Ziplining

This Canopy Tour traverses a forested, stream-rich land on the slopes of the extinct volcano, Kohala. With soaring platforms built into majestic trees, arching suspension bridges, and progressively longer ziplines, this aerial trekking course is both serene and thrilling at once. During this unique adventure, you will be securely clipped into a safety harness and equipped with your own braking system, and you will fly via a pulley system through the forest across 9 ziplines, climaxing with a 1,150-foot long zip 120 feet off the ground with speeds up to 45 mph and an exciting rappel from the final tree. Also enjoy a fun off-road drive on a 6-wheel Pinzgauer, as well as complimentary treats of local macadamia nuts, trail bars, and other snacks.

For those who want to more fully experience North Kohala, the Zip & Dip tour is for you! You’ll start the day with transport from Kona or Waikoloa through the lush green countryside of Kohala to the zipline course for a morning Zipline Canopy Tour. Afterwards, you'll be transported to the very end of the road of the northern tip of the Big Island, where you'll enjoy a deli lunch at a private spot overlooking the famous Pololu Valley. You’ll then traverse an old cane road on private property on a six-wheel all-terrain Pinzgauer vehicle. On a 1 mile loop trail hike, you’ll learn about sugar cane plantations of the 1900s and the innovative irrigation systems they used, as well as delve into ancient Hawaiian history. You’ll pass 3 beautiful waterfalls, the last of which you can take a dip in the pool and play under the cascade.

The zipline course is sometimes closed due to windy or stormy conditions, so please book early in your trip if possible in order to be able to reschedule if needed. Mornings generally tend to be less windy than the afternoon.

If you're interested in the Zip & Dip but don't have a full day to spare or it's not available on the day you want, you can book the half-day waterfalls hike/swim as a separate tour for the morning (8 am to around 1 pm) and book ziplining (Option 1) for the afternoon (1:30 pm or later). You would need to drive yourself to the Hawi area, although both tours would start/end at the same Hawi office. Alternatively, you could book ziplining on one day and then book the waterfall tour (same link above) as a separate tour on another day. The stand-alone waterfall tour is longer and sees more waterfalls than the "dip" part of Zip & Dip.

• Convenience: closest zipline course to Waikoloa and Kona, and the only one on the western side of the island
• Newest course on the island, and therefore the safest and most cutting-edge technology, including the only one with WhisperLine-coated cables that reduce noise by over 50% and increases the durability of lines
• Total of 9 ziplines is greater than most of the others (none have more)
• Small group size (maximum of 8-9 with 2 guides) means less waiting time and more personalized attention (others can be as much as 24 people)
• You remain elevated on tree platforms throughout the tour (40-120 feet above the ground), which also means lots of shade and no walking up and down stairs between zips
• You are an active, not passive, participant in control of your own speed and body position
• Suspension bridges allow you to soak in the surroundings at a slower pace and also exciting since you have to be in control of every step from impressive heights

Fodor's Guidebook:

One of the few ways to really see the untouched beauty of the Big Island is to fly over its lush forests, dense tree canopies, and glorious rushing waterfalls on a zipline. An exhilarating adventure for all ages

Kohala Zipline features a thrilling, above-the-canopy adventure in a small group. It’s designed for all ability levels and focuses on fun and safety with easy, confident braking. You’ll feel like a pro by the last platform.

Lonely Planet Guidebook:

Ziplining has grown enormously popular in Hawaii as a thrilling ride among the treetops.

Kohala Zipline: Must-Visit Recommendation

• Tree platforms were built to not hinder the growth of the trees and so they can be easily removed, and all course elements use sustainably harvested lumber from onsite
• Supports conservation & education organizations with in-kind and financial support
• Supported by Kohala Preserve Conservation Trust

• No refunds after 48 hours prior to tour

• 4.166% Hawaii sales tax (GET)

• Must weigh 70-270 lbs and you will be weighed at check-in.
• Tours go rain or shine. Weather cancellations at sole discretion of Kohala Zipline
• Must wear closed-toe shoes
• Not recommended for those fearful of heights
• Should not have neck or back problems, health conditions that could require immediate attention, or expectant mothers
• No children under 8. Children 8-13 must be accompanied by an adult on tour. Minors must have parent or legal guardian sign a Participation Agreement.