a stop at the lighthouse along with other scenic locations such as Hanalei Bay, Princeville, or nearby waterfalls.

Some itineraries include lighthouse access or admission to the surrounding Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge; others offer views from outside the entrance, so check what’s included before booking. Tours generally depart from Lihue or the island’s southern resorts, with round-trip transportation provided.

Accessibility

The five-minute walk to the lighthouse is on a paved path with a slight uphill grade from the parking area. At the fee booth, you can request a golf cart to transport you to the viewpoint and back.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Binoculars (to spot seabirds and seasonal whales), refillable water bottle, sunscreen, camera

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, hat, sunglasses, light layers (to combat the breeze and sun)

Not allowed

Drones, pets (except service animals), smoking, food beyond the visitor area

Amenities

Restrooms, small visitor center with exhibits, shaded seating areas, drinking water station

Address

The Daniel K. Inouye Kīlauea Point Lighthouse sits on Kauai’s North Shore, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) from Lihue. It’s located within Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge and is best reached by car or as part of a guided tour.

Driving

From Lihue, take HI-56 N (Kuhio Highway) toward Kilauea. Once in town, turn right onto Kilauea Road and follow signs to the refuge entrance. The drive takes around 45 minutes, and limited parking is available near the visitor center.

Public transportation

The lighthouse is not reachable by public transportation. To visit, you’ll need to drive or join a guided tour that includes transportation.

Best times to visit

Visit when the gate opens, typically at 10am, for cooler temperatures and smaller crowds. Alternatively, arrive in late afternoon, around 3pm, when visitors tend to depart.

Best days to visit

The refuge and lighthouse are open Wednesday through Saturday. Visit on a Wednesday or Thursday if you want to avoid the largest crowds.

Best months to visit

The drier months—April, May, August, September, and early October—offer the best balance of sunshine, mild weather, and manageable crowds on Kauai’s North Shore.