'Akaka Falls is a 442-foot, free-falling waterfall and the namesake of 'Akaka Falls State Park on the Big Island of Hawaii. The waterfall is ripe with Hawaiian lore surrounding a warrior chief named 'Akaka. 'Akaka was a strong and handsome chief who ruled the nearby village of Honomu. He had a devoted wife, but he also had affairs with two mistresses, Maile and Lehua. When his wife returned home unexpectedly, she caught him with one of his mistresses. In a moment of guilt, 'Akaka jumped off a cliff and became the waterfall that is now known as 'Akaka Falls. The legend says that 'Akaka's dog turned to stone at the top of the falls after hesitating to jump. Having been filled with grief, his wife also became a large rock at the top. Maile and Lehua cried and cried until they too became smaller waterfalls further down the gulch. 'Akaka Falls is a special place for the Hawaiian people and is often featured in myths. The legend highlights the relationship between natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Accessing the view of the waterfall is fairly easy, assuming you've already accessed the entire state of Hawaii (that's the hard part). A short 0.4-mile loop will take you to see 'Akaka Falls and the more hidden Kahuna Falls.
Google Location: 'Akaka Falls State Park, Hawaii 96728
GPS Location: 19.8534° N, 155.1562° W
Parking: Lot
Total Hike: 0.4-mile loop
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Admission: $5 per person for entry + $10 per vehicle for parking (free for Hawaii residents)
Open: 8:30am - 5pm
Swimming: No
Pets: No
GPS Location: 19.8534° N, 155.1562° W
Parking: Lot
Total Hike: 0.4-mile loop
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Admission: $5 per person for entry + $10 per vehicle for parking (free for Hawaii residents)
Open: 8:30am - 5pm
Swimming: No
Pets: No
