Big Island: Full Day Adventure Tour of the Kohala Waterfalls

Discover the Kohala Waterfalls on a Full-Day Tour for $261

This 7-hour adventure on the Big Island offers a well-rounded experience of Hawaii’s natural beauty and history. Priced at $261 per person, the tour combines off-road travel, a guided nature walk, swimming in waterfalls, and stunning scenic views. It’s perfect for those who enjoy light hiking, breathtaking landscapes, and a touch of local culture. The tour is suitable for most travelers, though it requires some mobility on uneven terrain, and it’s best suited for those prepared for a relaxed, active day.

What makes this tour especially appealing are the knowledgeable guides, the easy walk along a private stream, and the opportunity to cool off in waterfall pools. The private picnic lunch overlooking the sea cliffs adds a special touch, making it a memorable full-day experience. Although the tour emphasizes scenic sights and gentle walks, it involves some off-road driving and walking over rocky terrain, so some physical readiness is helpful.

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Key Points

• Price: $261 per person for a 7-hour tour
• Highlights: Off-road drive in a Mercedes Sprinter van, waterfall swimming, scenic nature walk, and picnic lunch
• Pace: Relaxed, suitable for most fitness levels, with only about a 1-mile walk
• Includes: Guide, transportation, walking sticks, rain gear, water, lunch, and drinks
• Group Size: Small group limited to 10 participants for a more personalized experience
• Accessibility: Not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or back problems

Scenic Drive through Kohala’s Historic Towns and Countryside

The tour begins with a scenic drive through the lush Kohala region, renowned for its vibrant landscapes and historical sites. Travelers pass through charming towns like Hawi and Kapaau, known for their quaint streets and the iconic King Kamehameha Statue. This part of the journey offers glimpses of Hawaii’s plantation history and lush countryside, setting the tone for the day ahead.

The drive itself is part of the experience, offering gorgeous views of rolling hills, coastline, and distant sea cliffs. The combination of vibrant greenery and ocean vistas makes it clear why Kohala is considered one of the most scenic areas on the island.

Off-Road Adventure in a Private Nature Reserve

Once in Hawi, the tour takes a fun off-road drive in a Mercedes Sprinter 4WD van onto a private nature reserve that was once a sugarcane plantation. This part of the trip introduces travelers to Hawaii’s agricultural history and the natural landscape that surrounds Kohala. The off-road ride provides a sense of adventure while giving access to areas less traveled.

The off-road experience leads to a trailhead where the relaxed trail walk begins. The off-road drive is a highlight for many, revealing the island’s rugged terrain and remote beauty that’s often inaccessible by regular vehicles.

Guided Walk Through a Private Stream and Waterfalls

The guided walk along a one-mile private trail brings travelers to a refreshing mountain stream lined with cascading waterfalls. This trail is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, with interpretive guidance from a naturalist guide explaining Hawaii’s flora, fauna, and history.

The trail’s gentle gradient and manageable length make it suitable for most visitors, with plenty of opportunities to admire the scenery and learn about the area’s ecology. The highlight here is the chance to swim beneath the waterfalls in the crystal-clear pools, a favorite feature among visitors.

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Swimming in Waterfalls and Mountain Pools

The waterfall swimming experience is a key feature of this tour. The natural pools at the base of the waterfalls are perfect for cooling off after a gentle hike. The water is refreshingly cold, and the pools are clear enough to see the rocky bottom.

Travelers appreciate the opportunity to relax in nature’s water features, with some reviewers noting that water shoes are recommended due to the rocky terrain. The swim adds a memorable, fun element to the day, especially on warm days when cooling off in mountain streams feels especially rewarding.

Scenic Picnic Lunch with Ocean and Valley Views

After the hike and swim, the tour concludes with a private picnic lunch at a secluded overlook. The lunch spot offers breathtaking views of Kohala’s valleys and sea cliffs, making it the perfect setting to unwind and appreciate the landscape.

The deli-style lunch is included, along with drinks, enabling participants to relax and soak in the scenery. The scenic vantage point, with views extending to distant ocean and rugged cliffs, is a highlight that many reviews praise for its tranquility and beauty.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes a knowledgeable interpretative naturalist guide, transportation from central meeting locations, filtered water, walking sticks, rain gear, sun protection (sunscreen & bug spray), and the lunch and drinks. Travelers receive day packs to carry essentials, making the experience comfortable and well-organized.

Guests should bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, biodegradable sunscreen, jacket, and closed-toe shoes. The tour is not suitable for pets, smoking, large luggage, or alcohol, ensuring a safe environment for all participants.

Physical Requirements and Considerations

While the walk is relatively easy with only about one mile of trail, the terrain can be uneven, rocky, and sometimes wet. Guests should be comfortable hiking on uneven surfaces. Pregnant women and those with mobility issues or back problems are advised against participating.

Children under 3 must be carried in a backpack carrier, and guests should be prepared for potential cool, wet conditions. The tour involves some off-road driving, so those with concerns about rough terrain should consider this.

Guided by Knowledgeable and Friendly Guides

Reviews highlight the excellent guides, especially mentioning Nick, Garry, Tracy, Mark, and Mateo. They are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, attentiveness, and storytelling, making the experience both educational and fun.

Guides weave in Hawaii’s culture, botany, and history, creating a personal connection and enhancing the appreciation of each location visited. Their attention to detail and care for guests are consistent themes in positive reviews.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This adventure appeals most to active travelers who appreciate scenic drives, light hiking, and water activities. The tour suits those interested in Hawaii’s natural landscapes and cultural background, with a preference for small group experiences for more personalized attention.

It’s ideal for families with children over 3, provided they can handle uneven terrain, and for anyone wanting a relaxed yet engaging day exploring Kohala’s waterfalls and countryside.

Final Thoughts on the Kohala Waterfalls Tour

The Big Island: Full Day Adventure of the Kohala Waterfalls offers a well-rounded experience combining scenic drives, nature walks, waterfall swims, and scenic dining. The small group size and the knowledgeable guides create a personalized, engaging environment.

While some terrain may challenge those with mobility issues, the overall experience is accessible for most active travelers seeking a day immersed in Hawaii’s lush landscapes. The inclusion of a picnic with ocean views and the chance to swim in waterfalls makes this tour particularly memorable.

Considering the positive reviews and consistent high ratings, this tour provides excellent value for exploring the natural beauty of Kohala with a knowledgeable guide and a comfortable pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 3 years old can participate if carried in a backpack carrier, and the walk is generally easy and suitable for families.

What should I bring for the waterfall swim?
Bring swimwear, water shoes, and biodegradable sunscreen for the water activities, as the pools are rocky and can be slippery.

Is the tour good for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour involves walking on uneven, rocky terrain and is not suitable for guests with mobility challenges or back problems.

How long is the walk, and is it difficult?
The walk is about one mile in length and is designed to be relaxed, but terrain may be uneven, wet, or rocky.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a guide, transportation, lunch, drinks, filtered water, walking sticks, rain gear, and a small day pack.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of off-road driving, waterfall swimming, scenic views, and expert guides makes this a memorable and well-loved experience on the Big Island.

What weather should I expect?
Be prepared for potential cool, wet, or muddy conditions, so bring appropriate clothing and shoes.

Is there a preferred time of year for this tour?
Check availability for specific start times, but the tour is designed to be flexible and comfortable year-round.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 10 participants for a more intimate experience.

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