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Kawaiʻele Waterbird Sanctuary

Kauai, Hawaii HI  >  United States

A former sand and gravel mining site, that has been transformed into a 35-acre wetland that serves as a refuge for Hawaii’s endangered waterbirds.

Added* by A. F.
Most recent update 7 ноември 2025
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Description

Set on the western shore of Kauai, the Kawaiʻele Waterbird Sanctuary is a 35-acre restored wetland that serves as a refuge for Hawaii’s endangered waterbirds. The sanctuary is especially known as one of the best sites on the island for viewing Hawaiian Gallinule, Hawaiian Coot, Hawaiian Stilt, Hawaiian Duck and Black-crowned Night Heron. Visitors can also frequently observe Hawaiian Goose. These species rely on the sanctuary’s carefully maintained ponds and vegetation for nesting, feeding, and shelter.

Details

Access

Kawaiʻele Waterbird Sanctuary is located 7.7 miles west of Waimea on the ocean side of Highway 50. The area has a small parking lot. Press P on the map for directions to the parking. From the parking you can explore the area on foot. There are kiosks/screens with background information spread around the sanctuary. It’s open 24/7. Early morning and late afternoon visits are particularly rewarding.

Terrain and Habitat

Pond , Scattered trees and bushes , Wetland

Conditions

Flat , Sandy

Circular trail

No

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring migration , Autumn migration

Route

Narrow trail

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot

Birdwatching hide / platform

No

Links

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Map

Top 5 birds

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