A waterfall near Hilo—parking is $10, entry is $5. There’s a small loop trail with a tropical rainforest vibe, featuring a tall waterfall and lots of lush plants. There isn’t a ton to do around Hilo, so we still decided to come—since we were already here anyway. One of our Big Island Airbnb stays was near Akaka Falls, and we happened to find a zipline company right next to it. Since we’d never tried it before, we booked it right away. Experience: 10/10. I’m the kind of person whose legs shake even at the top of a top-rope climb, but the whole course was designed really well and super fun. Before the main zipline over the waterfall, there are six warm-up lines that gradually increase in height and length, starting from about 3 meters above the ground. The scenery changes along the way too—apple banana fields, ocean views, and valleys. My fear of heights slowly got desensitized without even realizing it. There were two guides the whole time—they helped set everything up at the start and finish, and they catch you at the end, so it never felt scary. On the drive there, they also shared a lot about local Hawaiian history, which made the whole experience even more interesting. Of course, the highlight was the final zipline over Akaka Falls. You run off the platform, drop into the air, and when you look back, you see the massive waterfall after two days of heavy rain—with a rainbow in view.
Akaka Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Akaka Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Akaka Falls famous?
Akaka Falls is one of Hawaii's most iconic waterfalls, famous for its dramatic 442-foot (135-meter) free-falling plunge into a lush gorge. Hawaiian legend tells of the warrior Akaka who leaped to his death from the cliff after being caught in a love triangle, giving the falls both its name and cultural significance.
Can you swim at Akaka Falls?
No. Swimming is not permitted at Akaka Falls due to the extreme height and dangerous conditions at the base. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Akaka Falls?
Dogs are not allowed on the Akaka Falls Loop Trail. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Akaka Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Entry fee of $5 per vehicle for non-Hawaii residents; $10 per vehicle for commercial vehicles; free for Hawaii residents with valid ID. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Akaka Falls?
Paved parking lot is available at the park entrance with space for approximately 30-40 vehicles. The trailhead begins directly from the parking area. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Akaka Falls?
About 0.4 miles (0.6 km) loop trail from the parking area, paved and accessible. The loop takes 15-30 minutes to complete. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Akaka Falls hike difficulty
Easy. The paved loop trail features some steps and slight elevation changes through lush rainforest, but is well-maintained and suitable for most visitors. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Akaka Falls?
Year-round access, but November through March offers the highest water flow due to winter rainfall. Mornings are best to avoid crowds and for better lighting. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Akaka Falls
From the parking lot, follow the paved loop trail counterclockwise. The trail descends through tropical rainforest with bamboo groves and giant ferns. You'll first reach a viewpoint for Kahuna Falls, then continue to the main Akaka Falls overlook. The trail loops back uphill to the parking area, completing the circle.
Akaka Falls official website
Attractions near Akaka Falls
- •Kahuna Falls - A 100-foot waterfall visible along the same loop trail at Akaka Falls State Park
- •Rainbow Falls (Wailuku River) - Hilo's iconic 80-foot waterfall, about 20 minutes south
- •Hilo town - Historic downtown with farmers markets, museums, and waterfront parks, 15 miles away
- •Umauma Falls - Multi-tiered waterfall with zipline tours and viewing platforms north of Honomu
- •Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden - Botanical garden with valley views near Onomea Bay
Watch the falls
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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