If you’re looking for an adventure that combines adrenaline, breathtaking scenery, and a touch of Hawaiian charm, the Koloa Zipline tour might just be the highlight of your Kauai trip. While we haven’t personally flown through the skies here, the consistent praise from past explorers makes it clear this experience offers a memorable way to see the island’s lush landscapes and historic sites.
What we love about this tour is its focus on variety and fun—they offer different ziplining styles like tandem, upside-down, and superhero, which keep the adrenaline high and the experience fresh. Plus, the views of Kauai’s South Shore, including the Waita Reservoir and former sugar plantation lands, add a layer of authenticity and natural beauty. Our only caveat? It’s approximately 3.5 hours long, so it’s a bit of a time investment, but that’s typical for a high-quality zipline adventure.
This tour is best suited for those who crave adventure and are comfortable with heights, as well as travelers who enjoy combining physical activity with scenic sightseeing. It’s ideal for active families (over age 7), groups of friends, or couples looking to add a little thrill to their island stay.
Key Points
- Longest zipline tour in Kauai with 8 thrilling lines over 22,000 acres of historic sugar plantation land.
- Multiple ziplining styles including tandem, upside-down, backward, and superhero for diverse thrills.
- Expert guides and Ground School prepare beginners and enhance safety, making it accessible for first-timers.
- Stunning views of Kauai’s South Shore, Hoary Head Mountain Range, and the Koloa Sugar Mill.
- Snacks and beverages included to refuel during the adventure.
- Duration of about 3.5 hours offers a well-rounded experience without feeling rushed.
An In-Depth Look at the Zipline Experience
The adventure begins at the historic Old Koloa Sugar Mill, a fitting starting point that hints at the island’s past. From here, you’ll meet your guides—who are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude—and get fitted with the Flying Kauaiian Harness, a modern, comfortable safety device. Before you launch, everyone participates in Ground School, where basic safety instructions and ziplining techniques are covered, especially helpful for beginners.
Once briefed and harnessed, the real fun begins. The tour features 8 different ziplines, including three of the longest lines on Kauai. Each line varies in length and speed, but all are designed to maximize thrill and scenic viewing. Past comments highlight the quality of the equipment and the smoothness of the rides. Some guests have chosen to try tandem ziplining, zipping side-by-side with a friend or loved one—a great option for couples or those nervous about solo rides.
An especially unique feature is the ability to fly upside down, backward, or even superhero style, which adds a playful element to the adventure. These options are generally well-received, with visitors describing the experience as “exciting” and “totally unforgettable.”
As you soar over the land, your guides are quick to point out the sights—like the lush jungle canopy, the Hoary Head Mountain Range, and the Waita Reservoir. The views are a perfect mix of natural beauty and historical significance, as you’ll be flying over what was once Hawai’i’s first sugar plantation.
The final zip can be booked for sunset, offering a spectacular view of the setting sun over the mountains and fields—a magical way to end your day. During the tour, you’ll also be treated to snacks and drinks, perfect for re-energizing after each zip, with reviews noting the quality of the refreshments provided.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Koloa.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
One of the most praised aspects is the balance between adventure and scenery. Unlike some zipline tours that focus solely on thrills, this experience provides an authentic glimpse into Kauai’s history and landscapes. The guides’ expertise is consistently mentioned as a highlight—helping first-timers feel safe while keeping the energy fun and engaging.
Another big plus is the variety of ziplining styles. Whether you prefer the classic seat or want to try flying upside down, there’s something to keep every thrill-seeker excited. Plus, the longer length of the zips means you’ll get a longer, more immersive experience compared to shorter tours.
Past visitors often point out the stunning views as a core part of the experience—whether it’s looking over the reservoir or catching sight of the mountain range. It’s a chance to see Kauai from a whole new perspective, flying high above the island’s historic sugar fields.
Pricing at $166 per person positions this as a value-packed adventure—considering the length, the number of zip lines, snacks, and professional guidance. It’s a more affordable way to experience Kauai’s landscape than some helicopter tours, with the added thrill of zipping through the air.
Practical Details & Tips
The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, including check-in, safety briefings, the actual ziplining, and some downtime for snacks. Tours are typically available in the morning and afternoon, giving flexibility depending on your plans.
Transportation is straightforward—meet at the Old Koloa Sugar Mill—a site rich with history and a scenic backdrop. Check-in is at the designated time, so arriving a little early is wise.
It’s important to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes—no open-toed options allowed—and bring sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera to capture the views. Since mosquitoes can be more active during cloudy or rainy days, bug spray is a good idea.
The tour is designed for ages 7 and up, but it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with back or heart problems, or anyone who has a fear of heights. Also, there’s a weight limit of 280 lbs (127 kg), which is common for zipline safety.
Some guests have noted that tank tops and short shorts might cause chafing with the harnesses, so comfortable, modest clothing is recommended. Helmets are provided and are helmet-hat compatible, but cowboy hats or sombreros aren’t advised.
Authentic Insights from Past Travelers
A frequent theme in reviews is the knowledgeable guides. One guest said, “The guides made all the difference—they were fun, safe, and informative.” Others appreciated the stunning vistas: “The views of the mountains and water were worth every dollar.”
Many found the longer ziplines to be the tour’s biggest selling point, with comments like, “Those long lines gave us plenty of time to enjoy the thrill and the scenery.” The option to zip upside down or backwards adds a playful element that many appreciated as “a bucket-list experience.”
Some travelers mentioned the snacks and beverages as a nice touch, especially after the physical activity. A few noted that booking the sunset zip was particularly memorable, offering a gorgeous backdrop for photos and a peaceful end to an adrenaline-filled day.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Sum Up
The Koloa Zipline tour offers a compelling blend of adventure, scenery, and history. It’s a solid choice for those who want to experience Kauai’s landscapes from a new angle, with the benefit of expert guides and a variety of ziplining styles. The overall value is high, especially considering the number of lines, the length of the zips, and the inclusive snacks.
Whether you’re a first-time zipliner or a seasoned thrill-seeker, this tour provides plenty of excitement without sacrificing safety or comfort. The stunning views of Kauai’s South Shore make every zipline moment memorable, giving you a unique perspective on the island’s natural beauty and past.
If you’re craving a fun, active way to explore Kauai, this tour hits just the right notes—thrilling, scenic, and authentically Hawaiian.
FAQs
What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $166 per person, which includes 8 zip lines, snacks, beverages, and Ground School.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 3.5 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy all the lines and scenery without feeling rushed.
Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at the Old Koloa Sugar Mill, a historic site that adds to the island vibe.
Are there any age or weight restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or people with back or heart problems. The maximum weight is 280 lbs (127 kg).
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, sunscreen, and bring a camera and insect repellent. Avoid open-toed shoes and short shorts to prevent chafing.
Can I book the sunset zip?
Yes, the last zip of the day can be booked for sunset, which offers a spectacular view and a peaceful end to the adventure.
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The Ground School prepares first-timers, and guides are experienced in ensuring safety and fun.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
This Kauai zipline tour balances thrills and scenery in a way that makes every moment worth the price. It’s a fantastic way to add a little adventure to your island vacation while gaining a fresh perspective on Kauai’s lush, historic landscape.
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