Are you looking for things to do in Hilo with kids? Keep scrolling to learn how to do the Akaka Falls hike near Hilo, Hawaii for a fun adventure.
This post about how to do the Akaka Falls hike with kids was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Akaka Falls gets 84 inches of rain every year.
That’s why it’s one of the most spectacular waterfalls on the Big Island and why the 0.4-mile trail feels like you’re walking through Jurassic Park.
My 5-year-old did this hike without complaining once.
When I went back the next year with his older brother, he tried to race me on the paved path. Lost to a 10-year-old. Not my proudest parenting moment.
The waterfall drops 442 feet into a gorge, and you can see the whole thing from a covered viewing platform about 20 minutes from the parking lot.
It’s one of the easiest Big Island waterfall hikes you can do with kids.
I’m a Hawaii travel expert and Certified Hawaii Destination Specialist who’s been to the islands 40+ times.
I also danced hula for 20 years and host the Hawaii Travel Made Easy podcast.
When I say Akaka Falls is worth the drive from Hilo, I mean it.
Where Is Akaka Falls Located on the Big Island?
The address is 875 ʻAkaka Falls Road, Honomu, HI 96728. It’s about 25 minutes north of Hilo on the Hamakua Coast.
You’ll take Highway 220 through some gorgeous rainforest. There are fruit stands along the way, a random goat farm, and these rainbow eucalyptus trees that look like someone went wild with spray paint.
My boys always want to stop at every single fruit stand. We usually cave and buy overpriced pineapple.
The road dead-ends at the parking lot. You can’t miss it.
From Hilo: 25 minutes
From Kona: 1 hour 50 minutes
The waterfall drops 442 feet, making it one of the tallest in Hawaii. For perspective, that’s taller than a 40-story building.
The area gets 84-130 inches of rain annually, which is why everything is so insanely green.
The park sees thousands of visitors every year, making it one of the most popular state parks on the Big Island. Tour buses come through regularly, especially when cruise ships are in port.
What Does Akaka Falls Cost in 2026?
The pricing changed recently, so if you visited a few years ago, these fees are different now.
Non-residents pay:
- $5 per person entrance fee (kids 3 and under free)
- $10 parking fee
- Total for me and one kid: $15
Hawaii residents:
Free with a valid Hawaii driver’s license or state ID.
They only take credit cards now. No cash. Which honestly makes sense since cell service is terrible up here and nobody wants to deal with making change when the internet is spotty.
Park hours in 2026: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily
Those gates close at 5 PM sharp. Don’t be the family rushing back to your car at 4:58 PM. (We saw that happen. It was stressful just watching.)
If you have decent cell service, you can pay ahead through the ParkMobile app (zone #808030). Otherwise, there are kiosks in the parking lot.
Should You Park on the Street to Avoid the Fee?
Some people park on the side of the road outside the gate to skip the $10 parking fee.
Don’t be that person.
First, these fees help maintain the park. Hawaii state parks are chronically underfunded. Second, the road edge is eroded and actually unsafe. I watched someone nearly slide off trying to park there.
Just pay the $15. It’s one of the best waterfall experiences on the Big Island for less than the cost of two shave ices in Hilo.
What Can You Actually Do at Akaka Falls State Park?
You hike to see the waterfall. That’s it. That’s the whole thing.
But honestly? That’s all you need. The 0.4-mile paved loop through rainforest to see a 442-foot waterfall is plenty.
Your parking ticket gives you one hour. We’ve never needed more than 40 minutes, even stopping for approximately 6,000 photos of my kids pointing at plants.
There’s a public restroom near the parking lot. Use it before you start. The only other facilities are the viewing platforms.
Want my complete Big Island itinerary? I put together a guide with daily schedules, hotel recommendations, and all the kid-friendly activities that actually work. Get the Big Island Travel Guide here.
Why This Is One of the Best Easy Hikes on the Big Island
I’ve been to Hawaii over 40 times. I danced hula for 20+ years. My mom lives on Kauai. I’m kind of a professional tourist at this point.
Akaka Falls consistently makes my list of top Big Island activities for families. Not because it’s the biggest or most dramatic waterfall, but because it delivers maximum wow with minimum effort.
The Trail Is Completely Paved
No mud. No tree roots waiting to trip your kid. No slippery rocks.
Just solid pavement the whole way. There are stairs, but they’re real stairs with handrails on both sides.
I appreciated them when my 5-year-old decided the stairs were a race course and I needed something to grab while yelling “SLOW DOWN!”
You Get Amazing Photos Without Hiking for Hours
The viewing platform puts you close enough to feel the mist from the falls but far enough back to see the full 442-foot drop.
It’s one of the best Big Island Instagram spots. The waterfall free-falls straight down without hitting rocks. The gorge is massive. The rainforest is so green it almost looks fake.
I’ve taken some of my favorite Hawaii photos here. My boys standing at the railing with the waterfall behind them. The bamboo groves along the trail. The wild orchids growing everywhere.
The Whole Thing Takes 30 Minutes
We’re not hiking for three hours here. This is a quick win when you need one.
My first time, we walked the full loop with a 5-year-old who stopped to examine every plant. Still only took 30 minutes. If your kids actually walk at a normal pace (mine don’t), you could do it in 20.
Perfect for adding to a Hilo day without derailing your whole schedule. We’ve done Akaka Falls on the way to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, on the way back from Waipio Valley, and once just because we had an hour to kill before a lunch reservation.
There’s Actually a Second Waterfall
Most people come for Akaka Falls and don’t even know about Kahuna Falls.
Kahuna Falls is 400 feet tall (only 42 feet shorter than Akaka), but it’s tucked back in the jungle at a smaller viewing platform. My boys loved feeling like they’d discovered a secret waterfall.
The second time we hiked this trail, my oldest spotted the Kahuna Falls sign and yelled “MOM, THERE’S ANOTHER ONE!” like he’d found buried treasure.
Which Path Should You Take?
At the trailhead, there’s a sign showing two options.
The full loop (0.4 miles):
Turn right. You’ll walk through rainforest to Kahuna Falls, then around to Akaka Falls, then back to the parking lot.
Takes 20-30 minutes depending on how many times your kid stops to point at bamboo.
The shortcut:
Turn left. Walk straight to Akaka Falls, skip Kahuna Falls entirely.
Saves maybe 10 minutes.
The sign recommends the full loop. I recommend it too. The extra 10 minutes is worth it to see both waterfalls and walk through more of that incredible rainforest.
When My 10-Year-Old Tried to Outsmart Me
The second time we did this hike, my oldest pointed at the sign and said “Mom, let’s do the short one.”
“Why? We did the long one last time and you loved it.”
“Yeah, but this way we can get back faster and have more time for other stuff.”
Kid had a point. But I also knew “other stuff” meant “playing on my iPad in the car.” So I told him the long trail was better exercise and we should do it.
Guess who decided to turn the entire hike into a race?
He’d sprint ahead to the next turn, wait for me to almost catch up, then take off again. “You’re so SLOW, Mom!”
I’m carrying the backpack with all your snacks, dude.
By the time we got to the Akaka Falls viewpoint, he’d declared himself the winner of a race I didn’t know we were having. Sure, kid. You won.
Can You Bring a Stroller to Akaka Falls?
No.
Too many stairs. You need a baby carrier.
If you have multiple kids, one adult could take the older ones on the full loop while another does the shortcut with babies. Both paths meet at the Akaka Falls viewing platform.
What Should You Wear to Akaka Falls?
It’s hot. It’s humid. You’re walking through a rainforest that gets 84-130 inches of rain per year.
We went at 8:30 AM (right when they opened) and I was still sweating by the end.
Wear shorts and a tank top or t-shirt that breathes. Real shoes, not flip-flops. The trail can be wet and flip-flops get slippery.
I wore athletic shoes both times. My kids wore their hiking sandals. Either works fine.
Bring a hat for the viewing platform. That part is in direct sun and it gets hot standing there taking 47 photos of the same waterfall.
Skip jeans. Skip your nice outfit. You’re going to sweat and you might get misted by the waterfall.
What to Pack for Akaka Falls
Don’t leave the parking lot without:
- Sunscreen (reef-safe)
- Bug spray (the mosquitos are REAL)
- Water bottles (there’s a fountain if you need refills)
- Snacks (my kids always need snacks)
Probably bring:
- Lightweight rain jacket
- Phone for photos
- Small towel to wipe sweat
I keep reef-safe sunscreen and bug spray in my backpack all the time in Hawaii. That way I’m never that mom who forgot bug spray and now everyone’s getting eaten alive.
When Should You Visit Akaka Falls?
Best time of day: Between 8:30-10:00 AM
You’ll beat the tour buses (they usually arrive around 11 AM). The sun is high enough to light up the whole waterfall. And it’s slightly less hot than midday.
We’ve gone right at opening both times. Worth it.
Best time of year: November through March
The falls are most powerful during rainy season. Everything is extra green and lush. Yes, you might get rained on. That’s why they sell rain jackets everywhere in Hilo.
I’ve been during both rainy and dry seasons. Honestly? It’s beautiful year-round. The falls never dry up completely because this area gets so much rain.
Days to avoid: Weekends and cruise ship days
Akaka Falls is one of the most popular stops for tour buses. When cruise ships are docked in Hilo, buses bring passengers here in waves.
Weekday mornings are way more peaceful. We saw maybe 10 other people on a Tuesday at 8:30 AM. Way different than the crowds on Saturday afternoon.
Comparison: Akaka Falls vs. Other Big Island Waterfalls
Not sure which Big Island waterfalls are worth your time? Here’s how Akaka Falls compares:
| Waterfall | Height | Hike Difficulty | Time Needed | Cost | Kid-Friendly? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Akaka Falls | 442 feet | Easy (paved) | 30 min | $15 | Yes – very |
| Rainbow Falls | 80 feet | Very easy | 5 min | Free | Yes – extremely |
| Pe’epe’e Falls | 80 feet | Very easy | 5 min | Free | Yes |
| Umauma Falls | 3 tiers | Moderate | 1 hour+ | Varies | Yes with older kids |
| Waipio Valley Falls | 1,200+ feet | Difficult | 4+ hours | Free | No – too hard |
Bottom line: Akaka Falls gives you the most impressive waterfall for the least amount of effort. Rainbow Falls is easier and free, but much smaller.
Can You Swim at Akaka Falls?
No. The viewing platform is way up high above the gorge. There’s no trail down to the water.
If you want to swim near waterfalls on the Big Island, try Kulaniapia Falls instead.
Other Things to Do Near Akaka Falls
You’re already 25 minutes from Hilo. Make a morning of it.
Fruit stands on Highway 220
There are several along the drive. Fresh pineapple, coconuts, tropical fruit. Mana’s Aloha Fruit Stand is right before the park entrance.
Fresh coconut water costs $10 (expensive, but fun to watch them hack it open).
Honomu town
Tiny town 3.6 miles from the falls. Good for shave ice. My boys wanted to stop at literally every shop. We compromised on shave ice and kept moving.
Rainbow Falls in Hilo
On your way back, swing by Rainbow Falls. You park and walk 20 feet to see an 80-foot waterfall. Takes 5 minutes. Free.
Way less impressive than Akaka Falls, but it’s free and takes zero effort.
Zipline over waterfalls
Hawaii Zipline Tours runs a course near Akaka Falls where you zip over Kolekole Falls (250 feet tall). My boys aren’t quite old enough yet but it’s on our list for next time.
Need more Big Island ideas? I have a whole guide to the best things to do on the Big Island with kids.
Where Should You Stay Near Akaka Falls?
If you’re staying in Hilo, Akaka Falls is an easy 25-minute drive. We’ve stayed in Hilo twice specifically because it’s close to this side of the island.
Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo – Has a pool, ocean views, and you can walk to downtown Hilo for dinner. My boys loved the pool.
Vacation rentals in Hilo – Full kitchen means you can make breakfast instead of paying $60 for hotel breakfast. Saved us a ton of money.
Vacation rental with waterfall views – There’s actually a rental right by Akaka Falls where you can hear the waterfall from your room. Kind of amazing if you don’t mind being away from town.
If you’re staying in Kona, Akaka Falls is 1 hour 50 minutes away. Doable as a day trip, especially if you’re also hitting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park the same day.
More details in my guide about where to stay in Hilo.
How Do You Get to Akaka Falls from Hilo?
Take Highway 19 north for about 11 miles. Turn left on Akaka Falls Road (Highway 220). Drive 3.6 miles to the end of the road.
That’s it. The parking lot is right there.
Compare rental car prices – I always check Discount Hawaii Car Rental first because they bundle all fees upfront.
Don’t want to drive? Book a Big Island tour that includes Akaka Falls. Most full-island tours stop here.
Need Help Planning Your Big Island Trip?
I’ve been to Hawaii 40+ times. Danced hula for 20+ years. My mom lives on Kauai. I’m a Certified Hawaii Destination Specialist and I host the Hawaii Travel Made Easy podcast.
Basically, I do this all day.
If you want to plan it yourself:
- Big Island Travel Guide – Day-by-day itineraries, hotel recommendations, packing lists
- Free 7-day email course on planning a Big Island trip
- Free 5-day course on saving money in Hawaii
If you’re overwhelmed:
Book a consultation with me. We’ll hop on a call and I’ll help you figure out your whole trip.
If you like podcasts:
Hawaii Travel Made Easy covers everything from what to pack to where to eat.
I also have guides for Maui, Oahu, and Kauai if you’re island hopping.
Akaka Falls Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Akaka Falls hike?
The full loop trail is 0.4 miles and takes 20-30 minutes. There’s also a shorter path straight to the falls that takes about 10 minutes.
How much does it cost to visit Akaka Falls in 2026?
Non-residents pay $5 per person for entrance (kids 3 and under free) plus $10 for parking. Total: $15 for one adult and one child. Hawaii residents get in free with ID.
Can you swim at Akaka Falls?
No, swimming is not allowed at Akaka Falls State Park. The viewing platform is high above the gorge and there’s no trail to the bottom.
Is Akaka Falls worth visiting?
Yes! It’s one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the Big Island and takes minimal effort to see. The 442-foot waterfall is stunning and the paved trail makes it accessible for most families.
Is the Akaka Falls trail stroller-friendly?
No. The trail has many stairs and is not suitable for strollers. Bring a baby carrier instead.
What time does Akaka Falls open?
Akaka Falls State Park is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Gates close at 5 PM sharp.
How tall is Akaka Falls?
Akaka Falls is 442 feet tall, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. For comparison, that’s taller than a 40-story building.
What movie was filmed at Akaka Falls?
Jurassic Park filmed some scenes at Akaka Falls State Park. You’ll recognize the lush jungle scenery from the movie.
Are there two waterfalls at Akaka Falls?
Yes! The park has both Akaka Falls (442 feet) and Kahuna Falls (400 feet). You’ll see both if you do the full loop trail.
Can you see Akaka Falls from the road?
No, you need to hike the trail to see the falls properly. The parking lot offers a distant view of the top, but the real magic happens at the viewing platform.
So Should You Visit Akaka Falls with Kids?
Yes. Absolutely.
This is one of the best Big Island activities for families. The hike is short enough that kids won’t complain. It’s paved so nobody trips over tree roots. And you get to see a massive 442-foot waterfall that looks like something from Jurassic Park.
The $15 entrance fee is worth it for 30 minutes in one of the most beautiful rainforests on the Big Island.
Plus, if your kid decides to race you on the trail and declares himself the winner, you’ll have photos to embarrass him with when he’s a teenager.
More Big Island guides:
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with kids
- Where to taste chocolate in Hilo
- Honest Waipio Valley Shuttle tour review
- Best Big Island waterfall hikes
Questions about Akaka Falls? Ask in my Hawaii Travel with Kids Facebook group where thousands of families are planning their Big Island trips right now.
