Hawaii Forest & Trail – Hakalau Forest Reserve Exclusive Kona
Hakalau means “many perches,” a fitting name for a sanctuary that shelters some of the planet’s rarest forest birds. Once a cattle...
Forests, Falls and Starry Skies
Big Island Nature Tours
Big Island nature tours follow the island into native forest, waterfall country, volcanic slopes, Kona reef water and the high, cold sky of Mauna Kea. Walk Hualalai crater terrain, watch for rare forest birds, visit Kohala waterfalls or head up the mountain for sunset and stars.
Your Big Island Nature Tour
Big Island nature tours can feel like several islands folded into one. The same island that has dry lava fields and Kona reef water also has rainforest, private waterfalls, high mountain air, native bird habitat and volcanic ground shaped by old eruptions.
Nature routes may include Hakalau Wildlife Refuge birdwatching, Mauna Kea summit and stargazing, Kohala waterfall trails, Hualalai crater hiking, Umauma Falls swimming and kayaking, Kona Coast snorkeling or marine wildlife viewing from a raft. Tour lengths vary widely, from short water tours to full-day forest or mountain routes.
Start with the setting you want most. Birdwatching and forest tours are quieter and longer, Mauna Kea brings cold evening weather and high elevation, waterfall tours add streams and green valleys, and ocean nature tours keep the focus on reef water and wildlife. Check pickup area, tour length, walking needs, meals, weather and elevation before booking.
Big Island Nature Tours
Hawaii Forest & Trail – Kohala Waterfalls Adventure
Follow the green folds of North Kohala into a landscape of waterfalls, old plantation towns and sweeping valley views. The day begins...
Hawaii Forest & Trail – Mauna Kea Summit & Stars Adventure
Spend an afternoon climbing from sea level to the rooftop of the Pacific as you journey up 13,796-foot Mauna Kea. The drive...
Captain Zodiac – Pelagic Wildlife Excursion
Set course along the volcanic Kona shoreline aboard a powerful Zodiac Hurricane, the same style of rigid-hull inflatable favored by Navy SEALs....
Hawaii Forest & Trail – Hidden Craters Hike Kona
Go beyond public trails and step through three locked gates onto the upper slopes of Hualalai, Kona’s quietly slumbering volcano. Guided across...
Big Island Nature Tours FAQ
What types of Big Island nature tours can I book?
Big Island nature tours may include birdwatching, waterfall routes, volcano hikes, Mauna Kea stargazing, ocean wildlife tours, reef snorkeling, kayaking and waterfall swim outings. Check the current tour list for available routes, pickup areas and activity levels.
How long are Big Island nature tours?
Current Big Island nature tours range from about 1.5 hours to about 12 hours. Shorter tours may focus on water activities, while longer routes can include birdwatching, waterfalls, volcano terrain or Mauna Kea.
Are Big Island nature tours good for families?
Some Big Island nature tours are a good match for families, especially shorter waterfall, ocean or easy sightseeing routes. Longer hikes, high-elevation Mauna Kea tours and birdwatching outings may have stricter age, health or walking requirements.
What should I bring for a Big Island nature tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, a camera and a light rain layer. For Mauna Kea or higher-elevation routes, bring warmer clothing. For swim, kayak or snorkel tours, bring swimwear and a towel.
What should I check before booking a Big Island nature tour?
Check tour length, pickup area, walking distance, elevation, swimming comfort, meal inclusions, weather policy and age or health rules. Big Island nature tours can vary from easy water outings to long forest or mountain days.