Fern Forest

Fern Forest is located on the Big Island of Hawaii, situated in the lush hillsides. This forest is home to a variety of ferns, flowers, and other native plants. The forest has a serene and magical atmosphere with towering ferns reaching up to 25 feet, a cool and moist climate, and the sound of birdsong and rustling leaves. The forest floor is covered with various ferns, mosses, and other plants.

One of the main attractions of Fern Forest is the 100-foot fern-covered cave, known as the “Cave of the Ferns.” The cave is home to ferns that have thrived in the dark and damp environment, creating intricate patterns and textures on the walls and ceiling. Fern Forest is also home to various birds, including the endangered Hawaii Creeper and the Hawaii Akepa. Visitors may have the opportunity to spot these birds as they move through the trees.

Fern Forest has cultural significance to native Hawaiians, who have used its plants for medicinal and spiritual purposes for centuries. Visitors can learn about the cultural and historical significance of the forest on guided tours

Flights To Fern Forest

Tips For Booking Cheap Flights To Fern Forest

  • Book in advance: Airfare prices tend to rise as the departure date approaches, so book your flight as far in advance as possible to get the best deal.
  • Be flexible with your travel dates: Airfare prices can vary greatly depending on the day of the week, time of day, and time of year. Consider traveling during the shoulder season or off-season when demand is lower and prices are generally cheaper.
  • Compare prices from multiple airlines: Use flight comparison websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, Earlytrips, Ticketsaway, Mycityflights and Google Flights to compare prices from multiple airlines. This can help you find the best deal and ensure that you’re getting the most value for your money.
  • Consider alternative airports: There are two airports on the Big Island of Hawaii: Kona International Airport (KOA) and Hilo International Airport (ITO). Flights to KOA are generally cheaper than flights to ITO, so consider flying into KOA and driving to Fern Forest.
  • Look for flight deals and promotions: Airlines often offer flight deals and promotions, such as last-minute deals, flash sales, and loyalty program discounts. Sign up for email alerts from your preferred airlines and follow them on social media to stay up-to-date on the latest deals.
  • Consider a budget airline: Budget airlines like Southwest Airlines and Frontier Airlines often offer cheaper fares than traditional airlines. However, be aware of additional fees for things like checked bags, carry-on bags, and seat selection.
  • Book a flight and hotel package: Some travel websites and airlines offer flight and hotel packages that can be cheaper than booking flights and accommodations separately. Consider booking a package to save money and simplify the booking process.

What To Do

  1. Hiking: Fern Forest has several hiking trails that range from easy to moderate in difficulty. The trails take you through the forest, past waterfalls, and over suspension bridges. The hikes offer stunning views of the forest and an opportunity to see the unique flora and fauna of the area.
  2. Birdwatching: Fern Forest is home to several species of endemic birds, including the Hawaii Creeper, the Hawaii Akepa, and the Omao. Birdwatchers can bring their binoculars and spend the day observing these rare and beautiful birds.
  3. Photography: Fern Forest is a photographer’s paradise, with its lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and unique plant life. Visitors can bring their cameras and capture the beauty of the forest.
  4. Cultural Tours: Fern Forest offers cultural tours led by native Hawaiians who share their knowledge and stories about the forest’s history, culture, and spiritual significance. Visitors can learn about the medicinal and cultural uses of the forest’s plants and experience the forest through the eyes of the people who have lived there for generations.
  5. Picnicking: Fern Forest has several picnic areas where visitors can enjoy a packed lunch or a snack while taking in the beauty of the forest.
  6. Stargazing: Fern Forest is located in a rural area, making it an ideal spot for stargazing. Visitors can bring a blanket and spend the evening gazing at the stars and identifying constellations.
  7. Swimming: Fern Forest has several swimming holes and waterfalls where visitors can take a refreshing dip. Visitors should be aware of the strong currents and slippery rocks and exercise caution when swimming.

Places To Visit

Beaches
  1. Punalu’u Black Sand Beach: This beach is located on the Big Island and is known for its unique black sand, which is made up of volcanic rock. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and see the endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles that frequent the beach.
  2. Hapuna Beach: This beach is located on the west coast of the Big Island and is known for its white sand and clear blue water. Visitors can swim, snorkel, and participate in water sports.
  3. Mauna Kea Beach: This beach is located on the west coast of the Big Island and is known for its soft white sand and clear blue water. Visitors can swim, snorkel, and see a variety of marine life.
Hiking Trails
  1. Canyon Trail: This 2-mile loop trail takes you through a lush rainforest, past several waterfalls, and over suspension bridges. The trail is moderately difficult and offers stunning views of the forest.
  2. Kilauea Iki Trail: This 4-mile round-trip trail takes you to the floor of the Kilauea Iki crater, which is still steaming and hissing from the volcanic activity below. The trail is moderately difficult and offers a unique opportunity to experience the power of the volcano.
  3. Pu’u Hinai Trail: This 1-mile loop trail takes you to the top of a hill that offers panoramic views of the forest and the coastline. The trail is easy and suitable for all ages and abilities.
Waterfalls
  1. Akaka Falls: This 442-foot waterfall is located in Akaka Falls State Park, which is a short drive from Fern Forest. The waterfall is surrounded by a lush rainforest and is accessible via a short hike.
  2. Kahuna Falls: This 100-foot waterfall is located in the same area as Akaka Falls and is accessible via the same hike. The waterfall is less crowded than Akaka Falls and offers a more intimate experience.
  3. Rainbow Falls: This 80-foot waterfall is located in Hilo and is accessible via a short hike. The waterfall is known for the rainbow that forms in the mist created by the falling water.
Nature and Wildlife
  1. Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden: This botanical garden is located near Fern Forest and is home to over 2,000 species of tropical plants. Visitors can see rare and endangered plants, as well as a variety of birds and other wildlife.
  2. Hawaii Wildlife Center: This wildlife center is located on the Big Island and is dedicated to the conservation of Hawaii’s native wildlife. Visitors can see injured and rehabilitated animals, as well as learn about conservation efforts.
  3. Mauna Kea Summit: This 13,796-foot mountain is located on the Big Island and is home to a variety of unique ecosystems, including a subalpine desert and a polar tundra. Visitors can take a guided tour to the summit to see the observatories and learn about the astronomy and cultural significance of the mountain.
Cultural Sites
  1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: This national park is located near Fern Forest and offers a unique opportunity to learn about the cultural and geological history of the area. Visitors can see the active volcano, hike through lava tubes, and learn about the native Hawaiian culture.
  2. Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park: This historical park is located on the west coast of the Big Island and offers a glimpse into the ancient Hawaiian culture. Visitors can see traditional Hawaiian structures, learn about the kapu system, and participate in cultural activities.
  3. Petroglyphs: Fern Forest is home to several petroglyphs, which are ancient rock carvings that depict various images, such as humans, animals, and canoes. Visitors can see these petroglyphs on a guided tour or on their own.
Food and Drink
  1. Volcano Winery: This winery is located near Fern Forest and is the southernmost winery in the United States. Visitors can taste a variety of wines, including tropical fruit wines, and learn about the winemaking process.
  2. Kona Coffee Living History Farm: This farm is located on the west coast of the Big Island and offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Kona coffee. Visitors can see how coffee is grown, harvested, and processed, as well as taste freshly brewed coffee.
  3. Big Island Brewhaus: This brewery is located on the Big Island and offers a variety of craft beers, as well as a menu of pub food. Visitors can take a tour of the brewery and learn about the brewing process.

Best Vacation Spots

  1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: This national park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Fern Forest. The park offers a unique opportunity to see an active volcano, hike through lava tubes, and learn about the geology and cultural history of the area.
  2. Akaka Falls State Park: This state park is home to the stunning Akaka Falls, a 442-foot waterfall that is surrounded by a lush rainforest. Visitors can hike through the forest and see a variety of plants and wildlife.
  3. Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden: This botanical garden is located near Fern Forest and is home to over 2,000 species of tropical plants. Visitors can see rare and endangered plants, as well as a variety of birds and other wildlife.
  4. Punalu’u Black Sand Beach: This unique beach is located on the Big Island and is known for its black sand, which is made up of volcanic rock. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and see the endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles that frequent the beach.
  5. Hawaii Wildlife Center: This wildlife center is dedicated to the conservation of Hawaii’s native wildlife. Visitors can see injured and rehabilitated animals, as well as learn about conservation efforts.
  6. Hawaii Volcano Observatory: This observatory is located in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and offers a unique opportunity to learn about the geology and volcanology of the area. Visitors can see exhibits, watch videos, and participate in ranger-led programs.
  7. Mauna Kea Summit: This 13,796-foot mountain is located on the Big Island and is home to a variety of unique ecosystems, including a subalpine desert and a polar tundra. Visitors can take a guided tour to the summit to see the observatories and learn about the astronomy and cultural significance of the mountain.

Where To Stay

  1. Volcano House: This historic hotel is located inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and offers stunning views of the Kilauea volcano. The hotel offers a variety of rooms and suites, as well as a restaurant, lounge, and gift shop.
  2. Volcano Village Lodge: This lodge is located in the nearby town of Volcano and offers cozy cabins and cottages surrounded by lush greenery. The lodge offers a variety of amenities, including a hot tub, fire pit, and outdoor grills.
  3. Kilauea Lodge: This lodge is located in the nearby town of Volcano and offers charming rooms and cottages, as well as a restaurant and bar. The lodge is known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.
  4. Hilo Bay Hotel: This hotel is located in the nearby town of Hilo and offers ocean views and a variety of rooms and suites. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a restaurant, fitness center, and outdoor pool.
  5. Airbnb and VRBO rentals: There are several vacation rentals available in the surrounding areas, including cabins, cottages, and homes. These rentals offer a unique and personalized experience and can be a great option for families or groups.

Best Time To Visit

  • Weather: The weather in Fern Forest, Hawaii, is generally mild and pleasant year-round, with temperatures ranging from 60-85°F (15-29°C) throughout the year. However, the area is a rainforest, so it can be rainy at any time of year. The wettest months are typically from November to March, while the driest months are from April to October.
  • Crowds: The Big Island of Hawaii is a popular destination year-round, but the peak tourist season is from December to April. If you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder season, which is from May to October.
  • Activities: Some activities in Fern Forest, Hawaii, are seasonal. For example, if you want to see the humpback whales, which migrate to the area from December to May, you’ll want to plan your visit during those months. If you want to see the volcanoes, keep in mind that activity can be unpredictable and can affect access to certain areas.
  • Accommodations: Accommodations in Fern Forest, Hawaii, can be in high demand during peak travel seasons, so it’s a good idea to book your accommodations well in advance.
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