Birdwatching Tour: Discover Maui’s Avian Wonders
About the Tour:
Whether you’re an experienced birdwatcher looking to add some “lifers” to your eBird list or just want to immerse yourself in Maui’s stunning ecosystems, our Birdwatching Maui Tour offers an unforgettable experience. Join us for a day of outdoor exploration as we visit diverse habitats and search for Maui’s unique bird species.
Duration: 7 Hours
Pick-Up Time:
Pick-Up: 8:00 AM
Hotel Pick-Up: Free pick-up from South side properties (Kihei, Wailea, Ma’alaea).
West Side Pick-Up: Available for Lahaina/Ka’anapali to Kapalua properties for $295. Alternatively, you can meet us at the Maui Tropical Plantation at 8 AM.
Tour Highlights:
This tour is operated by our sister company Explore Maui Nature and is designed for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. On this adventure, we will:
Summit of Haleakala National Park:
Begin your journey at the summit of Haleakala National Park, where we search for Maui’s endemic species like the Pueo (Hawaiian short-eared owl), Nene (Hawaiian goose), and chukar. The breathtaking views of the “crater” make for a memorable start to the tour.
Hosmer’s Grove:
Spend time at Hosmer’s Grove, home to endemic birds such as ‘Apapane, ‘I’iwi, ‘Amakihi, and, if we’re lucky, the elusive ‘Alauahio (Maui Creeper). This is also a great spot to observe other native species in the park.
Picnic Lunch:
Enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Kealia National Wildlife Refuge:
In the afternoon, head to the Kealia National Wildlife Refuge to observe shorebirds and migrant species. Look out for local residents like the black-crowned night heron, Hawaiian coots, Hawaiian stilts, wandering tattlers, and various species of ducks. Depending on the season, we might also spot white-faced ibis, sandpipers, long-billed dowitchers, and more.
Scenic Golf Course Drive:
Conclude the tour with a drive through one of Maui’s most beautiful golf courses, where we often spot exotic birds like java finches, red-crested cardinals, Northern cardinals, Pacific golden plovers, grey francolins, and occasionally Northern mockingbirds.
What’s Included:
Checklist: Keep track of your birdwatching progress with a checklist.
Complimentary Refreshments: Enjoy juices, fruits, snacks, and a full picnic lunch while learning about Maui’s ecology, history, and local myths and legends.
Binoculars: Use of binoculars is available at no extra charge for a closer look at Maui’s wildlife.
Tour Duration:
This birdwatching adventure lasts approximately 7 hours.
What to Bring:
Haleakala temperatures can be 20-40 degrees cooler than sea level, and the weather can be unpredictable, so we recommend bringing a rain jacket and a hoodie to stay comfortable throughout the day.
For All Birding Enthusiasts:
Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or a first-time adventurer, this tour is suitable for all levels of interest. On any given day, we can spot between 18 to 32 species, including the ubiquitous common mynah. Get ready to discover Maui’s avian treasures and enjoy a day full of learning, nature, and fun!
