Explore the tropical gardens and river scenery surrounding Umauma Falls at your own pace on this self-guided Big Island experience. Follow the Garden & River Walk through colorful plants and lush greenery, then take in spectacular views of the three-tiered Umauma Falls. With no fixed tour pace, visitors can linger at favorite viewpoints and enjoy the grounds before returning to the Visitor Center.
Trip Highlights
Drive-up access to Umauma Falls via a concrete road — no strenuous hike required
Spectacular, unobstructed views of the triple-tiered Umauma Falls
A quiet meditation garden for reflection along the walk
A native Hawaiian 'Ohi'a Lehua tree with distinctive red blooms, growing in its natural riverside setting
Fully self-guided — take as little or as much time as you like
Accessible even for guests with limited mobility
Itinerary
Stop at the Visitor's Center to pick up a Garden & River Walk map (or grab a snack)
Drive the concrete access road right up to Umauma Falls for a first look
Walk the garden path through tropical flowers, palms, and the meditation garden
Follow the river walk along the Umauma River, keeping an eye out for the native 'Ohi'a Lehua tree and its red blooms
Cross two bridges and pass through a macadamia nut path back toward the parking area, taking in orange archway blooms and the start of the Anthurium garden along the way
What’s Included
Included
Self-guided access to the tropical garden, river walk, and Umauma Falls viewing area
Garden & River Walk map available at the Visitor's Center
Things to Know
Sunblock and bug repellent are recommended. The walk involves light physical activity, and both the falls viewing area and garden walk are accessible even for guests with limited mobility.
Umauma Falls is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with final entry at 4:30 p.m. After checking in at the Visitor's Center, you can drive the concrete access road right up to the falls and garden/river walk. Take as little or as much time as you like.
Pricing is $10 per adult, $5 per child (ages 5–10), and free for children ages 4 and under. The tour is complimentary with purchase of a Zipline, River Swim & Kayak, or Zip N' Dip tour — a great way to pass the time before a scheduled zip time or as a stop along the coast road.
In case of thunder, lightning, or strong winds, tours may be cancelled.
Customer Reviews
Surreal and breathtaking
Called the walking loop surreal and breathtaking, comparing the lush foliage to walking through Jurassic Park.
A pleasant surprise
$10 for a carload of 5 with a map of the property, and the falls didn't disappoint after the drive up.
Breathtaking grounds
A family of five visiting for Spring Break called the waterfall and grounds breathtaking, and appreciated staff letting them in shortly before closing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour guided or self-guided?
This is a fully self-guided experience — explore the gardens, river walk, and falls viewing at your own pace, with no set time limit.
What are the hours for the Gardens & Waterfall Tour?
Umauma Falls is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with final entry at 4:30 p.m.
Is this tour accessible for guests with limited mobility?
Yes — both the falls viewing area and the garden/river walk can be visited by guests with limited mobility.
Explore the Umauma property on an off-road ATV adventure with sweeping Big Island ocean views and rugged tropical scenery along the way. Choose a single-rider ATV or side-by-side option and follow the guided route through the property for a fun, active experience suited to families and groups. Drivers must meet the applicable age and license requirements, and passengers may join from age four.
Enjoy Umauma's nine-line Big Island zipline course with convenient round-trip transportation from Waikoloa-area pickup points. Soar across two miles of ziplines, including four long dual lines, take in waterfalls and ocean views, and cross a 200-foot suspension bridge above a river gorge, lava tube, and fern grotto. This family-friendly adventure welcomes zipliners ages four and up.
Zip across the Kohala coastline on five thrilling lines and two sky bridges, then cool off with a swim beneath a private waterfall. The Kohala Zip & Dip pairs adrenaline with a relaxed picnic lunch and a stroll through a secluded nature reserve — a full day of adventure on the Big Island.
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