This refuge was established to protect endangered and threatened waterbirds, including the koloa (Hawaiian duck), ‘alae ke‘oke‘o (Hawaiian coot), ‘alae ‘ula (Hawaiian moorhen), ae‘o (Hawaiian stilt) and nēnē (Hawaiian goose). In addition, these wetlands host a number of vagrant and migratory waterbirds. To ensure the continued protection of the birds that live in Hanalei NWR, ...
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Home to colonies of thousands of migratory and resident seabirds, this coastal refuge is a premier location for observing a diverse array of species, including both white and red-tailed tropicbirds, Laysan albatross, red-footed boobies, wedge-tailed shearwaters, and more. The historic lighthouse and plunging sea cliffs provide dramatic and awe-inspiring views as you look seaward toward ...
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Located within the Līhu‘e-Kōloa Forest Reserve, this 4 mile out-and-back hike provides scenic vistas as you walk among tree ferns and towering eucalyptus. This trail offers the opportunity to see the native ʻapapane, along with a number of introduced species, like the greater necklaced laughingthrush, western meadowlark, and white-rumped shama. Kuilau Trail ends at a ...
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Extending between ‘Shipwrecks’ Beach and Māhā’ulepū Beach, the Māhā’ulepū Heritage Trail has much to offer. With fascinating archaeological features, unique natural history, scenic coastal views, and wildlife all on display throughout the trail, this hike is sure to captivate.
Salt Pond Beach Park offers a calm bay, protected by a stretch of reef which serves as a natural breakwater. Allowing a view into the adjacent salt ponds in addition to the ocean views, this site provides opportunity to observe sea birds and wetland birds. Between the months of December and April, this beach is ...
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Formerly a sand and gravel mining site, Kawaiʻele Waterbird Sanctuary is a manmade wetland, created and preserved to provide a healthy habitat for endangered Hawaiian waterbirds. This site is home to native species ʻalae ʻula, ʻalae keʻokeʻo, aeʻo, and ʻaukuʻu and is regularly visited by nēnē.
Beginning at the awe-inspiring Puʻu O Kila Lookout, the Pihea Trail offers scenic forest views and some of the best opportunities for viewing Kauaʻi’s native forest birds. This trail is considered to be a difficult hike.