Beyond the Zip
Making the most of your Big Island adventure with cultural experiences and hidden gems
Written by a Local Expert
Kalani MillerBeyond the Zip: Making the Most of Your Big Island Adventure
Your zipline tour is just the beginning of what the Big Island has to offer. Each region where these adventures are located offers incredible opportunities to extend your day and really immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture and natural beauty.
The key to a perfect Big Island vacation is understanding that each region has its own personality. By pairing your zipline adventure with local attractions, you'll create memories that go far beyond the adrenaline rush.
Exploring the Hāmākua Coast
If you're ziplining on the Hāmākua Coast, you're in one of the most scenic regions of Hawaii. The famous ʻAkaka Falls State Park is just minutes from most of the zipline operators. The short hike to the viewpoint is easy for all ages, and the 442-foot waterfall is truly breathtaking.
🌊 ʻAkaka Falls State Park
The 442-foot waterfall is just minutes from zipline operators. Pro tip: visit before your zipline tour for better perspective when flying over similar terrain.
🏭 Hāmākua Heritage Corridor
Drive the scenic route and stop at old sugar mill ruins in Hakalau. These structures tell the story of Hawaii's plantation era when sugar was king.
🌰 Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Center
Visit a working macadamia nut farm with free samples. After flying over the canopy, it's fascinating to walk among the trees and understand how they grow.
🌈 Rainbow Falls, Hilo
Perfect afternoon visit after morning ziplines. The 80-foot waterfall creates rainbows in the mist, especially beautiful in afternoon light.
🎯 Perfect Hāmākua Coast Day
- • Morning zipline tour at Umauma or Botanical World
- • Quick visit to ʻAkaka Falls State Park
- • Lunch in historic Hilo town
- • Afternoon at Rainbow Falls
- • Saturday: Hilo Farmers Market (morning)
North Kohala Cultural Immersion
The North Kohala region is steeped in Hawaiian history and culture. After your zipline adventure, drive through the historic town of Hawi. This former sugar plantation town has been revitalized with art galleries, local craft shops, and some of the best local food on the island.
🏛️ Moʻokini Heiau
King Kamehameha's birthplace and one of Hawaii's most sacred sites. This ancient temple complex dates back over 1,500 years and offers profound connection to Hawaiian spirituality.
🎨 Historic Hawi Town
Former sugar plantation town revitalized with art galleries, local craft shops, and authentic Hawaiian food. Perfect for lunch after ziplining.
🌄 Pololu Valley Lookout
Absolutely stunning, especially at sunset. The black sand beach below and dramatic coastal cliffs create one of the most photographed views in Hawaii.
👑 King Kamehameha Statue
The original statue of King Kamehameha I in Kapaʻau. This is actually the original statue - the famous one in Honolulu is a replica!
🎯 Perfect North Kohala Day
- • Morning zipline tour at Kohala Zipline
- • Lunch in historic Hawi town
- • Visit King Kamehameha statue in Kapaʻau
- • Sunset at Pololu Valley Lookout
- • Optional: Moʻokini Heiau for cultural experience
Combining Adventures
Ziplining pairs beautifully with other Big Island adventures. Many families plan "adventure days" that combine multiple activities.
🌊 Hāmākua Coast Combos:
- • Zipline + ʻAkaka Falls + Hilo town
- • Zipline + Rainbow Falls + Farmers Market
- • Zipline + Macadamia farm + Beach day
- • Zipline + Laupahoehoe Point + Sunset
🌳 North Kohala Combos:
- • Zipline + Hawi + Pololu Valley
- • Zipline + Moʻokini Heiau + Beach
- • Zipline + King Kamehameha statue + Lunch
- • Zipline + Spencer Beach + Sunset
📍 Nearby Attractions
🌺 Cultural Highlights
1,500-year-old sacred temple
Sugar plantation history
Original statue location
📸 Photo Opportunities
- Pololu Valley sunset (golden hour)
- Rainbow Falls morning rainbows
- ʻAkaka Falls overlook platform
- King Kamehameha statue
📖 Complete Guide
Navigate through our comprehensive Big Island ziplining guide.