
Eco-Tourism
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Discover Hawaii's Roots
Kauai
Take a farm tour in the beautiful, green Hanalei taro fields to see how kalo (taro), an important Hawaiian root starch, is cultivated. The South Shore of Kauai is also home to Kauai Coffee, a working coffee plantation. Some of Hawaii’s largest botanical gardens can also be found on Kauai; the National Tropical Botanical Garden has three sites here: Allerton Garden and McBryde Garden just west of Koloa, and Limahuli Garden on the North Shore. You can also opt for a whale-watching tour (December–May), or spot some of the 1,200 endangered Hawaiian monk seals swimming in Kauai’s waters on Poipu Beach.
Oahu
Embark on a farm tour to learn about the farm-to-table processes that are such a vital part of Hawaii Regional Cuisine, and see Native Hawaiian plants and flowers at Honolulu Botanical Gardens’ five diverse sites on Oahu. From December through May, go whale watching off Oahu’s southern coast to greet humpback whales on their annual visit to Hawaii’s warm waters.
Lanai
Besides the island’s resort areas, much of Lanai looks the way it did hundreds of years ago. Cook pines and what is left of pineapple fields remain in Central Lanai, but there are other off-the-beaten-path spots that can transport you back in time. Visit the Kanepuu Preserve for a self-guided tour featuring 48 species of endemic Hawaiian plants. Protected by the Nature Conservancy, learn how this fragile ecosystem continues to survive in Lanai today.
Maui
Take a drive to Upcountry Maui and stroll among fields of sweet lavender and vibrant protea in Kula. Or walk back in time through gardens of indigenous plants at the Kula Botanical Garden. Continue to the 30,000-foot summit of Haleakala and you just might meet our state bird, the endangered nene (Hawaiian goose), or stumble across a Haleakala silversword, a rare and beautiful succulent that shimmers in the early light.
Molokai
Take a farm tour to see how locals work the land. Visit Purdy’s Natural Macadamia Nut Farm for a fascinating tour. Hawaii is the world’s leading producer of macadamia nuts. Or, to really see environmental preservation in action at the Nature Conservancy’s two sites on Molokai: the Moomomi Preserve on the northwest coast and the Kamakou Preserve in the mountainous rainforests to the east.
Island of Hawaii
There are numerous ways to learn about the local ecosystem and experience the unique beauty of the island of Hawaii. At the Hawaii Wildlife Center's Hoopulauma Science and Discovery Center you can learn about efforts to protect and rehabilitate native bird species and other wildlife. At the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority campus there are a variety of tours focused on renewable energy, sustainability and emerging technology offered by the Friends of NELHA group. Or, help restore native flora on a tree planting tour with Hawaiian Legacy Tours, where you can help plant a Koa tree as part of the excursion.
"Tip #1: Use Reef Safe sunscreen. Research has found that even a small amount of sunscreen generally has chemicals in it which can bleach the corals and kill the reef."
"Tip #2: Bring a reusable, preferably stainless steel bottle of water."
"Tip #3: Clean your shoes before and after a farm tour to prevent spreading of seeds and disease."
More Eco-Tourism

Farms and Agriculture
Discover the agricultural cornucopia growing in Hawaii's rich, volcanic soil.
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Farmers Markets
You can’t travel far in Hawaii without passing a farmers market or fruit stand. Beyond a rainbow of fresh fruits, flowers and vegetables, you’ll often find Hawaii-grown coffee, local jams, macadamia nuts and even pop-up stands from trendy restaurants.
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Help Save The Ohia Trees
Eco-Tourism Experiences in Hawaii
Snorkel with dolphins, sea turtles, and a colorful array of tropical fish. explore the sea caves and lava arches of a hidden volcanic coastline or have a close encounter with humpback whales. Climb aboard a Blue Water Raft and let the adventure unfold.
We're honored to be chosen as TripAdvisors Travelers' Choice Award Winners for small group ocean eco-rafting tours in Maui since 1982! Share encounters with whales, dolphins and turtles and snorkel the island of Lanai! Every ticket supports freeing of entangled whales and our research partners!
“Hawaii's Largest Snorkel & Dive Center with three retail store locations (Kahana, Kihei and Wailea) offering dive and snorkel gear, bathing suits and clothing, equipment rental, dive instruction, beach dives and Island Activities.
MauiWine, open since 1974, is located in Kula, Maui. Known for estate-grown wines, traditional method sparkling wines, and pineapple wines. Book a reservation in the King's Cottage for wine flights, wines by the glass, and wine cocktails. Discover an elevated way to see and taste Maui.
Our all-new historical botanical tours showcase the horticultural artistry of Haiku Mill, infused with its 150-year-old history, for an immersive experience that is both educational and unforgettable.
Since 1994; professionally and patiently teaching surfing, safety and ocean awareness to over 40,000. Learn in 2 hours or free! Groups, private or camps available.
Private Jeep Tours: Explore hidden waterfall areas on the amazing Road to Hana. The day is customized to your hiking ability. Includes a hike in a beautiful bamboo forest, refreshing swimming holes, lunch and a tour DVD! I take all kinds, from family tour groups to honeymooners!
Offering daily snorkel tours to Molokini Crater and Coral Gardens. The Four Winds II has been deemed Maui's favorite family fun boat and offers the BEST snorkeling tours on Maui! Great for kids of all ages. Enjoy our glass-bottom viewing room & water slide!
Waves Hawaii is Kihei and Wailea's most private and exclusive surf school. Come surf with our world famous surf instructors, and Billabong surfer girl Val Frey. We offer surf lessons, 3 day surf camps, surf coaching, SUP, and more!
We are a non-profit organization that is dedicated to the revitalization of one of Maui's ancient Hawaiian fishponds.

Learn More About How to Take Care of the Land During Your Visit
Find Eco-Friendly Tour Operators and More

The Hawaiian Ecotourism Association, (founded in 1995), certifies sustainable tour companies throughout the state of Hawaii to protect the environment and host culture while giving visitors an eco-friendly option for touring.
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