HAKALAU HORSE FIELD GUIDE
Ride to a Hidden Waterfall: Wailea Horseback Adventure at Umauma Falls
A 2.5-hour guided horseback tour from Hakalau that combines miles of pasture riding, Hawaiian history, and a picnic swim at a secluded waterfall—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Ride to a Hidden Waterfall: Wailea Horseback Adventure at Umauma Falls.
Wailea Horseback Adventure guides riders through the lush pastures and tropical gardens of Umauma Falls on Hawaii’s Big Island, a narrated family-run tour that pairs long stretches in open pasture with views of Mauna Kea and the Pacific, plus a short hike to a secluded waterfall where guests can swim and picnic.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Open pastures, ocean and mountain vistas
The route climbs through botanical gardens and open greener pastures with grazing cows, delivering repeated views across the Hamakua Coast to the Pacific and up to Mauna Kea—the kind of wide Hawaiian panoramas that unfold on horseback.
A unique waterfall swim accessible only by horse
This is the only Big Island horseback ride that includes a swim: after riding through multiple elevation levels and tropical vegetation, guests hike a short path to Umauma Falls for a 45-minute swim and picnic at a pristine pool.
Small-family operation with decades of experience
Wailea Horseback Adventure is a family-owned, local operation with more than 30–35 years of horseback hospitality; rides are guided and narrated, suitable for first-timers through advanced riders, and emphasize Hawaiian history and native plants along the way.
What the day feels like
What the ride feels like
After checking in at the barn and being matched with a horse and saddle, the guide offers a short demonstration and the group sets off across tropical botanical gardens into wide open pastures. The ride covers different elevation levels and climates—through fragrant botanical plantings, past grazing cows and toward hidden waterfalls—before a short hike to a waterfall pool where riders can swim, picnic, and relax for roughly 45 minutes prior to the return ride.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits—and who should opt out.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Suggested attire is long pants and covered shoes; bring a swimsuit, towel, bottled water, and a snack or lunch for the waterfall break. Bathrooms are available on site.
All participants must sign a waiver and be in good general health; the operator advises the experience is not recommended for the elderly, disabled, or pregnant guests.
The location is remote—bring bottled water and the operator suggests bringing your own snacks and drinks for the waterfall picnic; discounts for military and kama'aina are offered on direct bookings only.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The total tour time is 2.5 hours: approximately 1 hour 45 minutes of horseback riding and 45 minutes spent at the waterfall.
What are the start and check-in times?
Start/check-in times are 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM; riders should check in at the barn at 31-313 Old Mamalahoa Hwy in Hakalau.
What does the tour cost and how many people per ride?
Rates are $145 per person. Capacity is a minimum of 2 riders and typically 8 to 10 riders maximum per tour.
Are swims and picnics included?
Yes: the ride includes a 45-minute waterfall stop where guests may swim and picnic; bring your own snack, drink, swimsuit and towel.
Are there any restrictions or requirements?
Minimum age is 8 years and minors must be accompanied by an adult; there is a weight limit of 225 lbs (102 kg); participants must be in good general health and all riders sign a waiver.
How do I contact the operator or make a booking?
For questions or direct bookings call Wailea Horseback Adventure at (808) 775-1007 or email [email protected].