Birding Hot Spots on the West Side

Question

We will be there late April and looking for any cool birding hotspots on the west side. We are staying in the Kohala coast area. I don't think we will be making it to the East side of the island. I did just book a tour for the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary. I looked at birding tours but they were not available the dates we will be there. Thanks in advance!

Answer

The west side of the Big Island, particularly the Kohala Coast area, offers several excellent birding opportunities, especially if you’re interested in seeing native Hawaiian species and migratory birds. While you’re already booked for the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary, there are additional spots worth exploring, many of which can be accessed independently if birding tours aren’t available on your dates.

Some of the notable birding hotspots on the west side include:

Hapuna Beach and Puako Shoreline: Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for spotting shorebirds, especially during low tide. Hawaiian stilts, plovers, and sometimes brant geese can be seen along the rocky and sandy areas.
Kohala Forest Reserve: Offers higher elevation forest habitats where native honeycreepers and ʻApapane are commonly spotted. Trails are well-marked and provide good access for birders willing to hike moderate distances.
Waipiʻo Valley Lookout: While technically closer to the Hamakua Coast, if you have a day to explore, the valley offers a chance to see endemic forest birds as well as a spectacular scenic backdrop.
Pu’u Wa’awa’a Forest Reserve: Managed by the DLNR, this area has restored dry forest habitat and is home to native species like the Hawaiian hawk (`io), ʻamakihi, and ʻapapane. Trails are accessible, though some may require a short drive into the hills.
Kona Palisades and Lava Flows near Puako: Some of the lava flow areas near Puako provide open habitat for seabirds and occasional migratory songbirds. Best in early morning for activity.

Tips for birding on the west side:

Bring binoculars and a spotting scope if possible, as some birds can be distant or high in trees.
Start early in the morning when native birds are most active.
Check local reports or community forums for recent bird sightings—species can vary seasonally.
Respect private property and posted signs; many birding areas are on public land but adjacent to private ranches.

With a combination of the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary tour and independent visits to these hotspots, you should have a productive birding experience while enjoying the diverse habitats and stunning landscapes of the Big Island’s west side.

Birding Hot Spots on the West Side

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