Alaka'i Aloha Big Island logo
← Back to Kohala Zipline profile

Kohala Zipline - Deep Research Report

Deep Research Report

Last updated: April 23, 2026

What it is

Kohala Zipline offers aerial trekking and zipline experiences in the North Kohala district of the Big Island, Hawaii. The primary offering is the "Kohala Canopy Adventure," an 8-line zipline course that also features 6 elevated suspension bridges and a rappel descent. The course is uniquely designed to be mostly tree-based, with platforms built directly into the trees, providing an immersive experience high in the forest canopy. It's operated by Hawaii Forest & Trail, known for its high safety standards.

Beyond the standard canopy tour, Kohala Zipline also offers a "Zip & Dip" combo tour, which extends the adventure to include an off-road drive, a hike through a private nature reserve to see secluded waterfalls, a picnic lunch, and a swim under a private waterfall.

Visitor experience

Travelers choose Kohala Zipline for an active, adventurous way to experience the Big Island's natural beauty, particularly the lush forests of North Kohala. The Kohala Canopy Adventure provides thrills with ziplines reaching speeds up to 45 MPH, combined with the unique elements of sky bridges and a rappel. A notable feature is the 1100-foot tandem zipline that crosses over the historic Kohala Ditch. The ziplines use "WhisperLines" for quieter zipping and a smooth-stop braking system that allows guests to control their own speed. Guides provide natural and cultural history insights throughout the tour. The "Zip & Dip" tour caters to those looking for a longer, more comprehensive nature immersion that includes hiking and swimming in addition to ziplining.

Logistics

  • Area and Access: Kohala Zipline's check-in location is at 55-515 Hawi Road, Hawi, HI 96719, in the historic yellow Kohala Sugar Co. building. Hawi is in the North Kohala region of the Big Island.
  • Driving Times: It's approximately a 90-minute drive from Kona, 45 minutes from Waikoloa, and over 2 hours from Hilo.
  • Reservations: Advanced reservations are required, and booking a month or more in advance is recommended.
  • Timing:
    • Kohala Canopy Adventure: Approximately 3 hours from check-in to check-out, with about 2 hours on the course. Tours operate Monday through Saturday at various times (e.g., 8 am, 9 am, 10 am, 1 pm, 1:30 pm, 2 pm, 2:30 pm).
    • Kohala Zip & Dip: Approximately 8-9 hours round trip. This tour is typically offered on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday.
  • Check-in: Guests must check in at the Hawi store 30 minutes prior to their tour time.
  • Parking: Located in downtown Hawi.
  • What to Wear: Closed-toed shoes (sneakers or hiking boots), knee-length shorts, capris, or long pants, and sleeved shirts (no tank tops). A light jacket or sweatshirt is recommended due to potential weather changes in the forest. Long hair should be tied back, and loose jewelry should be secured.
  • What to Bring: Water is provided, and a light snack is included on the Canopy Adventure. The Zip & Dip tour includes snacks and a deli-style lunch. Guests may consider bringing sunscreen and a hat for the Zip & Dip tour. GoPro camera rentals are available.
  • Physical Requirements: Participants should have low to medium physical stamina, be able to walk over uneven terrain, and handle a short uphill climb (about 25 stairs). The course involves a short walk (less than 50 yards) between lines 2 and 3, and a short climb of about 25 stairs between lines 5 and 6.
  • Cancellation Policy: Full refund with 24 hours notice for regular tours (parties of 4 or less). Private tours or larger groups may have different policies.

Safety and cautions

  • Age and Weight Restrictions: Minimum age is 8 years old. Guests must weigh a minimum of 70 pounds and not more than 270 pounds. A scale is used at check-in, and no refunds are given for those who do not meet the weight requirements.
  • Health Restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with recent neck, back, or bone injuries, or those with an extreme fear of heights. Guests with heart conditions, asthma, diabetes, insulin dependency, or severe allergies should consult a physician beforehand.
  • Safety Standards: Kohala Zipline adheres to the highest safety standards set by the Association for Challenge Course Technology (ACCT). Guides are highly trained and safety-conscious, and guests are clipped into redundant belay points at all times when off the ground.
  • Full Participation: The course is "full-participation," meaning riders control their own speed and orientation and need to be able to reach overhead to apply friction to the cable.
  • Weather: The forest environment means weather can change quickly, so recommended attire includes layers.
  • Exit Option: For the Canopy Tour, participants have the option to exit the course at Platform Three if they find it's not for them, although doing so may delay others.

Editorial take

Kohala Zipline is a highly-rated and well-regarded adventure experience, particularly suitable for active travelers seeking an adrenaline rush combined with an appreciation for the Big Island's unique forest environment. It's an excellent choice for families with children aged 8 and up who meet the weight requirements. The focus on a "canopy adventure" with tree-based platforms, suspension bridges, and a rappel makes it more than just a series of ziplines, offering a more immersive aerial trekking experience. The ability for guests to control their own speed is also a notable differentiator.

This activity should be prioritized by those staying in North Kohala or planning a day trip to the area, who enjoy outdoor adventure and unique perspectives of nature. It fits well as a half-day activity for the Canopy Adventure or a full-day anchor activity for the Zip & Dip tour.

Travelers who should skip this include pregnant individuals, those with significant fear of heights, or those with back/neck issues or recent injuries. Visitors who prefer a zipline experience with prominent waterfall views might consider alternatives like Umauma Zipline Experience near Hilo, as Kohala Zipline's course features a seasonal stream but not major waterfalls.

Do not confuse "Kohala Zipline" with "Hawaii Forest & Trail," though they are under the same ownership. Kohala Zipline focuses specifically on the ziplining and aerial trekking experiences in North Kohala.

Source notes

Alaka'i Aloha Logo

Ready to see the highlights?

View the main activity profile for Kohala Zipline