Big Island: Full Day Adventure Tour of the Kohala Waterfalls

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii’s Big Island, chances are you’re after experiences that combine natural beauty with a bit of adventure. The Full Day Adventure Tour of the Kohala Waterfalls promises just that—an opportunity to explore lush landscapes, enjoy a relaxed hike, and take refreshing dips in waterfalls. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve gone through the details and reviews to help you decide if it’s a good fit for your Hawaiian itinerary.

What I really like about this experience is how it offers a balanced mix of easy walks and stunning vistas, all led by guides who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Plus, the chance to swim under a waterfall is pretty irresistible for nature lovers. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour involves off-road driving and hiking on uneven terrain—so it’s not suited for everyone, especially those with mobility issues or pregnant travelers. Still, if you’re up for a manageable adventure in beautiful surroundings, this tour could be just the thing.

This tour is especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy a moderate outdoor activity with some scenic sightseeing, and who appreciate the insights of a naturalist guide. It’s a great pick for those wanting a full-day experience that combines nature, culture, and a good dose of Hawaii’s legendary landscapes.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: Expect stunning views of valleys, cliffs, and waterfalls.
• Expert guides: Guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Accessible yet active: An easy walk along a private stream, but requires some hiking on uneven terrain.
• Waterfall swimming: A highlight for many, with easy access to cool mountain streams.
• Comfortable transport: Travel in a 4WD Mercedes Sprinter van for off-road adventures.
• Flexible cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This tour gives a strong sense of the diversity of landscapes on the Big Island. Starting with a scenic drive through the Kohala region, you’ll pass charming towns like Hawi and Kapaau. These spots are steeped in history, with the iconic King Kamehameha Statue standing as a reminder of Hawaii’s royal past. The drive itself sets the tone—lush, vibrant, and dotted with panoramic views.

Once you arrive in Hawi, your adventure shifts to off-road driving in a luxurious 4WD Mercedes Sprinter van. The ride is fun and a bit rugged, taking you into a private nature reserve that was once a sugarcane plantation. This part of the trip is especially appealing because it offers a sense of exclusivity—you’re not just following a crowd through public trails.

The Hiking Portion

The hike itself is about one mile long, which is manageable for most people, especially since it’s described as a relaxed, guided walk. Along the way, you’ll follow a private stream, passing by cascading waterfalls and refreshing pools. The reviews highlight how this stretch is both scenic and tranquil, offering plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet reflection.

Waterfall Swim and Refreshing Dip

One of the core moments—swimming under a waterfall—is a big hit. Many reviewers rave about how incredible it feels to cool off in mountain waters after a hike. Garry, a guide, was praised for his attention to safety and his ability to make the experience fun (“Garry was an awesome guide and we learned a lot on the hike. Really fun for the whole family”).

The Picnic Lunch

To round out the day, you’ll enjoy a deli-style picnic lunch at a secluded overlook. From here, you get sweeping views of soaring sea cliffs and remote valleys. It’s a peaceful, picture-perfect setting that lets you unwind and appreciate the natural beauty of Kohala.

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The Details that Matter

The tour lasts around 7 hours, which makes it a full but relaxed day. Transportation is included from central meeting points, and the group is limited to 10 participants, keeping it intimate and more personalized. The cost is $261 per person, which may seem steep at first glance, but considering the included activities—transportation, guide, lunch, and equipment—it offers good value for a full-day, guided experience.

What’s Included and What Not

You’ll get an interpretative naturalist guide, filtered water, walking sticks, day packs, and rain gear—all helpful for comfort and safety. The deli lunch and drinks are also included, so you don’t need to worry about bringing snacks or meals.

However, you’ll need to bring your own sunscreen, bug repellent, sun hat, and closed-toe shoes. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, children under 3, or anyone with mobility challenges, given the off-road driving and uneven terrain.

Practical Considerations

• Hiking shoes are recommended because some terrain can be wet, muddy, or rocky.
• The pickup time varies from the tour start, so you’ll want to confirm your pickup location and time with the provider.
• The tour runs in English, and the small group size allows for a more personalized experience.

What the Reviews Say

The overall 5/5 rating from 41 reviews speaks volumes about the quality of this tour. Guests consistently mention how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are. Tracy, Matteo, Garry, Nick, and Mark are all singled out for their professionalism and ability to make guests comfortable.

Reviewers love the scenery—many highlight the waterfalls, cliffs, and lush landscapes—and appreciate that the hike is manageable, even for families with young kids. One guest even noted that “the kids were able to keep up without any problems,” which suggests this tour isn’t overly strenuous.

The waterfall swim gets especially high marks. Guests describe it as “amazing,” and the overall experience as “well planned” and “unforgettable.” These personal accounts reinforce that this tour is both fun and educational, with guides who clearly care about making it memorable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurers who enjoy moderate outdoor activities and want expert insights into Hawaii’s natural environment. It’s perfect for those who appreciate scenic drives, waterfalls, and a relaxed pace. It’s also good for anyone wanting a full-day, curated experience rather than a quick peek.

Because of the off-road driving and uneven terrain, it’s best suited for healthy, active travelers without mobility issues or pregnant women. Families with older children will likely find it a fun, engaging way to explore Hawaii’s outdoors.

The Sum Up

In the end, this Full Day Adventure Tour of the Kohala Waterfalls offers a well-rounded, scenic, and engaging way to experience some of Hawaii’s most striking landscapes. The combination of off-road exploration, short but scenic hike, waterfall swimming, and a peaceful picnic makes for a memorable day that balances adventure with relaxation.

Guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience approachable and enjoyable. The limited group size enhances the feeling of exclusivity and personalized attention. While the price might be higher than some other attractions, the value is clear when you consider the full-day itinerary, included logistics, and beautiful settings.

If you’re someone who loves nature, appreciates good storytelling, and wants a manageable outdoor adventure with plenty of picture-perfect moments, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for some light hiking, and confirm your pickup details in advance for a smooth day.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for young children?
It can be, especially since guests have reported children as young as 5 enjoying the experience. However, children need to be able to keep up with a short, relaxed hike and should be carried in a backpack carrier if under 3.

What should I bring?
You should pack sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, biodegradable sunscreen, a jacket, and closed-toe shoes. The terrain can be wet and rocky, so good footwear is important.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option if your plans are uncertain.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes about 7 hours overall, from pickup to drop-off, including travel, hiking, swimming, and lunch.

Is transportation included?
Transportation from central meeting locations is included in the price, and the small group size ensures a comfortable ride.

Is the tour rated highly?
Absolutely—it’s rated 5 out of 5 by 41 reviewers, with many mentioning the guides’ expertise and the breathtaking scenery.

If you’re after a day filled with scenic views, gentle adventure, and a splash of Hawaii’s waterfall magic, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

You can check availability for your dates here: