Akaka Falls State Park, Hamakua Coast

Akaka Falls State Park has a half-mile loop walking path in the most incredible tropical jungle. Come in early August if you can, to see flowers galore and even hanging flowers. It is such a treat! You walk through a bamboo forest, and to a lookout above tall 442 ft Akaka Falls. There are banana groves, yellow ginger flowers, and ferns. It's a tropical wonderland! You cross a bridge by some smaller falls and a stream. At this spot, the flowers really take on surreal quantities! 

The paved path is fairly even but is narrow and does include many stairs. It is a bit strenuous, and unfortunately it's not wheelchair accessible. For an easier hike with less stairs, go left when you get to the sign- it points you left for Akaka Falls. Then turn back after you see the falls. You will miss the bamboo forest and smaller waterfall but this is a good option if you have sore knees. 
In the morning, photos of the falls are better, but in the afternoon, the tropical vegetation on the trail is backlit with a gorgeous light and the drive up to the falls is stunning, with the farm grasses lit golden.
There is a type of fish called an 'o'opu that swims upstream from the ocean and then climbs Akaka Falls! It uses a suction disc and its pectoral fins to climb up the slippery side of the waterfall! You can't see it but it's fun to read about it on the plaque. 
Akaka Falls is on the Hamakua Coast. Definitely visit if you're driving along the coast! It is an eight minute drive inland from Highway 19. There are many other wonderful things to do along this coast- click on the link to find out more. 
One of the nicest parts of visiting Akaka Falls is the drive once you head inland toward the falls, on Old Mamalahoa Hwy. You pass through countryside with cows and cute fruit stands. In the afternoon light, the long grasses glow golden. It is gorgeous! You see the sea below. Stop at the little town of Honomu. There is something magical about this town, with its colorful storefronts on the two blocks of main street. You can have a coffee at The Hive and talk to the friendly residents. Big Island Birria Boss is a good Mexican restaurant. Take photos of Holy Ascension Orthodox Church, a chapel with sweet architecture.

Directions

Akaka Falls State Park is located eight miles inland from Highway 19. Take Highway 220 to the end and follow the signs. It costs $5 to enter, but Hawaii residents enter for free. Parking lot is open 8:30-6, and costs $10 per car, but is free for Hawaii residents. Park in the lot because the free street parking has big holes your tire can go into. 
There is no cell phone reception at some spots on the Hamakua Coast, so print out directions before you leave!
The Hive, 28-1672 Old Mamalahoa Hwy, Honomu, HI 96728. Open Tues-Sun 9-5. Closed Mon. 
Big Island Birria Boss Mexican Cafe, 28-1692 Old Mamalahoa Hwy, Honomu, HI 96728. Open daily 11-5.

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