ATV adventure through Hawaiian jungle terrain

Adrenaline & Adventure

High-Flying Thrills & Off-Road Fun in Kona

Written by a Local Expert

Adventure Woven into the ʻĀina

While Kona is rich in history and relaxation, it also knows how to get your heart pumping. Some folks ask me about adventure parks like Coral Crater. That's a great spot, but it's over on Oʻahu! Here on the Big Island, our adventure isn't contained in one park—it's woven into the ʻāina itself. Let me show you the best places to fly through the trees and get a little mud on the tires.

Surfing for Beginners & Intermediates

Let's be honest, the Big Island isn't Oʻahu's North Shore. Our island is the youngest in the chain, meaning our coastline is steep and rocky, which isn't ideal for creating perfect, peeling waves. However, we have some fantastic spots, especially for learning and longboarding.

🏄 Kahaluʻu Bay

This is, without a doubt, the best place in Kona to learn how to surf. The same breakwater that protects the snorkelers creates a gentle, consistent wave perfect for first-timers. You'll find several surf schools operating right out of their vans across the street, ready to get you on your feet in just one lesson.

🌲 Pine Trees (Kohanaiki)

A bit north of town, Pine Trees is a local favorite and a great spot for intermediate surfers or confident beginners. The waves are very consistent, but be aware—the reef can be shallow, so don't put your feet down. This is a spot where local families teach their kids, so the vibe is friendly, but always remember basic surf etiquette: give space, wait your turn, and always show respect.

High-Flying Thrills & Off-Road Fun

Ziplining Adventures

Umauma Experience

Located on the lush Hāmākua Coast (a scenic drive from Kona), this is a zipline for waterfall lovers. Their 9-line course sends you soaring over 14 different waterfalls and rushing river gorges. The views are absolutely breathtaking.

Kohala Zipline

This is a true "canopy tour" in historic North Kohala. Instead of just zipping from one tower to another, you're zipping from tree-to-tree high up in the forest canopy, crossing suspension bridges and finishing with a rappel. It's an immersive forest experience.

ATV/UTV Tours

Aloha Adventure Farms

This is one of my favorite adventure tours because it's packed with culture. Located right here in the hills of Hōlualoa, their ATV tour takes you through the jungle with stops at different Polynesian "islands" where you learn about the culture, history, and traditions of Hawaiʻi, Tonga, Fiji, and Samoa. It's so much more than just an ATV ride.

Umauma Experience

If you're looking for pure, muddy fun, Umauma delivers. They have a 5.5-mile private course with incredible ocean views and a stop at a private waterfall where you can cool off with a swim.

Big Island Adventure Showdown

Operator	Location (from Kona)	Main Draw	Activities Offered	Leilani's Vibe Check
Aloha Adventure Farms	Hōlualoa (15 min)	Cultural ATV Tour	ATV, Wood Carving	More than just a ride—you'll learn stories and skills. Perfect for families who want adventure with a dose of culture.
Umauma Experience	Hāmākua Coast (1.5 hrs)	Waterfalls & Mud	Zipline, ATV, Kayaking, Rappelling	The ultimate one-stop-shop for adrenaline junkies. The waterfall views are unmatched.
Kohala Zipline	North Kohala (1.25 hrs)	Forest Canopy Zipline	Zipline, Rappel, Waterfall Swim	An intimate, hands-on zipline experience that makes you feel like you're part of the forest.

Adventure with Aloha: Remember that these activities take place on sacred Hawaiian land. Follow all safety instructions, respect the environment, and embrace the spirit of adventure while honoring the ʻāina that makes these experiences possible.