Hawaiian Monk Seal Spotting on Kauai

This is a guest post by James Pretorius

Most tourists travel to Kauai for the scenery, beaches and weather, but the island also has much to offer nature lovers. As one of the most remote island chains in the world, 2500 miles from the nearest continent, Hawaii has a large number of endemic species – plants, birds, insects and animals found nowhere else in the world.

One such animal is the endangered Hawaiian monk seal. Researchers estimate that fewer than 1,500 seals remain. Sighting a monk seal on vacation is a rare treat, but the seals aren’t shy of people and will beach themselves on any spot of sand no matter how crowded. Since they’re endangered you’re not allowed to get closer than 100ft, but that’s still close enough to observe and take photos.

Monk seals tend to have favorite beaches which they routinely visit. So if you’re out exploring Kauai’s beautiful beaches and want to maximize your chances of seeing a seal the following are the top 5 most likely locations.

Larsen’s Beach

The remote Larsen’s beach on the north shore offers seals protected reef areas to raise cubs. This beach is located between Moloaa and Kilauea. In addition to the possibility of seeing a seal, you’ll thoroughly enjoy the area’s tranquility and beautiful scenery. Just a head’s up – this is the only beach on Kauai where nudity is tolerated.

Lawai Beach

Lawai Beach is located in Poipu, beside the lovely Kuhio Shores Resort. This is one of the most popular snorkel spots on Kauai. The beach here is small, so if a seal appears they’re going to take most of the beach real estate. The beach is beside a road making it easy to drive by and check for seals. If you’d like to snorkel with turtles, this is the best place on Kauai to do so.

Mahaulepu Beach

Mahaulepu is another remote beach. It takes about 15 minutes to get here from Poipu, driving over a poorly maintained dirt road. Even if you don’t see a seal, the beauty of this region is worth the visit.

Poipu Beach Park

One of the most popular beaches on Kauai, Poipu Beach Park seems to be another popular resting place for seals despite the crowds. The beach sometimes has a tombolo, a bar of sand that leads from the beach to a rocky outcropping where a seal will take a nap.

Secret Beach

During the summer months you may find a seal snoozing at Secret beach, a large beach just north of the Kilauea Lighthouse. Be prepared for a long walk, as the preferred resting place is at the end of the beach. In the winter months large waves can overpower the beach so a seal would chose another location like nearby Larsen’s beach.

More articles you might like: