Big Island of Hawaii , United States

Big Island Birdwatching Tour

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About this experience

The Big Island of Hawaii is a paradise for birdwatchers! Here, you will find endemic species found nowhere else in the world. Its diverse habitats are home to a variety of unique bird species. From the vibrant honeycreepers in the lush rainforests to the majestic raptors soaring over open savannas, the island offers a birdwatching experience like no other. Here, endemic Hawaiian birds showcase the island's exceptional biodiversity. The chance to observe these rare species in their natural environments makes birding Hawaii a truly special pursuit.

Our Big Island birding tour is designed to enhance your experience, our expert guides will help you spot and identify the Hawaiian birds. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a curious novice, this tour provides personalized guidance, ensuring you experience the best the Big Island has to offer. From endemic species to scenic landscapes, there's no better place for bird lovers. Join us as we explore the birds of the Big Island.

Available options

4 Guests

Additional Guests <br/>Pickup included

5 Guests

Additional Guests<br/>Pickup included

3 Guests

Additional Guests<br/>Pickup included

Big Island Birdwatching Tour

Pickup included

6 Guests

Additional Guests<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Fully guided naturalist tour with insights into bird behaviors and ecology by our expert guides

trail mix, fruit snacks, granola bars, beef jerky, chips, chocolate

Picnic style lunch surrounded by the beauty of Hawaii’s unique forests

Patagonia Jackets

Black Diamond Trekking Poles

20-25 professional, edited photos with our large zoom lenses

Nikon ProStaff Binoculars

All non-alcoholic beverages: water, juice, soda, hot tea, coffee and hot chocolate

Detailed itinerary

Our Hawaii birdwatching tour on the Big Island offers guests a unique opportunity to witness native birds in their natural habitats. They provide a chance to appreciate the birds' beauty, understand their ecological roles, and learn about the efforts to protect them. Guided by our expert naturalists, this tour offer insights into the birds' behaviors and ecology. We cater to different levels of birdwatching expertise, from beginners to seasoned ornithologists. We are not just about spotting birds, but about understanding and appreciating them.

After pickup from your place of lodging, begin your Big Island birdwatching tour by traveling up the Saddle Road to the high elevations of the Big Island. Based upon the conditions for the day, your guide will select from one of the State Forest Reserves to start from. Locations may include but not limited to: Mauna Kea Forest Reserve, Upper Waiakea Forest Reserve, and Hilo Forest Reserve.

Birdwatching: Hilo Forest Reserve, Upper Waiakea Forest Reserve

Hawaiian honeycreepers are emblematic of the island's extraordinary birdlife. These birds, with their vibrant colors and unique adaptations, captivate bird enthusiasts around the world. Each honeycreeper showcases the vast spectrum of evolutionary creativity found in Hawaii. We have the potential to see all of these native forest birds listed plus some other introduced species.

Available languages

Guide guide

Written guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Tours can be adapted to accommodate all ages and abilities. Please let us know at the time of booking if you have specific needs.

Assuming no modifications for this tour, guests should be able to walk at least 2-3 miles with some steps included.

Guests must be able to walk on uneven or rocky terrain and we may encounter cool, wet, or muddy conditions.

About Big Island of Hawaii

The Big Island of Hawaii is the largest and youngest of the Hawaiian Islands, known for its diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, active volcanoes, and lush rainforests. It offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.

Top Attractions

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

This national park is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. It offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and the opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close.

Nature/Adventure Full day Moderate ($30 per vehicle)

Mauna Kea Summit

Mauna Kea is the highest point in Hawaii and offers stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a unique alpine environment.

Nature/Adventure Half day to full day Free (but requires acclimatization)

Waipio Valley

Waipio Valley is a lush, scenic valley known for its taro farms, waterfalls, and black sand beach. It is also a significant cultural site for Native Hawaiians.

Nature/Cultural Half day Free (but parking fee applies)

Hapuna Beach State Park

Hapuna Beach is one of the largest white sand beaches on the Big Island, offering swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing opportunities.

Beach Half day Free (but parking fee applies)

Akaka Falls State Park

Akaka Falls is a stunning 442-foot waterfall surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The park offers a scenic loop trail leading to the falls.

Nature 1-2 hours Moderate ($5 per person)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Poke

A raw fish salad marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions, often served with rice.

Appetizer Contains fish, can be made with various types of seafood

Loco Moco

A hearty dish consisting of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.

Main Course Contains beef, eggs, and gluten (from the gravy)

Shave Ice

Finely shaved ice flavored with syrups and often topped with sweetened condensed milk or ice cream.

Dessert Vegetarian, can be made with various toppings

Kona Coffee

A premium coffee grown in the Kona region, known for its rich and smooth flavor.

Drink Caffeinated, can be decaffeinated

Popular Activities

Hiking Volcano exploration Water sports Beach lounging Spa treatments Scenic drives Traditional Hawaiian luaus Local markets

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

This is the best time to visit the Big Island, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists. The ocean is warm, and the weather is generally dry and sunny.

21-30°C 70-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Japanese, Tagalog
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST, GMT-10:00)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

The Big Island is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware of natural hazards such as volcanic activity and ocean conditions.

Important Precautions:

• Rent a car with full insurance coverage
• Be cautious when purchasing souvenirs and tours, and research options in advance
• Be aware of ocean conditions and currents when swimming and snorkeling

Getting there

By air

Kona International Airport • 20 km from Kona
Hilo International Airport • 10 km from Hilo

By bus

Hilo, Kona

Getting around

Public transport

The Hele-On Bus is the public bus system on the Big Island. It is affordable but has limited routes and schedules.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kona Hilo Waimea

Day trips

Mauna Kea Summit

30 km from Waimea • Half day to full day

Mauna Kea is the highest point in Hawaii and offers stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a unique alpine environment.

Waipio Valley

60 km from Hilo • Half day

Waipio Valley is a lush, scenic valley known for its taro farms, waterfalls, and black sand beach. It is also a significant cultural site for Native Hawaiians.

Hapuna Beach State Park

30 km from Waimea • Half day

Hapuna Beach is one of the largest white sand beaches on the Big Island, offering swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing opportunities.

Festivals

Merrie Monarch Festival • April Kona Coffee Cultural Festival • November Ironman World Championship • October

Pro tips

Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace and access remote areas
Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park early in the day to avoid crowds and see the best views
Pack layers, as temperatures can vary significantly depending on the elevation and location
Try local dishes like poke, loco moco, and shave ice for an authentic taste of the Big Island
Respect the environment and local culture, and follow guidelines for visiting protected areas and sacred sites