Slow down with a guided Shinrin-Yoku walk in Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary
2 - 3 hours
Guided exercises, tea, journaling
Reconnect with nature on a guided Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku) journey through Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary. You’ll move slowly with sensory exercises, quiet reflection, and time to reset in a tropical montane cloud forest.
You must join with a guide; self-guided visits are not allowed. Terrain includes lava rock, loose rubble, and exposed tree roots; no strollers, walkers, or wheelchairs.
Full refund with up to 48 hours notice of cancellation. No refunds within 48 hours of your reservation. No refunds due to weather unless operations are canceled by the operator. Full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Expect natural terrain with lava rock, loose rubble, and large tree roots across the trail. You’ll walk about 1 mile and ascend around 200 feet; it’s not described as strenuous, but it may challenge guests with limited mobility.
No. Strollers, walkers, and wheelchairs are not allowed. You need to feel confident walking on volcanic rock and tree-root terrain and be comfortable walking and standing for up to 2 hours.
Wear closed-toe shoes. Bring your own water, a rain jacket, and a hat. You can also bring a journal and pen (there’s a journaling segment), plus layers since it can be 10–15 degrees cooler than Kailua-Kona.
Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary Kailua-Kona, HI US 96740
This passionate conservation project offers something truly special: the chance to walk through Hawaii's only accessible cloud forest while directly supporting its restoration. Visitors consistently describe the experience as "magical" and "heartwarming," especially after learning how the sanctuary has transformed the landscape in just over 40 years. The guides—Anna, Daniel, Brie, and Drew (whose grandfather started the project)—earn glowing praise for their extensive knowledge of native plants, Hawaiian cultural traditions, and the forest's history. The tours accommodate various fitness levels, with one reviewer noting their 90-year-old husband handled the terrain beautifully. Beyond the standard forest walks, many visitors rave about the sound bath experiences with Brooke, which incorporate crystal singing bowls and vocal alchemy in a serene natural setting. The diverse ecosystem provides a complete contrast to the beach resort areas, making it an ideal excursion for those wanting to experience a different side of the Big Island without driving to the east side. Repeat visitors are common, with people returning to see how the forest continues to evolve.
What a wonderful project! One man started restoring what had been a cattle grazing property back to cloud forest. They have experimented with native and imported fast growing trees to elevate the canopy. There are 4 different zones (types of plants) and plenty of birds and other wildlife. If you are there at the right time, you can volunteer for their monthly clean up. This is a pic of a rainbow eucalyptus and the founder, standing with us
Kathy Beaschler
April 2, 2026
What a wonderful project! One man started restoring what had been a cattle grazing property back to cloud forest. They have experimented with native and imported fast growing trees to elevate the canopy. There are 4 different zones (types of plants) and plenty of birds and other wildlife. If you are there at the right time, you can volunteer for their monthly clean up. This is a pic of a rainbow eucalyptus and the founder, standing with us
Kathy Beaschler
April 2, 2026