About
High on the slopes of Hualālai is an ecosystem rare to find in the United States: a cloud forest. This unique phenomenon is typically in moist tropical forests and is characterized by persistent low-level clouds.
Welcome to Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary.
This attraction, only a short drive from Kailua-Kona, is home to various plant and animal species not found anywhere else in the world. Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary was established to protect and preserve this unique habitat and the species that call it home.
The sanctuary's location on the slopes of Hualālai allows it to capture the moisture-laden winds from the Pacific, creating the ideal conditions for a cloud forest.
Norman Bezona founded The Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary. Norman was a world traveler, horticulture enthusiast, and professor emeritus at the University of Hawaiʻi, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources.
He discovered a 20-acre piece of deforested cattle land in 1982. Ultimately, this parcel would become the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary. Still, it was damaged from mistreatment and livestock grazing at the time.
Over time, the entire Bezona family worked to restore trees in the cloud forest and purchase an additional 10 acres.
Today, the family continues to steward this valuable ecosystem, expanding the sanctuary to over 70 acres.
Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary also offers meditation and other tours at the facility, making it a top choice amongst vacationers.
Fun Facts & Cool Features
One amazing feature is that The Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary stands in stark contrast to lava fields nearby. One will marvel at the oasis of lush greenery and abundant life beside the barren wasteland of the lava flow.
A fun fact is that Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary was used as a location in the movie Avatar!
A fascinating feature of the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary is its incredible biodiversity. The forest is home to ancient Koa and 'Ōhi'a trees, 100 varieties of bamboo, and gigantic tree ferns, some soaring to 30 feet!
This rich plant life provides habitats for numerous species of birds and insects, contributing to the vibrant ecosystem of the forest.
Visitors to the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary can take guided tours, where they can learn about the unique flora and fauna of the cloud forest.
The guided tours allow visitors to feel the misty air, smell the fresh greenery, and hear the calls of the forest's avian inhabitants. They also offer private photo shoots, Mindfulness Experiences, workshops, and more.
Discover stunning biodiversity at Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary and find your slice of paradise on your Hawaii vacation.
Getting There
Here are directions from Kailua-Kona to the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary:
- Head northeast on Kuakini Hwy toward Lako St.
- Turn left onto Palani Rd.
- Continue onto Hawaii Belt Rd/Queen Kaahumanu Hwy.
- Turn right onto Kaiminani Dr.
- Continue onto Kaloko Dr.
- Turn right onto Hao St, and you'll find the Kona Cloud Forest.
- Address: 73-1865 Hao St, Kailua Kona, HI 96740.
Cost
Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary offers too many guided tours, retreats, and workshops to list pricing. Check online for pricing and package options.
Local Tips
- The cloud forest can be damp and chilly compared to the coast. Wear layers and bring a rain jacket.
- Do you have a special event to celebrate? Book a private photo shoot to capture the moment!
- The terrain can be rough, so wearing hiking boots or other sturdy shoes is best.
- The cloud forest is home to many unique plant and animal species. You'll want to snap pictures!
- The sanctuary is home to many rare and endangered species. Please stay on marked trails and avoid disturbing the wildlife.