Big Island Waterfalls Tour with Swimming and Botanical Garden

The Big Island Waterfalls Tour with Swimming and Botanical Garden offers an immersive, full-day exploration of some of the island’s most iconic natural sights. For $286.74 per person, this 10-hour guided experience from Kona or Kohala hotels includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a lunch, snacks, and all entrance fees. With a top rating of 5.0 based on 495 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this tour delivers a well-rounded glimpse of the island’s lush landscapes, waterfalls, and cultural highlights. The tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning, though it does require moderate physical fitness due to walking and water activities.

While the itinerary is packed with stops, one notable aspect is the small-group setting, which ensures a more personalized experience. The professional guides are frequently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills. The only practical consideration is that children under 5 are not allowed, and guests should be prepared for all weather conditions with appropriate clothing and footwear.

Key Points

• All-inclusive full-day tour covering waterfalls, botanical gardens, and scenic viewpoints
• Hotel pickup and drop-off provided from Kona and Kohala hotels
• Swim at Kulaniapia Falls, Hawaii’s largest private waterfall
• Visit Waipio Valley lookout, Akaka Falls, and Rainbow Falls
• Guided by knowledgeable, engaging guides with positive reviews
• Moderate physical activity required, including walking and water swimming

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Scenic Drive

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup from Kona or Kohala in a luxury Mercedes Sprinter Van. The drive toward the Waipio Valley begins early, with a stop at the lookout to marvel at the towering sea cliffs that drop dramatically into the ocean. This spot offers breathtaking views and a perfect photo opportunity to capture the lush landscape and expansive sea.

The scenic drive along the Hamakua Coast follows, winding past lush greenery and rugged coastlines. This serpentine route sets the tone for a day filled with natural beauty, giving travelers a sense of the island’s impressive geography before arriving at the first major stop.

Visiting Waipio Valley Lookout: Dramatic Cliffs and Ocean Views

The Waipio Valley Lookout is a highlight early in the tour, offering panoramic views of steep, green cliffs that plunge into the blue Pacific. This 20-minute stop provides ample time for photographs and soaking in the scenery. The view captures the grandeur of the island’s volcanic landscape and the power of nature carved into the land.

This stop is especially appreciated for its peaceful, awe-inspiring environment, making it a perfect introduction to the day’s adventure. Since there’s no access to the valley itself on this tour, the focus remains on the spectacular vistas.

Akaka Falls State Park: Nature’s Power in a 442-Foot Drop

Next, the tour continues along the Hamakua Coast to Akaka Falls, a 442-foot waterfall plunging into a gorge below. This 40-minute visit allows guests to feel the raw energy of falling water and marvel at the scenic surroundings. The easy walking trails make it accessible for most, with plenty of opportunities to take photos of the water cascading through the lush rainforest.

The admission fee for this stop is included in the tour price, making it a convenient highlight of the day. The powerful sight of Akaka Falls often becomes a memorable moment, especially for those who enjoy dramatic waterfalls.

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden: Over 2000 Exotic Plant Species

One of the most praised stops is the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden in Onomea Bay. Over 1 hour and 30 minutes, visitors stroll through nature trails that wind through a tropical rainforest. This garden displays more than 2000 species of exotic tropical plants and orchids, many of which are rare and unique to Hawaii.

Guests pass bubbling streams, waterfalls, and ocean vistas, making it a peaceful yet vibrant setting. The up-close photography opportunities and the tranquil atmosphere are frequently highlighted as a favorite part of the tour. The garden’s reputation for beauty ensures plenty of memorable moments for plant lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Swimming at Kulaniapia Falls: Hawaii’s Largest Private Waterfall

In the afternoon, guests are taken to Kulaniapia Falls, where they can enjoy swimming under a 120-foot waterfall—Hawaii’s largest privately accessible waterfall. This activity is available when river conditions permit, and about 1 hour and 30 minutes are allocated for this experience.

This waterfall swim is a major highlight, praised for its refreshing and adventurous vibe. Guests have reported fun, memorable moments in the water and appreciate the chance to cool down in a stunning natural setting. Visitors should bring swimsuits, towels, and water shoes for the best experience.

Rainbow Falls: Iconic Waterfall and Banyan Trees

Later in the day, the tour visits Rainbow Falls in Hilo, known for its 80-foot cascade and the surrounding giant banyan trees. This 15-minute stop offers a quick yet impactful look at one of the island’s most picturesque waterfalls. The lush greenery around the falls creates a vivid, colorful scene, especially when rainbows form in the mist.

While brief, this stop gives a taste of the Hilo side of the island and provides some excellent photo opportunities. The free admission makes it a straightforward addition to the day’s itinerary.

Scenic Drive on Saddle Road: Between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa

The return journey to Kona or Kohala follows Saddle Road, a route nestled between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. This spectacular drive offers views of Hawaii’s highest mountains and the island’s volcanic landscapes. It’s a fitting conclusion to a day filled with jaw-dropping scenery, providing a last look at the island’s volcanic majesty.

Guests often remark on the beauty of the drive and appreciate how it adds a sense of place to the overall experience.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The small-group format ensures a more intimate and personalized experience. The tour operates rain or shine, so guests should dress appropriately for weather conditions, including closed-toe shoes and waterproof clothing if needed. Meal options include vegetarian and gluten-free choices, which should be requested at booking.

Guests are advised to modify their physical activity expectations if they are less mobile, as some stops involve walking and water activities. The tour is not suited for children under 5. The full-day schedule is carefully timed, allowing enough time at each stop but also maintaining a steady pace.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the combination of waterfalls, botanical gardens, and scenic drives in one package. The expert guides receive high praise for their knowledge, storytelling, and friendliness, often making the experience more engaging. The inclusion of lunch, snacks, and bottled water adds value, reducing the need for guests to bring additional supplies.

The swimming at Kulaniapia Falls offers a rare opportunity to interact directly with Hawaii’s waterfalls, making the whole day feel active and special. The well-organized itinerary ensures guests see a variety of landscapes—ranging from lush rainforests to rugged coastlines—without feeling rushed.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience benefits those who want to see a broad swath of the Big Island in one day, especially if they enjoy nature, waterfalls, and botanical gardens. It’s suitable for adults and older children with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and water activities are involved. Guests should be prepared for a long day on the road but will be rewarded with stunning views and memorable moments.

While some stops are brief, the personalized attention and professional guidance make the experience worth the investment. For family groups or small parties seeking a comprehensive, well-paced tour, this option presents excellent value.

The Sum Up: A Rich, Active Day on the Big Island

The Big Island Waterfalls Tour with Swimming and Botanical Garden delivers a full day of natural beauty and adventure. It’s a well-rated, reliable choice for those eager to explore Hawaii’s lush landscapes, waterfalls, and scenic vistas without the stress of planning.

The combination of stops—from Waipio Valley to Kulaniapia Falls—and the insightful guides make for a memorable experience. The all-inclusive price and small-group setting foster a relaxed, engaging atmosphere.

This tour is especially suited for visitors who want a diverse look at the island’s geography and flora, enjoy water activities, and appreciate personalized service. While it involves some walking and water swimming, most guests find it manageable and highly rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $286.74 cost covers hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, snacks, bottled water, all admission fees, and transportation in a luxury Mercedes Sprinter Van.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting early in the morning and concluding in the early evening.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children under 5 are not permitted. The activity involves walking and water swimming, requiring moderate physical fitness.

What kind of footwear should I bring?
Closed-toe shoes are recommended for walking, along with water shoes and towels for swimming at Kulaniapia Falls.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates rain or shine. Guests should dress appropriately for rain or sun.

Can I request vegetarian or gluten-free meals?
Yes, special meal requests can be made at the time of booking.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Guests enjoy Waipio Valley views, Akaka Falls, Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, swimming at Kulaniapia Falls, and Rainbow Falls.

How personalized is the experience?
A small-group setting ensures more interaction with guides and a less crowded atmosphere.

What makes this tour different from others?
The combination of waterfalls, botanical gardens, scenic drives, and swimming—plus expert guides and all-inclusive amenities—sets this tour apart.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Yes, walking, some hiking, and swimming at Kulaniapia Falls are expected, suitable for those with moderate fitness levels.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book around 43 days in advance, as tours tend to fill quickly.

This Well-rounded, scenic, and engaging tour offers a perfect snapshot of the Big Island’s natural wonders, making it a popular choice for visitors looking for an active yet comfortable day exploring Hawaii’s lush landscapes.