Kahūnā Falls
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.4 miles
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Kahūnā Falls
Tucked into the wet, emerald rainforest of Hawaiʻi Island, Kahūnā Falls drops roughly 400 feet down a steep, verdant cliff and offers a quieter counterpart to its more famous neighbor, ʻAkaka Falls. The cascade sits within ʻAkaka Falls State Park, about 11 miles (18 km) north of Hilo and accessed from the Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) at the end of Hawaii Route 220. Framed by dense tropical growth—ferns, orchids and bamboo—Kahūnā is a rewarding sight for photographers and hikers seeking a lush, relatively short outing. Visitors often combine a stop at Kahūnā with views of the park’s namesake, 442-foot ʻAkaka Falls, which is named for Chief 'Akaka-o-ka-nī'au-oi'o-i-ka-wao. The setting feels distinctly Hawaiian: a compact, well-tended park where powerful waterfalls and cultural history meet amid easy, rainforest trails that showcase the island’s endemic plant life.
Height: 400 feet
Trail Description
Kahūnā Falls is reached via the Akaka Falls Loop Trail, a short, easy 0.4-mile loop with roughly 100 feet of elevation gain. The path is paved with some stairs and boardwalk sections, winding through bamboo groves, wild orchids and dense ferns, and is maintained for general visitor access. The trail’s gentle grade and solid surface make it suitable for most hikers looking for a brief rainforest walk with multiple viewpoints of the cascades.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene and picturesque view of Kahūnā Falls from a designated lookout point along the trail. While the falls are partially obscured by vegetation, the surrounding rainforest adds to the beauty of the experience.
Accessibility
The trail is paved and includes stairs, but it may not be fully accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.
Seasonal Closures
The park is generally open year-round, but closures may occur during severe weather or maintenance.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery due to rain and moss. Stay on the designated path and avoid venturing too close to the edge of the lookout points.
Location & Access
Getting There
Kahūnā Falls is located within Akaka Falls State Park, approximately 11 miles north of Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii. Visitors can access the park via Akaka Falls Road (Highway 220).
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at Akaka Falls State Park for a fee. There is a designated parking lot near the trailhead.
Elevation
1027 feet above sea level
Coordinates
19.857395° N, -155.153481° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure parking. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a rain jacket, as the area is often damp and prone to sudden rain showers.
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For this easy 0.4 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Where to Stay
Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Explore Hawaii springsFrequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Kahūnā Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $10.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Kahūnā Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
Best Seasons to Visit
The falls can be visited year-round, but mornings typically offer clearer views and fewer visitors.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Akaka Falls, Hilo Town, Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
Wildlife
The area is home to native Hawaiian birds such as the 'apapane and 'amakihi, as well as various insects and small reptiles.
