Akaka Falls

Akaka Falls is a 442-foot waterfall in Akaka Falls State Park, reached by a short paved rainforest loop trail with stairs, gorge views and Kahuna Falls along the way.

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Akaka Falls

Akaka Falls State Park, Big Island

Located about 11 miles (18 km) north of Hilo, Akaka Falls State Park is a popular visitor attraction. The state park is home to Akaka Falls, a 422-foot (129 m) cascade. The waterfall can be seen from several lookout points along a paved loop trail that leads through the park.

Another waterfall in the park is the 100-foot (30 m) tall Kahuna Falls, which you'll come across first. The fact that Akaka Falls is easily accessible and the hike takes less than an hour (it is a pleasant 0.4 mile uphill hike) makes it one of the most popular waterfalls on the Big Island (along with Rainbow Falls in Hilo).

Key Features

442-foot waterfall in Akaka Falls State Park
Short paved rainforest loop trail with stairs
Kahuna Falls appears along the same loop
Lush Hamakua setting north of Hilo
Deep green gorge creates a dramatic vertical view
Trail passes bamboo, ferns, orchids and tropical plants
Parking area is near the trailhead
Non-resident entry and parking fees may apply
Shoes with good traction help after rain
Best approached as a short walk with time for overlooks and photos

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does Akaka mean?

Akaka is often translated as a crack, split or separation. The name fits the deep stream-cut gorge where the waterfall drops through the rainforest.

How is Akaka Falls different from Rainbow Falls?

Akaka Falls is taller and reached by a rainforest loop trail. Rainbow Falls is closer to downtown Hilo and has a very short walk from the parking area to the main viewpoint.

Why is Kahuna Falls easy to miss?

Kahuna Falls is partly hidden by vegetation and viewed from farther away than Akaka Falls. It appears along the same loop, but Akaka Falls is the main view most people remember.

What plants stand out along the trail?

The loop passes bamboo, ferns, orchids, ti plants, ginger and other rainforest growth. After rain, the trail often has a richer green look and stronger flower fragrance.

Why do photos of Akaka Falls look so vertical?

The waterfall drops in a long narrow ribbon into a steep gorge, so vertical framing usually captures the full height better than a wide shot.