This windswept native cloud forest supports one of the rarest ecosystems on earth. Managed by the Nature Conservancy, the 5230-acre preserve provides the last stronghold for 76 species of native plants and forest birds. You’re apt to spot the ʻiʻiwi and the ʻapapane (both honeycreepers with bright red feathers) and the yellow-green ʻamakihi flying among the preserve’s koa and ohia trees. The only way to visit the area is to join the park service’s weekly Waikamoi Preserve Hike.
This 3½-hour hiking tour currently departs Hosmer Grove campground on Thursdays at 8:45am. It’s best to make reservations, which you can do up to one week in advance. The hike is moderately strenuous. Bring rain gear.
