Discover a spectacular stretch of lava rock tide pools along Kauai's rugged north shore near the town of Kilauea on the Mokolea Point Trail.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Area: North Shore / Kilauea
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Length: 2.75 miles (out and back)
- Map: Google Maps
The Pools of Mokolea are a remarkable series of lava rock tide pools along a rugged stretch of coastline near the town of Kilauea. This dramatic location is a favorite among photographers at sunrise and adventurous visitors seeking an up-close view of a blowhole known as The Cauldron, sometimes referred to as The Toilet Bowl. While we prefer the name The Cauldron, the blowhole's swirling water does resemble the flushing action of a toilet.
This is potentially one of the most dangerous locations on Kauai, and extreme caution is essential. In addition to the hazards posed by the blowhole itself, powerful waves crash against the rocks year-round. In the past, this area was seldom mentioned and received relatively few visitors. Today, thanks to guidebooks and social media, it has become increasingly popular. We expect that authorities may eventually restrict access to the tide pools, much as they did at Queen's Bath in nearby Princeville. However, under the proper conditions—low tide and calm ocean conditions—the pools can be visited safely.
The Pools of Mokolea are located on a promontory across from Kahili (Rock Quarry) Beach within an area that is part of the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. A predator-resistant fence has been installed above the trail to protect the refuge's native wildlife. This is a special place with exceptional natural beauty, and visitors should help preserve it by respecting the environment.
There are two ways to reach the Pools of Mokolea. The quickest route is to park at Kahili Beach and wade across Kilauea Stream near its mouth, then walk about a quarter mile through a meadow and past the old quarry boulders to reach the pools. While the stream is usually calm, it can become hazardous after heavy rainfall due to strong currents and a dangerous undertow.
The recommended route, which avoids crossing Kilauea Stream, is to park along Kahili Quarry Road in Kilauea and hike down the old dirt road to the pools. This route is known as the Mokolea Point Trail. The road is deeply rutted and can become extremely muddy and slippery after rain, so walking is recommended over driving. From the parking area, it is approximately one mile to the end of the road at the stream crossing, followed by another quarter mile on the footpath to the pools.
Our Journey
A beautiful morning in late January greeted us as we set out for the Pools of Mokolea. Along the way, we met a couple from Vancouver and later encountered a family who had crossed Kilauea Stream from Kahili Beach.
We chose to park on Kahili Quarry Road and hike to the pools rather than begin at Kahili Beach. To reach the trailhead, drive through Kilauea on Kilauea Road. Shortly after leaving town toward Kilauea Lighthouse, turn right onto Kahili Quarry Road. Drive a short distance and park before the road-closed sign.
The Mokolea Point Trail follows Kahili Quarry Road, a mostly dirt road that gradually descends to sea level. About half a mile from the parking area, the landscape opens up to reveal sweeping views of Kahili Beach and Kilauea Stream. Along the way, you'll also pass an unofficial roadblock that was erected by local residents.
A predator-resistant fence has recently been constructed above the trail to protect native wildlife from dogs, cats, and other introduced animals. Dogs are not permitted in this area.
Beyond the stream crossing, the trail passes through a beautiful green meadow that is sometimes frequented by local residents. Large boulders from the former rock quarry stand beyond the meadow, providing a reminder of the area's industrial past.
When you reach the overlook, take a few moments to study the ocean conditions before proceeding. From here, you can see the Pools of Mokolea. At high tide, the pools are often completely submerged. Only continue if conditions are calm and safe. The final approach requires scrambling across uneven lava rocks.
The blowhole is the most dangerous feature at the Pools of Mokolea and should never be approached. While it may appear calm between waves, powerful ocean surges can occur without warning, sending massive volumes of water and air through the opening with tremendous force. Even standing on the surrounding rocks can be extremely hazardous, as unexpected waves can knock visitors off their feet or sweep them into the ocean. Every year, people are seriously injured or killed around Hawaii's rocky shorelines after underestimating the power of the sea. Enjoy the blowhole from a safe distance, and never attempt to climb into, stand on, or peer over the edge.
