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

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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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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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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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

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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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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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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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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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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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

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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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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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

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

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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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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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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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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I'm ranking this five stars on the basis that the hike was really short and the waterfall was well worth it. We just finished the zip lining which was only a 10 minute drive to here so why not? We almost didn't do it though because it looked like it was going to rain, but it's a very fast hike. read more

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Absolutely gorgeous and amazing experience of the jungle feeling of nature. Path is paved which is nice considering how moist Hilo is, and wet leaves can lead to slippery terrain. The drive up to Akaka Falls is beautiful too, my 7 and 4 year old absolutely loved the experience, but they were zonked out after the walk. We spent the day at the beach too, so it was inevitable. 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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This park was perfect for a short hike to enjoy the waterfalls and lush greenery all around. There is a small admission and parking fee, but it's very affordable. The trail is brief yet just right to take in the scenery and the beautiful falls. read more

BIG HAWAII ISLAND 2023 VACATION #4: LOUD AND THERAPEUTIC On my day trip from Kailua-Kona to Hilo this state park was one of the sights I planned for. One thing that entices travelers to Hawaii is lush-green nature. After lunch I drove here to see firsthand how therapeutic nature can be. Once you enter the park you see a sign that directs you to a specific waterfall. The path is a circular path that you get to see both waterfalls - Akaka and Hakuna. I went to the path going to the Akaka Falls. This is one of the most majestic falls I ever seen - the other was Niagara Falls. You feel the magnitude sound of the water hitting the ground yet soothing to your ears. If you're vacationing soak in the sight and sound of a waterfall. Whatever stress you had at work prior to your vacation should be erased by seeing Akaka Falls. Even though there is a time limit on your parking don't rush as you can finish the circular path over an hour. Just remind yourself you are on vacation. After staring at Akaka Falls for about 20 minutes I took my time walking around. Then I decided to go around the circular path to the other waterfall at the state park. When you walk on the path you feel as if you are walking in zoo. Unlike caged animals you see waterfalls not covered by fences. The other waterfall Kahuna Falls is covered by vegetation. I don't reveal tips on my reviews here are a couple I recommend: 1) To avoid the crowds and find parking do not visit the park on the weekend (Friday included). I came here on a Thursday afternoon. 2) Once you pay your parking online the time limit of about 1 hour and 45 minutes starts. I paid for the parking about 20 minutes to my arrival as there is hardly any internet at the Akaka Falls State Park. If you follow the tips above you can enjoy a relaxing but not pressed time to watch the waterfalls. read more

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The only reason for the 3 stars is the quick trail is no longer in use . There is no verbal or printed warning letting you know that this should be considered a personal black diamond trail meaning uneven terrain, slippery stairs and 1/2 mile trek in some very hot weather & humidity up and down. Nor do they have any potable water . If you have any mobility issues or orthopedic issues I do not recommend this trek. You should be in top physical fitness , without any respiratory or cardiac issues. The woman who sold us the tickets to my 78 yr old friend with asthma and to me with all my ortho issues never warned us . When i got back up i was so angry and i'm in so much pain, i told the woman why don't you tell people whom are elderly or at least post the conditions of the route! She looked at me and said "you looked able" So now she gets an education NOT EVERY PERSON WITH A DISABILITY IS IN A WHEEL CHAIR . NEVER DISCOUNT THE SUFFERING OF PEOPLE BY BEING IGNORANT AND SAYING " YOU LOOK ABLE " . Walk a 1/2 mile in my shoes lady . This ruined our day. We were so exhausted we didn't even make dinner tonight and it killed our plans for the next day as we all need recovery time . This was supposed to be peaceful and serene . Park Rangers be notified : There is a feral cat colony also there, the male has been neutered but one of the cats was blind and had fleas wall over and bugs eating at her eyes . these ferals are right next to the people who sell you the tickets . You'd think they'd get a vet out there to assess this whole colony . it's a state park for goodness sake ! A Vet needs to examine this colony . this is not healthy . this is a young cat. please help them . read more

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very crowded! A little overrated compared to some other spots in the area that are less traveled. Still beautiful.

Updated trail June 2024: currently construction is taking place so there is one trail in and out same way. There are a lot of stairs but you can go at your own pace and it's not bad at all, the amazing bamboo, banyan tree, and the final falls view are magnificent! We hiked in the POURING rain (wear water shoes if it's raining because the path turns into its own waterfall down the stairs) and it was still worth it! It is $5 per person to see it, ok. AND $10 to park in a spot, save yourself the money and park literally 20 feet away outside the gate. Worth it for the $5 a person! read more

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"The feminine is more powerful than the masculine, the soft is more powerful than the hard, the water is more powerful than the rock." ...so I have learned. 'Akaka Falls was on my Besties bucket list when we visited Hawai'i Big Island! Can I blame her? This mesmerizing 442-foot tall waterfall is named after Chief 'Akaka-o-ka-nī'au-oi'o-i-ka-wao and where lot's of Hawaiian mythology derives from... 'O the Mana! Located just 11-miles from Hilo and up a scenic country road through Honomū. Parking is $10 in the lot and tbh every non-resident should be paying no matter where they park. Just my observations on some tourists trying to cheat the system! Auwe! Bestie paid parking even though I tried to explain my Aumākua Tattoo on my back was free admission... she wasn't impressed and paid it! So mahalo Bestie:D I highly suggest walking around to get to 'Akaka Falls, take the longer route for the full effect and views, it's not a long walk, and the greenery and air cleanses one soul! We walked around and could hear and "feel" the powerful waterfall even at the trails furthest point! It's a sense of Mana as we approached closer. No photos can capture the beauty of a nearly 500-foot waterfall! Breathtaking! Ancient and Supernatural Hawai'i could be felt in the Mana here. Thunderous sounds, the mist for miles, smell of nature... I see what the elders saw! A bucket list experience for sure. I'll never forget her! In the end, 'Akaka Falls is a must if you're fortunate enough to be on Hawai'i Big Island. It's ironic in a way, that the storms and rains that clouded our visit to Volcanoes, was the same force of Mother Nature that made this visit to 'Akaka Falls so memorable, I've been here before and the other Hilo side waterfalls as well, but never have I witnessed such magic. And being with my Bestie made it that much more magical! read more

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