Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary

The Basics

The Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary can only be experienced on a guided tour, which must be booked in advance. Visitors are led on a botanical tour to see and learn about towering ohia trees, koa trees, giant ferns, over 100 varieties of bamboo, and a carefully managed collection of non-native plants. Native birds, such as honeycreepers, akepa, and Hawaiian hawks, also call the sanctuary home.

Guided tours of the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary can be combined with a tour of other Kona highlights, such as a coffee plantation, a brewery, and Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary is a must-see for nature lovers.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes.

• Bring layers and consider a raincoat or an umbrella, as the weather here is cooler and wetter than in Kona.

How to Get There

Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary is located about 15 minutes from Kona International Airport, near Mountain Thunder Coffee Farm. From the junction of Highway 180 and Highway 190, continue north on Highway 190 for 1 mile (1.6 kilometers), then turn right on Kaloko Drive and continue to Hao Street.

When to Get There

Guided tours of the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary are available by appointment and are generally available several times a day year-round. It’s best to go in the mornings, as it tends to rain more in the afternoons.

Tropical Rain Forests vs. Tropical Cloud Forests

Tropical cloud forests are different from tropical rain forests, which can also be found in Hawaii. While tropical rain forests receive most of their precipitation from rain, tropical cloud forests receive nearly half their moisture from mist and clouds, which leaves condensation on leaves and trees.

Ways to explore

The Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary can only be experienced on a guided tour, which must be booked in advance. On a botanical tour, you will see and learn about towering ohia trees, koa trees, giant ferns, more than 100 varieties of bamboo, and a carefully managed collection of non-native plants. Native birds, like honeycreepers, akepa, and Hawaiian hawks, also call the sanctuary home. Other sanctuary experiences include sound bathing, yoga, and more.

Guided tours of the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary can be combined with visits to other Kona highlights, such as coffee plantations, breweries, and Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park.

Accessibility

Not recommended for travelers who have mobility limitations or those who have trouble walking or standing for long periods

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water bottle, camera, umbrella

What to wear

Closed-toed shoes for hiking, rain jacket

Not allowed

Independent exploration, outside food and drink

Amenities

Restrooms, walking sticks

Address

The Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary is about 15 minutes from Kona International Airport, near Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation. Your best options for getting there are either your personal vehicle or a guided tour that includes transportation.

Driving

From Highway 190, turn up the mountain on Kaloko Drive, which winds upward until Hao Street. Park on the street. Your guide will meet you at the gate.

Public transportation

Public transportation options are limited. Most visitors drive or arrange private transportation to get to the sanctuary’s mountain location.

Best times to visit

It’s best to go in the mornings, as it tends to rain more in the afternoons.

Best days to visit

Guided tours are offered every day of the week, so the best day to visit is the day that works with your schedule.

Best months to visit

Visit March–November to experience the wet season, or December–February for the dry season. Both seasons offer different experiences in the cloud forest.

Special events

The sanctuary hosts many special workshops and events, including painting workshops, forest connection workshops, and medicinal plant hikes. Check the calendar for guidance during your visit.