📸 Huleia National Wildlife Refuge | Kauai
📝 My Story:
After leaving the Sleeping Giant viewpoint, we made a quick stop at the Huleia National Wildlife Refuge — a hidden treasure near Lihue, Kauai.
Although the refuge itself is a protected area and not open for hiking, there are several roadside spots nearby where you can admire the incredible landscape.
I was able to launch my DJI drone here to capture sweeping aerial shots of the wetlands, winding rivers, and endless greenery.
From above, it feels like another world — untouched, wild, and serene.
It was a short stop, but one that gave us a much-needed peaceful pause during our packed schedule.
Definitely worth pulling over if you love nature photography or simply want a glimpse of Kauai’s preserved natural beauty.
🌎 Location:
📍 Google Maps: Open Huleia National Wildlife Refuge on Google Maps ➔
📌 Quick Info:
🏙️ City: Lihue, Kauai
🅿️ Parking: Roadside pull-offs only
🚻 Bathrooms: Not available
🚲 Bike Rentals: Not available at the refuge
🧭 Travel Tip: Bring binoculars if you're into birdwatching — this is a prime habitat!
📸 Photographer’s Note: Drone photography offers the best views of the winding river and wetlands
🛐 Etiquette: Stay on public access roads and respect wildlife viewing areas
🕰️ Best Time to Explore: Morning or late afternoon for softer light
♿ Accessibility: Viewable from car or short roadside walks (no facilities)
💡 Pro Tip:
There’s no official visitor center or parking lot — it’s a true hidden gem!
Pull over safely, grab a few wide-angle or drone shots, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
📸 Photography Tip:
Use a polarizer to cut glare off the water, and if you're flying a drone, keep your altitude under 400 feet to preserve composition and respect FAA guidelines.
🎉 Fun Fact:
The Huleia National Wildlife Refuge is home to several endangered Hawaiian birds, including the Hawaiian coot (ʻalae keʻokeʻo) and the Hawaiian duck (koloa maoli).
🌺 Return to Main Hawaii Travel Story
Want to read the full story of our unforgettable adventure across Kauai and Maui?
👉 Click here to explore our complete Hawaii Travel Journal ➔
🗺️ Planning Your Own Hawaii Adventure?
If you’re planning your own trip to Kauai (or anywhere across Hawaii), you can find this hidden gem — and many more — on my public travel map:
👉 View My Hawaii Travel Map Here ➔
