Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge

Search for "Jack Jeffries birdwatching" to find the best tour. Jack was the lead ecologist for the reserve for decades. He's now retired, but still leads small tours (max 4 people). His knowledge of the birds, the plants, and the land is unparalleled - not least because he was instrumental in saving and restoring this reserve. My partner and I are both scientists, and we were beyond thrilled with our expedition with Jack. There are other tours available, but Jack is the real deal, and the birds and plants you'll see are so worth it.

Hakalau forest NWR is one of the few places on island of Hawaii to see trees and birds you will never see anywhere. The trees and birds clearly show how flora and fauna evolve when left undisturbed. You need a guide to get inside, Hawaii forest and trails has trips that take you here. They have very knowledgable guides who are geologists and experts. You must take camera for capturing the beauty.

You don't need a guide or any special permission to drive the 40 mile Mana Road through this gorgeous area. You just need a high clearance 4WD truck or Jeep. You can pick up the Mana Road off the Mauna kea Access Road. After following the road for 4 or 5 hours, you will exit onto the main highway in Waimea. It can get a little crowded on the weekends as this activity is popular with local families. During the week you will have it to yourself. It is a bit tricky in a couple spots, but totally doable for anyone with 4WD off roading experience.

The best place to see the rarest native forest birds on Hawai'i Island (except for the Pālila on the other side of Mauna Kea!-)

Beautiful native hawaiian forest with the best forest birding on the island. 100% worth getting a tour to visit if you are a birder - saw 2x akiapola'au, akepas at close range, and lots of alawi creepers. I went with Jack Jeffrey and it was awesome! Visiting here was one of the highlights of my Hawaii trip

A beautiful and special place. It is a highlight of our Hawaiian birding trip. Thanks to Hawaii Forest & Trail and Victor Emanuel Nature Tours for sharing this incredible place with all of us.

Excellent bird watching area.

Shows what conservation can do in a relatively short amount of time. 35 years. Beautiful park, amazing bird songs, and sightings. Rough road to the park!! The park used to be ranch land 35 years ago.