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Big Island Waterfall Tour Highlights

• 10-11 hour duration
• Start time around 7:00-8:30am depending on pickup location
• Offered Monday through Saturday
• Small tour size of up to 13 guests
• Visit some of our favorite waterfalls on the Big Island, including ‘Akaka Falls and Kulaniapia Falls. Take in stunning views from the famous Waipio Valley Lookout, and visit the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden.
• Picnic lunch included plus all park entrance fees, mosquito repellent, and rain gear.
• Ages 5 and older welcome

See the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island

Book the Big Island Waterfall Tour

Big Island Waterfall Tour Details

The best waterfalls on the Big Island are located on the east or windward side of the Island of Hawaii. As most visitors stay on West Hawaii (the leeward or dry side), the tour picks you up at your resort or vacation rental to take you on the drive to East Hawaii.

Start your day with pickup from your hotel in Keauhou, Kona, Waikoloa, or the Kohala Coast and embark on a full day adventure. Pass through the famous Parker Ranch on your way to the Waipio Valley Lookout and take in the views of stunning jagged cliffs along the coastline.

As your day continues, you’ll make your way along the Hamakua Coast, see ‘Akaka Falls, and take in the sights of over 2,000 different exotic plant species at the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden. You’ll even get to enjoy a provided lunch consisting of teriyaki chicken, fish, vegetables, and steamed rice with assorted juices, snacks, and bottled water. Before making your way to Kulaniapia Falls.

Arguably the best, if not the most anticipated part of the tour is the waterfall swim. Welcome to the private Kulaniapia Falls, a 120 foot cascading waterfall that is open to only a handful of people each day. Enjoy this relaxing environment as your day winds to an end before you hit the road back to your hotel. To cap off the tour, you’ll take the scenic route on Saddle Road, which runs between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.

If you’re also looking for some hiking with your waterfall swim, you’ll love this North Kohala Waterfall Swim and Hike!

Big Island Waterfall Tour FAQ

What is the cancellation policy?

Minimum 24 hours notice for groups of 1-5, 48 hours notice for groups of 6 or more, and 72 hour notice for private groups to receive a full refund.

What do we need to bring?

Bring a swimsuit, and wear comfortable summer clothing. Covered walking shoes are recommended.

How much hiking do we do?

There are some short and moderate hikes of no more than 1 mile throughout the tour. Guests must be able to walk on uneven, sloped, and potentially slippery grounds on this tour.

Will we get to swim in the waterfalls?

Yes, if weather permits you can swim at a private waterfall on this tour.

Does this tour drive down into the Waipio Valley?

This tour will only visit the Waipio Valley Lookout. It doesn’t take guests down into the valley.

Can you pick me up at my hotel?

This tour picks up from all resorts and hotels in Keauhou, Kona, Waikoloa, and Kohala Coast between 7:00 am to 8:30 am.

About Wasabi Tours

Founded in 2006, Wasabi Tours has been offering small group tours on the Big Island with the goal of creating a fun, relaxed, educational environment for all of their guests. Their guides are extremely knowledgeable about the history, culture, and stories of the island and the areas they’re touring. Their narration won’t put you to sleep as they’ll having you engaged, laughing, learning, and having a fantastic time the whole way.

Our passion is to showcase the beauty of this paradise with aloha spirit, and we want to share our passion with you in a fun, friendly, and educational manner.

We are affiliate partners with Wasabi Tours which means we receive a small commission for each completed booking made through this site. This is done without any additional cost to you. You can read more about our affiliate policies here. Know that we only recommend tour operators that we know and trust. Your positive experience and your trust in us mean more than any affiliate commission. By booking tours through our website you help us to provide free information and videos to help you and other readers plan their perfect Hawaii vacation. Thank you so much for your support — you are amazing!