Dragonflies in Hawaii: Identification Guide and Best Places to Start

1. Where are dragonflies most likely to be seen in Hawaii?

Dragonflies in Hawaii are most often seen near freshwater sources. Head to the wetlands of Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge on Kauai, the ponds at Kapiolani Park on Oahu, or the marshy edges of Lake Wilson. Backyard ponds and stream banks on the windward sides of the islands also hold consistent populations.

See our state wildlife page for the next step.

In Hawaii, dragonflies sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where people are most likely to notice them. Use the state wildlife hub and the route guide to narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.

2. What season or weather patterns help with dragonfly spotting?

The best dragonfly activity occurs during the wetter months (November to March) when standing water is plentiful. However, you can spot them year-round. Overcast days with light rain often bring them out in force, as they hunt for mosquitoes and midges. Sunny mornings after a rain shower are prime time.

3. Simple ID cues that separate dragonflies from lookalikes

Dragonflies have two pairs of equal-sized wings held perpendicular to the body when at rest. Damselflies, often mistaken for small dragonflies, hold their wings folded along the body. Look for large, compound eyes that meet at the top of the head in dragonflies, versus separated eyes in damselflies.

See our state animal guide for the next step.

4. Common dragonfly species you can find in Hawaii

The introduced common green darner (Anax junius) and the wandering glider (Pantala flavescens) are widespread. The endemic orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly (Megalagrion xanthomelas) is a must-see, found in protected wetlands on Oahu and Maui. Other species include the blue-eyed darner and the striped meadowhawk.

5. Best times of day to spot dragonflies

Dragonflies are most active between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on warm days. Early morning (just after sunrise) is excellent for seeing them emerge from their nymphal stage if you camp near water. Avoid windy afternoons; they shelter low in vegetation.