Mokolea Point Trail

The trail is located near Kilauea on Kauai's North Shore. While specific parking details aren't provided, access typically involves parking near the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge entrance or a designated trailhead parking area in the vicinity. Always check local signage for current parking regulations.

The Mokolea Point Trail is part of the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. Generally, pets are not permitted within National Wildlife Refuges to protect the sensitive wildlife and natural habitats. It's best to leave your furry friends at home for this adventure.

For the safest and most accessible experience, it's crucial to visit during low tide. The trail becomes significantly more challenging and potentially dangerous during high tide, especially near the tide pools and blowholes. It's also not recommended to visit during the winter months (October-April) due to potentially high and dangerous surf conditions.

The Mokolea Point Trail is located within the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. While the trail itself might not have a separate fee, the refuge typically has an entrance fee. It's advisable to check the official Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge website for current fee structures and operating hours before your visit.

The trail starts as a dirt road, which can be rutted and very slippery or muddy when wet. As you approach the Pools of Mokolea, the path transitions to uneven, sometimes wet boulders and lava rock. This section is rocky, slippery, and can be treacherous, making proper footwear like water shoes with good support essential. Walking poles can also be helpful for balance.

The trail offers breathtaking coastal scenery with dramatic lava rock formations. The main highlight is the Pools of Mokolea, natural lava tube tide pools teeming with marine life like tropical fish, sea turtles, and crabs. You can also observe blowholes, sometimes called "The Cauldron" or "The Toilet Bowl," and enjoy views of the picturesque Kilauea Lighthouse. The area is part of the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, known for its sea cliffs and Hawaiian seabirds.

The trail is approximately 2.75 miles out and back. While the tour data suggests a duration of around 35 minutes for jogging, the varied and challenging terrain, especially near the tide pools, means it can take longer, particularly if you stop to explore or if conditions are wet. Plan for at least 1.5 to 2 hours for a comfortable walk, especially if you want to enjoy the scenery and the pools.

While the trail is listed for jogging, its suitability varies greatly. The initial dirt road section might be runnable, but the path closer to the Pools of Mokolea becomes very challenging due to uneven, slippery, and rocky lava formations. Continuous jogging is difficult and not recommended in these sections. It's best approached as a hike with some potential for light jogging on the initial, less technical parts.

Given the slippery and rocky sections, proper footwear is crucial. Water shoes with good support or sturdy hiking sandals are highly recommended, especially if you plan to explore near the tide pools. Bring plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and possibly walking poles for added balance. A waterproof bag for electronics might also be useful if you're near the blowholes or tide pools.

Yes, extreme caution is advised, especially near the blowholes and the Pools of Mokolea. The lava rock can be very slippery, and large waves can unexpectedly crash over the formations. Always be aware of tidal conditions and never turn your back on the ocean. Visiting during low tide is essential for safety, and avoid the trail entirely during high surf conditions, particularly in winter.

The Mokolea Point Trail is an out-and-back route. You will follow the same path to reach the Pools of Mokolea and then return along the same trail.