During the month of December, I know that most people write solely about Christmas and the New Year. But I also know that there are people who want to come to Kauai for more than our holiday decorations. So this is for you.

If you are coming to visit Kauai, then there is a place you must visit: The Kilauea Point Wildlife Refuge. This area is a beautiful spot where you can see seabirds from every island in the Hawaiian island chain. These tropical birds are big and easy to see as you walk through the 203 acre refuge, and you will love hearing the birds’ native calls as they ring through the lush tropical growth.

You have probably heard me mention the Kilauea Lighthouse before? Well, this lighthouse, founded in 1913, is located in the refuge. So while you’re visiting the hiking trails and watching the humpback whales, monk seals, and spinner dolphins play in the water, you can also see one of the most popular lighthouses in Hawaii.

If you are a bird-watcher, then you will love searching for all the species that nest at the refuge, including the Great Frigate bird, the Laysan Albatross, the Red-footed Booby, the Brown Booby, Newell’s Shearwater, the Wedge-tailed Shearwater, the White-tailed Tropicbird, and the Red-tailed Tropicbird. All of these birds are prevalent in the refuge and are easily spotted by experienced watchers and inexperienced watchers alike.

While there are many places on the island that I would recommend visiting, this one is a great spot for families and animal lovers of all ages.