---
title: Hakalau Forest Reserve Bird Watching Adventure
slug: hakalau-forest-reserve-bird-watching-adventure-kailua-kona
type: attraction
sub_type: bird watching
source_url: https://www.tripster.com/detail/hakalau-forest-reserve-bird-watching-adventure-kailua-kona
city: Kailua Kona
state: HI
country: US
address: "73-5593 Olowalu Street Building #A"
geo:
  lat: 19.69159
  lng: -156.01893
duration: up to 12 hrs
cancellation_policy: Free cancellation up to 2 days before the experience.
extracted_at: 2026-06-16T18:38:45.406Z
price_from:
  amount: 255
  currency: USD
  unit: per_adult
availability: SoldOut
rating:
  value: 5
  count: 5310
  scale: 5
---
## Overview

Hit the backroads on this Hawaii Forest and Trail exclusive bird watching tour! Explore restricted lands at the Hakalau National Forest Reserve with a naturalist guide, spotting endangered birds like the Akepa and Elepaio, native plants, and rare animals including carnivorous caterpillars and happy-faced spiders.

## What's Included

- Naturalist guide  
- Transportation on a 4WD Mercedes Sprinter vehicle  
- Snacks  
- Deli styled lunch  
- Assorted beverages  
- Walking stick, binoculars, day pack, warm wear, and rain poncho provided  

## What's Not Included

No explicit "What's Not Included" section provided.

## Good to Know

- This Hakalau Exclusive runs in an air-conditioned 4WD Mercedes Sprinter.  
- Covers 2-4 miles of hiking along the Hawaii Forest and Trail.  
- Recommended for birders and wilderness explorers.  
- Tour duration is approx. 11-12 hours. Arrive 20 minutes before departure time.  
- Includes entry to a restricted-access National Wildlife Refuge, snacks, deli lunch and assorted drinks.  
- Moderate physical fitness is required.  
- Walking sticks, binoculars, day packs, warm wear and rain ponchos are provided.  
- Small-group size with a max capacity of 10 guests per tour.  
- Led by interpretive guides who are expert bird trackers.  
- Tour starts from one of four meeting locations around Kailua-Kona and Waikoloa; arrive 20 minutes early.  
- Expect to hike approximately 2 to 4 miles in 4 hours with about 650 feet elevation gain.  
- Recommended for ages 8 years and older; moderate difficulty.  
- Tour may not be suitable for persons with physical challenges, neck/back issues, motion sickness, heart problems, or serious medical conditions.  
- Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots, long pants, and a light rain jacket. Dress casually and comfortably and bring a reusable water bottle.  
- The drive includes rough, muddy, bumpy dirt roads requiring 4WD vehicles.  
- Spotting scopes may be challenging to use but binoculars are provided.  
- Photography opportunities for birds are typically available.  
- Tours leave rain or shine; rain gear is provided.  

## Cancellation Policy

Free Changes & Cancellations available; see details upon selection.