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Hawaii Forest & Trail – Kohala Waterfalls Adventure

Walk into the lush valleys of North Kohala on private trails that lead across footbridges and past historic agricultural terraces to waterfalls, scenic overlooks and a refreshing swim stop.

Your experience

About Kohala Waterfalls Adventure

North Kohala has a softer, greener feel than much of the Big Island, and this tour gives you time to enjoy it without rushing. The day begins with a scenic drive through Hawi and Kapa'au before leaving the main road and heading into a private reserve tucked into the hills.

Once you arrive, the pace slows down. A gentle one-mile walk follows the stream past footbridges, old taro terraces, clear pools and a series of seven waterfalls. You’ll have time to take in the surroundings, stop for photos and, when conditions allow, cool off with a swim beneath one of the falls.

The outing finishes with a picnic lunch at a secluded overlook, where the views stretch across Kohala’s steep sea cliffs and deeply carved valleys. It is an easy way to combine a little walking, a little swimming and a lot of beautiful scenery in one relaxed North Kohala day.

Tour Highlights

  • Scenic drive through Hawi and Kapa'au
  • Off-road access to a private North Kohala nature reserve
  • Easy one-mile guided walk through lush streamside scenery
  • See seven waterfalls, clear pools and historic taro terraces
  • Swim beneath a waterfall when conditions allow
  • Picnic lunch at a private overlook with sea cliff and valley views

Tour Inclusions

  • Picnic lunch (choice of turkey, ham, pastrami, veggie or PB&J sandwich, or gluten free salads)
  • Walking sticks, day pack and rain gear
Before you go

Special Instructions

Meeting details, important notes and helpful information for your experience.

Where & When

Tour times:
Tour 1: 7:30 am - 2:30 pm
Tour 2: 8:30 am - 3:30 pm

Tour duration is about 7 hours roundtrip from Hawaii Forest & Trail Headquarters in Kailua-Kona and 6 hours roundtrip from Waikoloa. The exact departure time and location depends on where you are staying and will be emailed with your confirmation.

Tour departs from the following locations:

Hawaii Forest & Trail Headquarters, 73-5593A Olowalu St., Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 View Map
Please meet us across the street from Home Depot at our Kona Headquarters. This is a departure point for many Hawaii Forest & Trail Tours. This location also has a 900 sq. ft. retail store that includes outdoor gear and apparel, books, maps and gift items.

Queen's Marketplace, 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Dr, Waikoloa, HI 96738 (near Charlie's Thai Cuisine) View Map
The backside of this popular shopping area serves as a pickup location for many Hawaii Forest & Trail tours. Look for Charlie's Thai Cuisine, and HF&T will be at the curb!

Restrictions

Guests should be able to hike on uneven or rocky terrain. We sometimes encounter cool, wet, or muddy conditions.

All children 3 years and under MUST be carried in a child carrier.

Requirements

Please bring your own water bottle for use on tour. Water bottles are available for purchase at Hawaii Forest and Trail and a jug will be available for refills.

Special Notes

There is about 1.5 miles in hiking total over 1-2 hours.

Operation Days

Monday - Saturday

Duration

6-7 hours

Capacity

Maximum 12 participants

Equipment

Provided: Walking sticks, warm wear, day packs and rain ponchos

Vendor

This activity is operated by Hawaii Forest & Trail.

A closer look

See the experience

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Questions about this activity?

We’re happy to help with your choices, booking details or an existing reservation.