Hilo Waterfalls Private Shore Excursion: Akaka Falls, Rainbow Falls & Liliʻuokalani Gardens
Step off the ship and into Hilo’s rainforest in a private, 6-hour shore excursion that links Banyan Drive, Rainbow Falls, ʻAkaka Falls and Liliʻuokalani Gardens. This guided tour pairs short, accessible walks with local history and geology—ideal for travelers with limited time ashore.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear grippy walking shoes
Trails at Rainbow and Akaka include wet, paved sections and muddy edges—choose shoes with traction to avoid slips.
Go early for rainbows
Visit Rainbow Falls at sunrise when the low sun often produces a rainbow in the mist; crowds are thinner then too.
Pack a light rain jacket
Tropical showers are frequent and brief—carry a compact shell to stay comfortable during roadside stops.
Respect cultural sites
Stay on marked paths in Liliʻuokalani Gardens and avoid touching historic lanterns or leaving offerings; follow your guide’s instructions.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Boiling Pots lookout along the Wailuku River—dynamic after rains
- •The teahouse and stone bridges in Liliʻuokalani Gardens for quiet photos and fishpond views
Wildlife
- •Nēnē (Hawaiian goose)
- •Native forest honeycreepers such as ʻapapane; occasional honu (green sea turtles) near Hilo Bay
Conservation Note
Stay on trails and use reef-safe sunscreen to protect native reefs and freshwater habitats; invasive plant and frog species threaten native ecosystems, so follow guide advice on sanitation and not moving plants.
Banyan Drive commemorates early 20th-century plantings by visiting celebrities and honors the Japanese immigrant community celebrated in Liliʻuokalani Gardens.
Photographer's Notes
- • Rainbow Falls lookout for rainbows in the mist
- • Akaka Falls paved loop viewpoint above the gorge
- • Banyan Drive bridge and Liliʻuokalani Gardens teahouse for framed shots
What to Bring
Grippy walking shoesEssential
Protects against wet pavement and muddy trail edges at falls and lookouts.
Light rain jacketEssential
Blocks brief tropical showers common on the windward coast.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Stay hydrated in humid conditions; guide provides bottled water but refill to reduce waste.
Reef-safe sunscreen and hatEssential
Protects skin during sunny roadside stops and while exploring gardens and beaches.
Common Questions
Is pickup from the port included?
Yes—round-trip port pickup and drop-off are included; the guide will call about an hour before scheduled pickup.
Are entrance fees included?
Yes—park entrance fees for listed stops are included in the tour price.
How much walking is required?
Walking is short and accessible: expect brief paved paths and viewpoints, including a 0.4-mile uphill loop at Akaka Falls.
Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes—suitable for most ages and fitness levels; notify the operator if you need special assistance or infant seats.
Can I take photos and drones?
Photography from public lookouts is allowed; drone use is restricted in state parks and near cultural sites—check with your guide and local regulations.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours may be canceled for unsafe conditions; the cancellation policy allows a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours prior.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Hilo, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires short uphill walks (0.4-mile loop at Akaka) and standing at lookouts
Ready to Explore Hilo?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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