Akaka Falls is the best known waterfall on the Big Island of Hawaii. Akaka Falls is a 442 foot tall waterfall that plunges down into a deep gorge. When you enter Akaka Falls State Park there is a circular trail through a tropical setting that will give you views of Akaka falls, a trail through lush tropical foliage, streams, and also Kahuna Falls.
Akaka Falls is located on the northeastern part of the island and is a must see if you are in the area. If you are traveling from the resort area you will travel on highway 19 until you see signs for Akaka Falls State Park. You will drive roughly 10 minutes in until you reach parking. You will pass a lot of interesting local food stands offering various items so if that is of interest to you make sure and take some cash. Once you reach Akaka falls typically you have to pay for parking unless you have a Hawaii state id. The current fee (as of March 2024) is $5 per person and there are people there collecting payments.
Once you enter the park you will follow a small railed pathway for close to 1/2 mile to get to the Akaka Falls viewing point. You can either continue along the trail to see another waterfall or turn around and come out. It is highly recommended to wear hiking boots, or something with good grip, Due to the wetness of the area the pathway can be a bit slick at times. There is a lot of stairs along the way so you will want to make sure you are in relatively good health. While you can get in and get out pretty fast it is highly recommended to allow about an hour of time to be there. There is a lot of beautiful spots outside of just seeing the waterfall.
