Kilauea Lighthouse

Kilauea Lighthouse stands at Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge on Kauai's north shore, with ocean cliffs, seabirds, refuge views and advance reservations.

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Kilauea Lighthouse, Kauai

Located at Kilauea Point on the north shore of Kauai, the Kilauea Lighthouse stands at the northernmost point of the eight main Hawaiian Islands. It was built in 1913 by the U.S. government and served for many years to keep ships traveling to and from Asia safe from running aground and provide direction. Back then, the lighthouse’s beam could be seen 90 miles (145 km) out at sea. It had the largest lens of its type when it was built. The lighthouse was decommissioned in 1976.

The Kilauea Lighthouse is now part a wildlife refuge of 203 acres (0.8 sq. km) that is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Here you can observe various species of native and transient birds and study the native vegetation in the visitor center. Over 500,000 visitors a year visit the Kilauea Lighthouse.

Besides the lighthouse, there are three keepers' quarters, made from field stone, a fuel oil shed, old cisterns and a landing platform. The Kilauea Lighthouse is one of the most intact light stations left in the United States.

After so many years of being exposed to the elements and harsh salt conditions, the landmark needs help to stay in good shape. To help restore this piece of Hawaiian history, the Kilauea Point Natural History Association has established a fund to raise money. (Volunteers are needed as well.) Fans of the Kilauea Light Station can buy a personalized brick to help towards this end.

Key Features

Located inside Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge on Kauai's north shore
Officially named the Daniel K. Inouye Kilauea Point Lighthouse
Completed in 1913 as a navigation aid for ships in Hawaiian waters
Reservations are required for refuge entry
Refuge hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Visitors must arrive before the 3:30 pm gate closure
Entry requires a vehicle; walking down the access road is not allowed
Lighthouse tours are currently suspended
Wildlife viewing may include seabirds, nene and seasonal ocean life
Kilauea Lighthouse is known for north shore views, ocean cliffs, seabirds, lighthouse history and national wildlife refuge scenery

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the lighthouse's official name?

The lighthouse is officially named the Daniel K. Inouye Kilauea Point Lighthouse, honoring the longtime Hawaii senator and World War II veteran.

When was Kilauea Lighthouse built?

The lighthouse was completed in 1913 and served as an important navigation aid for ships traveling through Hawaiian waters.

What birds might visitors see at Kilauea Point?

The refuge is known for seabirds such as red-footed boobies, Laysan albatrosses, wedge-tailed shearwaters and great frigatebirds, along with nene in the refuge area.

Why are reservations required?

The reservation system manages access to the refuge, parking area and lighthouse point, helping protect the wildlife setting while keeping visits organized.

Can visitors go inside the lighthouse?

Lighthouse tours are currently suspended, so most visits focus on the exterior, ocean viewpoints, refuge exhibits and wildlife viewing around Kilauea Point.