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Akaka Falls State Park, Hawaii

Waipio Valley | Coconut Island | Liliuokalani Gardens | Farmer's Market | Hilo

Photo contribution by Tony Braim

Attractions: waterfalls, scenic drive
Activities: nature hike
Extras: parking lot, bathrooms

Bring your camera when you visit Akaka and Kahuna Falls, two impressive Hawaiian waterfalls.  Akaka Falls State Park is just a short 20 minute drive north of Hilo, which takes you through the Big Island's old sugar-cane fields.  The road (Route 220) ends at the parking lot for Akaka Falls State Park.  Here you will find a paved parking lot and bathrooms.  You will also likely find a native Hawaiian lady at the head of the trail displaying hand-made Hawaiian art prints.  Check out her art on her website.

At Akaka Falls State Park, you will take a self-guided, 0.4 mile hike through dense tropical vegetation to see these two towering Hawaiian waterfalls.  The hike features a shady, half-hour walk along a paved path fragrant with tropical flowers and vines.  We suggest you first visit Kahuna Falls, the lesser of the two waterfalls at 400 ft.  This amazing waterfalls only whets your appetite for the majestic Akaka Falls, which drops 442 ft. into a pool of water below.

At the Akaka Falls State Park parking lot you will likely find a native Hawaiian lady selling hand-painted prints and handicrafts.  There are plnty of photo opportunities during this nature hike.  The trail takes you over cascading miniature water falls and through fertile, damp forest.  You will see huge ferns and bamboo towering above you as streams flow beneath the foot bridges.  Akaka Falls is only a short drive from Hilo and shouldn't be missed.  On your way up here, make sure you take time to explore the Hamakua 4 mile scenic drive.

Directions - Take Rte 19 North out of Hilo.  Turn right on Rte 220 (after 13 mile marker) towards Honomu and drive through the town.  Follow signs for Akaka falls.  View map and driving directions from Hilo.

Nearby Attractions - Hilo Town, Rainbow Falls State Park, Hilo Farmer's Market, Queen Liliuokalani Gardens, Coconut Island, Waipio Valley Lookout.
 

Giant Bamboo viewed during the hike at Akaka Falls State Park