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Hilo Shore Excursion Waterfalls and Botanical Garden

1 Review 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 1 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
| Hawaii, USA
Book online or call us

from $295 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
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Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 25 (0) days in advance.
5 to 6 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Discover the wild beauty of the Big Island on this premium small-group shore excursion from Hilo. Your adventure begins at the legendary Rainbow Falls, where an 80-foot waterfall plunges over an ancient lava cave. Wind through the lush, canopy-covered Pepeekeo Scenic Drive before exploring the world-renowned Hawai'i Tropical Botanical Garden — a 40-acre sanctuary home to over 2,000 species of rare tropical plants along scenic Onomea Bay.

Stop in the charming plantation village of Historic Honomu Town for a leisurely stroll and local treats, then witness the breathtaking 442-foot free-fall of ʻAkaka Falls. Conclude your day at Liliʻuokalani Japanese Gardens — the largest authentic Edo-style garden outside of Japan — and cross the footbridge to Coconut Island for stunning panoramic views of Hilo Bay.

What's Included

  • Bottled water
  • All Fees & Taxes
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Tips & Gratuities
  • Foods & drinks
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Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point
Pickup details

Your guide will call the guests one day before the tour to confirm the pick-up time and location.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Rainbow Falls

Feast your eyes on the breathtaking beauty of Rainbow Falls (Waiānuenue), an iconic 80-foot natural waterfall that plunges over an ancient lava cave into a sparkling turquoise pool below. According to Hawaiian legend, the cave beneath the waterfall was the sacred home of Hina, mother of the demigod Maui. Surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, this spectacular site gets its name from the vibrant rainbows that dance across the mist on sunny mornings.A short paved pathway offers effortless access to the viewing platform, making it easy to capture perfect postcard-worthy photos of one of the Big Island's most beloved natural wonders. For those who want to explore further, a staircase leads to the top of the falls where a hidden pathway through lush vegetation reveals a grove of magnificent ancient banyan trees.
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45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Pepeekeo Scenic Drive

Experience the breathtaking old-world charm of the Pepeekeo Scenic Drive. This legendary 4-mile stretch of the Old Mamalahoa Highway winds from one scenic spot to another through a dense, canopy-covered tropical rainforest, far removed from the busy main highway. As you navigate the gentle curves and cross charming old bridges, look out at towering banyan trees, lush giant ferns, and vibrant tropical flowers. Along the way, stunning glimpses of beautiful Onomea Bay and rugged volcanic coastline give you a front-row seat to the untouched wild beauty of the Big Island's coast. Halfway through the drive, the world-famous Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Gardens — home to over 2,000 species of rare and exotic plants — awaits as a breathtaking bonus stop.
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40 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Garden

Step into a living paradise at the Hawai'i Tropical Botanical Garden, a stunning nature preserve nestled in the scenic Onomea Valley, just 8 miles north of Hilo along the Big Island's beautiful Hamakua Coast. This lush 40-acre sanctuary is home to over 2,000 species of rare and exotic tropical plants, representing more than 125 families and 750 genera from around the globe — including nearly 200 species of towering palms, vibrant orchids, and dramatic heliconias. Walk down a 500-foot landscaped boardwalk into the lower garden trails, where tranquil streams, hidden waterfalls, and breathtaking coastal views await. Follow the trail to the stunning three-tiered Onomea Falls before the path opens up to spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean where the rainforest dramatically meets the sea. It is an unforgettable and deeply peaceful look at the true botanical magic of the Big Island.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Included

Honomu

Take a delightful step back in time as you explore Historic Honomu Town, a charming plantation-era village nestled along the beautiful Hamakua Coast. With its history dating back to 1876, this quaint town was once a thriving sugar cane plantation hub with its own theaters, shops, and bustling community life. Today, its beautifully preserved early 20th-century wooden storefronts and plantation-style architecture tell the story of old Hawaii. Stroll down the main street to browse eclectic art galleries, hunt for unique handmade souvenirs, and stop at local shops selling plantation-era antiques and locally crafted gifts. Don't miss Mr. Ed's Bakery — a beloved local institution famous for its giant cinnamon rolls, sticky monkey bread, and over 150 varieties of tropical jams and jellies. It's the perfect slice of authentic small-town Hawaii charm before continuing your adventure.
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45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Liliuokalani gardens

Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Liliʻuokalani Gardens, the largest authentic Edo-style Japanese garden outside of Japan, spanning 24 acres along Banyan Drive in Hilo. Dedicated in 1917 as a tribute to Hawaiʻi's first Japanese immigrants who worked the Big Island's sugar cane fields, this stunning oceanfront park was made possible by Queen Liliʻuokalani — Hawaii's last reigning monarch. Stroll along winding footpaths to discover koi ponds, stone pagodas, lanterns donated by 14 Japanese prefectures, and a traditional teahouse. A charming footbridge leads to Coconut Island — Moku Ola, or "Island of Life." Once home to an ancient Hawaiian healing temple, today it offers a peaceful retreat in Hilo Bay with panoramic views of the historic waterfront and lush green mountains.
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1 hour 30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Hilo

After a beautiful day exploring the best waterfalls, tropical gardens, and scenic coastlines of the Big Island, we will begin our relaxed drive back to Hilo. Relax and enjoy the passing landscapes as your guide drops you off directly at your original pickup location.
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15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Hilo Shore Excursion Waterfalls and Botanical Garden?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (HST).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-318681P74

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
1 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 1 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
1
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 25 (0) days in advance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Hilo Shore Excursion Waterfalls and Botanical Garden?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (HST).
  • This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Bottled water.
  • All Fees & Taxes.
  • Air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Pickup/Drop off.
  • Expert Guide.
The following is NOT included:
  • Tips & Gratuities.
  • Foods & drinks.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the weather cancellation policy?
A:

This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Hilo Shore Excursion Waterfalls and Botanical Garden is as follows:

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Hilo Shore Excursion Waterfalls and Botanical Garden will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Shore Excursions. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • Bottled water
  • All Fees & Taxes
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Pickup/Drop off
  • Expert Guide
  • Tips & Gratuities
  • Foods & drinks

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers

Report Product Issue

Activity name