Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge
Witness the surreal pink waters of Kealia Pond, a unique natural phenomenon caused by halobacteria, and explore a vital coastal salt marsh teeming wit...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak bird migration season
Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge
Best Time
Peak bird migration season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the surreal pink waters of Kealia Pond, a unique natural phenomenon caused by halobacteria, and explore a vital coastal salt marsh teeming with birdlife.
"A truly unique natural spectacle, the pink waters of Kealia Pond are a must-see for their surreal beauty and photographic potential."
Binoculars are a must! :binoculars:
Essential for spotting and identifying the diverse bird species that inhabit the refuge. Don't miss out on the details!
Check for pink color status
The pond's pink hue is seasonal and depends on drought. Check recent social media for current conditions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Pink Pond
Kealia Pond
Witness the surreal, vibrant pink waters, a breathtaking natural spectacle caused by halobacteria. A truly unique sight!
Boardwalk Nature Trail
Main boardwalk
An easy, 0.8-mile round-trip boardwalk offering stunning views of the wetland, ocean, and diverse birdlife.
Wildlife Viewing
Throughout the refuge
Spot a variety of native and migratory birds in this vital coastal salt marsh habitat. Bring binoculars!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Birdwatching
The Pink Phenomenon: A Seasonal Spectacle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Binoculars are a must! :binoculars:
Essential for spotting and identifying the diverse bird species that inhabit the refuge. Don't miss out on the details!
Check for pink color status
The pond's pink hue is seasonal and depends on drought. Check recent social media for current conditions.
Easy boardwalk stroll :athletic_shoe:
The 0.8-mile boardwalk is perfect for all ages, offering safe and scenic views of the wetland and wildlife.
Limited parking available :car:
The parking lot is small. Arrive early or be prepared to park along the highway and walk.
Tips
from all over the internet
Binoculars are a must! :binoculars:
Essential for spotting and identifying the diverse bird species that inhabit the refuge. Don't miss out on the details!
Check for pink color status
The pond's pink hue is seasonal and depends on drought. Check recent social media for current conditions.
Easy boardwalk stroll :athletic_shoe:
The 0.8-mile boardwalk is perfect for all ages, offering safe and scenic views of the wetland and wildlife.
Limited parking available :car:
The parking lot is small. Arrive early or be prepared to park along the highway and walk.
Visit during migration season
For the best birdwatching, plan your visit between October and April when migratory birds flock to the refuge.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the unique pink hue of Kealia Pond and the well-maintained boardwalk, making it an easy and scenic stop. While bird sightings can be hit or miss, the educational signs and peaceful atmosphere are appreciated. Some note that bird diversity might be higher elsewhere, but the overall experience is considered worthwhile for its natural beauty and unique phenomena.
"The boardwalk is really well done and an easy short walk. Informative signs along the way. To be honest, we saw many more birds on the surrounding golf courses. At least the info we learned from signs and visitor centre helped us identify what we were looking at."
Jason Panchyshyn
"The refuge offers a fantastic boardwalk that is a 0.8-mile round-trip walk. It's the perfect length for young kids who complain when a hike is longer than a mile. The boardwalk is also great for young kids, because the kids are contained on the boardwalk by the well-designed railings. You don't have to worry about any of them falling over into the wilderness. The boardwalk offers beautiful views of the beach and ocean, and the natural vegetation and wildlife. Limited parking, but we got lucky. A great 30-45 minute stop."
Nancy Meier
"Definitely not a place for hiking but a beautiful wetland and boardwalk with many signs to read about the birds and wildlife and several areas to sit and enjoy the peacefulness.
The parking lot at the trailhead is very small but well maintained. You can park along the busy highway and take time to stroll along the immense expanse of beach."
Susan Mattinson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge is located on the south coast of Maui, near Kihei. You can access it via Highway 310. Parking is limited, so arriving early is recommended. Some visitors have noted parking along the busy highway.
Public transportation options to Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge are limited. It's generally recommended to have a rental car for easy access and flexibility. Check local Maui bus routes for potential connections to the Kihei area.
From Kahului Airport (OGG), take Highway 380 South to Highway 310 South. Continue on Highway 310, which will merge into Highway 30. Follow Highway 30 towards Kihei. Kealia Pond will be on your right.
Yes, Kealia Pond is relatively easy to find as it's situated along the main highway (Highway 310) near Kihei. Look for signs indicating the refuge entrance.
While Kihei is nearby, walking to Kealia Pond might be a considerable distance depending on your exact location in Kihei. Driving is the most practical option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge is free to enter. You can enjoy the boardwalk and observe wildlife without any admission cost.
The refuge is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, it's always a good idea to check the official U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website for any specific seasonal hours or closures.
No advance booking or tickets are required for Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge as there is no entrance fee. You can visit anytime during operating hours.
Visitors are asked to stay on designated paths, such as the boardwalk, to protect the fragile ecosystem and wildlife. Feeding the animals is strictly prohibited.
While the refuge is generally open from sunrise to sunset, overnight stays or visits after dark are not permitted to ensure the safety of visitors and wildlife.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The best way to experience Kealia Pond is by walking the 0.8-mile boardwalk. It's well-maintained, safe for families, and offers excellent views of the wetland and its inhabitants.
Kealia Pond is a vital habitat for numerous native and migratory birds, including various species of ducks, shorebirds, and wading birds. You might also spot sea turtles or monk seals near the coast.
The vibrant pink color is a natural phenomenon caused by halobacteria, which thrive in high salinity conditions often exacerbated by drought. The intensity and presence of the pink color can vary significantly and is not guaranteed. 
Kealia Pond is primarily a wetland observation area, and the main accessible path is the boardwalk. It's not a destination for extensive hiking, but rather for gentle strolls and wildlife observation.
Yes, the boardwalk is very child-friendly. Its contained nature and manageable length make it a safe and enjoyable experience for families with young children.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunity is the vibrant pink water, especially during sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting. The boardwalk also offers great shots of birds and the coastal landscape.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing birds in detail. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots of the pond and coastline. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance colors and reduce glare on the water.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The 'golden hour' can make the pink water even more spectacular.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Wildlife Refuges to protect wildlife and their habitats. It's best to check the official U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service regulations for Kealia Pond specifically before flying a drone.
While official photography tours might be limited, local guides or photography groups may offer excursions. It's worth checking with local Maui tourism operators or photography clubs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the pink color is a major draw, it's important to manage expectations as it's not always present. However, the chance to see various birds is almost always a hit with kids, especially if they have binoculars. The short duration of the visit (around 30-45 minutes) also makes it ideal for keeping young children engaged. Remember to bring water and sunscreen, as it can get warm.
Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
Bring your best telephoto lens for bird photography and a wide-angle lens for capturing the expansive wetland scenery. The boardwalk provides stable vantage points, but be prepared for varying light conditions. Remember that the pink color is dependent on environmental factors, so checking recent updates is key. Even without the pink, the refuge's role as a migratory bird stopover makes it a significant site for ecological observation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystery of the Pink Pond
+1While halobacteria are the leading hypothesis, other microorganisms like certain types of algae can also contribute to unusual water colors in saline environments. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has conducted preliminary water sample analyses, with findings pointing towards halobacteria as the likely culprit. This natural spectacle is a stark reminder of the delicate balance of ecosystems and how environmental factors like drought can dramatically alter the landscape.
It's important to note that the pink color is not a permanent feature and its intensity can fluctuate based on weather patterns and water levels. Visitors hoping to witness this unique sight are advised to check recent social media posts or local reports for current conditions. The phenomenon, while visually stunning, is a consequence of environmental stress, highlighting the impact of climate change on natural habitats.
+1Birdwatching Paradise
Visitors can expect to see a variety of waterfowl, shorebirds, and wading birds. Common sightings include various species of ducks, stilts, avocets, sandpipers, and plovers. The refuge's informative signs along the boardwalk help identify the different species, enhancing the educational aspect of the visit. Bringing binoculars is highly recommended to get a closer look at these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
While the pink pond often steals the spotlight, the true value of Kealia Pond lies in its ecological significance. It plays a vital role in maintaining the health of the coastal ecosystem and supporting biodiversity. Even outside of peak migration seasons, the refuge offers opportunities to observe resident bird populations and appreciate the tranquility of this important natural area.
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