Birding
Kauai provides more than 80 species of birds—not counting the “wild” chickens seen at every roadside attraction. Coastal and lowland areas, including the wildlife refuges at Kilauea Point and along the Hanalei River, are home to introduced species and endangered native waterfowl and migratory shorebirds; the cooler uplands of Kokee State Park shelter native woodland species, who were able to escape mosquito-borne diseases that killed off lowland natives. David Kuhn of Terran Tours (808/335-0398) leads custom bird-watching excursions that spot some of Hawaii’s rarest birds, using a four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicle to access remote areas. Rate start at $300 for a half-day, with longer periods available; e-mail info@soundshawaiian.com for details.
Many pairs of endangered nene, the endemic state bird, call Prince-ville’s Makai Golf Club home, as do mating and nesting Laysan albatross in winter; for $60 a cart, you can ogle them, their carefully marked nests, and spectacular scenery on a self-guided, six-stop sunset golf cart tour ★★★ (www.makaigolf.com; 808/826-1863).
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
