Home Search Destinations Attractions
Akaka Falls
Park

Akaka Falls

Big Island of Hawaii
4.7
(5,000 reviews)
28
Tours Available
$5 (Hawaii residents), $10 (non-residents)
Adult Entry
2-3 hours
Recommended Duration
March-May
Best Time

Overview

Akaka Falls is a stunning 442-foot-tall waterfall located in Akaka Falls State Park. The falls cascade over a lush, green cliff into a stream below, offering a breathtaking sight for visitors.

Akaka Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii, known for its impressive height and beautiful surroundings.

Nature Hiking

Location

Address

Akaka Falls State Park, Honomu, Big Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

Neighborhood: Honomu

Coordinates

19.851400, -155.124700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
tuesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
wednesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
thursday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
friday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
saturday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
sunday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults
$5 (Hawaii residents), $10 (non-residents)
Children
$1 (Hawaii residents), $2 (non-residents) (ages 12 and under)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, better lighting for photos

Duration Recommendations

Minimum
1 hour
Recommended
2-3 hours
Full Experience
Half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild

  • • Lush greenery
  • • Beautiful flowers

summer

Hot and humid

  • • Extended daylight hours

autumn

Mild to cool

  • • Fall colors
  • • Cooler temperatures

winter

Cool and rainy

  • • Rainy season, lush vegetation

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes
  • Bring water and snacks
  • Check weather conditions before visiting

What to Bring

essential

Water Hiking shoes Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)

recommended

Camera Binoculars Rain jacket

seasonal

Warm layers (winter) Umbrella (rainy season)

not allowed

Drones Pets

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate

  • • Uneven trails
  • • Steep inclines

Medical facilities: First aid available at park entrance

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $5 per vehicle (Hawaii residents), $10 per vehicle (non-residents)
parking Free
food $5-$15
souvenirs $10-$50

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable, Comfortable hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, Hiking shoes or sturdy sandals, Inappropriate clothing, High heels

Booking Tips

  • • Not required, but recommended for guided tours
  • • Official website or local tour operators
  • • Varies by tour operator
  • • Available for guided tours

Amenities

Restrooms
Gift shop
Atm
Wifi
Lockers
Wheelchair rental
Stroller rental
On site restaurant
Cafe
Picnic areas
Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Go Hawaii

Size: 50 MB

Features: Park information, Maps and trails, Event calendars, Ticket booking

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Park entrance, Visitor center

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Hilo International Airport (ITO)

Distance: 15 miles

Travel Time: 30 minutes

taxi
$50-$60 30 min
public_transport
$2 45 min
rental_car
Varies 30 min

From City Center

Distance: 2 miles

walking
Free 40 min
biking
Free 15 min
taxi
$10-$15 5 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Stunning natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere

Historical Significance: Part of the ancient Hawaiian landscape

Insider Tips

  • Visit early in the morning for the best experience and photos
  • The falls are most impressive after heavy rains
  • The loop trail is well-maintained and easy to follow

Local Recommendations

  • • Try local shave ice in Honomu
  • • Visit the nearby Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden
  • • Ask for guide John

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Aloha
thank_you Mahalo
where_is Ia 'oe 'ei 'eia?
how_much Pehea nui?
beautiful Nani
ticket Tiketi

Guide Languages: English, Hawaiian, Japanese

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Akaka Falls viewpoint

Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon

Tips: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full view

Result: Stunning waterfall photos

#AkakaFalls #HawaiiWaterfalls #NatureLovers

Akaka Falls loop trail

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Capture the lush greenery and waterfall in the background

Result: Beautiful landscape shots

#HawaiiNature #WaterfallHike #ScenicViews

Photography Rules

allowed areas All park areas, Trails and viewpoints
prohibited areas Restricted areas as posted
flash photography Allowed
commercial photography Permit required
drone policy Prohibited
tripod policy Allowed with discretion
selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Rainbow Falls

Distance: 5 miles

Walking: 10 min drive

Type: Waterfall

Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden

Distance: 3 miles

Walking: 7 min drive

Type: Botanical Garden

Liliuokalani Park and Gardens

Distance: 15 miles

Walking: 25 min drive

Type: Park

Reviews

4.7

Based on 5,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

  • "Go early to avoid crowds"
  • "Bring water and snacks"
  • "Wear comfortable shoes"

Contact Information

Related Tours & Activities (2)

Search Tours

Quick Info

Available Tours

28

Rating

4.7 / 5.0

Reviews

5,000

Adult Entry

$5 (Hawaii residents), $10 (non-residents)

Search Attractions