If you are looking to immerse yourself in exotic flora and rare and unique wildlife then the island of Kauai is a perfect choice for your getaway. Known as “The Garden Island” this island is the oldest of the Hawaiian chain and offers a multitude of beaches and pristine mountains. In the winter (November to April) the waters off the coast of this remote island are home to the endangered Humpback whale. These 40 ton creatures migrate to Hawaii every year to birth their young and mate. On Kauai, one of the best places to observe these incredible mammals is at the Kilauea Lighthouse on the island’s northernmost point (read my post about Kauai whale watching).
The North shore of Kauai is generally considered to be the stretch between Kilauea and the end of the road at Kee beach in Haena. Technically, Kilauea marks Kauai’s most northern point and the old Kilauea Lighthouse strategically marks this spot. No longer in operation, the lighthouse stands as a beacon of days past when it served passing ships on their Orient route.
This key location provides an excellent vantage for coastal views of the North shore and observing the extensive bird life that is nurtured here. The home of the Kilauea Point Wildlife Refuge, 203 acres of the surrounding land is dedicated to protecting and researching the wildlife and flora that thrive there. Some of the animal residents include bird life (Wedge-tailed Shearwaters, Great Frigatebirds, Laysan Albatross, Pacific Golden Plovers, Red-footed Boobies, and White and Red-tailed Tropicbirds) and marine life (Spinner Dolphins, Pacific Green Sea Turtles and Hawaiian Humpback Whales). Native coastal plant life (naupaka, hala, ulei, pohinahina, alula and ilima) also grow here.
The facility offers a gift shop with educational displays and a multitude of Hawaiian gifts and books. All proceeds from the gift store benefit the non-profit and its mission. On the grassy point where the lighthouse stands is an educational center that provides videos and other displays offering further information on the animals and plants of the area. You can check out a pair of binoculars here and during this winter season you’re likely to spock out the the incredible tail slaps and breaches of the Humpback whale.
Sit back on the lawn and watch the myriad of birds that fly low. Watch the clouds. Let the kids run around. Gaze down the coastline toward Haena. Relax in this natural haven.
And when you’re all done at the Lighthouse, follow the road back to the quaint town of Kilauea. Park the car and explore the two enclaves of shops that sit kitty corner from each other. Check out the Kilauea Bakery for baked goods, pizza and coffee. The Kilauea Fish Market has lunch and dinner featuring locally caught fish. Kilauea Town Market offers groceries to take back to your Kauai vacation rental, too. Plus there are plenty of shops where you can pick up unique gifts to remind you of the magic of the Garden Island.
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