KAILUA-KONA WALKING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Highland Rarity: Private Ohana Birdwatching in Hakalau’s Rainforest
An exclusive, private Ohana outing into the restricted Hakalau Forest Reserve to search for Hawaii’s endangered birds and study its rare native flora.
Highland Rarity: Private Ohana Birdwatching in Hakalau’s Rainforest.
Nestled high above the island’s shoreline, the dense rainforest of Hakalau Forest Reserve unfolds as a private, restricted-access refuge where expert guides lead small Ohana groups through a living archive of endemic plants and animals. On this full-day outing you’ll move deliberately through moss-draped understory and fern-lined trails, following bird trackers as they seek Amakihi, Apapane, Iiwi and other threatened species while interpreting the island’s unique natural history.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Restricted rainforest refuge
Gain access into a restricted National Wildlife Refuge—an upland rainforest where rare native plants and unusual invertebrates, from carnivorous caterpillars to happy-faced spiders, persist in protected pockets.
Endangered Hawaiian birds
Guides who are expert bird trackers focus the group’s attention on native and endangered species—Amakihi, Apapane, Elepaio, Akepa, Akiapōlāʻau and ʻIʻiwi—searching the canopy and understory for the island’s signature calls and colors.
A remote road and rugged approach
The outing includes travel along a Wildlife Access road that is rough, muddy and can be very bumpy—part of what keeps this area remote and biologically intact.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
This is a long, deliberate day in the upland forest: a private Ohana group departs from designated meeting points, travels onto a Wildlife Access road to reach restricted refuge gates, then hikes 2–4 miles through wet, mossy trails with frequent stops as guides locate species and interpret the flora and fauna. It’s immersive—equal parts travel, close-range natural history and patient birdwatching led by interpretive guides.
THE HABITAT
Restricted rainforest refuge
Gain access into a restricted National Wildlife Refuge—an upland rainforest where rare native plants and unusual invertebrates, from carnivorous caterpillars to happy-faced spiders, persist in protected pockets.
THE TARGETS
Endangered Hawaiian birds
Guides who are expert bird trackers focus the group’s attention on native and endangered species—Amakihi, Apapane, Elepaio, Akepa, Akiapōlāʻau and ʻIʻiwi—searching the canopy and understory for the island’s signature calls and colors.
THE ACCESS
A remote road and rugged approach
The outing includes travel along a Wildlife Access road that is rough, muddy and can be very bumpy—part of what keeps this area remote and biologically intact.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits—and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Sturdy closed-toed shoes or hiking shoes, long pants, a sweatshirt or light jacket, a reusable water bottle, and personal sun protection such as a hat and sunglasses.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How much hiking do we do?
Expect to cover approximately 2 to 4 miles in 4 hours.
Is there elevation gain?
Throughout the hike the elevation change is approximately 650’.
Is it possible to use a spotting scope?
Due to the behavior of Hawaii’s endemic birds, the use of a spotting scope can be challenging. If you feel up to the test, bring your own gear; guides provide binoculars for guest use.
Is it possible to get photos of the birds?
Typically, there are many opportunities for a determined photographer to photograph birds along the way.
How is the drive to the Refuge?
The first part of the drive is on paved roadways; the second half on the Wildlife Access road is a dirt road that is rough, muddy, and can be very bumpy.
Are child safety seats required?
Yes. Hawaii's Child Passenger Restraint Law requires that children up to age 10 who are under 4 feet 9 inches tall must be properly secured in a child safety or booster seat; Hawaii Forest & Trail provides booster seats upon request.