Big Island: Zipline Adventure Near Akaka Falls & 250ft Waterfall

Summary

Zip above waterfalls & banana fields near Akaka Falls with local guides

You’ll soar above jungle canopies on seven ziplines near Akaka Falls, guided by locals who know every tree and field below. Feel the spray from Kolekole’s 250ft waterfall as you cross its roar, then laugh off your nerves with new friends back at base. This Big Island zipline adventure mixes adrenaline with real island stories — it lingers longer than you’d expect.

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t look down,” someone joked as we clipped in for the first line — but honestly, I couldn’t help it. The Big Island zipline tour near Akaka Falls started off easy, just a short glide over some apple banana trees and red ginger. Our guide, Keahi, pointed out the sugarcane fields below and told us his uncle used to work them. The air smelled like wet leaves (it had rained earlier), and my hands were already sweaty inside the gloves — nerves or humidity, not sure which.

By the third zipline I finally stopped gripping so hard. There was this moment when the wind hit my face mid-flight and I could hear nothing but the whir of the pulley and a couple of birds yelling at each other somewhere in the trees. The group ahead cheered when someone did a spin — I didn’t try that, maybe next time. Keahi kept things light but checked our harnesses every single time, which made me trust him more than I expected. He laughed when I asked if anyone ever chickened out before the big one (“sometimes!” he said).

The last line is what everyone talks about — half a mile long right over Kolekole Falls, which is apparently just downstream from Akaka Falls itself. My stomach dropped when I stepped off; you can see straight down to this wild 250-foot waterfall thundering under your feet. It’s loud up there, with mist blowing sideways and everything looking greener than seems possible. Hard to explain how small you feel in that second — kind of freeing though. We finished muddy and grinning back at the shop, shoes soaked through (bring closed-toe ones, seriously). Still think about that view sometimes when things get too quiet at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Big Island Zipline Adventure

• Check in 30 minutes early
• Wear closed toe shoes
• Drive to zipline course
• Walk half mile on uneven terrain
• Zipline seven different lines
• Enjoy views of waterfalls and farm
• Return to retail location

Top questions

How many ziplines are included on this Big Island zipline tour?

The tour includes seven different ziplines ranging from short practice lines to a final half-mile ride over Kolekole Falls.

Where is this zipline adventure located?

This activity is on Hawaii Island (Big Island), near Akaka Falls and Kolekole Falls—not on Oahu or Honolulu.

What are the weight requirements for participants?

All guests must weigh between 40 lbs (18 kg) and 260 lbs (118 kg) to join the tour.

Can children participate in this zipline tour?

Yes, children aged 12 and under between 40-69 lbs ride tandem with a certified guide on certain lines; all minors need an adult present.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is provided; guests should pre-arrange transportation as rideshare options are unreliable in this area.

What should I wear for the Big Island zipline adventure?

You must wear closed-toe sneakers or hiking shoes; sandals are not allowed for safety reasons.

Does the tour operate in rain?

The zipline runs rain or shine except during extreme weather; rain gear is provided if needed.

How early should I arrive before my scheduled tour time?

You need to check in at least 30 minutes prior to your booked start time.

What’s included

Your day includes all necessary ziplining equipment, rain gear if needed since tours run rain or shine, instruction from professional local guides who double-check harnesses before each line, tandem rides for lighter kids with certified staff on lines five through seven, plus transfers between check-in at the retail shop and the course itself. Just remember to bring closed-toe shoes and plan your own transport out here since it’s pretty remote.