The view from the lighthouse is stunning. The grass and other vegetation is so green, and then there’s the backdrop of deep blue. We hoped we might see monk seals lounging on Moku’ae’ae Islet, but no such luck. It was fascinating, however, to watch the sea foam roll and boil at the base of the islet. If the whales had arrived yet, this would have been an awesome place to watch!

The lighthouse itself was built in 1913. The gorgeous glass lens remains in the structure and is the largest of its type. The lighthouse is no longer in use, and has been replaced by a light beacon that now stands in front of the lighthouse.

Walking back toward the parking lot, we came across a pair of Nene, the Hawaiian State bird. Nenes are on the Federal Endangered Species List, with less than 1000 birds left on the islands. This loving pair was parading their three chicks around for the adoring tourists to see.

After you park, you can walk to the National Wildlife Refuge visitors’ center. Here they have interesting facts about the area, souvenirs, maps, T-shirts, artwork, and restrooms. There is a voluntary fee to enter the facilities, --this is for upkeep of the venue and area.

When you are complete with your intake of information at the National Wildlife Refuge, take the walkway to the Kilauea Lighthouse. On the walk, you will see ground-burrowing birds and if you get close enough, you can see them inside. Continue on the path and you can't miss the lighthouse. You can't visit the top of the lighthouse, but they do have interesting facts inside. Head to the railings and offshore you will see Moku'ae'ae Island, which I think is a bird sanctuary.

This was really a surprise visit for both of us and we enjoyed every minute of it. If you are in the area, don't miss it.