Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary
Explore the only cloud forest in the US, a sanctuary of unique flora, fauna, and inspiring reforestation efforts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps & clearer views
Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary
Best Time
Cooler temps & clearer views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the only cloud forest in the US, a sanctuary of unique flora, fauna, and inspiring reforestation efforts. 
"This is an incredible, and unique experience. We did the 1.5 hr guided tour with Anna and it was sensory bliss. "
🎯 Book Guided Tour in Advance
Highly recommended for the best experience and insights! :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
Trails can be uneven; good footwear is essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Guided Cloud Forest Tour
Throughout the sanctuary
Immerse yourself in a unique ecosystem with knowledgeable guides sharing insights on flora, fauna, and reforestation.
Rudraksha Tree
Sanctuary grounds
Discover the spiritual significance of this ancient tree, a quiet guardian of wisdom within the lush forest.
Rainbow Eucalyptus & Blue Marble Trees
Sanctuary grounds
Marvel at the vibrant colors of Rainbow Eucalyptus and the unique Blue Marble tree, standout species in this unique forest.
Reforestation Efforts
Throughout the sanctuary
Witness firsthand the inspiring 40-year family effort to restore this vital cloud forest ecosystem.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Guided Tour
Embrace the Cloud Forest Climate
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Guided Tour in Advance
Highly recommended for the best experience and insights! :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
Trails can be uneven; good footwear is essential for exploring.
🧥 Dress in Layers
It's cooler and mistier at 3,000 ft elevation than on the coast.
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture the otherworldly beauty and unique flora of this cloud forest.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Guided Tour in Advance
Highly recommended for the best experience and insights! :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
Trails can be uneven; good footwear is essential for exploring.
🧥 Dress in Layers
It's cooler and mistier at 3,000 ft elevation than on the coast.
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture the otherworldly beauty and unique flora of this cloud forest.
☕ Coffee Tour Nearby
Combine your visit with a coffee farm tour across the street! :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary for its unique ecosystem, knowledgeable and passionate guides like Anna and Daniel, and the inspiring reforestation efforts. The magical atmosphere and the chance to explore the only cloud forest in the US are frequently highlighted as exceptional aspects of the visit. Some found the sound bath distracting, but overall, the experience is highly recommended for its educational and immersive qualities.
"We had a wonderful 1.5 hour tour with Anna, which really exceeded my expectations! I highly enjoyed seeing a different part of the Big Island and learning about the cloud forest flora and fauna. Anna was a super friendly and knowledgeable guide. This type of tour usually wouldn't be my thing, I'd generally rather just walk on my own, but that wasn't the case here. I'm really happy I went, learned a lot, and had a fun time. I definitely recommend!"
Duane Edwards
"This is an incredible, and unique experience. We did the 1.5 hr guided tour with Anna and it was sensory bliss. Everyone is very knowledgeable and passionate about the reforestation project. The effort to revitalize the cloud forest and support the whole island ecosystem is a valiant cause. Supporting the sanctuary supports the whole island. We cannot recommend this place enough!"
Michael Salvi
"We had an enjoyable day at Kona Cloud Forest.
We started with the Sound Bath. It was in a beautiful setting--surrounded by nature. I thought would be a bonus, but my busy mind found it distracting. It was still a great experience.
We loved the forest tour!! Our guide, Anna was so impressive. She was knowledgeable, engaging and passionate--perfect for this job.
The Rainbow Eucalyptus, and the Blue Marble tree were my favorites. And as if on cue, the clouds dropped into the gathering area as Anna told the story of grandmaʻs house plant surrounding her grandsonʻs favorite tree with her roots. It was magical. Thank you. We will return!"
Becky Alvarado
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The sanctuary is located about 15 minutes uphill from Kailua-Kona. Driving mauka (uphill) from Kona will lead you to cooler temperatures and lush greenery.
Yes, parking is available for visitors. It's recommended to arrive a bit early, especially if you have a scheduled tour, to ensure you find a spot easily.
Public transportation options to reach the sanctuary are limited. Renting a car or using a ride-sharing service from Kona is the most practical way to get there.
The sanctuary sits at an elevation of approximately 3,000 feet, which contributes to its cooler climate and unique cloud forest environment.
Absolutely! The drive uphill from Kona offers increasingly stunning views as the landscape transforms into a lush, green paradise.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While specific pricing can vary, guided tours are the primary way to experience the sanctuary. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current admission fees and tour costs.
It is highly recommended to book your guided tour in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and ensure a smooth visit.
Operating hours can vary, and it's advisable to check the sanctuary's official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on tour times and opening hours.
Yes, the sanctuary offers guided tours, with a popular 1.5-hour option that provides in-depth knowledge about the cloud forest. They also sometimes offer sound baths and yoga sessions. +1
While self-exploration might be possible in some areas, the guided tours are highly recommended by visitors for the educational and immersive experience they provide.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A cloud forest is a rare ecosystem found at high elevations where cloud cover is frequent, creating a moist, misty environment. The Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary is the only cloud forest in the United States.
You can expect to see towering 'ōhi'a trees, giant tree ferns, native birds, and unique flora like the Rudraksha tree and Rainbow Eucalyptus. +1
Yes, it's considered a family-friendly activity. Children can learn about nature, reforestation, and unique plant species in an engaging environment.
Some visitors have noted that the otherworldly scenery of the sanctuary resembles the landscapes featured in the movie 'Avatar.'
Yes, the sanctuary occasionally hosts healing sound baths and yoga sessions, offering a unique way to connect with the serene environment. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The entire sanctuary offers stunning photographic opportunities, from the towering trees and lush ferns to the misty atmosphere. Look for the vibrant Rainbow Eucalyptus and the unique Rudraksha tree.
Yes, photography is generally allowed. However, always be mindful of your surroundings and respect any guidelines provided by your guide.
Expect diffused, often soft lighting due to the cloud cover and dense canopy. This can create a magical, ethereal atmosphere, perfect for moody shots.
Drone usage policies can be strict in natural reserves. It's best to check with the sanctuary directly before flying a drone to ensure compliance with regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the trees and the forest. A camera with good low-light performance will be beneficial due to the often-shaded environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The guided tours are often interactive and informative, keeping younger visitors captivated. 🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Eco-Tourists
+1 You'll be inspired by the 40-year reforestation effort and the dedication of the family behind it. +1 The guided tours provide in-depth knowledge about the native flora and fauna, making it an educational and rewarding experience. 🧘♀️ Wellness Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Reforestation Story
+2 This inspiring reforestation project has revitalized the land, creating a thriving cloud forest ecosystem that supports the entire island's ecosystem. Visitors often express awe at the scale of this undertaking and the passion of the people involved.
Experiencing the Cloud Forest Climate
+1 This elevated location is crucial for the development of the cloud forest ecosystem, characterized by high humidity and frequent fog.Visitors are advised to prepare for these conditions by wearing layers of clothing and opting for comfortable, sturdy walking shoes. The trails can be uneven and damp, so appropriate footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable exploration.
The cooler temperatures and misty ambiance contribute to the sanctuary's otherworldly feel, often compared to fantastical landscapes. Beyond the Forest: Sound Baths and More
Some guests have found the sound baths to be a deeply restorative experience, though a few noted that their busy minds found it a bit distracting initially.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit