A Friendly Look at the Manoa Falls-Electric Bike to Hike Experience

If you’re considering a day out on Oahu that combines activity, nature, and a taste of local flavor, this electric bike and hike tour might just hit the spot. It’s designed for those who want to see the lush landscapes around Manoa Valley without breaking a sweat—thanks to the pedal-assist bikes—and who enjoy a bit of adventure with a rewarding waterfall visit.
What really caught our eye are the knowledgeable guides who make the experience both fun and informative, and the beautiful scenery that seems straight out of a movie (seriously, parts of Jurassic Park and LOST were filmed here). Plus, the inclusion of a local, healthy meal and a vegan soft serve treat makes this feel like a well-rounded, thoughtful outing.
That said, a few things are worth keeping in mind. The muddy trail to the waterfall requires sensible shoes—you’ll want to wear something you don’t mind getting a little dirty. Also, this experience is best suited for travelers with a moderate fitness level who are comfortable riding bikes and walking on uneven terrain.
Overall, if you’re after a balanced mix of gentle exercise, outdoor beauty, and cultural insights, this tour is a great pick. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with a group that appreciates a mix of adventure, nature, and laid-back local flavor.
Key Points

- Balanced activity level: Electric bikes make pedaling easy, even for those who aren’t avid cyclists.
- Stunning scenery: Expect lush, tropical views and a dramatic waterfall that’s often featured in movies.
- Knowledgeable guides: Guides are praised for their friendliness and expertise, often sharing insights and taking plenty of photos.
- Inclusive experience: The tour includes snacks, bottled water, a delicious vegan soft serve, and a healthy local lunch.
- Small group size: Max of 7 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
- Weather-dependent: The tour is weather-sensitive, so expect a full refund or rescheduling in case of poor conditions.
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A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience
Starting Point and Setting Off
The adventure begins at Kuhio Beach, a well-known and easily accessible meeting spot. After a quick fitting and safety briefing, you’re set to roll onto Kapiolani Park, which is a lovely place to start and learn about Honolulu’s history. The park’s beautiful setting makes for a relaxed start, and from here, your guide will lead the way through the city’s green and scenic spots.
Exploring Honolulu’s Green Spaces
Next, you’ll cruise past a lush golf course and the Ala Wai golf course, passing the canal and getting an idea of the city’s landscape. These areas give a glimpse of Honolulu’s tropical charm and the way locals enjoy their outdoor spaces. The guide’s commentary adds context, helping you appreciate the significance of these spots beyond just their visual appeal.
University of Hawaii at Manoa Campus
As you glide through the campus of the University of Hawaii, you’ll have short stops for photos and to admire the architecture. This area is lively and vibrant, and it provides a nice transition from city to countryside. The short pause here is perfect for snapping some shots and soaking in the vibe of student life amid lush surroundings.
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The Main Event: Manoa Falls Trail
Once bikes are secured, the real adventure begins. The hike to Manoa Falls is about 0.8 miles through dense jungle, with a modest elevation gain of around 300 feet. The trail can be muddy, slippery, and sometimes tricky, so sturdy shoes are a must. This part is what many travelers find most rewarding, especially because the waterfall itself is a stunning 150 feet tall.
The Waterfall and Hollywood Backdrop
Standing in front of Manoa Falls, you’ll understand why this spot is so popular. The waterfall’s majestic cascade makes for a memorable photo backdrop. From the reviews, it’s clear that guides share interesting tidbits about the filming locations—many scenes from Jurassic Park and LOST were shot here. Keep in mind, the path to the falls can flood unexpectedly, so everyone needs to stay alert and be prepared for possible mud.
Relaxing with a Treat and a Meal
After the hike, you’ll enjoy a vegan-friendly soft serve (Dole Whip), which is a nice refreshment to cool off and recharge. Then, the tour continues to a local cafe for a healthy, inclusive meal, giving you a taste of Hawaii’s fresh, wholesome cuisine. The inclusion of these food stops elevates the experience from just sightseeing to a true taste of local life.
Photos, Videos, and Overall Experience
Throughout the tour, the guides take advantage of the small group size to offer personalized service, capturing dynamic photos and a tour video. Many reviews emphasize how guides go the extra mile with their friendly attitude, knowledge, and patience—elements that make the day special.
Is It Worth the Price?

At $179 per person, this experience offers quite a lot: guided biking, a scenic hike, a waterfall visit, food, snacks, and keepsakes. When you consider the all-in nature of the experience—plus the personalized attention with small groups—the cost feels justified, especially for those who value quality guides and a well-organized outing.
You also gain more than just sightseeing—you get a chance to be active without overexertion, thanks to the pedal-assist bikes. The included photos and video are a bonus, allowing you to relive the day long after it’s over.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for travelers who want to combine adventure with relaxation, appreciate good storytelling from guides, and enjoy a mix of outdoor activity and cultural flavor. It’s well-suited for those with a moderate fitness level who don’t mind getting a little muddy and love discovering unique filming locations. Not recommended for those who prefer a more leisurely, car-based tour or are uncomfortable on uneven terrain.
Final Thoughts

This Manoa Falls-Electric Bike to Hike Experience offers a well-rounded way to see some of Oahu’s most beautiful sites while staying active. The combination of bike riding, tropical scenery, and a rewarding waterfall hike makes it stand out from typical sightseeing tours. The thoughtful inclusion of snacks and a healthy meal makes it feel like a full-day adventure that cares about your enjoyment and well-being.
If you’re someone who appreciates knowledgeable guides, stunning natural beauty, and a manageable pace, this tour is likely to meet your expectations. It’s especially enjoyable for travelers who want a little bit of everything—the scenery, culture, adventure, and good company.
Manoa Falls-Electric Bike to Hike Experience Local meal included
“A fantastic experience. Kelly was great and knew a lot of information. He took a lot of pictures for us as well.”
FAQ

Is this tour suitable for someone who doesn’t ride a bicycle regularly?
Yes, but with a caveat. The bikes are electric, making pedaling easier, so moderate cycling experience helps. If you’re not comfortable riding bikes or haven’t been on one in years, you might find it a little challenging, especially on hilly or uneven terrain.
How long does the entire tour last?
The experience takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, including biking, hiking, and the meal. It’s a good length for a day without feeling rushed and allows plenty of time to enjoy each part.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for muddy or slippery trails—no sandals, please. Since the trail can flood or get muddy, closed-toe shoes with good grip are best. Dress for warm weather and consider bringing a light rain jacket just in case.
Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly mentioned, the tour is designed for travelers with a moderate fitness level and comfortable on bikes. It’s probably best suited for older teens and adults rather than young children, especially given the muddy trail and hike.
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes bottled water, snacks, use of electric bikes and helmets, a professional guide, and the meal. Photos and a tour video are also provided as mementos.
Is there any hotel pickup?
No, the tour starts at Kuhio Beach, so you’ll need to make your way there on your own or arrange transportation.
To sum it up, if you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic, and active way to explore Oahu’s lush landscapes and waterfalls, this tour offers excellent value. You get a good mix of outdoor adventure, local culture, and comfort, making it a memorable part of any Hawaiian trip.
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