Edge of the Island: Exploring the Hāmākua Coast's Waterfalls, Cliffs and Hidden Valleys
A coastal drama of waterfalls, sea cliffs and rainforest—best seen by air and explored by road
You arrive before sunrise, the road unrolling like a dark ribbon along the island’s windward flank. Mist clings to the cliffs, and the first light finds the surf below—silver at first, then bruised teal as the sun climbs. On the Hāmākua Coast, the landscape works on a scale that makes ordinary adjectives feel small: 1,200-foot cliffs tumble into the Pacific; braided waterfalls thread the rainforest; and valleys so deep they swallow sound open into mist-filled bowls. This is a place that asks you to slow down, look up and listen.
Trail Wisdom
Start early
Mornings bring calmer winds for helicopter flights and softer light for waterfall photography.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
You’ll likely swim or stand under falls; choose reef-safe formulas to protect marine ecosystems.
Wear grippy footwear
Trails to pools can be muddy and rooted—sturdy, treaded shoes reduce slips.
Check tour weight and weather policies
Helicopter and private tour operators have limits and weather-dependent schedules—confirm before you go.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Onomea Bay Trail and botanical gardens—quiet coastal walks with tide pools and native plants
- •Umauma Falls (private gardens)—multi-tiered falls with fewer crowds than the main state parks
Wildlife
Humpback whales (seasonal offshore sightings), Hawaiian hawk (ʻio) and seabirds along cliffs
Conservation Note
The region’s native forests are recovering but threatened by invasive plants and animals; support local guides who follow Leave No Trace principles and contribute to habitat restoration.
The Hāmākua Coast was shaped by ancient Hawaiian agriculture and later by sugar plantations; plantation-era towns like Honokaa still preserve cultural traditions and eateries.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: clear aerial visibility, fewer crowds, early wildflowers
Challenges: occasional showers, variable trail conditions
Spring offers stable weather and good visibility for flights and coastal views, though expect intermittent showers that keep the rainforest lush.
summer
Best for: warm swimming, longer daylight, garden visits
Challenges: more tourists, hotter inland
Summer is warm and excellent for waterfall swimming and extended exploration; book tours early to avoid peak crowds.
fall
Best for: balanced weather, fewer flights canceled, good surf viewing
Challenges: sporadic storm swells, shortening days
Fall often brings stable trade winds and pleasant conditions—ideal for combining aerial tours with ground-based hikes.
winter
Best for: whale watching offshore, dramatic storm-fed waterfalls, cozy local eateries
Challenges: higher surf, more rain on windward side
Winter rains swell waterfalls and can create spectacular displays, but expect occasional tour cancellations and heavy surf along exposed beaches.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Light rain shellEssential
Thin waterproof jacket protects against frequent trade-wind showers without bulk.
Sturdy trail shoesEssential
Good traction for muddy, rooty paths around waterfalls and coastal viewpoints.
Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
For wading or swimming in waterfall pools where allowed.
Binoculars or telephoto lens
Great for spotting seabirds, whales offshore and details on distant cliffs.
Common Questions
Can I swim under the waterfalls on the Hāmākua Coast?
Some pools are safe for wading or swimming during dry conditions, but always check local signage and guides—heavy rain can make currents dangerous.
How long is a typical helicopter tour over the Hāmākua Coast?
Tours vary from 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on whether they include landings or other island highlights; check the specific itinerary when booking.
Is the Hāmākua Coast accessible by car?
Yes—Highway 19 runs along much of the coast with several pullouts and state parks; allow extra time for narrow, winding sections and stopping for views.
Are there guided tours that combine the Hāmākua Coast with Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park?
Yes—half-day shuttle tours and full-day circle tours commonly pair coastal drives with Volcanoes NP stops like Thurston Lava Tube.
When is whale season off the Hāmākua Coast?
Humpback whales are most commonly seen offshore between December and April, with peak sightings in January–March.
Do I need a permit for drone photography along the coast?
Drones are restricted in many parks and near landing sites; check national park rules and local regulations before flying.
What to Pack
Reusable water bottle for hydration, rain shell for sudden showers, sturdy hiking shoes for slick trails, reef-safe sunscreen for swimming—each keeps you comfortable and minimizes environmental impact.
Did You Know
Akaka Falls State Park on the Hāmākua Coast features a waterfall that drops approximately 442 feet into a fern-lined gorge.
Quick Travel Tips
Drive cautiously on Highway 19 and allow extra time; book helicopter and private tours in advance; carry small cash for roadside stands and local eats; check weather for flight cancellations before leaving.
Local Flavor
Sample roadside malasadas and macadamia treats in Honokaa, buy fresh Hilo-grown produce at local markets, and visit a family-run tour or garden for stories that connect food, land and plantation history.
Logistics Snapshot
Nearest airport: Hilo (ITO) or Kona (KOA) for longer transfers; best base: Hilo; parking at state parks is limited—arrive early; expect tour durations of 3–8 hours; book certified local guides for private waterfall access.
Sustainability Note
Choose operators that follow low-noise flight paths and land only at permitted sites, stick to trails, use reef-safe products, and support community businesses to keep tourism benefits local.