5 ways to connect with nature in Hawaii

Hawaii is a place of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and warm hospitality. But it is also a place of amazing nature, with some of the most diverse and spectacular landscapes and ecosystems in the world. Hawaii offers countless opportunities to connect with nature and experience its wonders and benefits. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or inspiration, here are five ways to connect with nature in Hawaii:

1. Hike in a forest reserve or natural area reserve

Hawaii has over 50 forest reserves and 21 natural area reserves that protect and preserve some of the most unique and valuable natural resources in the state. These reserves offer a variety of hiking trails that allow you to explore different habitats and ecosystems, such as rainforests, dry forests, alpine zones, wetlands, and coastal areas. You can encounter native plants and animals, some of which are found nowhere else in the world, such as the ʻōhiʻa lehua tree, the nēnē goose, and the happy face spider. You can also learn about the history and culture of Hawaii through interpretive signs and guided tours. Some of the most popular reserves for hiking include Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on Big Island, Kokeʻe State Park on Kauaʻi, Makiki Valley State Recreation Area on Oʻahu, and Haleakalā National Park on Maui¹.

2. Snorkel or dive in a marine life conservation district or wildlife sanctuary

Hawaii has over 30 marine life conservation districts and wildlife sanctuaries that protect and conserve some of the most diverse and abundant marine life in the world. These districts and sanctuaries offer a variety of snorkeling and diving spots that allow you to explore different underwater habitats and ecosystems, such as coral reefs, seagrass beds, rocky shores, and open ocean. You can encounter colorful fish and coral, graceful sea turtles and rays, playful dolphins and seals, and majestic whales and sharks. You can also learn about the ecology and management of these marine areas through interpretive signs and guided tours. Some of the most popular districts and sanctuaries for snorkeling and diving include Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve on Oʻahu, Molokini Shoal Marine Life Conservation District on Maui, Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park on Big Island, and Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge on Kauaʻi².

3. Join a volunteer activity that benefits the local community or environment

Hawaii has many volunteer opportunities that allow you to connect with nature while giving back to the local community or environment. You can join activities that involve planting native trees or plants, removing invasive species or trash, restoring habitats or cultural sites, monitoring water quality or wildlife populations, or educating visitors or students. You can also meet like-minded people who share your passion for nature and learn from their experiences and perspectives. Some of the organizations that offer volunteer activities include The Nature Conservancy of Hawaiʻi³, Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund⁴, Mālama Hawaiʻi, and Kupu Hawaiʻi.

4. Stay at an eco-resort or eco-lodge that respects the environment and the local community

Hawaii has many eco-resorts and eco-lodges that respect and protect the environment and the local community by using renewable energy sources, composting waste, providing organic and locally sourced meals, and participating in conservation programs. You can stay at these accommodations that offer authentic and sustainable experiences that showcase Hawaii’s natural beauty and cultural diversity. You can also enjoy amenities and activities that enhance your comfort and well-being, such as spa treatments, yoga classes, cooking classes, waterfall rappelling, or native plant restoration. Some of the eco-resorts and eco-lodges that you can choose from include ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach on O’ahu, Inn at Kulaniapia Falls in Hilo on Big Island, Lumeria Maui Retreat Center on Maui, and Kaua’i Eco Lodge on Kaua’i.

5. Engage in ethical wildlife encounters that respect the animals’ natural behaviors and habitats

Hawaii is a place of amazing wildlife, with some of the most diverse and endangered species and habitats in the world. You can engage in ethical wildlife encounters that respect the animals’ natural behaviors and habitats, minimize disturbance and stress, and follow the laws and guidelines that protect them. You can observe and appreciate their beauty, intelligence, and personality without interfering with their normal activities. You can also witness some amazing behaviors and interactions that you might miss otherwise. For example, you can watch spinner dolphins perform flips, slaps, and spins in O’ahu’s Ōneo Bay. Or you can join a night-time manta ray snorkel or dive on Big Island and see these gentle giants glide and feed on plankton.

These are five ways to connect with nature in Hawaii. By following these ways, you not only enjoy Hawaii’s natural beauty and diversity, but also deepen your connection with yourself and nature.