The U.S. government bought the Point in 1909 and completed a lighthouse in 1913.  Surrounded by a landscape void of native vegetation and used for cattle, the lighthouse served for 68 years as a navigational aid for trans-Pacific shipping through the Hawaiian archipelago.   In 1976 it was replaced by an automatic beacon.  By 1979 the lighthouse and the original buildings were designated National Historic Landmarks.

Throughout the mid 70’s and early 80’s there was much interest in protecting Kilauea Point’s natural values.  Ten years before it was designated as a refuge, it was managed as an administrative site with the Fish and Wildlife Service having wildlife management responsibilities.  On February 15, 1985 it became the 425th Refuge in the National Wildlife Refuge System.

Today the refuge is open daily to the public and offers a great view of several species of seabirds, both nesting and flying just overhead.  Exhibits and a visitor center show the various birds, native plants, and marine mammals existing in all sixteen of the Hawaiian and Pacific Islands National Wildlife Refuges.  A large volunteer force is available to answer questions and guide hikes.  School groups visit the refuge to participate in hands-on environmental education activities and get a chance see albatross up close.