Difficulty
ENDEMICS, VOLCANOES & SEABIRDS
Spring Hawaii
Explore the remote beauty and rare wildlife of the Hawaiian Islands—one of Earth’s most isolated and remarkable archipelagos. Across Oahu, Kauai, and the Big Island, discover tropical forests alive with endemic birds, vast volcanic landscapes, and breathtaking coastal cliffs. From the ethereal song of the Iiwi to the soaring grace of the Laysan Albatross, this journey reveals Hawaii’s living legacy of evolution and its stunning natural splendor.
Tour Overview
Mar 3–Mar 13, 2027
Feb 28–Mar 10, 2028
The Hawaiian Islands—formed by fire and shaped by isolation—harbor some of the world’s most extraordinary birdlife. As the most remote archipelago on Earth, Hawaii has nurtured a dazzling range of endemic species, each evolved in harmony with its island home. On this immersive journey through Oahu, Kauai, and the Big Island, you’ll experience the islands’ unparalleled diversity: from misty highland forests and volcanic craters to coral-fringed coastlines teeming with seabirds.
Our exploration begins on Oahu, where lush valleys and serene wetlands offer close encounters with Hawaiian Coot, Hawaiian Duck (Koloa), and the elegant Bristle-thighed Curlew. In the canopies above, White Terns drift effortlessly between palms near our oceanfront hotel. On Kauai, the “Garden Isle,” the emerald cliffs of Waimea Canyon and the sea cliffs of Kilauea Point host colonies of Red-footed Boobies, Great Frigatebirds, and Laysan Albatross. Finally, on the Big Island, we’ll ascend through pristine native forest in search of rare honeycreepers such as Akiapolaau, Hawaii Creeper, and Iiwi, before descending into the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
This remarkable tour unites the best of Hawaiian birding with world-class comfort, fine cuisine, and the unforgettable beauty of the Pacific. With daily opportunities to see endemic species, seabirds, and volcanic marvels, you’ll experience a side of Hawaii far removed from the typical resort path—wild, pure, and deeply inspiring.
Ecosystems Experienced
A mosaic of coastal wetlands, tropical rainforests, montane cloud forests, and volcanic landscapes, each supporting an extraordinary number of island endemics.
Expected Climate
Temperature
Daytime highs generally range between 75–85 °F (24–29 °C), cooling to the upper 60s °F (18–21 °C) at higher elevations.
Rainfall
Rain is infrequent, though brief winter showers are possible. Most days are clear and sunny, with ideal conditions for birding.
Seasons
Spring brings light trade-wind showers, especially in upland forests, with drier, sun-filled conditions along coastal areas.
Previous Field Reports
Key Species
Iiwi
Hawaii Creeper
Oahu Elepaio
Bristle-thighed Curlew
Red-tailed Tropicbird
Red-footed Booby
Leaders
Erik Bruhnke
Primary Leader
Naturalist, guide, and raptor specialist known for his field research, migration counts, award-winning photography, and infectious enthusiasm for sharing the joy of birding.
Read MoreKevin Burke
Virginia-born birder and ecotourism guide with 20 years of experience leading tours across the Americas, inspiring connection with nature through exploration and discovery.
Read MoreItinerary
Click here to download the 2027 itinerary PDF
Day 1
Arrive in Honolulu and settle into The Lotus Hotel, your home for the evening.
Gather with fellow travelers in the evening for a welcome dinner, a chance to connect and begin the journey together.
Day 2
Begin your Oahu birding adventure with a relaxed walk through Kapiolani Park, where White Terns, Pacific Golden-Plovers, and a colorful mix of introduced island birds bring the lowlands to life.
Venture into the forested slopes of the Koolau Mountains in search of Oahu’s endemic birds, including the rare Oahu Elepaio and Oahu Amakihi, while discovering the unique birdlife of Hawaii’s native forests.
Return to Honolulu after a day of exploration filled with island landscapes, distinctive species, and a first glimpse into Oahu’s remarkable natural heritage.
Day 3
Travel along Oahu’s lush windward coast toward the legendary North Shore, where dramatic landscapes and famous beaches set the stage for a memorable day of exploration.
Search for the sought-after Bristle-thighed Curlew while also looking for Hawaiian wetland birds, including Hawaiian Coot, Black-necked Stilt, and Common Gallinule.
Enjoy coastal stops that offer the chance to encounter iconic Hawaiian wildlife, from Green Sea Turtles to the rare Hawaiian Monk Seal.
Day 4
Fly to the lush island of Kauai and explore two of its most treasured wildlife refuges, where dramatic cliffs, coastal views, and rich habitats reveal the island’s incredible natural diversity.
Watch spectacular seabirds at Kilauea Point, from soaring Laysan Albatross and elegant tropicbirds to Red-footed Boobies and Great Frigatebirds, with opportunities to spot Humpback Whales and Spinner Dolphins along the coast.
Discover Kauai’s unique birdlife at Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge, searching for endemic species like the Hawaiian Goose (Nene), Hawaiian Duck (Koloa), and other wetland and forest birds.
Day 5
Journey through Kauai’s dramatic interior, following the colorful cliffs of Waimea Canyon before ascending into the misty forests of Koke’e State Park.
Hike through native mountain habitat in search of Kauai’s endemic birds, including Kauai Amakihi, Anianiau, Kauai Elepaio, and the vibrant Apapane, while experiencing the island’s rare forest ecosystems.
Take in sweeping views from the Kalalau Valley overlook before continuing the day’s exploration through Kauai’s varied landscapes, from upland forests to coastal wetlands.
Day 6
Fly to Hawaii Island, the largest and youngest island in the Hawaiian chain, where volcanic landscapes and diverse habitats set the stage for new birding discoveries.
Explore the Kona region and surrounding dry landscapes in search of endemic species like the Hawaiian Hawk (I’o), along with unique introduced birds and the possibility of seeing the Hawaiian Goose (Nene).
Ascend to the cooler uplands of Waimea/Kamuela, settling beneath the slopes of Kohala volcano after a day of exploring the island’s varied environments.
Day 7
Experience one of the tour’s most memorable highlights with a special visit to Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, a protected native forest sanctuary on the slopes of Mauna Kea.
Hike through koa and ohia forests in search of Hawaii’s rarest endemic birds, including the brilliant Iiwi, Hawaii Akepa, Hawaii Creeper, Akiapolaau, and other native forest specialties.
Spend a full day immersed in Hawaii’s unique upland landscapes, where exceptional birding opportunities meet the dramatic volcanic scenery of the Big Island.
Day 8
Travel from Waimea to Kona through Hawaii Island’s diverse landscapes, with opportunities to discover new birds along the way, including Hawaiian Hawk (I’o), Hawaiian Short-eared Owl (Pueo), and unique introduced species.
Set out on a whale watching adventure along the Kona coast, where ocean wildlife comes into focus with chances to see Humpback Whales, Spinner Dolphins, and Bottlenose Dolphins alongside expert naturalists.
Continue to Hilo for the next chapter of the journey, exploring tropical wetlands and coastal habitats while settling into the relaxed atmosphere of this historic Hawaiian town.
Day 9
Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where dramatic volcanic landscapes, ancient lava flows, and coastal cliffs create a remarkable backdrop for a day of discovery.
Search for unique birdlife throughout the park, from coastal Black Noddies to colorful introduced species like Kalij Pheasant, Red-billed Leiothrix, and Hwamei.
Experience the island’s volcanic story firsthand through lava tubes, historic flows, and scenic overlooks, with the possibility of witnessing the glow of active lava after sunset.
Day 10
Enjoy a flexible day of exploration on Hawaii Island, with opportunities to revisit native forests, coastal habitats, or other local birding sites based on conditions and recent sightings.
Continue searching for endemic Hawaiian birds like I’iwi, Hawaiian Hawk (I’o), Omao, Hawaii Elepaio, Hawaii Amakihi, and Apapane while discovering the island’s diverse ecosystems.
Take in the beauty of Hilo’s surroundings, from black sand beaches and coastal wetlands to botanical gardens and volcanic landscapes, with time to relax and enjoy the pace of island life.
Day 11
Enjoy a final morning on Hawaii Island at your own pace before departing from Hilo, with time for last-minute exploration, relaxation, or connecting onward through Honolulu.
Reflect on an unforgettable journey through Hawaii’s islands, from native forests and volcanic landscapes to coastal habitats and the remarkable birds and wildlife encountered along the way.
What’s Included
Accommodations & Dining
Settle into comfortable accommodations with modern amenities. Enjoy freshly prepared meals that highlight local flavors and international favorites, with consideration for any dietary needs.
Guided Services & Gratuities
Experience each destination with the help of Leaders who share history, culture, and wildlife insights. Gratuities for crew and local guides are included, ensuring seamless service without extra concerns; tipping for your Leaders is discretionary and not included.
Active Essentials
Every tour includes the core elements that make our field experiences possible so you can stay engaged with a range of activities. All outings include the necessary equipment and full safety support, making it easy to join at your own pace.
Transportation & Logistics
We coordinate every transfer, from airport pickup to port boarding. Whether traveling by bus, boat, or charter, our team ensures smooth connections and stress-free travel.
FAQs
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