Big Island: Kohala Zipline & Private Waterfall Swim Day Tour

Summary

Zipline adventure in Kohala plus a private waterfall swim with picnic lunch

You’ll start your day with pickup in Kona and head north to zipline above Kohala’s forests, cross suspension bridges, and rappel down tree platforms. Swim under a private waterfall fed by mountain streams before sharing a picnic lunch overlooking the coast. Expect laughter, cool water, and stories from your local guide—the kind of day you’ll remember every time you hear wind in the trees.

What’s the experience like?

We were bumping along the road out of Kona before I’d even finished my coffee—our guide, Kaleo, had that kind of easy laugh that makes you forget how early it is. He pointed out old lava flows as we wound into North Kohala, which I only half-listened to at first (sorry, Kaleo), but then he started telling stories about King Kamehameha’s childhood here and suddenly I was wide awake. The air changed too, cooler and sweet with ginger somewhere nearby. I remember thinking the green here looks different—almost electric after all that black rock near Kona.

The ziplining part? Honestly, my hands were shaking when they strapped me in. Eight lines, six wobbly bridges (I counted), one rappel—my knees definitely noticed that last bit. But flying over those trees was wild; you could see the ocean blinking through gaps in the canopy. At one point I yelled something (not printable) and the guy behind me just whooped back. There’s this moment on the longest line where everything goes quiet except for wind and your own heartbeat—I still think about that.

Afterwards we hiked down to these old stone terraces—Kaleo said they were ancient taro fields—and then followed a muddy path to a waterfall hidden by vines. The water was cold enough to make you gasp but so clear you could see pebbles on the bottom. Lunch was simple sandwiches but tasted like five-star stuff sitting above the Kohala Coast with wet hair and sun on your face. Someone passed around fresh pineapple and we all just sat there for a while not saying much, which felt right somehow.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kohala Zipline and Waterfall Swim

• Get picked up early morning
• Zipline across 8 lines and 6 bridges
• Rappel and explore tree platforms
• Visit private mountain streams and waterfalls
• Swim under private waterfall
• Enjoy picnic lunch with Kohala Coast views

Top questions

How long is the Kohala Zip & Dip tour from Kona?

This is a full-day tour departing early morning from Kona with return in the afternoon.

Is hotel pickup included for this Big Island zipline tour?

Yes, pickup is included—check your confirmation for exact time and location.

What should I wear or bring for the Kohala Zip & Dip?

Wear closed-toe shoes, bring or wear a bathing suit, and pack a light layer or sweatshirt.

Are meals provided during this day trip?

A picnic-style lunch with snacks and beverages is included during the tour.

Can children join this Big Island zipline & waterfall tour?

Children aged 8+ can participate; kids 8-13 must zipline with an adult.

Is swimming at the private waterfall part of every tour?

Yes, swimming under a private waterfall is included if conditions allow.

Are there weight or health restrictions for this activity?

Participants must weigh between 70-270 lbs; not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues.

How many people are on each van or group?

The maximum number per van is nine guests for a small-group experience.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Kona, all necessary zipline gear (helmet, gloves, harness), access fees for private lands in Kohala, rain gear if needed, snacks along the way, drinks to keep you going, a simple picnic lunch overlooking the coast—and always a local naturalist guide leading every step (and making sure nobody gets lost crossing those bridges).