Akaka Falls

The Basics

Follow the 0.4-mile (0.64-kilometer) loop trail from the parking lot through a lush rain forest filled with orchids, ferns, and bamboo to a scenic overlook of the falls. Take a left at the fork to see Akaka Falls only. Take a right to also get a glimpse of the smaller Kahuna Falls, as well as several small cascade waterfalls.

Akaka Falls is a popular destination from Hilo. A number of full-day tours from Kona also stop at the falls, in addition to Rainbow Falls, Volcano National Park, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, or Waipio Valley. For a more complete experience, consider add-ons such as ziplining over nearby waterfalls or a snorkeling trip to see dolphins or manta rays.

Things to Know Before You Go

• There’s a per-vehicle or per-person entrance fee to Akaka Falls.

• Watch your footing on the trail, which can be slippery from rain.

• Bring insect repellent, as mosquitos can be an issue on the trail.

• It’s a good idea to bring a raincoat or an umbrella.

• With several series of steps to navigate, the trail is not wheelchair-accessible.

• Full-day tours from Kona can last upwards of 10 hours.

How to Get There

Akaka Falls is located inside Akaka Falls State Park, north of Hilo. Between mile markers 13 and 14 on Highway 19, turn uphill onto Akaka Falls Road and drive 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) until you reach the parking lot.

When to Get There

Akaka Falls State Park is open daily, year-round. It’s best to visit in the morning to beat the crowds and the weather. The sun also shines directly onto the falls in the morning, making for better photos.

Swimming Upstream

There is a species of goby fish (o’opu alamao’o in Hawaiian) that spawns upstream of the falls. It lives in the Pacific Ocean but will swim upstream and climb up the entire length of Akaka Falls, using a special suction disk on its belly, to lay its eggs. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae get washed down the falls and back into the ocean.

Ways to explore

Akaka Falls is a popular tour destination. Most outfitters head out from nearby Hilo, though many full-day tours from Kona also stop at the falls—those typically combine Akaka Falls with Rainbow Falls, Volcano National Park, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, or Waipio Valley with its dramatic cliffs.

You can also visit on your own (parking and entrance fees required). A short 0.4-mile (0.64-kilometer) loop trail from the parking lot runs through a lush rainforest filled with orchids, bamboo, and ferns to a scenic overlook of the rushing waterfall.

Accessibility

Not wheelchair-accessible; the short, paved trail has stairs with handrails.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water bottle, camera, rain jacket, snacks, and bug spray

What to wear

Comfortable, sturdy shoes with good traction, hat, sunglasses

Not allowed

Dogs, littering, mountain biking

Amenities

Restrooms, water fountains, paved parking, picnic areas

Address

Akaka Falls State Park is located at the end of Akaka Falls Road (Highway 220), 11 miles (18 kilometers) north of Hilo on Hawaii's Big Island. It’s easily accessible by car—with entrance and parking fees—or via tour.

Driving

Take Highway 19 north from Hilo, turn on Akaka Falls Road (Highway 220), then drive about 3.5 miles uphill to the park entrance. It’s about 25 minutes from Hilo.

Public transportation

Options are limited. You could take a bus to Wainaku Park, but from there, you’d need to take a taxi.

Best times to visit

Visit before 11am to beat the crowds and see the waterfalls illuminated by the sun.

Best days to visit

Weekends and public holidays are generally busier, so planning a weekday visit provides a more tranquil experience.

Best months to visit

In April to October, you’ll experience less rainfall and drier exploration conditions, but November through March (the rainy season) offers the most powerful falls—really, there’s no bad time.