If you are looking for something adventurous and exciting to do while on the Big Island, add a Flumin’ Kohala guided tour to your tropical bucket list. Hop in a family-friendly four-seat kayak and get ready for the ride of your life. It’s exciting, educational, and absolutely beautiful while you get a rare glimpse of the pristine Hawaiian landscape with an added touch of history. There is no other place on the Big Island like this and for good reason.
The Flumin’ Kohala takes you on a journey through an amazing engineering marvel. This century-old irrigation and water delivery system was instrumental in the sugar plantation’s success. Fondly named, “the ditch,” this hand drilled and blasted channel provided water to the people of Kohala and the surrounding sugar plantations.
As you enjoy your ride, imagine the ingenuity and dedication of the brave men who were like heroes of their time. You may even see age-old messages carved in kanji on the walls by workers more than a century ago! Without their bravery, history would have been written so differently. Imagining no sugar plantations on the Island is unimaginable. The “ditch” was so expertly constructed, that it has outlived the plantations and thankfully continues to provide Kohala farmers and the community with essential, crystal clear mountain spring water. Now on to what you will experience.
You’ll float through fascinating winding concrete channels, fly over rushing waters, and enjoy the serenity of lush forests. It’s a fun and unforgettable historical journey through three miles of Hawaii’s landscapes. Enjoy beautiful waterfalls, streams, and tropical foliage. This amazing tour gives you the opportunity to experience the hidden beauty of Hawaii like no other. Don’t worry about falling in the water if you aren’t a strong swimmer. The ditch isn’t that deep and only ranges between approximately 25 to 35 inches, depending on the amount of rainfall.
Wear comfortable, casual clothes that you don’t mind getting wet. You will likely get wet from waterfalls that are nearby and throughout the tunnels dripping through the ceilings. Closed-toe shoes are highly recommended as you will be walking on uneven ground at times throughout your tour. Leave your slippers and flip-flops behind because they aren’t permitted. Pack a towel, hat, a change of clothing, and a light jacket, too. Keep in mind that pregnant women, those with serious medical conditions or back and neck issues should not participate. You’ll be sitting up straight without any back support for about an hour, so please keep this in mind, as well. Children under the age of five are not allowed. Bring them back in a few years, because you will most likely enjoy this so much you will want to do it again!
One of the most awesome things about a Flumin’ Kohala Guided tour is the friendly and knowledgeable guides. Many are from generations of Kohala families who tell how their parents and grandparents immigrated from different parts of the world to Hawaii to find a better life. The sugar plantations provided them with jobs and a bright future. The pride is apparent on their faces as they tell their true tales. They are a wealth of knowledge and their stories of this remarkable place add so much to the overall one-of-a-kind experience.
Insider Tips:
-No children under 5 are permitted.
-Ask about discounted rates for kamaaina, active-duty military, and senior citizens 65 and older.