KAILUA-KONA WALKING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Kohala Waterfalls Adventure: Off‑Road to Hidden Pools and Sea‑Cliff Vistas
A full‑day guided walk through a private North Kohala reserve that combines off‑road driving, waterfall swims, native‑land restoration, and a cliffside picnic.
Kohala Waterfalls Adventure: Off‑Road to Hidden Pools and Sea‑Cliff Vistas.
Embark on a North Kohala outing that begins with an off‑road drive to a secluded trailhead and unfolds as a relaxed, guided stroll through a private nature reserve—swimming beneath cascading falls, walking through historic Hawaiian agricultural areas, and finishing with a picnic above soaring sea cliffs and remote valleys.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Exclusive Trailhead and Private Reserve
The trip opens with an off‑road ramble to an exclusive trailhead, then follows an accessible, guided walk through a private nature reserve that showcases streams, waterfalls, and rugged valley scenery.
Cascading Waterfalls and Cool Pools
A key moment is cooling off with a swim beneath one of several cascading waterfalls; water temperature varies seasonally and with rainfall, typically ranging between 60 and 70°F.
Historic Agriculture and Hands‑On Restoration
The route includes a walk through a historic Hawaiian agricultural area with an opportunity to contribute to natural restoration efforts—part of the experience’s new 2026 offerings.
What the day feels like
How the day unfolds
Over roughly six to seven hours, expect a mix of vehicle time and relaxed on‑foot exploration: an off‑road approach to a secluded trailhead, a gentle guided ramble through a private reserve, a swim under waterfalls, time spent learning about and helping restore historic agricultural sites, and a private picnic at a dramatic coastal lookout.
THE ROUTE
Exclusive Trailhead and Private Reserve
The trip opens with an off‑road ramble to an exclusive trailhead, then follows an accessible, guided walk through a private nature reserve that showcases streams, waterfalls, and rugged valley scenery.
THE SWIM
Cascading Waterfalls and Cool Pools
A key moment is cooling off with a swim beneath one of several cascading waterfalls; water temperature varies seasonally and with rainfall, typically ranging between 60 and 70°F.
THE CULTURE
Historic Agriculture and Hands‑On Restoration
The route includes a walk through a historic Hawaiian agricultural area with an opportunity to contribute to natural restoration efforts—part of the experience’s new 2026 offerings.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits—and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring comfortable closed‑toed shoes and/or closed‑toed water shoes, swim gear, a reusable water bottle, and personal sun protection such as a hat and sunglasses.
Closed‑toed footwear (or water shoes) and personal sun protection are recommended for trail and swimming sections; carry a refillable water bottle.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How much hiking do we do?
Expect to cover approximately 1 mile in 1.5–2 hours.
Is there elevation gain?
Expect minimal climbing with an estimated elevation gain of about 200 feet over the hike.
What is the water temperature in the pool we swim in?
Water temperature varies by season and rainfall, generally between 60 and 70°F.
Are child safety seats required?
Yes. Hawaii law requires children up to age 10 who are under 4'9" to be secured in a child safety or booster seat; children age 2 and under must ride in a rear‑facing car seat. Hawaii Forest & Trail provides seats and carriers upon request.
What are the trail conditions?
Trails can be uneven, rocky, and sometimes cool, wet, or muddy; guests should be able to manage such terrain.