Umauma Falls Private Waterfall And River Swim

If you’re wandering the Big Island and craving a blend of stunning scenery and laid-back adventure, the Umauma Falls Private Waterfall and River Swim might catch your eye. While I haven’t been on this exact tour myself, I’ve gathered enough info to give you a solid picture of what to expect. This experience promises a mix of natural beauty, fun water activities, and a peaceful setting — all within a relatively short two-hour window.

What immediately appeals to me about this tour is how it combines the thrill of water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding with the serenity of a private waterfall. Plus, the fact that this spot has been featured on The Bachelorette hints at its visual appeal. That said, it’s important to note that this experience isn’t a full-day adventure — it’s more about soaking in a gorgeous spot and enjoying some water-based fun without a lot of fuss. If you’re someone who loves natural beauty but prefers a relaxed pace over intense excursion, this could be just right.

One consideration to keep in mind is the physical aspect. The tour is described as suitable for those with moderate fitness, and you’ll need to navigate down a “Z” trail to reach the water — so a bit of walking and water comfort is involved. Also, parking fees and the need to bring your own towel are small details to plan for.

This tour seems best suited for travelers looking for a peaceful, scenic escape with easy access to water activities. It’s a nice option if you want a calming yet engaging experience that the whole family or a small group can enjoy together.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: The private waterfall and Umauma River are truly picturesque.
• Water activities included: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming are part of the package.
• Relaxing atmosphere: The location allows for unwinding and enjoying nature at your own pace.
• Short but sweet: At around 2 hours, it’s a manageable outing that fits into most itineraries.
• Price reflects the experience: At roughly $94 per person, it offers good value for the access to private, beautiful spots.
• Limited group size: Max of 20 travelers helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Check-in and Meeting

The experience starts at the Umauma Visitor Center, where you’ll check in about 45 minutes before your scheduled tour time. The staff then gathers everyone and provides a quick orientation — a handy way to get familiar with the logistics and safety info. You’ll hop onto a van for about 10 minutes, making the journey feel relaxed and not rushed.

The Journey to the Waterfall

Once you arrive, you’ll take a short walk down a “Z” trail leading to the private waterfall area. This trail might involve some moderate walking, so comfortable shoes and a bit of physical readiness are wise choices. The location is quite exclusive, emphasizing privacy and serenity.

The Waterfall and River Area

This is the highlight. The private waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, creating an almost cinematic setting. Guests can swim in the Umauma River, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard — all included in your ticket price. Lawn chairs are also provided, so you can lounge and soak in the scenery.

One reviewer shared a lovely story about their 74-year-old mother enjoying the water and even doing a small cliff jump — which suggests it’s suitable for a range of ages, as long as they’re comfortable in water. That said, there’s a note that you’ll want to have a moderate fitness level, especially if you plan to move around or explore further.

Food and Refreshments

A deli-style sandwich and bottled water are included, making this a fuss-free experience. The lunch adds a little extra for those who enjoy combining scenic views with some casual eating.

The Return

After about 1.5 hours of floating, paddling, or relaxing, everyone boards the van back to the visitor center. It’s a short, satisfying break in your day without overdoing it.

What Travelers Are Saying

The single review available paints a picture of a peaceful, enjoyable time. The reviewer mentions “a nice, relaxing time” and highlights how their mother, age 74, enjoyed the water, paddleboarding, and even a small cliff jump. This suggests that the tour offers a good balance of fun and calm, suitable for a wide age range.

The guide, Jake, received praise for being helpful, which bodes well for those who appreciate attentive service. With the mention that this is a place “you won’t want to miss,” it’s clear that the location’s natural beauty really makes an impression.

Pricing and Value

At just under $94 per person, this tour is reasonably priced considering the inclusions: water activities, lawn chairs, a picnic lunch, and access to a stunning private waterfall. While it’s not the cheapest activity around, the focus on privacy and natural beauty makes it feel like a worthwhile splurge if you’re after a peaceful, scenic experience.

Keep in mind that you’ll need to bring your own towel and pay any parking fees separately. These small extras can add up but are typical for outdoor activities of this nature.

Practical Details

• Duration: About 2 hours, perfect for fitting into a larger day of sightseeing.
• Group Size: Up to 20 people, maintaining an intimate atmosphere.
• Start Time: 12:00 pm, so plan your day accordingly.
• Physical Fitness: Moderate – expect some walking and water comfort.
• Weather: The experience is weather-dependent; poor weather might lead to cancellations with full refunds or rescheduling.
• Age Range: While not explicitly family-focused, the positive review about a senior guest suggests it’s accessible for older travelers who are comfortable in water.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves gorgeous landscapes and wants a fairly laid-back water outing, this could be a real treat. It’s well-suited for couples, small groups, or families with kids comfortable in the water. If you’re after a quick, memorable experience that’s not overly strenuous, the Umauma Falls private waterfall and river swim hits the right notes.

However, if you’re looking for an adventure that involves hiking or longer excursions, this might not be the best fit. Also, travelers who prefer guided historical or cultural narrations might find this more of a scenery-focused activity.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially since a 74-year-old enjoyed it, indicating it can be accessible for a range of ages. Just ensure children are comfortable in water and can handle some walking.

What should I bring?
A towel is recommended since it’s not included. You might also want to bring sunscreen, a hat, and water shoes for walking on the trail.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, which provides some peace of mind.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 2 hours from check-in to return, making it easy to slot into a day’s itinerary.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers water activities (kayaks and paddleboards), lawn chairs, a deli-style lunch, and bottled water.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from the visitor center to the waterfall area is provided via a short van ride.

Are the water activities guided?
While not explicitly stated, the inclusion of equipment like kayaks and paddleboards suggests some orientation, and guides will be present.

Is there physical exertion involved?
Some walking and water activity participation are expected, so a moderate fitness level is recommended.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour depends on favorable weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Umauma Falls Private Waterfall and River Swim tour offers a delightful way to enjoy some of Hawaii’s natural beauty without a full-day commitment. It’s particularly appealing for those seeking a peaceful, scenic spot to relax, paddle, and connect with nature. The high point is undoubtedly the private waterfall setting, which provides plenty of stunning photo ops and a serene atmosphere.

If you’re after a straightforward, no-fuss water adventure with a dash of scenic privacy, this tour could fit the bill nicely. It’s best for travelers who want a balance of gentle activity and gorgeous surroundings, without the need for intense hiking or lengthy excursions. Plus, the positive review about the experience suggests it’s a well-run outing that genuinely delivers on its promise.

Ultimately, this experience is a lovely addition to a Hawaii trip — especially if you’re craving a peaceful slice of paradise with a touch of water fun. Just plan ahead for parking, bring your towel, and prepare to enjoy one of the Big Island’s more tranquil, beautiful spots.