Akaka Falls

Akaka Falls State Park, Big Island

Located about 11 miles (18 km) north of Hilo, Akaka Falls State Park is a popular visitor attraction. The state park is home to Akaka Falls, a 422-foot (129 m) cascade. The waterfall can be seen from several lookout points along a paved loop trail that leads through the park.

Another waterfall in the park is the 100-foot (30 m) tall Kahuna Falls, which you'll come across first. The fact that Akaka Falls is easily accessible and the hike takes less than an hour (it is a pleasant 0.4 mile uphill hike) makes it one of the most popular waterfalls on the Big Island (along with Rainbow Falls in Hilo).

Key Features

Iconic waterfall: 442-foot cascade into a green gorge

State park setting: Located in Akaka Falls State Park

Loop trail: Short paved rainforest path with stairs

Kahuna Falls: Smaller waterfall seen along the route

Rainforest plants: Bamboo, ferns, orchids and lush greenery

Near Hilo: Easy Hamakua Coast drive from town

Fee area: Non-resident entry and parking fees may apply

Wet footing: Trail and stairs can be slippery after rain

Visitor planning: Check current hours, fees and park notices

Plan Your Visit

Plan Akaka Falls as a short state park visit on the Hamakua Coast. Check current hours, fees and payment rules before going. Wear shoes with good traction, expect stairs on the paved loop trail, bring rain protection and stay on marked paths near the steep gorge.

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Visitor Reviews

Reviews and Ratings

5.0

Rated 5.0 out of 5 based on 3 rated visitor reviews.

Add Your Review

Leslie Heizman

Tue Jul 05, 2016

Akaka Falls is a spectacular place. Beautiful botanical specimens and not too difficult a trek but if you are afraid of heights or sheer drop offs you might have a hard time .

Maribeth C. Yarnell

Thu Aug 01, 2013

This park is a botanical delight, and the waterfall is spectacular. The part walk can be strenuous with stairs down and up, so take the time to enjoy the remarkable gardenia-like fragrance of the Plumeria, sweet honeysuckle, and a myriad other less discernible fragrances along the path.

Suzanne Sutton

Thu May 03, 2012

This was a bit of a drive up a hill to get to then a bit of a walk down a hill but not a huge one it was fairly easy going if you enjoy walks but it was wonderful site at the end well worth the trip. Going back wasnt too tough lots of people were there when we went, but paths were fairly wide not little tracks so easy to get by people.

Location, Parking and Directions

Akaka Falls State Park is located at the end of Akaka Falls Road, Highway 220, about 3.6 miles southwest of Honomu and north of Hilo on Hawaii Island. Parking is available near the trailhead, and current state park fees may apply for non-resident visitors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Akaka Falls located?

Akaka Falls is located in Akaka Falls State Park near Honomu, north of Hilo on Hawaii Island's Hamakua Coast.

How tall is Akaka Falls?

Akaka Falls drops 442 feet into a lush stream-carved gorge.

How long is the Akaka Falls trail?

The loop trail is about 0.4 miles and passes through rainforest scenery with stairs, overlooks and views of waterfalls.

Is the Akaka Falls trail wheelchair accessible?

No. Hawaii State Parks describes the paved route as having multiple steps, so it is not wheelchair accessible.

Are there fees to visit Akaka Falls State Park?

Current state park information lists non-resident entry and parking fees, with credit-card-only payment. Hawaii residents may enter free with valid ID.