Kohala: Ziplines, Waterfalls and Sunset Sails on the Big Island’s Wild North Coast
High in the treetops, cool under the falls, and effortless at sea—how to chase three distinct Kohala experiences in one trip.
You arrive before dawn, the western horizon still silver, and drive the ribbon of Mamalahoa Highway toward North Kohala with the ocean on your right and rising, older land mass on your left. The light pulls the coastline into a sequence of carved lava cliffs and green terraces; breadfruit and ironwood shadow roadside fences, and the air already holds the warmth of a day that will not forget the sun. Kohala is not one place but a handful of experiences braided together: high-canopy flight through tropical forest, a private plunge beneath a cold mountain-fed waterfall, and a slow, salt-scented evening aboard a catamaran watching the sky turn molten. Each feels inevitable here.
Trail Wisdom
Book morning ziplines early
Morning slots are cooler and often less windy; tours and pickups from Kona can fill days in advance.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
All ocean activities should use reef-safe formulas to protect coral and comply with local recommendations.
Bring traction for waterfall approaches
Wear shoes with sticky soles—the route to pools can be rocky and slippery after rain.
Allow travel time between activities
Driving in Hawai‘i is slower than it looks on the map—factor in 60–90 minutes between Kona and North Kohala.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Pololū Valley Lookout for a short but dramatic hike and black-sand shoreline
- •Hāwī town’s art galleries and locally made pouched fruit stands for a quiet cultural stop
Wildlife
Spinner dolphins, Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu)
Conservation Note
Support local guides and businesses, use reef-safe sunscreen and stay on marked trails to protect fragile watershed and coastal ecosystems.
Kohala is the oldest of the Big Island’s volcanoes and the North Kohala area is traditionally associated with the birthplace of Kamehameha I.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: fewer crowds, wildflower blooms, calmer seas
Challenges: unpredictable showers, cooler mornings
Spring brings mild weather and fewer tourists; morning ziplines and afternoon swims are pleasant, though brief showers can occur.
summer
Best for: sunny cruises, warmer water swims, longer daylight
Challenges: strong sun, busy weekends
Summer offers the most reliable weather for sailing and swimming—pack sun protection and book popular cruises in advance.
fall
Best for: stable trade winds, clear views, less humidity
Challenges: occasional storms, variable surf
Fall often provides steady trade winds ideal for sailing and crisp visibility from canopy platforms.
winter
Best for: whale sightings offshore, lush upland foliage, dramatic skies
Challenges: rough seas some days, cooler upland temps
Winter can bring big ocean swells—great for wildlife watching offshore but occasionally disruptive for small-boat schedules.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy trail shoesEssential
Good traction is required for platforms, short hikes to waterfalls and slippery approaches.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the marine environment during cruises and waterfall swims.
Light rain shell
Quick showers are common; a packable shell keeps you dry without adding weight.
Hydration pack or 1L water bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated through sun exposure and brief hikes between platforms or to falls.
Common Questions
How long is a typical zipline tour in Kohala?
Most canopy experiences last 1.5–3 hours including safety briefing and transfers between platforms.
Are there age or weight limits for the zipline?
Operators set their own limits—commonly minimum age is 8 or 10 and weight restrictions typically range between 65 and 250 pounds; check the operator before booking.
Can I combine a zipline and waterfall swim in one day?
Yes—full-day 'Zip and Dip' tours combine canopy lines with a picnic and a swim under a private waterfall; many include round-trip pickup from Kona.
What should I bring on a sunset cruise?
A light jacket for the evening breeze, a hat, reef-safe sunscreen, and a camera—most cruises provide snacks and drinks.
Is snorkeling offered on the Kohala sunset cruises?
Sunset cruises are typically focused on views and onboard refreshments rather than snorkeling; check specific itineraries for daytime snorkeling trips.
How far is Kohala from Kailua-Kona?
Driving time ranges from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on your exact start point and which part of Kohala you’re visiting.
What to Pack
reef-safe sunscreen (protect reefs), sturdy trail shoes (trail traction), water bottle (stay hydrated), light rain jacket (sudden showers)
Did You Know
Kohala is the oldest of the five volcanoes that formed Hawaii Island; its most recent eruptions occurred hundreds of thousands of years ago, and its eroded summit and valleys tell the island’s deepest geological story.
Quick Travel Tips
Reserve tours at least a week ahead, rent a car for flexibility, bring cash for small local purchases, arrive 30 minutes early for pickups and briefings
Local Flavor
North Kohala blends paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) and plantation history with modern craft galleries in Hāwī; sample fresh poke, shave ice and locally grown coffee between activities.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest large gateway: Kailua-Kona; allow 60–90 minutes drive; morning ziplines and afternoon cruises are common combos; book round-trip pickups when available.
Sustainability Note
Choose operators that follow reef-safe and watershed-protection practices, avoid single-use plastics on cruises, and honor posted signs and cultural sites.