Hōkūala's Wildlife Sanctuary Tour

Explore our birdwatchers’ paradise

450-acres of lush Kaua‘i ‘aina at Hōkūala is home to abundant wildlife. Our onsite Naturalist and Bird Specialist, Alan Silva, offers his 30 years of experience with the Hawai‘i Forestry & Wildlife Division to guests on a bird-watching and property tour through Hōkūala.

This tour is fun for the whole family, one that will spark conversation around the dinner table for years to come. From feeding the variety of chickens that occupy the property to swinging from the tree vine swing along a pathway lined with Rainbow Eucalyptus trees, this is a fully immersive experience that will stick with you.

What to Expect

It’s not uncommon to see all five of the endangered species birds that live at Hōkūala as well as 15-20 other varieties during the tour. Because the grounds stretch from makai to mauka, there is often an opportunity to see Hawaiian monk seals, green sea turtles, and the pueo–Hawaiian short-eared owl–as well.

The tour offers a unique view dating back to the days of Chris Hemmeter, the original developer of the property. Alan expertly guides guests through the development of the property including the original lagoon islands usage, the original trails, and their intended use. The property has a rich and unique history that will keep you on the edge of your seat, all while viewing the endangered and common birds, ponds, vegetation and unique tropical surroundings.

Meet the Birds

Hōkūala is home to five endangered water bird species:

Nēnē, Hawaiian Goose (Hawaiʻi’s state bird!) — SPOT THEM by their black face and crown and cream-colored cheeks, think Canadian Goose’s cousin. Shown here!
‘Alaeke’oke’o, Hawaiian Coot — SPOT THEM by their white bill and bulbous frontal shield.
Alae’ula, Common Moorhen — SPOT THEM by their prominent red shield over their red and yellow bill. Their feet are actually lobed rather than webbed!
Koloa, Hawaiian Duck — SPOT THEM by their green to blue secondary wing feathers with a white border.
A’eo, Hawaiian Stilt — SPOT THEM by their long, thin black bill and long, delicate pink legs.

Nēnē Geese specifically are considered a symbolic joining force between the mountains and the coast because of their seasonal movements. Hōkūala is the perfect environment for these endangered birds, with both mountains and coastline, water and food sources, ample nesting areas, and minimal predatory threats. In addition to the endangered birds on property, the tour includes numerous seabirds, shore birds & non-native birds that make Hōkūala home throughout the year. The tour offers a unique close-up view of our avian neighbors in their natural habitat.

Schedule Your Tour

In order to schedule your Wildlife Sanctuary & Bird Watching tour while at Timbers Kaua‘i, reach out to our concierge team at 808.320.7400 or [email protected].