Akaka Falls State Park: Our most recommended tours and activities

Big Island: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, & Coffee Farm Day-Trip

1. Big Island: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, & Coffee Farm Day-Trip

The morning is filled with guided visits to some of the most majestic waterfalls on the Big Island. The views stop you in your tracks at the Waipio Valley lookout, where a dramatic backdrop of lush cliffs drops into the sparkling blue ocean. Continue riding along the Hamakua coast as more postcard-worthy views pass by your window before visiting Akaka Falls and the famous Rainbow Falls. Take a short walk through the rainforest for an up-close view and plenty of photo opportunities. In the afternoon, explore the wonders of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, including steam vents, the Halema’uma’u, and Kilauea Iki crater lookouts, and take a short hike along the crater rim trail.  From here, relax and take it all in at Punalu’u Beach, a great place to spot marine life from the black-sand shore. On the leisurely drive back around sunset, you’ll see views of South Point, the southernmost point of the United States, and Kealakekua Bay.  Finally, enjoy a visit to Kona Coffee Farm. Stroll through the orchards with your guide and learn about the harvesting and milling process while sampling a warm cup of Kona-grown coffee.

Big Island Tour Bundle: Self-Drive Sightseeing Road Trip

2. Big Island Tour Bundle: Self-Drive Sightseeing Road Trip

Welcome to Shaka Guide's audio tour app, your gateway to the remarkable wonders of the Big Island of Hawaii. Get ready to embark on a captivating adventure through diverse landscapes, active volcanoes, lush rainforests, and stunning coastlines. As you begin your tour of the Big Island with the Shaka Guide app, prepare to be amazed by the island's natural beauty, unique geological formations, and rich cultural heritage. The app will provide informative and engaging audio commentary, sharing insights into the island's volcanic activity, endemic wildlife, ancient legends, and local traditions. Your journey starts along the Kona Coast, known for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. The app will guide you to scenic overlooks, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the turquoise waters and explore picturesque beach towns such as Kailua-Kona and Kealakekua Bay. Continue your exploration of the island as you venture to the majestic Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The app will lead you through the park's scenic drives and trails, providing information about the island's volcanic history, geological wonders, and the awe-inspiring Kilauea volcano. Discover the lush beauty of the Hamakua Coast, where the app will guide you through scenic drives and waterfalls. Marvel at the towering Akaka Falls, stroll through the tropical gardens of the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, and learn about the island's agricultural history in the charming town of Hilo. Explore the mystical Waipio Valley, known for its dramatic cliffs, black sand beach, and rich cultural significance. The app will share stories and legends associated with this sacred place as you navigate the steep road into the valley or opt for a scenic lookout. Visit the stunning beaches of the Big Island, from the golden sands of Hapuna Beach to the green sea turtle haven of Punalu'u Black Sand Beach. The app will guide you to the best spots for relaxation, snorkeling, and witnessing the island's diverse marine life. As you venture to the Kohala Coast, the app will lead you to historic sites such as Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site, where you can learn about the island's ancient Hawaiian history and visit sacred temples. Throughout your journey, the Shaka Guide app will recommend local eateries, hidden gems, and cultural experiences that will enrich your visit to the Big Island. Whether it's sampling local Hawaiian cuisine, attending a traditional hula performance, or visiting a coffee plantation, the app will provide valuable insights to enhance your trip. With the Shaka Guide app as your knowledgeable companion, your tour of the Big Island will be enriched with fascinating stories, natural insights, and practical information. So, grab your phone, and get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey through the captivating landscapes and rich culture of the Big Island of Hawaii.

Big Island: Hilo Doors-Off Lava and Rainforest Adventure

3. Big Island: Hilo Doors-Off Lava and Rainforest Adventure

On this helicopter doors-off experience, you will see the best of the Big Island, with views only accessible by air. See giant waterfalls flowing down gorgeous cliffs and active glowing lava. For those wanting to see Hawaii from a bird's eye view, this tour will take you there. Jump aboard the Hughes 500 Helicopter doors-off and fly over one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Find out for yourself why this is the ”hottest helicopter ride on Earth.” After over 35 years of activity, Kīlauea Volcano has made its mark on the geological structure of the island. Witness otherworldly landscapes like the incredible 8-mile river of frozen lava from Fissure 8 to the Pacific Ocean, the newest black sand beaches, and enormous craters created by recent events. Along the way, view Mauna Loa’s vistas, the beauty of lush Puna rainforests, and mesmerizing Hilo waterfalls. With no windows to shoot through, there is no better way for you to share crystal clear photographs and videos of your experience. Many of these Hawaii waterfalls are accessible by air only so you will gain exclusive access to some of the largest waterfalls on the island. 

Big Island: Self-Guided Audio Driving Tours - Full Island

4. Big Island: Self-Guided Audio Driving Tours - Full Island

Don’t miss a thing as your favorite audio tour narrator guides you across Big Island to not-to-be-missed viewpoints, with fascinating stories, tips and directions along the way. Follow the suggested itineraries, or divide the commentary and create your own half, full or multi day sightseeing trips. The Island of Hawaii, often simply referred to as the Big Island due to its size, is famous for its incredible natural attractions, including massive volcanoes, black-sand beaches and lush valleys. Major Highlights: Volcanoes National Park Chain of Craters Road Halema'uma'u Thurston Lava Tube Petroglyphs Devastation Trail Holei Sea Arch Waimea Hamakua Coast Hilo Coffee Coast Place of Refuge Akaka Falls Kona Waipio Valley Pololu Valley Kealakekua Bay Liliuokalani Gardens Hawi Kamehameha Statue Rainbow Falls Kohala Coast Includes: Volcanoes National Park The Big Island's most famous and popular place to visit. In the park there are many amazing formations created by eruptions spread over hundreds and thousands of years. There are two driving routes in the park and expect to spend minimum 2-3 hours exploring. Add the driving time to get there and back, means this is a full day outing. The drive to the park is scenic and it's strongly recommended to drive by going south from Kona using Hwy 11 to pass around the bottom of the island and then up the eastern side. The commentary provides an entertaining and informative description of volcanology and Hawaiian mythology along the way. From Hilo, its's just a 45 minute drive to the entrance. Island Circle Navigating around the entire island includes the tropical and green Hamakua Coast, dotted with sugar plantations towns and amazing rocky coast scenery. A long but manageable day, and make sure to allocate some time for exploring around Hilo. Kohala North Loop Driving from Kona to Hawi is an amazing journey with beaches, a surprisingly arid coast at times, views to Maui, black sand beaches from cliff viewpoints and driving over an old volcanic mountain makes for an excellent half day or longer of sightseeing. Follow the tour as it drives a loop itinerary that gives you a fantastic sample of old Hawaii, modern Hawaii, awesome beaches and huge ranches. Kona Coffee Coast Kailua-Kona is the active hub of the western side of Hawaii and features energetic shopping and dining choices, mixed with historic landmarks and fun beaches. Follow the road that heads south along the coast to tour through this vibrant area. But then, you'll quickly transition to areas of incredible Hawaiian cultural importance and sites that have been preserved for prosperity. Bring your snorkel gear as the audio tour points out places to see fish and turtles.

Big Island: Small Group Waterfalls Adventure

5. Big Island: Small Group Waterfalls Adventure

Explore Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden, swim at Kulanipia private waterfalls, visit majestic Waipio Valley Lookout, and the stunning Akaka Falls on the Hamakua Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii on this full day of fun and exciting adventure. Discover the island’s diverse natural beauty, including multiple waterfalls, lush rain forests, and rugged sea cliffs as your guide shares history and legends. The morning begins with a visit to the majestic Waipio Valley Lookout after passing through the famous Parker Ranch. Marvel at the stunning views of the rugged sea cliffs drop into the sparkling blue ocean and mile-long black sand beach. A drive along the scenic Hamakua Coast will greet you with a burst of energy as the splendid waterfalls await – capture the famous Akaka Falls while you hear the unrivaled power of water coursing down hundreds of feet. Continue to a garden nestled in the scenic Onomea Bay – Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden. Throughout this garden valley, nature trails meander through a true tropical rainforest, crossing bubbling streams, passing several beautiful waterfalls, and the exciting ocean vistas along the rugged Pacific Coast. This highly acclaimed garden allows you to take up-close shots of rare and exotic flora-over 2000 species of exotic tropical plants and orchids in a tranquil setting. In the afternoon, you will escape the crowd and get to swim under the 120 feet tall Kulaniapia private waterfall, Hawaii’s largest privately accessible waterfall, to cool down and relax when river conditions permit. The adventure ends with the return to Kona or Kohala Coast via a spectacular drive on Saddle Road, a highway nestled between the world’s tallest sea mountain Mauna Kea and the world’s most massive mountain Mauna Loa.

Private - All Inclusive Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour

6. Private - All Inclusive Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour

Following pick up at your place of lodging, we travel over Saddle Road between two of the largest volcanoes on Earth, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, to the lush east coast of the Big Island. Our first stop is at the iconic Wailuku River State Park and we will take in the majestic beauty of Rainbow Falls. From there, we will continue to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve, this iconic park encompasses the summit of two of the world’s most active volcanoes and extends from sea level up to the summit of Mauna Loa at 13,677 feet. It’s home to critically endangered wildlife and some of the most unique geological, biological, and cultural landscapes on earth. Upon entering the park, enjoy a walk along the rim of Halema‘uma‘u Crater for unique views of the current eruption. Also, we will stop and see the natural steam vents at Wahinekapu. From there we will travel down the Chain of Craters road to the Thurston lava tube. Experience this massive lava tube which is 600 feet long and over 20 feet tall in some places. Depending on what your group would like to do and see, additional stops in the Park can include Ha'akulamanu (Sulfur Banks), Mauanulu lava fields, Pauahi Crater, Holei Sea Arch, and Pu'uloa petroglyph field. At sunset, hike out to the best lava viewing location along the rim of Halema’uma’u crater to witness the active eruption as the sun goes down and gets dark. Following our night lava viewing, sit and relax for dinner in the town of Volcano before departing back to your place of lodging feeling happy, full, and filled with exciting new memories.

Ultimate Circle Island Explorer From Kona with Lunch

7. Ultimate Circle Island Explorer From Kona with Lunch

Start your action-packed day of discovery on the Big Island by visiting some of its most popular and spectacular landmarks. During your guided tour of the Island you will visit landmarks such as the Kona coffee farm, including a private tasting and tour, a Black Sand beach for turtle viewing, the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island Candies, Akaka Falls, and the Waipio Valley Overlook. Next, travel to the crown jewel of Hawaii, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Visit the Kilauea Visitor’s Center, the Kilauea Iki Crater Overlook, and Steaming Bluffs. Take a walk through the famous Volcano House to view the smoking and steaming Kilauea Caldera. Dropping down into the lush eastern side of Kilauea Volcano your next stop is Big Island Candies. Founded in 1977, Big Island Candies are famous for their quality. Big Island Candies welcomes everyone with samples of their amazing confections, still handmade using only the highest quality ingredients. Peek through the windows into the factory or browse the selection of gorgeous jewel-box gifts. Waipio Valley is still home to taro farmers as it has been for a thousand years. Look closely from the overlook where glimpses of the wild horses that roam the valley floor might be possible. Afterwards, you will return to your hotel.

Private - All Inclusive Big Island Circle Tour

8. Private - All Inclusive Big Island Circle Tour

Discover the beauty and grace of the Big Island of Hawaii on a private tour. Explore some of the island's most unique and idyllic locations, including the Kona coast, Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, Hilo's iconic waterfalls, and the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Sit back and relax as all meals and drinks (excluding alcoholic ones) are included throughout your day. Make your way to your first stop: the South Kona Coffee Farm for a tour and coffee sampling. Travel south along the striking Kona coast and absorb the breathtaking views of lush vegetation and coastline. Listen to your guide describe the cultural history of the area as well as the local flora and fauna. Then, visit the southernmost bakery in the United States, Punalu‘u Bakery. World renown for their sweet bread, malasadas, and other delicious treats. Enjoy a malasada and a coffee or tea. Continue your tour to one of the prettiest black sand beaches in all of the Hawaiian Islands, Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach. Relax with black sand between your toes while listening to the wind move through the palms. Keep a look out for green and hawksbill sea turtles that frequent the beach. Next, make your way to the the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve. This iconic park encompasses the summit of two of the world’s most active volcanoes and extends from sea level up to the summit of Mauna Loa at 13,677 feet. Explore the main attractions in the park including the Thurston Lava Tube, Chain of Craters Road, and a nature walk along the Halema‘uma‘u Crater. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the beauty of the park before embarking on the next leg of your adventure. From the park, venture up to Hilo to visit the picturesque Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls State Park. Both waterfalls are a sight to behold. Beautiful falls combined with lush vegetation make these stops photo-worthy. Then, drive along the 50-mile stretch of the Hamakua Coast with its hidden waterfalls, tropical rainforest, and lush green valleys. Described as one of the most beautiful locations in the state, it’s well worth the scenic drive. Arrive at Waipio Valley in the late afternoon. Enjoy the sprawling views as your guide explains the rich history of the area. Continue your ride to marvel at the bright sunset views of Waimea. To get there, travel through Paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) country and take in this historic area with its rolling, green pastures, the home to cattle, cowboys, and one of the largest cattle ranches in the United States; Parker Ranch. Enjoy a local and authentic dinner in Waimea where surf and turf is a definite menu staple, before returning to your hotel.

Big Island Volcano Adventure: Full-Day from Hilo

9. Big Island Volcano Adventure: Full-Day from Hilo

The highlight of our Hilo adventure is a visit to the world-famous Kilauea Volcano, which has been erupting continuously since the 1980s. Your guide will tell you about the history of the volcano on your visit to the park and the Kilauea lava flow. On our Big Island Volcano Adventure enjoy the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park - Visitor Center, an ancient lava tube, Kilauea Iki Crater and more. We’ll take you on a drive along the famed Banyan Tree Drive. The trees you’ll see on the this road were planted by various local Hawaiians, political and religious leaders, famous authors, movie stars and world adventurers beginning back in 1933. At Akaka Falls we’ll stop so you can take photos. This waterfall is 80 feet tall and nearly 100 feet wide, and flows over a natural lava cave into a large freshwater pool surrounded by thick tropical vegetation.

Private - All Inclusive Big Island Waterfalls Tour

10. Private - All Inclusive Big Island Waterfalls Tour

Experience the best waterfalls of the Big Island on this private waterfall tour. Visit a private waterfall location at Kulaniapia and relax in the beauty and tranquility of this 42-acre property which boasts 4 waterfalls, bamboo gardens and miles of trails. The largest waterfall on the property cascades 120 feet into a protected pool, perfect for swimming activities. Experience the majestic waterfalls and the lush tropical landscape of this private property and, if conditions permit, take dip or enjoy the provided extras such as kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. Then, head to the iconic Wailuku River State Park and take in the magnificent beauty of Rainbow Falls and Boiling Pots (bubbling basalt-lava rock pools). After working up an appetite, enjoy a delicious locally sourced lunch from a local restaurant. From here, cruise along Onomea’s scenic route passing through the lush rainforest and rugged coastline of the Hamakua coastline. Stop for photos and views of beautiful waterfalls along the way. Next, take a guided walk through Akaka Falls State Park. Hear about the rich botanical life found throughout the park from your naturalist and have the opportunity to view 2 spectacular waterfalls. Gaze at Akaka falls, which cascades 442 feet down a vertical bright green cliff face. Before returning home, drive through the historic downtown Hilo and learn about the area's rich culture, volcanic activity, and city history. t

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Akaka Falls State Park

Akaka Falls State Park
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What people are saying about Akaka Falls State Park

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 151 reviews

It was a jam packed day full of sights around the island. our guide Awana was very knowledgeable and did a great job providing us with stories, recommendations and jokes. Would recommend to those hoping to see a lot of sights in a short amount of time

Awana was wonderful! We went to places I would have never considered going as well as a few typical tourist locations. He told us about some history that you don’t really think about that added to the experience.

This was the best tour I did on my Hawaii trip. Jaclyn was an excellent guide. She was very knowledgeable and passionate about Hawaii. It was great circling around the island on this tour.

It’s a great trip and really worth it! We visited many unique sightseeing points that really showed the beauty of Mother Nature.

Great app and tour of the big island. Very accurate gps coordination with tour speaking. I would highly recommend. So Worth it.