When I visit Oahu, I love seeing animals and exploring nature.
There are many beautiful places on the island that protect local wildlife and give animals a safe place to live.
Visiting these wildlife sanctuaries lets me learn about special habitats and see animals I don’t get to see anywhere else.
Spending time at these locations is a great way to enjoy Oahu’s natural beauty.
I get to relax outdoors, watch birds or sea turtles, and see how the island cares for its unique plants and animals.
Kawainui Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary
When I walked along the quiet trails at Kawainui Marsh, I heard the sounds of native waterbirds all around.
The marsh is wide and flat, with a peaceful view of wetlands stretching toward the mountains.
Oahu’s largest wetland is full of green plants and birds I haven’t seen anywhere else.
Hawaii’s rare waterbirds, including endangered species found only here, live in this marsh.
I liked knowing this place protects them and gives these birds a safe home.
Signposts along the marsh taught me about the local wildlife.
The main trail starts near Kaha Park and is easy to find.
From the path, I could see open water and wetland plants.
There are also nice views from Ulupō Heiau and the Nā Pōhaku o Huawahine trail.
Rules here keep the area safe for wildlife.
Most trails stay close to the edge of the marsh, and signs remind visitors not to wander off the marked paths.
Even so, I still got to see a lot and enjoy the peaceful setting.
Rating: 4.4 (205 reviews)
Location: Kailua, HI 96734
Contact: (808) 768-3003
Website: Visit Website
Pearl Harbor National Wildlife Refuge – Waiawa Unit
When I visited the Pearl Harbor National Wildlife Refuge – Waiawa Unit, I stepped into a quiet haven for birds and native plants.
Staff manage this area to protect Hawaii’s endangered species.
I learned that the land stays mostly undisturbed to help local wildlife thrive.
Public access is very limited here.
The only part of the refuge open year-round is the Betty Bliss Memorial Overlook.
From this spot, I got a clear view for birdwatching and photography without disturbing the habitats.
The refuge started in 1972 to make up for environmental loss during airport construction.
Staff and volunteers work hard to remove invasive weeds and keep the natural balance in check.
There are volunteer projects where people help with habitat restoration.
If you want to join a volunteer project or take part in environmental education, you can only do so outside the breeding season of the Hawaiian stilt.
Otherwise, it’s best to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere from the overlook and appreciate the important work to protect native plants and animals.
Rating: 4.6 (16 reviews)
Location: Pearl City, HI 96782
Contact: (808) 688-6376
Website: Visit Website
Pouhala Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary
I visited Pouhala Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary and right away noticed the calm atmosphere.
It’s not busy or crowded, so I enjoyed some quiet time surrounded by nature.
The air was fresh, and I could hear birds almost everywhere I walked.
Many native Hawaiian birds live here.
I saw ae‘o (Hawaiian stilts) walking in the shallow water.
The marsh is an important home for these birds, especially since wetlands are rare on Oahu.
The walking areas are simple, with enough space to explore and watch wildlife without disturbing them.
I liked how natural the area felt.
If you enjoy observing nature and relaxing, it’s an easy spot to visit.
Rating: 4.3 (27 reviews)
Location: Waipahu, HI 96797
Contact: (808) 973-9777
Pearl Harbor National Wildlife Refuge – Honouliuli Unit
When I visited the Pearl Harbor National Wildlife Refuge – Honouliuli Unit, I felt surprised by how peaceful it felt so close to the city.
The refuge is home to rare Hawaiian waterbirds, native plants, and tiny anchialine pool shrimp.
As I walked through, I saw how much work staff and volunteers put into protecting these species.
Public access stays limited to help keep the wildlife safe, but the Betty Bliss Memorial Overlook is open year-round.
From this spot, I had a great view of the wetlands and saw a few native birds.
It’s a quiet place to enjoy nature and take photos without big crowds.
The area was set up to help balance nature after construction of the airport runway nearby.
Staff and volunteers focus on restoring habitats and helping endangered animals grow.
Sometimes there are volunteer events where you can help with planting and removing weeds.
If you want a calm day and a chance to see unique Hawaiian wildlife from a distance, this overlook is worth a visit.
Rating: 4.4 (18 reviews)
Location: Pearl Harbor National Wildlife Refuge, Ewa Beach, HI 96706
Contact: (808) 688-6376
Website: Visit Website
Paikō Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary
When I walked into Paikō Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary, the calm water and wide open space made me feel close to nature.
The trails are easy to follow, but you can only use the marked paths because the area is a protected wildlife zone.
I saw native birds, including the Hawaiian Stilt, called Aeʻo.
The quiet area is perfect for wildlife watching, and I found it peaceful to watch the birds move through the lagoon.
Signs along the trail taught me about the plants and animals that live here.
Hiking at Paikō Lagoon is simple, with no steep hills.
I slowed down to enjoy the quiet and look for native species.
If you want to do anything besides walking and watching wildlife, you need a special permit from the state.
The sanctuary is great for anyone who respects nature and wants a calm spot to visit.
It’s not crowded, so I felt like I had the lagoon almost to myself.
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)
Location: Paiko Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary, Honolulu, HI 96821
Website: Visit Website
Marianas Trench National Wildlife Refuge Administrative Offices
When I stopped by the Marianas Trench National Wildlife Refuge Administrative Offices, I learned a lot about one of the most mysterious places on earth.
The staff welcomed me and answered my questions about the unique wildlife and geography of the reserve.
I found out that the Marianas Trench is the deepest part of the world’s oceans.
It’s so remote that most of it remains unexplored.
Staff manage the refuge from Honolulu, but you can also visit contact locations in Guam and Saipan to learn more.
The ocean floor down there is made of a special type of sediment filled with tiny shells from plankton.
The display about unusual life forms living in such extreme conditions was very interesting.
I listened to a podcast about the Mariana Snailfish and deep-sea exploration.
It’s amazing to think about all the things scientists still don’t know about this area.
Rating: 4.3 (300 reviews)
Location: Google Maps
Contact: (808) 792-9540
Website: Visit Website
Mokuauia Islet Seabird Sanctuary
I visited Mokuauia Islet Seabird Sanctuary not long ago, and it was a peaceful break from the busy main island.
The islet sits just offshore and is only reachable by kayak, paddleboard, or a good swim when the waters are calm.
When I arrived, I noticed how quiet and natural the environment felt.
The islet is protected because it is home to several seabird species.
I saw wedge-tailed shearwaters nesting in burrows and many other birds flying overhead.
It’s important to avoid disturbing the birds and to not leave any trash behind.
The surrounding water is clear and great for spotting fish and turtles.
There are no buildings or stores, so I brought my own water and snacks.
Rating: 4.3 (42 reviews)
Location: Laie, HI 96762
Contact: (808) 587-0400
Mokulua Islets Seabird Sanctuary
I kayaked just off the coast of Kailua to visit the Mokulua Islets Seabird Sanctuary. These rocky islands are home to many seabirds that nest there every year.
The clear water and quiet setting made the trip peaceful. When I landed on the islets, I saw wedge-tailed shearwaters and other seabirds up close.
The islands protect the birds, so I stayed on marked trails and kept my distance from nesting spots. The birds seemed comfortable with people nearby.
Swimming and snorkeling around the islets was another highlight. The water was usually calm, and I saw fish and a few sea turtles.
Because the sanctuary protects the area, everything feels untouched and clean. You need to plan how to get there, since there are no bridges.
Most people kayak or paddleboard across from Lanikai Beach.
Rating: 4.9 (187 reviews)
Location: Kailua, HI 96734
James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge
When I visited the James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge, I found a quiet part of Oahu that not many people see. The refuge shelters native Hawaiian birds and rare species.
It sits near Kahuku, with a strong focus on protecting animals and their habitats. Because public access is limited, I joined a guided bird tour during the fall.
The tour took me through wetlands and coastal areas where I spotted endangered Hawaiian waterbirds, like the koloa maoli and the ae‘o. The guide explained a lot about the local plants and animals.
Most of the year, the refuge stays closed to protect nesting birds. The guided tours offer a special way to visit.
While walking along the paths, I saw native monk seals and turtles resting by the shore.
Rating: 4.5 (96 reviews)
Location: Kahuku, HI 96731
Contact: (808) 688-6376
Website: Visit Website
Kapapa Island Seabird Sanctuary
I took a boat ride out to Kapapa Island and enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere. This small island off the coast of Kaneohe protects seabirds that nest there.
The island feels untouched, with only birds and the sound of the ocean. As I walked around, I saw nesting spots and birds resting along the rocky shore.
The area limits visitors to keep it quiet for the animals. There aren’t any big signs or visitor centers.
It’s all about enjoying the natural environment and respecting wildlife.
Rating: 3.7 (3 reviews)
Location: Kaneohe, HI 96744
Wildlife Conservation Efforts on Oahu
Oahu has unique islands that need special care to protect native birds, plants, and habitats. Government agencies and local groups work together to keep endangered animals safe and the land healthy.
Endangered Species Protection
Protected areas like the Oahu Forest National Wildlife Refuge give homes to rare Hawaiian birds and plants. These refuges shield important species from predators and habitat loss.
Some animals at risk include the Hawaiian gallinule, ‘alae ‘ula, and the Oahu elepaio. Wildlife workers track these species, remove invasive animals, and restore native plants.
Sanctuaries like James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge focus on wetlands and coastal areas where endangered birds nest and feed. Strict rules protect breeding sites and keep out things that harm wildlife.
Wildlife groups run rescue and medical programs for injured animals. The Hawaii Wildlife Center treats native birds and bats, then releases them back into the wild.
Community Involvement in Sanctuary Care
Local people help care for sanctuaries by joining cleanups, education events, and habitat restoration projects. Volunteers clear weeds, plant native species, and help monitor bird populations.
Schools partner with refuges for field trips, science projects, or bird counts. These activities teach kids and families about the local ecosystem.
Nonprofit groups and residents sometimes “adopt” areas, checking trails and picking up trash to keep habitats safe. Some sanctuaries host guided tours so people can see wildlife responsibly.
More hands lead to healthier marshes, forests, and wildlife across Oahu.
Responsible Wildlife Viewing Tips
I always try to keep animals and their homes safe while I watch them. Simple actions help wildlife stay wild and keep beaches and forests beautiful.
Minimizing Human Impact
When I watch wildlife, I keep a safe distance. I never touch or feed animals.
If I see a sea turtle or Hawaiian monk seal resting on the sand, I give them plenty of space. I avoid chasing or crowding them.
Instead, I stay back and let them enjoy their natural behavior. I follow local signs and respect marked areas to keep everyone safe.
Limiting my viewing time helps reduce stress for the animals. I keep my group quiet, avoid shining lights, and leave no trace.
The NOAA guidelines for Hawaii offer good advice for watching wild animals responsibly.
Ethical Photography Practices
When I take photos of animals, I use a zoom lens to get good shots without moving closer.
Staying at a safe distance helps wildlife act naturally and not get scared.
I turn off my flash before taking pictures because sudden light can startle or stress animals.
This is especially important at night or in shady areas.
If I post photos online, I never share locations of rare species.
This helps stop crowds from disturbing their habitat.
I keep my camera quiet so I do not disturb the scene.
If I see an animal showing signs of stress, like moving away or changing behavior, I stop taking pictures right away.
