The Ultimate Bird Lover’s Road to Hana Tour
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Minimum Age: 10 years old
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Duration: 9-10 Hours
Overview
Calling all bird enthusiasts! The Bird Lover’s Road to Hana offers a unique opportunity to explore the scenic and famous Road to Hana while immersing yourself in the vibrant birdlife of Maui. This is not just any ordinary road trip—this tour is designed for those who are passionate about birds and want to learn more while enjoying the breathtaking landscapes of Maui.
Led by our expert guides, affectionately known as “bird nerds,” you’ll be on the lookout for a variety of bird species as you travel through this stunning region. While this is not a full birding tour, you’ll have plenty of chances to talk birds and maybe even spot a few feathered friends along the way.
Important Note:
This tour does not include sightings of the rare native Hawaiian honeycreepers, but you’ll still enjoy an exciting adventure with plenty of birdwatching opportunities!
What to Expect on the Bird Lover’s Road to Hana
Pickup Time: 8:00 AM
Start your journey by meeting us at Target in Kahului at 8:00 AM. To maximize your time on the road, we recommend this meeting spot. However, we also offer complimentary hotel pick-up for guests staying on the South side (Kihei, Wailea, Ma’alaea). For those staying on the West side (Lahaina, Ka’anapali, Kapalua), hotel pick-up is available for a fee of $295.
Tour Highlights
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Upcountry Maui: Our journey begins by exploring the backside of East Maui, including a potential glimpse of the elusive pueo (short-eared owl). Please note that weather conditions may affect our ability to complete the loop of East Maui.
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Wind-Swept Views: Along the backside, we will stop at scenic viewpoints, stretch our legs, and watch out for white-tailed tropicbirds, which sometimes soar above the sea cliffs.
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Shorebird Sightings: If the season is right, we’ll visit a local pond where you might spot a range of shorebirds including Hawaiian stilts, Hawaiian coots, black-crowned night herons, and possibly a wandering tattler.
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Koki Beach & Alau Island: As we arrive south of Hana near Koki Beach, enjoy stunning views of Alau Island, a sanctuary for frigatebirds.
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Lunch in Hana: A well-deserved lunch break at one of Hana’s popular local food trucks will fuel you for the next leg of the journey.
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Wai’anapanapa State Park: After lunch, we will visit Wai’anapanapa State Park to explore the dramatic Black Sand Beach and witness a large colony of endemic Hawaiian black noddies.
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Rainforest Canopy & Waterfalls: Experience the famous stretch of the Road to Hana, weaving through a lush rainforest, passing majestic waterfalls, and enjoying panoramic coastal views. Keep your eyes peeled for the Kolea (Pacific Golden Plover), Northern Cardinals, Red-Crested Cardinals, Japanese White-Eyes, and even the melodious Laughingthrush.
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Optional Garden of Eden Stop: If you’re interested, you can visit the Garden of Eden (separate entry fee of $20 per person) and meet the resident peacocks and ducks.
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Ho’okipa Beach: To wrap up your wildlife experience, we’ll stop by Ho’okipa Beach to say “aloha” to the resident honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles).
This tour is perfect for bird lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the vibrant wildlife of Maui. Whether you’re an experienced birdwatcher or just starting out, you’re sure to enjoy this unique journey through one of the most picturesque and bird-friendly regions in Hawaii!
