With its remote location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the Hawaiian Islands are home to some of the rarest and most sought-after birds for birdwatchers to spot. But with six major inhabited islands to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which one offers the best birding opportunities. This article will compare the top birding destinations across the main Hawaiian islands to help you determine which island is right for your next birdwatching adventure.
Hawaii (The Big Island)
The largest of the Hawaiian Islands, the aptly named Big Island has a number of excellent birding sites thanks to its diverse terrain of rainforests, deserts, beaches, and volcanic landscapes. Here are some of the top birding spots on Hawaii’s Big Island:
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – Explore the lava fields and rainforest of this rugged park, home to the native Apapane and I’iwi.
- Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge – A rainforest refuge protecting endangered native birds like the Akepa and Hawaii Creeper.
- Keauhou and Kona Coast – Spot seabirds like the Laysan Albatross offshore and the Nene goose on the grassy coast.
- Mauna Kea – Drive this 14,000 foot volcano to see birds adapted to the high altitude like the Palila.
Some key things that make Hawaii’s Big Island a top birding pick are the large tracts of protected rainforest that provide habitat for rare native birds. Seeing endangered endemics like the Akiapola’au and Akekee is a big draw here. The variety of habitats also means a wide diversity of species beyond forest birds. Over 200 bird species have been recorded on the island.
Oahu
Home to Hawaii’s capital Honolulu and the iconic Waikiki Beach, Oahu may not seem like a hotspot for birding at first glance. But the island actually offers quite a few great birding opportunities, especially for seabirds, shorebirds, and waterfowl. Some places to spot birds on Oahu include:
- James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge – A coastal wetland refuge with an observation tower for spotting water birds and migratory shorebirds.
- Pearl Harbor Historic Sites – Various war memorials and sites around Pearl Harbor attract seabirds like Black Noddies.
- Kahuku Point – Jutting cliffs on the northeast tip of Oahu are perfect for seawatching.
- Kaena Point – This remote northwest point hosts Laysan Albatross and other pelagic species.
Though native forest birds are harder to find on the more populated island of Oahu, it remains a good island for spotting shorebirds, waterfowl, and especially seabirds. Many birders visit Oahu specifically to see species like the Laysan Albatross that are rare on the other islands. The offshore islets also attract petrels and shearwaters.
Kauai
Lush and semi-tropical, Kauai is often described as the “Garden Isle” of Hawaii. It is covered in rainforests and boasts stunning Napali Coast cliffs. For these reasons, Kauai is a favorite of birders looking to see native Hawaiian forest birds. Some of Kauai’s top birding spots are:
- Koke’e State Park – Expansive mountain park with great trails for spotting endemic birds in native forest.
- Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge – Wetlands and taro fields that attract Hawaiian waterbirds.
- Limahuli Garden and Preserve – A botanical garden with preserved native habitat good for spotting rare birds.
- Kilauea Point – A National Wildlife Refuge with a lighthouse, perfect for seawatching and seabirds.
Kauai excels for the native songbirds that can only be found in Hawaiian forests, like the I’iwi, Apapane, and Hawaiian Crow. But it also has seabird colonies offshore and good coastal spots for waterfowl and wading birds. For sheer diversity of endemic forest birds, Kauai is hard to beat. It is one of the best chances to see endangered species like the Puaiohi or Akikiki.
Maui
The second largest Hawaiian island, Maui offers diverse birding across its rainforests, coastlines, and even its iconic volcanic crater of Haleakala. Some top birding spots on Maui include:
- Haleakala National Park – See high altitude species soaring above the massive volcanic crater.
- Wailea Coastal Walk – Spot shorebirds and seabirds along this scenic coastal trail.
- Makamakaole Hill – Hotspot for endangered forest birds like the Maui Parrotbill.
- Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge – Wetlands hosting the endangered Hawaiian Stilt.
Maui provides opportunities to see forest birds in its few remaining tracts of native habitat. And spots like Wailea Beach allow easy viewing of shorebirds and seabirds. While its endemic bird populations are lower than Kauai, Maui’s variety of habitats still provide good birding for a range of native and migratory species. It lacks some of the endangered endemics, but makes up for it with lovely coastal birding spots.
Lanai
The smallest of the main Hawaiian Islands, Lanai may seem an unlikely birding destination at first glance. But this rural island has some phenomenal seabird colonies and excellent coastal birding that rival any of the larger islands. Check out these sites:
- Shipwreck Beach – Thousands of seabirds nest in a collapsed lava tube along this remote southwest beach.
- Lanaihale – Central mountain peak home to Lanai’s few native forest bird species.
- Keomoku Road – An old coastal road along cliffs where seabirds soar.
- Manele Harbor – A tiny boat harbor that attracts shorebirds and waterfowl.
If your focus is on seabird diversity, Lanai may be the ideal Hawaiian island. You can spot over a dozen species of boobies, petrels, shearwaters, frigatebirds and more along its coast. There are also opportunities to see native forest birds in the interior and waterbirds along the coastline.
Molokai
Molokai has always lived in the shadow of its larger neighbor islands. But this quiet island has consistently excellent seabirding opportunities. Here are some of Molokai’s best birding spots:
- Paialoa Beach Park – Coastal park perfect for spotting soaring seabird species.
- Ilio Point – Remote but stunning sea cliffs loaded with breeding seabirds.
- Kamakou Preserve – Rainforest hiking trails to spot native forest birds.
- One Ali’i Fishpond – Historic fishpond that attracts shorebirds and ducks.
Molokai is especially revered for its shearwater colonies, with impressive numbers of Wedge-tailed and Christmas Shearwaters. And its rugged northern coast provides seabirding as good as anywhere in Hawaii. While lacking some of the endangered forest bird species found on other islands, Molokai stands out for amazing seabird opportunities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while all the major Hawaiian Islands offer good birding, a few stand out as the top destinations for specific interests:
- Big Island – best for endangered native forest birds and diversity of habitats.
- Oahu – best for seabirds, shorebirds and waterfowl.
- Kauai – best for native songbirds and endangered endemics.
- Maui – good blend of forest birds, seabirds and great coastal birding spots.
- Lanai – a seabird paradise.
- Molokai – remote but incredible seabird colonies.
Casual birders will appreciate the ease and diversity of Oahu. Serious birders in search of endangered Hawaiian endemics should head straight to Kauai or the Big Island. And for sheer numbers of breeding seabirds, check out Lanai and Molokai. With research and planning, any of the major islands can provide excellent birding opportunities during your Hawaiian vacation.
Birding on Oahu
As one of the most visited Hawaiian islands, Oahu attracts millions of tourists every year who come to enjoy the beaches of Waikiki, the energy of Honolulu, and attractions like Pearl Harbor. But beyond the resorts and cities, Oahu also offers surprisingly rewarding birding opportunities for those who know where to look. Here is a closer look at some of the best birding locations on Oahu.
James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge
One of Oahu’s premier birding sites, James Campbell NWR protects endangered waterbirds in a coastal wetland habitat. An observation towerlooking over the scenic wetlands allows you to spot Hawaiian Stilts, Hawaiian Coots, and Hawaiian Moorhens. Migratory shorebirds and ducks are also common during winter.
Pearl Harbor Historic Sites
The memorials and historic sites around Pearl Harbor may seem an unlikely place for birding. But Pearl Harbor’s position on the south shore of Oahu makes it an ideal stopover for migratory seabirds. Scan the open water for shearwaters, brown boobies, black noddies, and great frigatebirds soaring over the USS Arizona Memorial.
Kaena Point Natural Area Reserve
This remote sandy spit on Oahu’s northwest tip can only be accessed by hiking or four-wheel driving. But the isolation makes Kaena Point ideal for spotting seabirds. Wedge-tailed shearwaters nest in burrows and Laysan albatross rest here during winter. Other possible sightings include the endangered short-tailed albatross.
Kahuku Point
The steep cliffs on Oahu’s northeast corner provide perfect seabird habitat. Kahuku Point is an excellent place to add shearwaters, red- and white-tailed tropicbirds, brown boobies, and gray-backed terns to your list. Migration brings high numbers of soaring seabirds close to shore in spring and fall.
Punamano, Mokuleia and Kaena Beaches
These remote white sand beaches on Oahu’s north and west shores are where you may spot Hawaiian monk seals hauled out to rest. Stay back and watch them from a distance. While watching for seals, scan the shoreline for ruddy turnstones, sanderlings, and wandering tattlers.
Malaekahana State Recreation Area
This beach park on Oahu’s north shore attracts seabirds to its offshore islets. Watch for great frigatebirds, red-footed boobies, shearwaters, and Pacific golden plovers on the beach. Native waterbirds like stilts and moorhens forage in the ponds behind the sand.
Endemic Forest Birds of Kauai
Dotted with waterfalls, etched with ridges, and cloaked in lush rainforests, the landscape of Kauai feels downright prehistoric. It’s no wonder this emerald island is home to some of Hawaii’s rarest birds found nowhere else on earth. Getting to see these unique endemic species is a dream for any birder visiting Kauai. Here is a look at some of the island’s threatened and endangered forest bird residents.
‘Akeke’e
With bright orange legs, yellow underparts, and green upperparts, the ‘Akeke’e is easy to spot as it nimbly hops between ohia branches searching for insects and nectar. Unfortunately there may be as few as under 1,000 Akekee left.
‘Akikiki
This elusive grey bird with a long curved bill is a rare treat to spot. ‘Akikiki use their bills to probe for arthropods under bark and in holes. Their population has dwindled to potentially just a few hundred on Kauai.
‘Anianiau
Tiny and yellow with a thin curved bill perfect for nectaring, the delightful ‘Anianiau is remarkably easy to see on Kauai and some other islands. But there are concerns its population is decreasing.
‘I’iwi
With its brilliant red plumage, decurved salmon-pink bill, and preference for nectaring, the lovely ‘I’iwi vies for the title of Hawaii’s most beautiful forest bird. Though still fairly common on Kauai, its numbers are in decline.
Puaiohi
A rotund orange and brown thrush, the secretive Puaiohi has an extremely limited range restricted to parts of Kauai. This rare endemic skulks in the understory, making it one of Kauai’s most sought after species to see.
Kama’o
Once widespread across Hawaii, the large Kama’o or Hawaiian thrush can no longer be found in the wild. A few small populations persist in captivity, giving hope this endangered forest bird may someday be reintroduced.
Exploring Kauai’s protected native forests in spots like Koke’e State Park, Alakai Wilderness Preserve, and Waimea Canyon offer the best opportunities to catch sight of these incredible endemic birds. With persistence and luck, a hike in the island’s rugged interior could reward you with unforgettable views of some of Kauai’s rarest feathered gems.
Seabirds of the Hawaiian Islands
Floating isolated in the Pacific, the Hawaiian Islands are a seabird paradise. Hawaii’s cliffs, islets, and offshore waters are home to over 20 breeding seabird species. Here is a guide to some of the key seabirds you may encounter around the main Hawaiian Islands:
Black Noddy
With white caps and dark plumage, Black Noddies plunge headlong into the ocean to catch small fish. Look for them soaring over coastal waters or roosting on cliffs and buildings.
Brown Booby
A large seabird with strikingly bright blue bills and feet, Brown Boobies can be seen plunge diving from great heights or drying their wings while perched.
Red-footed Booby
Contrasting with the Brown Booby, Red-footed Boobies have much paler plumage overall with pinkish-red feet. Their red feet really stand out in flight.
Great Frigatebird
With a massive wingspan over seven feet wide, Great Frigatebirds are masters of aerial piracy, harassing other birds into dropping prey they can catch mid-air.
Red-tailed Tropicbird
Elegant and agile, with incredibly long tapering tail streamers, Red-tailed Tropicbirds slice through the air along Hawaii’s windward coasts and offshore islands.
Wedge-tailed Shearwater
This medium-sized shearwater nests in burrows on islands like Lanai and Molokai in huge numbers. They fill the night air with their haunting calls.
Christmas Shearwater
A summer breeder in Hawaii, Christmas Shearwaters completely cross the Pacific to spend winters off Mexico and South America.
The possibilities of seeing these amazing seabirds and many more bring birders from around the world to Hawaii. Witnessing their speed, agility, and beauty as they soar over the Pacific is breathtaking.
Hawaii’s Amazing Honeycreepers
Among the endemic Hawaiian birds closest to the brink of extinction are the remarkable Hawaiian honeycreepers. These small forest birds with specialized bills evolved to feed on nectar, insects, seeds, and fruit in native Hawaiian forests. Here is an introduction to a few of these endangered and fascinating birds.
‘Akiapola’au
This striking honeycreeper has a truly unique bill unlike any other bird. The bill is long and curved on top and straight and chisel-like on the bottom, adapted for prying bark and excavating holes to find insect larvae. Once widespread, today there are less than 3,000 ‘Akiapola’au left.
‘Akepa
With bright red feathers, white around the eyes, and a long pointed bill, ‘Akepa are a real treat to see hopping through ohia trees. They use their specialized crossed bills to pry open buds and probe for insects.
Maui Parrotbill
Found only in high elevation forest on Maui, this incredibly rare honeycreeper has a thick parrot-like bill used for prying off bark and accessing seed pods. Fewer than 500 Maui Parrotbill remain today.
‘I’iwi
The scarlet and curved bill of the ‘I’iwi make it a real beauty. Watch for these nectar-feeding birds visiting ohia trees in native Hawaiian forests.
Palila
This finch-billed honeycreeper relies on feeding on mamane tree seeds, restricting it to higher elevations on the Big Island where mamane grows. Only around 2,000 Palila still exist today.
Saving these incredibly unique and imperiled birds from extinction will require protecting more tracts of native Hawaiian forest. Supporting this effort brings hope of one day reversing the decline for the islands’ most vulnerable feathered treasures.
Hawaii’s Endemic Goose – The Nene
The official state bird of Hawaii, the Nene is the world’s rarest goose species. These unique geese evolved in the Hawaiian Islands from Canada Geese that arrived over 500,000 years ago. Over time in isolation, Nene lost their ability to fly. Here is more on this fascinating endemic goose.
Identification
Nene are smaller than Canada Geese with shorter necks and wings. They are buff-colored with black heads, yellow cheeks, and boldly striped necks. Their short wings make them easy to identify.
Habitat
Originally living everywhere from beaches to highland forest, Nene today largely stick to grasslands, golf courses, and open habitat near wetlands and ponds.
Diet
Nene feed mostly on grasses, leaves, seeds, fruits, and invertebrates. Parents even feed their goslings insects and mollusks for protein.
Breeding
Nesting from November to April, female Nene build nests of vegetation on the ground where they lay from 2 to 5 eggs. Pairs mate for life and share parenting duties.
Conservation Status
Nene came perilously close to extinction in the mid-1900s, with perhaps only 30 birds left. Conservation efforts including captive breeding brought their numbers above 2,500 today.
Seeing these unique island geese in national parks and protected areas remains a highlight for visitors to Hawaii. Continued conservation work to maintain habitat will help ensure future generations can still enjoy this iconic Hawaiian bird.
Visiting Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge
Located on the northernmost tip of Kauai, Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit destination for birding on the Garden Isle. Here is everything you need to know to plan your visit to this spectacular seabird sanctuary.
Directions
Kilauea Point NWR sits just north of the small town of Kilauea on Hawaii’s north shore. It’s about a 45 minute drive from Lihu’e or Hanalei.
Entry Fees
There is a $5 per person entry fee for Kilauea Point NWR, free for children under 16. Your receipt also provides discounted entry to the Kilauea Lighthouse.
Opening Hours
The refuge is open from 10am to 4pm daily. Be sure to arrive early since gates close at 4pm sharp.
Birds to See
Kilauea Point is a breeding ground for Red-tailed Tropicbirds, Red-footed Boobies, Wedge-tailed Shearwaters, Laysan Albatross and more. It’s also great for migrants like Bristle-thighed Curlews.
Facilities
A visitor center provides exhibits and information as well as spotting scopes and binoculars. Bathrooms and picnic tables are also available onsite.
Trails
A short trail loops along the point providing ocean views. Several viewing overlooks along the trail provide perfect seabird viewing spots.
With its spectacular coastal scenery and diversity of seabirds, a morning spent watching waves crash against the cliffs of Kilauea Point promises to be a highlight of any birding trip to Kauai.