Big Island: 3-Hour Kohala Canopy Zipline Adventure

Imagine soaring through Hawaii’s lush forests on a network of eight exhilarating zip lines, crossing sky bridges, and ending with a rappelling descent. This full canopy tour, based within a protected forest on the Kohala Coast, offers a blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural storytelling—perfect whether you’re new to ziplining or a seasoned thrill-seeker. For $246 per person, you get around three hours of high-flying fun, guided by certified experts who ensure your safety and enjoyment.

What we love most about this experience is its balanced approach: the expert guides like Curtis, Eli, and BooBoo keep the energy high and the safety standards rigorous, making it a comfortable choice for beginners. Plus, the stunning scenery—a part of the historic Halawa Lands—adds a visual richness that turns flying from tree to tree into a lesson in Hawaiian natural beauty and legends.

One possible consideration is the duration, which is just enough to feel exciting without being exhausting, but it does mean that for those seeking a longer adventure, this might feel a bit brief. Still, the compact format makes it ideal for those with tight schedules or those wanting a quick adrenaline fix. This tour suits families with children over 8, adventure travelers, or anyone looking to experience Hawaii’s rainforest from a unique perspective—safely, comfortably, and with a touch of education.

Key Points

• Full Canopy Experience: Includes 8 zip lines, 6 sky bridges, and a rappel—Hawaii’s only such full course.
• Expert Guides: Certified guides like Curtis, Eli, and BooBoo lead with safety, stories, and encouragement.
• Stunning Setting: Located in a historic forest reserve, part of King Kamehameha’s Halawa Lands.
• All-Inclusive: Gear, safety equipment, rainwear, water, sunscreen, and bug spray included.
• Suitable for Beginners: No prior experience needed; minimum age is 8, maximum weight is 270 lbs.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Kohala Zipline Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins at the Kohala Zipline Headquarters in Hawi, which is roughly a 30-minute drive from the popular resort areas of Kona or Waimea. The journey itself is part of the charm, as you wind through the North Kohala landscape—rolling hills, lush greenery, and occasional glimpses of the coast. Once there, you’ll meet your guides, who make the check-in process smooth and friendly. The fact that groups are limited to just 8 people really enhances the feeling of exclusivity and personalized attention.

The Drive to the Forest Reserve

Before starting the zipline, you’ll hop into a 4×4 vehicle for a short off-road drive into the forest. This off-the-beaten-path approach adds a touch of adventure even before you strap in. The guides often share stories about the land’s significance and legends of King Kamehameha, enriching your understanding of the area’s history and culture.

Gear Up and Safety First

The tour includes all necessary safety gear—harnesses, helmets, and gloves—plus rainwear if the weather turns damp. We appreciated the high safety standards, which are especially important given the heights and speeds involved. The guides also provide a comprehensive safety briefing, ensuring everyone feels confident before stepping onto the first platform.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Zipline Course

The heart of the experience is the eight zip lines. These vary in length and height, giving a good mix of quick glides and longer, more thrilling rides. Some reviewers have loved the sensation of flying at speeds up to 45 mph, feeling like a bird in flight—an experience many find unforgettable. The scenery is breathtaking: towering trees, dense foliage, and panoramic views of the Kohala coast.

Sky Bridges and Rappelling

Connecting the zip lines are six sky bridges, which give you a chance to pause, take in the views, and enjoy a little walk among the treetops. The bridges are sturdy but designed to sway gently, adding a dash of excitement. The tour culminates with a rappel, a controlled descent which feels both empowering and fun. One guest noted, “I pushed myself out of my comfort zone and loved every minute,” highlighting how accessible the experience is for many.

Watching Others and Relaxing

Between runs, you can catch your breath, watch others zip through the canopy, and soak in the lush surroundings. Water breaks are offered, and the guides keep the energy lively with stories about the land and culture. The natural setting and the enthusiasm of the guides create a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

Returning and Reflection

After the final rappel, you’ll hop back into the 4×4 for the scenic ride back to the start point. Many guests comment on how quickly the three hours pass, leaving them already planning a return trip.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour covers almost everything you need: all safety gear, rainwear, water, sunscreen, bug spray, and local taxes. You’ll want to bring a T-shirt, closed-toe shoes, and perhaps a light jacket or sweatshirt. Short shorts, sleeveless shirts, or loose clothing are discouraged for safety reasons. Expect to weigh between 70 and 270 lbs, with check-in weighing required—so be honest to avoid surprises.

Not Included

You can rent a GoPro or buy professional photos if you want to capture your flight, but these are not included in the base price.

The Reviews in Their Own Words

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides. One said, “Curtis, Eli, and BooBoo were AMAZING,” emphasizing how guides blend safety with fun storytelling. Many mention the stunning setting—the lush forests and views—making the experience feel authentic and memorable.

Others appreciated the value for money: “Everyone, from grandparents to teenagers, had a blast,” and “The guides, gear, and scenery all added up to a wonderful bonding experience.” Bright, enthusiastic guides like Paisley, Cassie, and Dave seem to make a difference, creating a friendly and safe environment.

Suitability and Accessibility

This tour is best suited for children over 8, and those who are comfortable walking over uneven terrain and climbing about 25 stairs. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with back or mobility issues, or anyone afraid of heights. The weight limits and age restrictions ensure safety while still allowing most adventure lovers to participate.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you crave a well-organized, safe, and scenic zipline adventure with a touch of culture and history, this tour hits the mark. The small group size makes it personal, and the guides’ enthusiasm and professionalism encourage confidence, even for first-timers. The stunning forest setting and panoramic views provide a memorable backdrop that elevates the experience beyond just zipping through trees.

However, if you’re after an extremely long or physically demanding adventure, this may feel a little short and gentle. It’s perfect for those who want a balanced dose of adrenaline and scenery—a taste of Hawaii’s wilderness from an exciting, bird’s-eye vantage point.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about three hours, including check-in, gear-up, the zipline course, and return travel.

Is prior experience necessary?
No, this full canopy tour is designed to be accessible for beginners. Guides ensure everyone feels safe and confident.

What equipment is provided?
All safety gear, including harnesses, helmets, gloves, and rainwear, is included in the price. You might rent a GoPro or buy professional photos separately.

Are there weight or age restrictions?
Yes, participants need to weigh between 70 and 270 lbs and be at least 8 years old. No refunds are given if you fall outside these limits.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are required. Wear a T-shirt, pants or knee-length shorts, and a light jacket if needed. Avoid sleeveless shirts or loose clothing.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, because it involves walking over uneven terrain and climbing about 25 stairs. It’s best suited for those in good physical condition.

The Big Island Kohala Canopy Zipline Adventure offers an impressive combination of thrill, scenery, and cultural storytelling. It’s a well-organized tour with expert guides that ensures safety without sacrificing fun. The stunning forest setting and the chance to fly through the canopy at speeds up to 45 mph make it a memorable experience, especially for those eager to see Hawaii from a new perspective.

This tour stands out for its value, considering the number of zip lines, sky bridges, and the quality of guides. While it’s not the longest or most intense adventure, it strikes a great balance between excitement, accessibility, and natural beauty. It’s an excellent choice for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a fun, scenic, and safe way to explore Hawaii’s forests.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, well-reviewed zipline experience that combines adventure with cultural insights, this tour in Kohala could be just what you need to elevate your Hawaiian vacation.

You can check availability for your dates here: