Waterfalls & Highlights of the Hamakua Coast
-
Port
Hilo, Hawaii, US
-
Activity Level
Moderate
-
Excursion Type
All
-
Wheelchair Accessible
No
-
Starting At
$259.95
-
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
-
Duration
Approximately 6½ Hours
-
Meals Included
Meals not included
Explore the famed Hamakua Coast -- home to magnificent country reminiscent of Old Hawaii. Sparsely populated Hamakua is studded with breathtaking waterfalls, stunning valleys, and eccentric, eclectic towns.
Travel north from Hilo to stop at Tex Drive-In, famous for made-to-order malasadas. These fried Portuguese sweet treats were initially brought to Hawaii by immigrants who worked in the cattle industry. They've been a local favorite ever since. Watch the treats being made through the window and snag a fresh one with a cup of coffee.
Waipio -- the Valley of the Kings -- is a place of impossibly steep cliffs carved by plunging waterfalls. The cliffs and the falls cascade more than a thousand feet to the valley floor below. Waipio Valley has been home to taro farmers for a thousand years. From the overlook, if you're lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the wild horses that roam the terrain below.
Turning off the highway, you'll descend to Laupahoehoe Point. Laupahoehoe village was located here until the 1946 tsunami forced displaced townspeople to move to higher ground. Look for the monument naming those who lost their lives here.
Next, visit Akaka Falls State Park -- site of the largest readily accessible waterfall on the island. You'll traverse a paved walking path right through the center of the lush rain forest to reach Akaka Falls. This stunning waterfall plunges 442 feet down into the water below.
Travel to historical Hilo Bay to enjoy a deli-style sandwich. Spend time here relaxing, swimming, snorkeling or rent a kayak (at your own expense) to explore the bay. Continue your adventure with stops at two iconic locations -- Rainbow Falls and the King Kamehameha statue.
Complete your day with a shopping stop to browse for Hawaiian macadamia nut samples, Hawaii island crafts, local products and Kona coffee.
Notes:
Minimum age is 5 years. Maximum weight is 275 lbs. Wear closed-toe shoes (mandatory). Wear your swimsuit under your clothing; bring a towel, reef-safe/biodegradable sunscreen, light clothing to act as a full cover-up for further protection from the sun, and a hat. Terrain is uneven with stairs. Not suitable for guests with heart, neck or back conditions.