Mokolea Pools: Kauai’s Hidden Lava Tide Pool Adventure

Kauai is famous for its waterfalls, beaches, and lush landscapes, but tucked along the north shore near Kīlauea is a spot most visitors never see. Mokolea Pools are a series of natural tide pools carved into the lava rock shelf, where ocean waves meet quiet pockets of sea life.

We went to explore it this weekend during a low tide, caught the sunset and wanted to share with others how to get there, what to expect, and why this hidden gem is worth adding to your Kauai itinerary.

Getting There: Parking & Trail Access

Mokolea Pools are located just east of Kīlauea town, near the Kīlauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge.

• Parking: There are 2 ways to access the trail. One from the end of Kahili Quarry Rd., and the other by wading across the river from Kahili Beach (park at the end of Kahili Beach Rd.)
• Trail: The walk is short, about 10 minutes, before you get to the lava shelf. The terrain is uneven lava rock and can be slippery. Wear study shoes that you are ok getting wet.
• Tip: Bring water and sun protection, there’s no shade on this exposed coastal trail.

Exploring the Lava Tide Pools

When you reach the coastline, you’ll find a rugged lava shelf dotted with tide pools. On our visit and calm days, these pools act like natural aquariums:

• Marine life: Look for sea urchins, crabs, small reef fish, and sea cucumbers.
• Scenery: Waves crash against the rocks, spraying mist and creating a dramatic backdrop. The birds from the Kīlauea wildlife refuge were flying over us the whole visit.
• Safety: The lava is sharp and slippery. Never turn your back to the ocean. When we visited the tide was going down and the surf report had 1-2 ft waves. Check before you go, don’t venture out if there’s a risk you may get trapped by a rising tide or high waves.

I filmed my visit to Mokolea Pools so you can see exactly what to expect — from the trail to the tide pools themselves, plus a glimpse of the bird sanctuary.

Connection to Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge

One of the things that makes Mokolea Pools unique is its location directly below the Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. Established in 1985 to protect endangered seabirds, this is home to red-footed boobie birds, great frigatebirds, tropicbirds, and the majestic Laysan albatross comes to nest annually. Look up while you’re exploring to see the birds gliding overhead.

Travel Tips for Mokolea Pools

• Visit at low tide for calm pools and check the surf conditions; avoid going during rough surf conditions.
• Pair your trip with a visit to the Kīlauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge for a full morning adventure.

Mokolea Pools may not be as famous as Queen’s Bath, Hanalei Bay or Waimea Canyon, but that’s exactly what makes them special. With a quick walk and a sense of adventure, you’ll find yourself exploring tide pools beside one of Hawaii’s most important bird sanctuaries.

For more Kauai Adventures, be sure to check out our Kauai playlist or Posts about Kauai