Ding! Ding! Ding! This is the main event for touristy waterfalls that you can visit on the Hilo side of the island. I'll start by stating the obvious. Yes, this place is well known, and it gets busy regardless of the weather. We went a few days before Lala hit in a steady rain and the parking lot was fairly packed. Unlike Rainbow Falls where you can sneak in the "side door" under the Banyan trees and not pay, there is only one way in/out here and it is well staffed. In some form or other (be it the QR code - text link - kiosk on site) you're paying for this one. $5 p/p and $10 to park. We did get a space in the main lot, but plenty of people were parking up the entrance road. As Chuck S. perfectly points out, this isn't a hike so much as a paved loop walk. It's a big four tenths of a mile around and yes, there are some steeper steps going up/down at the beginning/end, but it's nothing too crazy. The below Google map gives a nice overview of the grounds and parking situation. www.google.com/maps/place/%CA%BBAkaka+Falls+State+Park/@19.8544917,-155.1527417,376m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m6!3m5!1s0x7953ada4f8d1be01:0x728c3dc44022e05c!8m2!3d19.8532104!4d-155.1549738!16zL20vMDNxYnRf?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDkwMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D Yep, the main falls are indeed majestic. We had to wait a few minutes for any pictures as when we got there, the falls were fogged in. You could hear it, but there was nothing to see. Eventually it cleared up a little bit, and we got some decent shots with a small rainbow thrown in. True there is a secondary falls (Kahuna) on the grounds you can see at the far end of the loop but it's fairly irrelevant. The other thing which is amazing in its own right is the flora and the fauna here. Lots of the amazing colors/types/species of birds, plants and trees. Seeing this is almost worth the visit in its own right, let alone the main falls. I think the key here is to take your time. During our visit I saw several people ripping through the walkway/grounds as if it were a timed event either due to their own impatience or because there were talking about cramming a ton of different falls in the same day. You can certainly do that...but why? To me, anything less than 30 minutes and you didn't experience what this place has to offer and it's definitely worth a visit here to see it all in person. read more

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Well worth the trip all the way from the Kona side. Sure, lots of tourists show up here and it kind of gets crowded, but there's a 400-plus foot waterfall in this park! Go see it! There's a trail that leads you down to the panoramic view of the waterfall. The trailhead is right next to the parking lot and it costs 10 bucks for parking and 5 bucks per person to get in. Bathrooms are on the premises. So this really isn't a "trail," so to speak. I mean, you're not roughing it out in some canopied jungle out there. It's more like a nice, half-mile botanical stroll on a paved, fenced-in pathway. Takes about 45 minutes, most of which is spent just stopping and appreciating the beautiful flora and fauna of the park. No need to rush. It really is impressive. So the trail is one oblong, closed loop. At the beginning, you can head straight to the fall if you turn left - about a 5-minute walk. Or, if you go right, you can take the scenic route that ends up at the fall eventually. There is some uphill, so seniors and out of shapers take your time. Super worth it, brah. read more

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Totally need to come here when you were on the big island! This place was fantastic and so beautiful! So it cost us $27 for parking plus the entrance fee. It's a very small parking lot, but there is parking on the side of the road as well and you can walk pretty close by to get in. It was raining pretty heavily when we entered so do bring a rain jacket and an umbrella because it does rain a lot up here. But then it cleared up and it was perfect. There's so many beautiful flowers and plants and trees and of course the waterfall is breathtaking! Definitely worth it! read more

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I don't know if I would call this a hike, so much as a paved loop walk. Try to come early as the parking lot can get really filled, spilling into "paid" parking on the side of the roadway. You probably won't spend longer than an hour hear, unless you really get obsessive about capturing those perfect photo shots to post on Instagram. The pictures people have posted pretty much speak for themselves. But nothing beats seeing this live waterfalls, flowing in-person. With the wind in your hair, the scent of all the lush plants and such. This is on the Hilo side of the Big Island that is Hawai'i, so check the weather plan around the tropical rains that may or may not happen around the weeks you visit. You may pass some roadside stalls along the way here, where they're selling freshly cut pineapple of incomparable sweetness and flavor. Overall, definitely a space to get your dose of shinrin-yoku/forest bathing to cleanse your etheric body and be present in the moment. read more

This is more than just a waterfall, it's an experience where you immerse yourself in a rainforest and appreciate the beauty, sounds, smells, and little creatures around you. Although the entire hike is about half an hour, I would recommend you take your time and see everything around you. The hike itself is not strenuous. Some of the reviews indicate the steps were arduous, but our little 3-year-old had no problem. The paths are paved with railings. It didn't take long before we reached where Akaka falls was visible. It is beautiful against the mossy green backdrop. Then we climb the stairs to see the other waterfall, but when we got there, it was pretty anti-climatic. It's a small little fall, but still worth seeing. Overall, this is a beautiful spot to discover new plants, see a couple of waterfalls, and take a ton of pictures. read more

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beautiful area. great weather. a bit humid, but nice. a great place for families or solo read more

Akaka Falls State Park - Parks Near Me - Honomu, Hawaii

Beautiful scenery. Smaller walking paths because people are walking in both directions. Not wheelchair accessible. It's a short walk around (maybe 20 min). A good amount of stairs. Parking is $10 in the lot and $5 per person in the car. They will check upon entry. There is a restroom at the top (M/F) read more

Great little hike on the big island that is well worth a visit! Towards the Hilo side of the Island - they have a small parking lot for a small free or overflow roadside parking and it's a low cost to enter the park which has well maintained trails and is an easy walk accessible to most - I am recovering from a broken foot and found this no issue at all The park is lush and green and the circle in and out takes you to a stunning 442 ft waterfall! Another waterfall - Kahūnā Falls- is also visible from this trail! A great spot to enjoy a short walk with stunning views in the Big Island ! read more

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Epic waterfall, great to take a nice family picture. We ended up admiring the beauty of this waterfall longer then rainbow falls. This one had a big wow factor. The short little walk has another small waterfall and tropical rainforest vibes. I felt like I was in an amusement park with a tropical theme. This is a must stop if on the big island read more

Akaka Falls State Park - Parks Near Me - Honomu, Hawaii

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We had an amazing hike with beautiful scenery on the way to the waterfall. The trail is well worth it--easy to follow, well marked, and filled with gorgeous flowers and lush foliage along the way. read more

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Our first stop of the day. 2 waterfalls , one narrow and one huge. Many stairs to each one. Very small crowd. read more

Nice, lush gardens on this ~ 30 minute paved path with Akaka falls halfway through. The vegetation near the falls viewpoint obscures your ability to get a complete photo of the falls and pool below. Go in the morning for the best photo as the afternoon sun is behind the falls making it challenging to get the right exposure. The parking and entrance fee is a bit high for this short trail, thus I give this 4 stars instead of 5. read more

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A must do while on the big island. You could save parking fees by parking right outside the parking lot, but you still need to pay the fee to go and see the waterfalls. There's somebody there to help you figure out the machines and know how much to pay. The hike is very easy and the path is well maintained. The sites were beautiful and the waterfall was amazing. read more

Akaka Falls State Park - Parks Near Me - Honomu, Hawaii

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We parked outside the gate since the lot was full. Short walk to use the restroom before the hike. Only one women's bathroom stall accessible. Not a very pleasant smell and a long line. Entrance fee for parking if you park inside the lot as well as an entrance fee for guest entering the park. Be mindful it's a state park so pick up your trash whenever possible. There were two employees accepting payments and handing out tickets. Humidity level was 1000% but worth it. Bring a portable fan, some water and a baby carrier if you have a little one. Lots of steps but beautiful views. Shaded areas and a short hiking option if you're not up for the full one. Highly recommend if you are on the Hilo side. read more

Akaka Falls is a stunning 442-foot waterfall, twice the height of Niagara Falls. I've seen other reviewers' complaints about parking and fees, but this stop was one of many on a day tour that I was on when I visited the Big Island so I cannot comment about those things. All I know is that there is a lovely .4 mile trek on a paved footpath through a beautiful rainforest to enjoy before you even get to the falls. Once you get to Akaka, savor the views, but it's a popular spot, so expect to share it with lots of other waterfall lovers. read more

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$5 per head and don't park in lot or you'll pay $10 more. Park on the street and walk in. This is worth it. Walk through the lush rainforest jungle and see these incredible falls. Not to be missed!! read more

Akaka Falls State Park - Trail to falls - Parks Near Me - Honomu, Hawaii

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This was the most memorable waterfall we have encountered in Hilo. Although, we had to pay $10 for parking and $5 each person. Thought it was a bit much, but once you step into the lush rainforest totally forgot all about the price tag. It's a round paved looped trail, so you can't get lost. If you are a nature lover, this is the place to be. So intrigued with exotic flowers, plants, trees, streams, and of course the immaculate waterfall you paid to see. Highly advised to visit early in the morning as it can get busy throughout the day. Take plenty of pictures because you won't see this everyday on the mainland. read more

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A small hike to see one of the popular waterfalls on the big island. So beautiful! Feels like you're walking in a rainforest- but on a safe pathway. Read the fun facts about the falls- very interesting! I won't spoil it. read more

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Another nature lovers paradise! Beautiful trees, flowers and wildlife all right here in this rainforest that had no rain that day. Made it even more perfect as one stayed dried. read more

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What a money grab! I think reviews and travel guides need to point out how much it will cost to visit. $10 per car to park and $5 per person for entry = $22 ($20 with tax) for two people. There were 2 employees to use the machine and process payment for you in case you're not doing it right (they didn't let anyone do it themselves). Yes, there are a few street parking spots outside the parking lot but there is a deep trench and we were worried our car would get stuck. If you park outside you would only need to pay the $5/person. The only covered pavilion/canopy with shade was also roped off and said "employees only" - with bags and personal items of these two employees occupying the whole table. Just seems like it was built to be a park amenity and not a private break room for these employees, whose only job is to help people use a machine they can use themselves... This "trail" was a super short paved path to a viewpoint. The employee at the top said "15 min walk" to get there (maybe so it would sound less like a scam) but it was more like 5 mins to Akaka falls, and maybe another 5 mins to the lower falls and back. The falls and surrounding plants were beautiful, but the price is absolutely ridiculous. The value should be more along the lines of free (LOL) or maybe $5/car to park and no entrance fee, in my opinion. It costs more to visit than a national park with tons and tons of trails, sights, amenities, and conservation! Insane. read more

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Wow! This place is beautiful and highly recommended - especially if this is your first time visiting Hilo. The great thing is that locals are free. It was a nice hike since everything was paved, but be advised that there are a lot of stairs. Overall, the whole loop took about 30 minutes, which is a very nice and easy stroll and because there's so much beautiful foliage and greenery it went by really quick! read more

Akaka Falls State Park - Parks Near Me - Honomu, Hawaii

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Beautiful scenic walk. There are two waterfalls on the trail. The lower falls wasn't visible due to the vegetation growth. However, Akaka was flowing, but very low in volume. Still beautiful. If you are on the Big Island, it's a must see. read more

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This is a hiking trail leading to a beautiful water fall. The price of admission is $5 per person and $10 for parking. No appointments or reservations are required, simply show up and get in line to pay admission at the kiosk. The weather was perfect for a hike, not too hot and not an overcast day. The pathway was absolutely beautiful, peaceful, and breathtaking. Due to the climate, the entire area was filled with rich and green foilage. Such a popular nature walk. Walk along at your own pace. Some areas were a little "tough" as there was an inclined to reach the next point. I was happy to make the trek and reach the lovely waterfall. I recommend a little practice of mini hikes a month before making the trip, it will be much easier on your legs!! Come with plenty of time and enjoy the sights, plants, trees, stream, and rock formations. Don't forget to tell'em that Rosemary sent ya! read more

Akaka Falls State Park - Getting closer to the Waterfall - Parks Near Me - Honomu, Hawaii

Such a beautiful park! The waterfall is absolutely amazing! There are lot of stairs so make sure your prepared for that. But it is a cement walkway so you don't even need hiking shoes. The walkway does a loop so walk around the whole thing and enjoy the beauty! They do charge now, $5 per adult and $10 for parking. If you happen to go after 5 like we did, the gate is closed so you park on the street, but you can still go in the park for free! read more

Akaka Falls State Park - Beautiful plants and trees! - Parks Near Me - Honomu, Hawaii

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Needing to work off some breakfast calories before an afternoon of horseback riding, I chose to hike a trail through Akaka Falls State Park. If you don't wish to invest in a hike that lasts a few hours, this is the perfect park to visit. The hike took me a leisurely hour and was an easy to moderate hike for me. The payoff were great views of the lovely Akaka Falls. read more

We love exploring the island and coming across so many beautiful places to see. This amongst many others is something to see. read more

A fairly easy hike along a concrete path to view a waterfall in the lush hills above Hilo. The views you want to have when you are on the wet side of the island. Parking is a bit of a pain, there was a long line for the small lot as we were leaving, but I guess we times our arrival fairly well. read more

Highly recommend! Great short hike to see a cool water fall. The hike is about 1 mile. Mostly downhill to see the falls and uphill to head back. - The price of admission is $5 per person and $10 for parking. - No appointments or reservations are required. - If you park on the street outside the Parking lot you don't need to pay for parking. - Restrooms in the parking lot. read more

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The falls is worth seeing. It's about a 30 min loop with steps. The parking is frustrating. Highly recommend paying for parking before you get there (it says two hour but it's really all day) and screen shot your receipt. Make sure it includes the day. Service is spotty and not all the workers are friendly. read more

A worthwhile hike! A bit outside of Hilo but well worth the drive. A 30-45 min paved, well-maintained loop that actually sees two waterfalls. There are stairs and a few parts that are steeper than others. Make sure to read the placards near the trailhead and also down at 'Akaka Falls as the information on them is fascinating. Restrooms at the top by the start of the trail. There is a $27 parking fee if you park INSIDE the 'Akaka Falls State Park sign. If you don't want/cannot hike down to the falls, you can see the extreme top of the falls from the lookout at the top. While they say to go to the right first and end at 'Akaka, it is shorter to go counterclockwise and go LEFT if you don't have much time or only want to see the falls and not the scenery. read more

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LOVEEEE THIS TRAIL!! I can't recommend it enough, even though it was on the complete opposite side of where we were staying we made it a point to come out and check out Akaka falls. Well worth the two hour drive, the trail was under construction during our visit but we were still able to walk to the lookout point to see the waterfall up close. Parking was easy and I believe 5-10$ or something like that. I think it's the perfect trail to go with loved ones, easy enough for kids and elderly but just know there's a good amount of stairs read more

Akaka Falls State Park - Akaka falls - Parks Near Me - Honomu, Hawaii

Waterfalls are one of my favorite natural wonders and with Hilo one of the wettest places on earth, nearby Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls are always impressive. Since it's been 17 years since I've been back to the Big Island, there is now a $10 parking fee AND $5 per person entrance fee unless you are a Hawaii resident for Akaka Falls. Bit steep for a half hour round trip to the falls since we've been twice before but the scenery along the way is gorgeous especially if it's your first time. I wish I knew that I could have avoided the parking fee by just parking outside of the gates and walking in since we were there when it opened. read more

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I'm normally more wordy than this, but I have some catching up to do... What a beautiful spot on The Big Island! I'm not sure you will find a waterfall more spectacular than Akaka Falls... Two cons. 1. They will ding you on parking and charge a fee to walk down and see the falls. 2. Some will say it's an easy hike. For some people it might be... For my gf and I it was not. It's approximately 300 steps down and then those 300 steps back up. If you have knee or hip issues or any other ailment that might cause you to get winded (respiratory or cardiac) it's NOT going to be an easy hike for you. That being said... It is gorgeous and worth it! I'd suggest going in the morning/very early afternoon if you want to take pictures of the falls. Later in the day the sun is positioned over the falls and you will be looking directly into it as you face the falls from the viewing platform... The resulting glare can make taking pictures of the falls a little tougher than earlier in the day. While you are in Hawaii please spend some time and learn the history and the true culture of the Hawaiian islands. As long as you are in the area make sure you check out the local shopping and restaurants! read more

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Did a quick 20 mins or so drive to the Akaka falls state park from the Carlsmith beach to witness the beautiful Akaka falls. Parked at the entrance on the side ( and not in the state park parking lot) as it can be an easy in and out if you can wrap up the hike in a short turnaround time . Was helped by one of the ticketing agents at the entrance and she got us through the payment formalities. Once those were covered we were on our way to the hike which we ended up covering in about 12 minutes ( back and forth ) with about a 5 minute stop to witness the falls and the surrounding beauty. It's a completely paved path and we were able to do it easily in flip flops though one must be careful about the leaves on the floor that could be wet. Super easy hike to the waterfalls and a bit of stairs to deal with on the way back though nothing too crazy. Must do and must visit is all I can say!!! read more

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No doubt, the waterfall here is very impressive! And there's a bonus second waterfall, but it's a little harder to see from the platform. Truthfully, however, Akaka just wasn't what I expected. The "hike" is a 0.5-mile loop on a paved path, and it's super monotonous. Aside from killer views of Akaka, it's just not a great trail. A decent number of stairs, FYI, but I saw a number of families with small kids and elders tackling it at a slow pace. They charge for parking and out-of-state visitors, totaling $15 ($10 + $5), which makes me lukewarm to the value of visiting this spot. Your mileage may vary, however. read more

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To me, this is one of the more impressive falls in the area (I mean, they're all pretty amazing!). Lots of stairs, but super easy. The trail is short and nice; you walk through a rainforest and everything is so picturesque. I guess we did the right thing and went to Akaka Falls first (left trail, going clockwise) and nobody was there. When we left the area to continue the loop, everyone else was coming in from the other side. The other waterfall on the trail was not very visible because the trees are so overgrown, but like I said, the trail is beautiful. $5/person and $10 to park in the lot but many people chose to park on the side of the road. There are restrooms that are pretty well-maintained. read more

Akaka Falls State Park - Parks Near Me - Honomu, Hawaii

Relatively easy hike to a beautiful waterfall. There is a combination of steps up, down, and straights. So it's not ideal for strollers. We used a baby carrier for our younger toddler and just tried to have our 4 year old walk as much as she could and carried the rest. There were some areas in the sun, but also lots of shaded areas. It's a good idea to bring hats and comfy shoes. The waterfall was beautiful and definitely worth the small little hike. We parked off the side, just before the parking lot and not inside the lot, so we only paid $5 a person. If you decide to park inside the lot, you'll have to pay per car as well for the parking. There's this kiosk machine where you pay, before you enter the park. Children 3 and under are free. They have restrooms at the parking area, if you need to use it before entering. We didn't use it, so I can't comment on cleanliness. read more

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Breathtaking and spectacular site to see the country's tallest waterfall. Rainbow falls is another epic waterfall on the east side but doesn't come close to how captivating it is seeing this beauty. A 30 minute walk on a paved foot trail will get you out to a viewing spot. Definitely worth it read more

Wow, what a super nice surprise visiting Akaka Falls State Park during our day trip out to Kona. This wasn't in the plans but we decided on day of, to drive out Hilo side from Kona to chase waterfalls with my family. After enjoying our Okazuya lunch, at the park of course. I loved and enjoyed the scenic drive from Kona to Hilo, ( please allow time for this drive) nice road trip and we finally made it to the park. Small traffic at the front as few were avoiding the parking fees so they parked before the park's entrance. Parking was full on this Saturday and the other half made his own parking which he got nice scolding from the park attendant. hehe She was nice to inform us that we have to move the car and she directed us on where to park. The attendants are so friendly and fun! Parking is $10. per vehicle and $5. fee per person to enter the park. Luckily Kama'aina gets special perks, mahalo for this! The hike in to both falls was about 30 mins. Such a nice hike, love nature and the tropical scenery. Don't forget to take pictures with the bamboo trees, really great photo opts besides the falls. We approached the first falls, 100 ft Kahuna Falls, this is a tease for us once before we approached Akaka. hehe. After that, the enchanting Akaka Falls is the real deal, 442 feet! Wow-zer, So calming, soothing hearing the sounds of the falls and enjoying the views. I truly love my visit here. Of course we took tons of pics and vids. Thank you to a kind gentleman for taking such a nice photos of me and my family. Kodak memory moments with my family, my heart is full! Recommend, this is top 10 to do when on the Big Island. Thank you to my wonderful hubby for driving us here! **Once you exit the falls, you will see a sign on Cow hugging ( for$20.) and selfie, I requested for a stop here but we had to head back to Kona for our flight , not enough time. I need to check it out next time. hehe. read more

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The parking is very limited, so if you can go early right when it opens it is recommended. It holds roughly maybe 15 cars. It is an easy hike down to the viewpoint. It has LOTS of stairs so if your mobility challenged, it might take you a bit longer to get there. There are railings all the way down. You start the hike going downhill so on the way back you have to climb up the stairs. It took us 45 minutes to complete this entire trip, which includes the 20 minutes we spent looking at the falls. Definitely worth stopping here! read more

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