Big Island: Full-Day Kohala Zipline and Waterfall Adventure

Big Island: Full-Day Kohala Zipline and Waterfall Adventure offers a mix of adrenaline, scenic beauty, and authentic Hawaiian charm. For $340 a person, you spend around nine hours exploring the island’s northern reaches, combining a thrilling full aerial canopy zipline course with an intimate waterfall trek. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour is perfect for those seeking an active day with spectacular views, unique experiences, and a bit of Hawaiian storytelling.

What we particularly love about this tour is the combination of adventure and tranquility—you’ll soar through the treetops with certified guides, then cool off in the privacy of waterfalls that feel worlds away from crowded tourist spots. Plus, the lunch with ocean and valley views is a highlight that adds a relaxed, scenic element to the day.

One thing to consider is the tour’s physical requirements—participants need to be able to walk over uneven terrain, handle stairs, and fit within a weight range of 70 to 270 lbs. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, very young children, or those with mobility challenges. That said, if you’re an active traveler who enjoys heights and nature, this experience hits a sweet spot for fun, learning, and scenic beauty.

This adventure is ideal for families with older children, adventurers eager to explore Hawaii’s interior, or anyone wanting to combine physical activity with stunning natural vistas. With small group sizes (limited to nine participants), you’ll enjoy personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

Key Points

• Scenic Diversity: Combining ziplining, waterfalls, and mountain views makes for a varied and memorable day.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides tell stories and ensure safety, making the experience accessible and engaging.
• Authentic Settings: The tour takes you through private nature reserves and along unspoiled coastlines.
• Balanced Activity Level: Suitable for active travelers comfortable with walking, stairs, and heights.
• Excellent Value: Includes a comprehensive package—zipline, waterfall swim, lunch, and all gear.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups enhance safety, comfort, and interaction.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Kohala Zipline and Waterfall Experience

Starting the Adventure: From Kona to Kohala

Your day begins with a drive along Hawaii’s scenic coast from Kona, heading north to Hawi, a charming town that acts as the gateway to the island’s more rugged, lush interior. The journey itself is part of the experience, as your guide shares stories about Kohala’s geology, history, and legends—adding context to the stunning views you’ll soon encounter.

Once at the Kohala Zipline headquarters, you’ll get suited up with all necessary safety gear, including harnesses, helmets, and gloves. This is also where your guides—certified professionals committed to safety—initiate a quick briefing, during which they’ll explain the rules and what to expect at each zipline segment.

The Aerial Canopy Course: Soaring Through the Forest

The highlight of the tour is the full aerial canopy course—a series of eight zip lines and six sky bridges that crisscross the treetops of Kohala. We loved the unique interpretive elements incorporated into the course; guides weave Hawaiian legends and facts about native flora and fauna into their commentary, making the experience both thrilling and educational.

Guides Dane and others keep a close eye on safety and are enthusiastic storytellers, making the journey through treetops feel both exhilarating and secure. The course is designed to be accessible but still provides enough thrill for those comfortable with heights.

One reviewer remarked, “Dane was a great guide. He was very knowledgeable and friendly,” which perfectly captures the friendly, professional atmosphere. The zipline length, the views of lush forests, and the sensation of flying above the canopy make this a memorable highlight.

Lunch with a View: Rest and Refresh

After the adrenaline rush, you’ll descend to a private picnic area on Kohala Mountain. Here, a deli-style lunch awaits—sandwich options include turkey, ham, pastrami, or veggie, accompanied by chips and a cookie. The real treat is the location: tables set against panoramic views of the Kohala Coastline and Haleakala in the distance. It’s a perfect spot to relax, reflect on the morning’s adventure, and soak in some of Hawaii’s natural beauty.

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Waterfall Trek and Swimming: Peaceful Nature Close-Up

Post-lunch, you’ll gear up for a walk along a private trail that borders a former sugarcane plantation. This part of the trip offers dramatic views of Pololu Valley and the chance to see secluded waterfalls—a rare find away from busy tourist spots.

We loved the way the trail combined scenic overlooks, charming bridges, and intimate waterfalls, giving a glimpse into Hawaii’s lush interior. The highlight: a refreshing dip in a private waterfall pool—a perfect way to cool off after the morning’s activity. Multiple reviews praise the waterfalls for their serenity and natural beauty, with one noting, “We enjoyed a dip under one of the waterfalls to cool off.”

Practical Details: What to Know Before You Go

The tour lasts about nine hours, including transportation, activities, and breaks. Small groups (up to nine people) mean you get personalized attention, and the pick-up service from Kona makes logistics straightforward. The tour includes all essential gear, towels, rain and bug protection, and drinks, adding a lot of value to the experience.

Participants must weigh between 70 and 270 pounds, be at least 8 years old, and be able to walk over uneven terrain and stairs. The physical demands are manageable for most active travelers, but it’s worth noting if you have mobility challenges or are pregnant.

Real-World Experiences and Feedback

Several reviewers highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude. Carmen from the U.S. said, “Our family had a wonderful time. Highly recommend!” Georga Phyllis from the UK appreciated Dane’s storytelling, noting it made the drive to and from the site more fun. Patti praised the patience of guides, emphasizing that they go out of their way to ensure everyone understands safety procedures.

A common theme is the stunning scenery and professional guides, making the adventure both safe and truly memorable. However, some mentioned that the photos taken during ziplining are not of high quality, so if capturing memories is crucial, consider bringing your own camera or renting one.

Pricing and Value

At $340 per person, the tour offers quite a comprehensive package: zipline adventure, waterfall swim, scenic lunch, all gear, and expert guides. Considering the high-quality instruction, safety standards, and exclusive access to private waterfalls, it represents good value—especially compared to the cost of individual activities or private tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers comfortable with heights and walking over uneven terrain. It’s ideal for families with children aged 8 and up, couples, or groups of friends craving a full day of outdoor fun and scenic beauty.

If you’re a nature lover eager to explore Hawaii’s interior landscapes, combined with a love of ziplining and waterfalls, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable day. However, if you prefer a more relaxed or less active experience, you might want to look for something gentler.

Final Thoughts

This Kohala zipline and waterfall adventure provides a beautiful blend of excitement and serenity. The guides’ local knowledge and safety focus make it accessible and fun, while the scenery—ranging from lush forests and mountain vistas to secluded waterfalls—is stunning. The inclusion of a scenic lunch and a private waterfall swim creates a satisfying balance of activity and relaxation.

Given the reviews praising the guides’ friendliness and the breathtaking views, it’s clear this tour delivers more than just a thrill—it offers a genuine connection to Hawaii’s natural beauty. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting to combine adventure with scenic splendor in a safe, small-group setting.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from designated locations around the Waikoloa / Kohala Coast resort areas is included, and the adventure starts from the Kona headquarters.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately nine hours, including travel, activities, and breaks.

What should I bring?
You should bring swimwear, a jacket, and closed-toe shoes. Avoid sandals, flip-flops, backpacks, and sleeveless shirts.

Are there weight or age restrictions?
Participants must weigh between 70 and 270 lbs and be at least 8 years old. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

What safety measures are in place?
All zipline safety gear is provided, and certified guides lead the experience, ensuring safety standards are met and explained.

Can I take photos during the ziplining?
Yes, but professional photos are available for purchase. The included photos taken during ziplining are not highly rated, so consider bringing your own camera.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children 8 years and older who meet the weight and mobility requirements will find this adventure thrilling and fun.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility to plan your trip.

This tour stands out for its perfect mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and local storytelling. It’s an excellent way to experience Hawaii’s diverse landscapes in a single day, making it a memorable highlight of your Big Island trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: