Kulaniapia Falls
Secluded 22-acre retreat with a stunning private waterfall, offering swimming, lodging, and organic dining in a tranquil jungle setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos & swimming
Kulaniapia Falls
Best Time
Best light for photos & swimming
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Secluded 22-acre retreat with a stunning private waterfall, offering swimming, lodging, and organic dining in a tranquil jungle setting.
"This Hawaiian jungle retreat was pure paradise. The waterfall was breathtaking!"
🏊♀️ Swim Under the Falls
Don't miss the chance to swim in the pool beneath the stunning waterfall. Pack your swimsuit!
🍽️ Savor Chef's Dinner
Highly recommended! Enjoy a fantastic meal with local ingredients and beautiful waterfall views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kulaniapia Falls
The main waterfall
Witness the breathtaking cascade and swim in its refreshing pool. A truly magical experience.
The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls
Onsite accommodation
Experience serene rooms with waterfall views and sounds. Island-style breakfast is a daily highlight.
Pond Activities
Pond below the falls
Paddleboard or kayak in the tranquil pond, enjoying the unique perspective of the falls above.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Plan Your Waterfall Dip
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🏊♀️ Swim Under the Falls
Don't miss the chance to swim in the pool beneath the stunning waterfall. Pack your swimsuit!
🍽️ Savor Chef's Dinner
Highly recommended! Enjoy a fantastic meal with local ingredients and beautiful waterfall views.
🐶 Friendly Dog Greeters
Arrive to a warm welcome from the resident dogs. A delightful start to your visit!
☀️ Day Pass Value
A day pass is worth it to enjoy the falls, especially if you can snag them all to yourself!
Itinerary feedback, advice and suggestions please
Tips
from all over the internet
🏊♀️ Swim Under the Falls
Don't miss the chance to swim in the pool beneath the stunning waterfall. Pack your swimsuit!
🍽️ Savor Chef's Dinner
Highly recommended! Enjoy a fantastic meal with local ingredients and beautiful waterfall views.
🐶 Friendly Dog Greeters
Arrive to a warm welcome from the resident dogs. A delightful start to your visit!
☀️ Day Pass Value
A day pass is worth it to enjoy the falls, especially if you can snag them all to yourself!
🌿 Organic Breakfast
Enjoy a delicious all-organic breakfast, featuring standouts like the spinach omelette.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kulaniapia Falls for its breathtaking natural beauty, especially the stunning waterfall and the unique opportunity to swim beneath it. The serene atmosphere, coupled with the option for an overnight stay at The Inn and delicious organic meals, makes for a truly magical and unforgettable experience. Some visitors note that while day passes are great, an overnight stay offers a deeper immersion.
"What a beautiful stay! Want to swim beneath a waterfall? They got you! Want to sleep with the noise of the waterfall in the background? They got you! You get the idea. From check in to check out this experience was phenomenal. Can’t wait to visit again on our next adventure to Hawaii!"
Anita Shields
"We had an amazing experience at Kulaniapia Falls. Highly recommend the Chef's Dinner, every course was fantastic and used local ingredients. The view of the falls was beautiful while we enjoyed our meal. We will definitely be back!"
Luca Breslau
"This waterfall experience was so beautiful and breathtaking. Such a magical experience. I would come here every time I visited the big island. The employees were very kind and generous. The views alone were so special."
Brandon Johs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Kona, you'll drive north towards Hilo. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on your route and any stops you make. Consider stopping in Waimea for a snack along the way.
Kulaniapia Falls is a secluded property. While the grounds are beautiful, some areas may involve walking on uneven terrain. It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes.
Specific driving directions will be provided upon booking or inquiry. It's a private property, so it's best to follow the directions given by the establishment to ensure you reach the correct location.
Yes, parking is available for guests and day pass visitors. The property is expansive, so you should be able to find a spot.
Absolutely! Day passes are available, allowing you to enjoy the falls and grounds for a portion of the day. Many visitors find this a worthwhile experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book accommodations or day passes in advance, especially during peak travel times, to guarantee your entry and avoid disappointment.
Operating hours can vary, and it's best to check directly with Kulaniapia Falls for the most up-to-date information regarding access for day passes and guest check-in times.
Pricing for day passes can vary. It's advisable to contact Kulaniapia Falls directly or check their official website for current rates and availability.
A day pass typically grants you access to the grounds, including the main waterfall and the pond area for activities like paddleboarding and kayaking.
Yes, swimming beneath the waterfall is a key attraction and is generally permitted for day pass holders, weather and safety conditions permitting.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim under the waterfall, paddleboard or kayak in the pond, relax on the grounds, and enjoy the serene natural beauty. Staying overnight allows for a more immersive experience.
Yes, The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls offers refined rooms for an overnight stay, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil environment and wake up to the sounds of the waterfall.
The atmosphere is incredibly serene and magical. It's a secluded jungle retreat with breathtaking natural beauty, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. +1
While not explicitly stated as formal tours, the staff are often described as friendly and knowledgeable, providing insights into the property and the island. +1
Bring swimwear, a towel, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent. A camera is essential to capture the stunning scenery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Guests staying overnight can enjoy an all-organic island-style breakfast. The Chef's Dinner is also highly recommended for a special dining experience. +1
Many visitors rave about the Chef's Dinner, describing it as fantastic with locally sourced ingredients and enjoyed with beautiful views of the falls.
Kulaniapia Falls is a secluded property. For a wider range of dining options, you would need to travel to nearby towns like Hilo, which offers various restaurants and cafes.
While specific policies may vary, it's generally best to inquire directly about bringing outside food, especially if you plan to picnic on the grounds. The onsite dining options are highly praised. +1
An all-organic, island-style breakfast is a highlight for overnight guests, with specific mentions of a standout spinach omelette.
📸 📸 Photography
The main waterfall itself is the star, offering incredible photo opportunities. The pond area and the lush grounds also provide beautiful backdrops. +1
Absolutely! The romantic and picturesque setting of the private waterfall makes it an ideal location for engagement photos and proposals.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the mist and lush greenery. Midday offers bright light, while late afternoon can provide softer, golden hues.
Drone usage policies can be strict on private properties and in natural areas. It's essential to check with Kulaniapia Falls management beforehand to inquire about drone regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grandeur of the falls and the surrounding landscape. A waterproof camera or protective casing is advisable if you plan to get close to the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the property is beautiful, parents should be mindful of uneven terrain in some areas and supervise children closely, especially near the water. Packing essentials like swimwear, towels, and sunscreen is a must. Consider a day pass for a shorter, engaging visit, or an overnight stay for a more relaxed family retreat surrounded by nature's wonders.
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
For an extra special experience, consider an overnight stay at The Inn, where you can fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the waterfall. The highly-rated Chef's Dinner offers a perfect opportunity for a romantic evening meal. It's also a dream location for proposals and engagement photos, adding an unforgettable chapter to your love story.
🌿 Nature & Wellness Seekers
Whether you're meditating by the water, enjoying a quiet swim, or simply breathing in the fresh, tropical air, Kulaniapia Falls is designed to help you unwind and recharge. The secluded setting minimizes distractions, allowing for true immersion in the natural environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Waterfall
The experience of being so close to such a powerful natural wonder is often described as unforgettable. Whether you're taking a refreshing dip, enjoying the view from your room, or simply relaxing on the grounds, the waterfall's presence is a defining element of the Kulaniapia Falls experience. It's a place where nature's grandeur is on full display, offering a sense of peace and awe.
For those seeking an even more immersive connection, the pond at the base of the falls offers a chance to paddleboard or kayak, providing a different perspective of the cascading water. This combination of visual splendor and interactive natural elements makes Kulaniapia Falls a truly special destination.
An Unforgettable Stay at The Inn
A significant highlight for overnight guests is the daily all-organic, island-style breakfast. This culinary experience is frequently praised, with specific mentions of standout dishes like the spinach omelette, showcasing fresh, local ingredients. It's a delightful way to start the day before exploring the property or venturing out.
Beyond the rooms and breakfast, the overall hospitality at The Inn is noted for its kindness and helpfulness. The owner, in particular, is often described as knowledgeable and accommodating, contributing to a truly memorable and personalized stay. This attention to detail and genuine warmth elevates the experience beyond just a place to sleep.
Day Pass: A Taste of Paradise
The day pass also includes access to the pond, where you can enjoy activities like paddleboarding and kayaking. This allows for a more active engagement with the natural environment. The friendly and informative staff further enhance the experience, making it easy to navigate and appreciate the property.
It's a popular choice for those visiting the Big Island who want to incorporate a truly special natural wonder into their itinerary without the commitment of a multi-night stay. The chance to swim beneath a private waterfall is a bucket-list item for many, and the day pass makes this accessible.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit