Big Island: Full Day Adventure Tour of the Kohala Waterfalls

If you’re looking to explore one of Hawaii’s most stunning and less crowded landscapes, this full-day tour of the Kohala Waterfalls is worth considering. It promises a combination of scenic drives, gentle hikes, waterfall swims, and cultural sights—all wrapped up in about seven hours. Travelers often rave about the knowledgeable guides, the breathtaking vistas, and the chance to indulge in a picnic with views of towering sea cliffs.

What we love about this experience is how accessible and well-rounded it feels. First, the off-road adventure in a luxury Mercedes Sprinter makes the journey feel exclusive without breaking the bank. Second, the opportunity to cool off in a mountain stream or waterfall adds a memorable, refreshing touch. That said, a potential consideration is the walking on uneven terrain, which might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility challenges or pregnant travelers. But for active families, nature lovers, and curious explorers, this tour offers a balanced taste of natural beauty and local culture. It’s best suited for those who enjoy light walking, scenic drives, and authentic Hawaiian scenery.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation in a luxurious 4WD Mercedes Sprinter adds style and convenience.
• Short, manageable hikes with spectacular views of Pololu Valley and waterfalls.
• An opportunity to swim in waterfalls—a rare highlight.
• A scenic picnic with ocean and valley views.
• An immersive experience through a historic Hawaiian agricultural site.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

Exploring the Kohala Waterfalls Full-Day Tour

This tour is designed for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. It’s not a strenuous trek, but it does involve walking over uneven terrain, so packing the right shoes and mindset is key. The experience is optimized for those who enjoy scenic drives, easy hikes, and natural surprises like waterfalls.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start with Pickup and Scenic Drives
The journey begins with pickup at one of eight convenient locations, including resorts and popular sites around Kona and Kohala. From there, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours traveling along the coast, soaking in ocean vistas and getting a sense of the island’s topography. This part of the trip sets the stage, offering a chance to anticipate the natural beauty ahead.

Visit the Historic Town of Hawi and Off-Road Adventure
Once in Hawi, the tour takes a fun off-road detour in a luxury Mercedes Sprinter. This isn’t just a bumpy ride; it’s an exciting way to access a private nature reserve that once thrived as a sugarcane plantation. The off-road drive is a highlight for many, giving a sense of exploration and exclusivity.

A Gentle Hike with Dramatic Views
At the trailhead, you’ll enjoy a relaxed walk through lush native vegetation, crossing charming footbridges and exploring historic taro terraces. The walk is about one mile, making it accessible for most, but still offering plenty of scenic rewards. Expect panoramic views of Pololu Valley, its rugged cliffs, and the surrounding valleys, which are often described as breathtaking.

Swim Under a Waterfall
One of the tour’s most talked-about moments is the opportunity for a refreshing swim beneath a private waterfall. As one reviewer noted, “Swimming in a waterfall is amazing,” and it’s a unique way to connect with nature. The water is cool and invigorating, and the setting is private enough to feel exclusive.

Lunch with a View
After the hike and swim, you’ll descend to a cliffside overlook for a delicious picnic lunch. The setting—perched above the ocean with views of sea cliffs and remote valleys—is a perfect place to relax, eat, and absorb the landscape. Travelers have praised the lunch spot for its beauty, describing it as “a treat” with stunning scenery.

Further Exploration and Return
Post-lunch, the group will head back in the van for a scenic ride, stopping at a viewpoint or two along the way before being dropped off at your original location. The entire experience, including transportation, is designed to be comfortable and entertaining, with small groups ensuring a more personalized feel.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The knowledgeable guides are consistently highlighted as a major plus. Multiple reviews praise their friendliness, expertise, and ability to weave stories of Hawaiian culture and nature seamlessly into the experience. The attention to detail—supplying walking sticks, water, rain gear, and snacks—means you’re well-prepared without needing to bring much yourself.

The tour’s highlight is its balance. It’s not just sightseeing; it’s about engaging with nature in an active yet accessible way. The waterfalls and scenic vistas are genuinely gorgeous, and the opportunity to cool off in mountain streams is a standout moment, often described as “amazing” or “refreshing.”

Who Will Love This?

This experience is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy gentle adventures and scenic beauty. The small group setting (limited to 10 people) guarantees a friendly, personalized atmosphere, ideal for those who dislike large tour buses. It’s also a good fit for those interested in Hawaiian culture and history, as the tour includes a walk through an old plantation site.

Keep in mind that travelers with mobility issues or pregnant women should consider the uneven terrain and short climbs. Also, it’s advisable to bring sturdy shoes, swimwear, biodegradable sunscreen, and sun protection to fully enjoy the day.

Practical Details and Value

At $261 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that combines scenic beauty, cultural insights, and physical activity. The price includes transportation, an interpretative naturalist guide, filtered water, walking sticks, rain gear, and a deli-style lunch, making it a good value for what’s included.

The tour lasts about 7 hours, starting with pickup times that vary, so planning your day around the schedule is wise. The small group size—limited to 10—enhances interaction and flexibility, making it a more intimate experience than larger tours.

Why It’s Worth Considering

For travelers who want to see Hawaii’s lush, waterfalls, and scenic valleys without strenuous hiking or long drives, this tour hits the sweet spot. The combination of off-road exploration, easy walks, swimming, and cultural stops creates a well-rounded day. Plus, the positive reviews on knowledgeable guides and delicious picnic spots suggest this tour is thoughtfully curated.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation, an interpretative naturalist guide, filtered water, walking sticks, rain gear, sunscreen, bug repellent, and a deli-style lunch and drinks.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including pickup, travel, activities, and drop-off.

Is the hike difficult?
The walk is about one mile over uneven terrain, with some short climbs, making it suitable for most active travelers. People with mobility issues or back problems should consider their comfort level.

Will I have to swim?
Yes, there’s a chance to swim under a waterfall, which is highly recommended for a memorable experience. Water shoes are advised because the rocky entry can be slippery.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, biodegradable sunscreen, a jacket, and closed-toe shoes. Luggage or large bags are not permitted.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children of all ages can enjoy it, but under 3 years old must be carried in a backpack carrier. The tour is fun and manageable for families with active children.

What are the pickup locations?
Pickup is available from multiple locations including resorts and local sites like Hawaii Forest & Trail Kona Headquarters, Four Seasons, and Kohala Zipline.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancelling up to 24 hours in advance provides a full refund. This flexibility is great if your plans change unexpectedly.

Are there any restrictions?
Pregnant women, people with back problems, or mobility impairments should evaluate whether they are comfortable with uneven terrain and short climbs.

Can I reserve now and pay later?
Yes, you can book your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility in your planning.

Final Thoughts

This Kohala Waterfalls adventure offers a rare blend of natural beauty, engaging activities, and cultural insight, all wrapped in a small-group setting. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a light adventure, scenic drives, and the chance to cool off in pristine mountain waters. The guides’ expertise and friendly approach often make the experience feel personalized and memorable.

For those seeking a day of discovery that’s active but not overly strenuous, and that delivers stunning vistas and unique Hawaiian moments, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly appealing for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to connect with Hawaii’s lush landscape and local history.

If your goal is a day filled with scenic beauty, authentic experiences, and quality guidance, this Kohala Waterfalls tour is a solid choice—worth every penny for the memories and photos you’ll bring home.