Kilauea

Kilauea, Kauai

Kilauea, which literally means "much spreading" in the Hawaiian language, is located on the north shore of Kauai. A popular nearby attraction is the Kilauea Lighthouse, built in 1913 by the U.S. government on a narrow peninsula that forms the northernmost point of Kauai.

The Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, a seabird sanctuary, is nearby and can be viewed from the lighthouse. A small offshore island called Moku'ae'ae Islet is a bird sanctuary and home also to Hawaiian monk seals.

Key Features

North shore setting: Small town east of Princeville and Hanalei

Lighthouse landmark: Kilauea Lighthouse was built in 1913 on a dramatic ocean point

Wildlife refuge: Kilauea Point protects seabird habitat and coastal scenery

Reservation access: Refuge entry requires current reservations and visitor planning

Local services: Shops, food stops, markets and small businesses in town

Nearby beaches: Close to Anini Beach and other north shore shoreline areas

Activity fit: Good area for sightseeing, boat tours and helicopter tours

Population: 3,014 at the 2020 Census

Zip code: 96754

Plan Your Visit

Use Kilauea as a north shore stop for the lighthouse, wildlife refuge, local shops and nearby beaches. Confirm refuge reservations, hours, road conditions and ocean safety before you go.

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Kilauea Photos

Browse Kilauea photos featuring Christ Memorial Episcopal Church, Healthy Hut Natural Foods, Kilauea Theatre, Lighthouse Bistro and small-town scenery on Kauai's north shore.

Location, Parking and Directions

Kilauea is located on Kauai's north shore, east of Princeville and Hanalei. From Lihue, drive north on Kuhio Highway through Kapaa and past Anahola toward Kilauea. From Princeville, drive east along the north shore route toward Kilauea town and the lighthouse road.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Kilauea on Kauai?

Kilauea is on Kauai's north shore, east of Princeville and Hanalei. The town sits inland from Kilauea Point, the lighthouse and nearby north shore beaches.

What is Kilauea known for?

Kilauea is known for Kilauea Lighthouse, Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, seabird viewing, small-town shops, north shore scenery and nearby beaches.

Do visitors need reservations for Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge?

Yes. Reservations are required for Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. Hours and entry rules can change, so check current details before driving there.

Can visitors tour Kilauea Lighthouse?

Lighthouse tours may be suspended or limited, even when refuge entry is available. Check current refuge guidance before planning around a lighthouse tour.

What else is near Kilauea?

Nearby places include Anini Beach, Na 'Aina Kai Botanical Gardens, Princeville, Hanalei and several north shore scenic routes and overlooks.