About Hulē‘ia National Wildlife Refuge
Hulē‘ia National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) is approximately 241 acres and was established in 1973 under the Endangered Species Act to recover threatened and endangered species including the koloa maoli (Hawaiian duck, Anas wyvilliana), ‘alae ke‘oke‘o (Hawaiian coot, Fulica alai), ‘alae ‘ula (Hawaiian gallinule, Gallinula chloropus sandvicensis), ae‘o (Hawaiian stilt, Himantopus mexicanus) and the nēnē (Hawaiian goose, Branta sandvicensis). Managed wetlands within the Hulē‘ia River Valley provide for the birds’ lifecycle history requirements. In addition, 26 other bird species (18 of which are introduced) also use the Refuge. The Refuge is located in a relatively flat valley along the Hulē‘ia River bordered by a steep wooded hillside. This land was used for wetland agriculture including taro and rice but is managed today as a refuge for wildlife.In order to protect the endangered species that live in Hulē‘ia NWR, it is closed to the public but can be viewed at an overlook maintained by the State of Hawai‘i at the historic Alakoko (Menehune) Fishpond.
How to Get There
To find the refuge office, turn left just after crossing the Hanalei River Bridge onto Ohiki Road and continuing past the Haraguchi Rice Mill to the last buildings on the right.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Hulē‘ia National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Hulē‘ia National Wildlife Refuge? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Hulē‘ia National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Hulē‘ia National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/2167) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Hulē‘ia National Wildlife Refuge?
To find the refuge office, turn left just after crossing the Hanalei River Bridge onto Ohiki Road and continuing past the Haraguchi Rice Mill to the last buildings on the right.
How do I contact Hulē‘ia National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 808-828-1413 or email: christa_mcleod@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
