Big Island Waterfalls Adventure in Kailua-Kona
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10–11 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have good endurance for a full day of hiking and swimming, with the ability to navigate uneven and sometimes slippery terrain.
Overview
Join Wasabi Tours Hawaii for a full-day private hiking and sightseeing tour exploring Big Island’s iconic waterfalls and scenic lookouts. Swim, stroll, and savor a local picnic in this unforgettable natural adventure.
Big Island Waterfalls Adventure
10 hours • Private Waterfall Swim & Tropical Garden Adventure
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 10-11 hour adventure in Hawaii, where you'll swim beneath the stunning Kulaniapia waterfall, explore the lush Akaka Falls, and visit the breathtaking Waipio Valley Lookout. Experience the island's rich natural beauty and history while enjoying a local-style picnic lunch amidst tropical gardens and cascading waterfalls.
Swim in a Private Waterfall and Visit a Tropical Garden
Duration
10-11 hours
About
- Visit majestic Waipio Valley Lookout to capture lush and tall cliffs that drop into the sparkling ocean
- Walk through a rainforest and discover the towering Akaka Falls that plummets into a stream-eroded gorge
- Explore Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden, a spectacular nature preserve with cascading waterfalls
- Swim under the 120-feet tall Kulaniapia private waterfall surrounded by diverse flora
- Visit the famous 80-foot Rainbow Falls in Hilo with giant banyan trees beside it
- Traverse the scenic Saddle Road and marvel at the tallest and most massive mountains in the world
Explore Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, swim at Kulanipia private waterfalls, visit the majestic Waipio Valley Lookout and the stunning Akaka Falls on the Hamakua Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii on this full day of fun and exciting adventure. Discover the island’s diverse natural beauty, including multiple waterfalls, lush rain forests, and rugged sea cliffs as your guide shares history and legends.
Tour Difficulty
Moderate hiking over short distances. Ages 5 and older are required.
Included in the Tour
Guests are served local-style picnic lunch with assorted juices, snacks, and bottled water. In addition, all admission fees, mosquito repellent, and rain gear.
Pickup Locations
We pick up guests from all major resorts and hotels in Keauhou, Kona, Waikoloa, and Kohala Coast between 7 am to 8:30 am. Actual pickup times vary depending on the exact location.
What to Bring and Wear
Bring a swimsuit and towel, and wear comfortable summer clothing. Covered walking shoes are recommended.
Cancellation Policy
Minimum 24 hours notice for groups of 1-5, 48 hours notice for groups of 6 or more, and 72 hour notice for private groups to receive a full refund.
Adventure Tips
Bring sturdy water shoes
The trail involves wet rocks near waterfalls and swimming spots, so shoes with good grip are highly recommended.
Carry insect repellent
Tropical areas around the falls often have mosquitoes; applying repellent helps keep bites at bay.
Prepare for variable weather
Showers are common in rainforest areas even during sunny days, so packing a lightweight rain jacket is a good idea.
Bring your camera fully charged
You’ll want to capture stunning falls, lush landscapes, and panoramic lookouts along the route.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Nene Goose (Hawaiian state bird)
- Hawaiian Honeycreepers
History
Waipio Valley was once the home to Hawaiian royalty and serves as a sacred place with deep cultural significance tied to native legends and traditions.
Conservation
Efforts to protect endemic plant species and maintain clean water sources are critical here, with sustainable tourism encouraged to minimize ecological impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Kailua-Kona
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Water shoes
Protect your feet and maintain grip on wet rocks near waterfalls and swimming areas.
Light rain jacket
Stay dry during sudden tropical showers common in rainforest sections.
spring specific
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the long hike and outdoor exploration.
Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
Enjoy swimming beneath Kulaniapia Falls comfortably and dry off quickly.
summer specific