Standing guard over Nawiliwili Harbor on Kauai’s southeast coast, Nawiliwili Light has guided mariners since 1906. Originally built to serve the growing sugar trade, the lighthouse marks the entrance to one of Hawaii’s most sheltered harbors. The current concrete tower replaced earlier structures and remains an active aid to navigation maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard.

The lighthouse is not open to the public, and visitors cannot climb the tower. However, it’s easily photographed from Nawiliwili Beach and nearby Kalapaki Beach. Golden hour before sunset offers the best light, with the tower silhouetted against the Pacific.

Nearby, visitors can explore Kalapaki Beach, the Kauai Lagoons Golf Club, and Huleia National Wildlife Refuge. Nawiliwili Harbor also serves as the island’s primary cruise port.

Explore Nearby

• ʻAkaka Falls State Park — State Park in Hawaii
• ʻAiea Bay State Recreation Area — State Park in Hawaii