Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge
the boardwalk at Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge
If you drive the road between Ma'alaea and North Kihei, you'll notice that it passes
through a large mudflat that parallels the shoreline. Although most of this area is dry dur-
ing summer, on the inland side of the highway is 200-acre Kealia Pond National Wildlife
Refuge ( www.fws.gov/kealiapond ) . The main reason for visiting is to catch a glimpse of
native bird species such as the a'eo (Hawaiian stilt) and 'alae ke'oke'o (Hawaiian coot).
Even if you aren't an avid birder, the boardwalk off North Kihei Road makes for an in-
formative place to stretch your legs and learn about the threats facing the island's native
species.
The main visitor center for the wildlife refuge is off Mokulele Highway (Highway 311)
near the six mile marker, and there are short hiking trails which lead from here into the
flats of the preserve. If you plan on visiting Kealia Pond, morning hours are best before the
wind comes up, and during the driest periods of the year (August-November) the area can
sometimes reek of the fish that have died from the water level receding. It isn't unbearable,
but noticeable nevertheless.
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