If you’re planning your dream trip to the Big Island and looking for that perfect blend of stunning views and heart-pumping fun, you’ve come to the right place. Nothing says “Hawaii vacation” quite like soaring over lush rainforests and incredible waterfalls. The Big Island is a prime spot for these kinds of thrills, and with so many amazing companies to choose from, picking the right one can be an adventure in itself.
That’s where this guide comes in. We’ve gathered all the details you need on the best zipline Big Island experiences to help you find your perfect fit. Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable zipline Hawaii adventure that takes you over majestic waterfalls or just want to explore the island’s unique landscapes from a new perspective, we’ve got you covered.
Big Island Ziplines At-A-Glance
| Hawaii Zipline Tours | Kohala Zipline | Botanical World | Umauma Experience | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Best Views | Forest Immersion & Adventure | Families & Flower-Lovers | Side-by-Side Zipping |
| Price (Adult) | ~$235 | ~$235 | ~$227 | ~$242 |
| # of Lines | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 |
| Key Feature | Private Waterfall Access | Treetop Canopy & Rappelling | Integrated Botanical Garden | 4 Dual Lines |
| Min. Weight | 40 lbs | 70 lbs | 35 lbs | 35 lbs |
| Zip Over Waterfall? | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Information last checked 9/9/2025; Prices subject to change without notice.
Hawaii Zipline & Hiking Tours
Price: $235 adult/ $210 child
Weight Restrictions: 40 lbs. – 260 lbs.
Location: In Hilo, on the eastern side of the Big Island. Near Akaka Falls State Park.
So, what makes Hawaii Zipline Tours stand out from the crowd on the Big Island? First off, their location is pretty sweet. You’ll find them nestled on the lush Hāmākua Coast, close to the iconic Akaka Falls State Park. This means you’re already in a gorgeous, natural setting even before you clip in. The real showstopper is that you actually get to soar above a 450-foot ravine and over the incredible 250-foot Kolekole Waterfall, directly downstream from the famous Akaka Falls!
But if you’re a zipline first-timer or maybe a little nervous about heights, not to worry. Their seven-line course is designed to ease you in. You start with some shorter, gentler zips with small waterfalls and gradually work your way up to longer, higher, and more exhilarating lines reaching lengths of 1/2 a mile. It’s like a warm-up for your inner daredevil. And if you have a young adventurer (weighing between 40-69 lbs.), they’ll be paired up with a guide on the last three lines. This ensures that everyone gets to enjoy the thrill safely and comfortably. It’s a nice option if you’re traveling with younger or lighter adventurers who might not meet solo zipping requirements elsewhere. Plus, their expert guides will keep you entertained with interesting info about the island and Hawaiian culture.
In Short: With its gentle progression and direct views of the massive Kolekole Waterfall, this is the best tour for first-timers and anyone focused on seeing the epic waterfalls of the Hāmākua Coast.
Kohala Zipline
Price: $235 adult/ $210 child
Weight Restrictions: 70 lbs. – 270 lbs.
Location: In North Kohala, near the northern tip of the Big Island
Their zipline tour is a full-on “tree-to-tree” canopy adventure. This means you spend most of your time up in the treetops, zipping between eight different lines, crossing five sky bridges, and finishing your tour with a rappel down to the forest floor. It’s a true aerial trekking course that makes you feel like you’re part of the forest, not just zipping over it. Plus, their “WhisperLines” are specially coated to reduce noise.
Another huge differentiator is their location. You’re zipping on historic land that was once owned by King Kamehameha the Great. It’s an area of natural beauty, offering stunning views of the coast, the island of Maui in the distance, and the remnants of ancient Hawaiian agriculture systems.
In Short: The combination of sky bridges and rappelling makes this a true aerial trekking course. This is the best tour for adventurers who want a more immersive, “in-the-trees” forest experience.
Botanical World Adventures
Price: $227 adult/ $197 child
Weight Restrictions: 35 lbs. – 275 lbs.
Location: In Hakalau, on the eastern coastline near Umauma Gulch.
Botanical World’s zipline is integrated into a fragrant botanical garden. This means that as you walk from one line to the next, you’ll meander past a variety of flowers and even a massive hedge maze. The guides aren’t just there for safety; they’ll also share fun facts about the local flora, making it a blend of adventure and education. Experience an exhilarating zip line that offers stunning views of the breathtaking Kamae’e Falls.
This is a fantastic option for families or groups with different interests. While some of you are flying through the air, others can explore the gardens at their own pace. And they even offer free souvenir photos, which is a great bonus so you don’t have to worry about fumbling with your phone while trying to capture the moment.
In Short: The ability for some group members to explore the gardens while others zipline makes this a uniquely flexible option. This is the best tour for families with younger kids or groups with mixed interests and adventure levels.
Umauma Experience
Price: $242 adult/ $232 child
Weight Restrictions: 35 lbs. – 275 lbs.
Location: In Hakalau, near Umauma Gulch.
Here, you can enjoy stunning views of Umauma Falls from the designated viewing area, perfect for capturing beautiful photos. Four of their nine ziplines are dual lines, so get ready to race a friend or family member through paradise. It adds a fun, competitive element to the tour and is perfect for sharing the excitement with a loved one. The course extends for nearly two miles of zipping, with speeds reaching up to 65 mph.
And the adventure doesn’t stop with just the zipping. You’ll also cross a 200-foot suspension bridge that’s 100 feet above a lava tube and fern grotto—an unforgettable experience that’s a highlight all on its own!
In Short: With nine long lines hitting speeds up to 65 mph and four dual-lines for racing, this course is built for high-energy thrills. This is the best tour for adrenaline seekers and competitive friends or couples.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the ultimate guide to finding your ideal Big Island zipline tour. Each company offers something special, whether it’s the thrill of zipping over a 250-foot waterfall with Hawaii Zipline Tours, the immersive tree-to-tree adventure of Kohala Zipline, the unique botanical experience at Botanical World Adventures, or soaking up views of Umauma Gulch. If your vision for a Hawaii adventure includes the unforgettable thrill of soaring over a roaring 250-foot waterfall, we’re ready for you. Check availability for our Hawaii Zipline Tour and book your zipline experience today!