Secret Tide Pool Hike - Jungle & Coast - Private
Recommended by 91% of travelers
Big Island of Hawaii, USA
- 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
- Group discounts
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
What's Included
- Guidance to the tide pool and time in the pool.
- Teaching about the pool's ecosystem and the local environment.
- Recommendations for what else to do on Big Island.
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- 15-121 Kahakai Blvd, Pāhoa, HI 96778, USA
Park on the side of the road near the porta-potty at Waiakahi’ula Beach Park. You'll then follow Kat by car for 2 miles to the trailhead.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.What To Expect
1
Hilo
2
Pahoa
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- Wear hiking shoes, hiking sandals, or athletic shoes for the hike. Hiking shoes are most ideal. If you wear sandals, closed-toe are most ideal.
- Wear water shoes at the tide pool. Closed-toe shoes with durable soles are most ideal. I don't recommend flip flops.
- Wear a bathing suit and bring a towel. There are no bathrooms at the tide pool.
- Many people bring a snorkeling mask or goggles.
- Apply "reef safe" sunscreen before the hike to minimize its contact with the tide pool water. Bug spray is unnecessary because there are no ticks and very few bugs or mosquitoes.
- Some people bring a first aid kit (I don't carry one).
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
Supplied by
Cancellation Policy
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Denise_F
This was such a fun tour! The hike to the tide pools is rocky but doable, and it's worth it. The tide pools were more beautiful than you can imagine. Josh, our guide, is a great guy who know a lot about the local flora and has deep respect for the landscape. We never felt rushed to enjoy the sights. We enjoyed the experience very much and would definitely recommend doing this tour!
Reviews
4.6
based on 93 reviews
Lee_F, Aug 2025
An amazing adventure that isn’t too far from the beaten path. Beautiful spot with beautiful things to see.
Ryan_P, Jul 2025
Amazing little secret hike with awesome Tide pools perfect for swimming and seeing lots of wildlife, our guide Kat was extremely knowledgeable on local flora and fauna and super friendly . 10/10 - highly recommended
Theresa_B, Jul 2025
The hike to the tide pool is not difficult but traversing the lave rocks to get to the beach requires focus and balance. Our guide, Kat, assisted me on navigating where to step. She was knowledgeable about the area, tide pools and ecosystem. This was a very fun excursion! She also took great photos of me and my son.
SONYA_E, Jun 2025
Tide pool was cool, but there was only 1. Guide hardly talked to us. Thought we were going to get info on the tide pools and sealife. Guide seemed checked out.
Susan_V, Jun 2025
We had a great time with our group. Well recommended and will do this again upon our return. Thank you Josh!! William and Friends from California.
Brian_B, Jun 2025
The guide will cancel right before the time to start. I rented a car as the meeting spot was 40 minutes away. I then drove the 40 minutes only to have him cancel on us. One would think he would have someone to back him up if something came up. But no. So we were out our time...40 minutes each way plus the rental car and gas. We had one day in Hilo and he wasted it.
Response from Host, Jun 2025
My car broke down on my way to the booking. I refunded the reviewer immediately.
Kathryn_B, May 2025
If you’re looking for a different experience in Hawaii, this is a great one. But you must be prepared for & able to hike over lava rock to get to the tide pool. Josh, your guide, is very nice, laid back…really easy to talk with. He provides information along the hike & at the pool, but also gives you privacy to explore with your group. You definitely need closed-toe shoes for the hike & water shoes for the tide pool.
Denise_F, Apr 2025
This was such a fun tour! The hike to the tide pools is rocky but doable, and it's worth it. The tide pools were more beautiful than you can imagine. Josh, our guide, is a great guy who know a lot about the local flora and has deep respect for the landscape. We never felt rushed to enjoy the sights. We enjoyed the experience very much and would definitely recommend doing this tour!
Denise_M, Mar 2025
You should be somewhat fit. The hike was fun but challenging. Diffently got in a good workout.
The tide pool was so refreshing.
Josh was very patient and knowledgeable.
I would recommend this excursion for the adventurous people.
Tara_W, Mar 2025
My husband and I truly had one of the greatest experiences on this adventure of any vacation we have had. Josh was an awesome guide! He sent a text communication a day ahead to provide additional details. During the hike he led the way, frequently checked to make sure we were okay. He communicated that we could stop and rest whenever needed and offered to take photos of us. The hike was challenging in spots, but as long as you wear appropriate shoes it is doable for most. The payoff of getting to experience to beautiful and tranquil pool was so well worth it! Just a breathtaking and serene place. Josh was a wonderful host, sharing with us his knowledge about local vegetation and other things to do on the island. It was a magical day that I highly recommend for anyone that loves to enjoy nature and treasures peaceful time in beauty.
Jon_v, Mar 2025
We had a wonderful time hiking and chatting with Josh. The tide pool was surreal and we enjoyed every second exploring it. It really is a hidden gem.
Cathie_K, Mar 2025
This experience was physically challenging, educational and beautiful. Our guide, Josh, told us about plants like walking trees and about sea animals we encountered. My 13-year-old granddaughter loved it!
Tejas_B, Feb 2025
Josh was very knowledgeable during our hike and the tide pool was very peaceful! Definitely recommend!
Kathy_P, Feb 2025
Breathtakingly beautiful - the hike is as described. Footwear is key to navigating ocean rock portion. We brought a backpack for water shoes, masks and towels etc. magical is the best word and so peaceful. Josh was a great guide and we loved every minute
cvr4kd6ds7, Feb 2025
This was such a unique and beautiful experience. My husband and I can’t thank Josh enough for sharing it with us! The hike itself is not bad at all - the toughest portion is across the lava rock, and as long as you wear hiking boots and keep your hands free to help with balance you’ll be good to go. Hiking boots will offer the most ankle support, which in my opinion makes a big difference when hiking over uneven surfaces (like the lava rock). I highly recommend close toed water shoes with sturdy soles for the tide pool. Aside from that, just enjoy the views once you get to the water!
Christian_C, Feb 2025
Secret Pools in Pahoa is a stunning, off-the-beaten-path location that offers a beautiful, secluded spot for swimming and relaxation. The natural pools, surrounded by lush vegetation, provide a tranquil experience, with crystal-clear water that’s perfect for a refreshing dip. The hike to get there can be a bit challenging, with some muddy paths and uneven terrain, but the reward is worth it.
Pros:
- Scenic and secluded, offering a peaceful escape.
- Clear, cool water perfect for swimming.
- Great for those seeking a more adventurous experience.
- Immersive nature surroundings with tropical plants and wildlife.
Cons:
- The hike can be tricky and not suitable for everyone.
Overall, it’s a hidden gem worth visiting if you're looking for a more adventurous and tranquil escape, but be prepared for a bit of a trek!
Krislyn_D, Jan 2025
This was an amazing trip! The weather was perfect and the hike was pleasant. Josh answered any questions we had and let us enjoy exploring the tide pool and surrounding area at our own pace. Thank you, Josh, for sharing this with us!
Randy_B, Dec 2024
What an unforgettable experience! Josh is truly one of the most genuine people I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. This is a rare opportunity to witness a hidden gem of nature that few ever get to see. While the hike to the pool might be a bit challenging for some, it’s absolutely manageable with moderate fitness. Don’t miss out on this incredible adventure!
Cristina_W, Dec 2024
The hike to the tide pools was challenging; however, my kids (6 and 7 years old) found it to be so much fun. We are an athletic family, so hike was great. I would consider it an intermediate challenge, but it was worth it! It was absolutely beautiful and the secret ride pool Josh brought us to was phenomenal. We spent about an hour just soaking it all in. It is like no place else on earth. Just gorgeous! Code memories for sure!!
sewellorlando, Dec 2024
Josh provided us with an opportunity to see a unique side of the island. Our group had a private tour to a tidal pool that was a big part of what made our trip to Hawaii magical. I appreciate Josh for creating this opportunity for us. My only feedback would be to offer a cooler with waters or something of that nature for before / after the hike.
Jennifer_H, Oct 2024
This experience was one of the highlights of our Hawaiian experience. We felt like we were getting to see something that no one had ever seen before. The trail is hidden but well traveled by Josh, our guide. The jungle parts were super cool and the lava rock hike had spectacular views. Make sure you bring good hiking shoes and separate water shoes for the tide pools. Josh has lots of knowledge about the area so don’t be afraid to ask questions. You’ll get the most out of your experience like we did! We forgot our snorkel masks in a different bag and we so wished we would have brought them! It would have been even cooler so make sure you bring those! We did this hike with our 2 kids (11 and 8) and they felt like adventurers exploring in new exciting places!
Dwight_P, Aug 2024
I took a morning drive here from Kona and saw lots of wild animals (goats, turkeys, chickens, pigs)
Pahoa Private hike to private tide pool— Wow, just WOW!! Hike through jungle, boulder fields, lava fields, and lava hills. The lava were very rough and jagged. Some parts of the hike were easy and flat (less than half), and the rest was much more extreme and rugged. There were large portions of good elevation gain of solid lava rock, some extremely large and rugged, some climbing along the side of a cliff, some smaller lava rock, and river rock. It was a serious challenge, but a great one! This was a few hour adventure. We saw snails, hermit crabs, several types of fish, few types of crabs, sea urchins.
I would recommend wearing proper footwear (hiking shoes for hike and rubber sole water shoes for the tide pool) and very careful placement of hands (lava rocks are sharp and will tear up your skin). If this hike were rated on alltrails or trailforks… I feel like it would be classified as medium/difficult. Not quite medium not quite difficult. Be prepared and don’t expect your guide to lift you or get you through your trek. You need to be able to physically do this yourself.
I appreciated the friendliness of the guide (Josh). He was fun to talk to and learn about. I think if you’re looking to get off the beaten path, have privacy, and also have a guide who will not smother you with unnecessary conversation— this is a good pick! It was challenging, fun, and beautiful. Thanks again Josh, we had such a great time and wish you well in your endeavors!!
sondra_s, Jul 2024
The is was a great adventure for us… it said 35 minute hike. But for us (at 59)it was a little longer. It was beautiful hike. Our guide was patient and very helpful if it was needed. Would recommend it!
Cheryl_E, Jul 2024
Getting to the tide pool, it took longer than I expected, and the level of difficulty was at about a 7. It's a bit jagged climbing up and down the lava rock. Make sure to wear close toed shoes that can grip wet rock. Don't go there tired, be well hydrated. BUT, it's well worth it!!!!!
Susan_L, Jul 2024
My friend and I tried to cancel with the “tour operator” more than 24 hours before the tour after reading the reviews and deciding that this was not the thing for us to do. We could not reach him and while I was on hold with Viator the 24 hour deadline passed. Several hours later he texted and said no refund at all. So, we decided to go. We met him at a park and followed him to the location. The hike through the jungle was easy. We got to the lava field that we had to climb down and across to get to the tide pool. I opted not to proceed. I had visions of breaking a hip and being rescued by a helicopter. Josh was so far ahead that helping either of us was out of the question. My friend made it to the pool. Josh sat really far from her. On the way back up she fell. Fortunately just scratches and bruises. He didn’t seem to give a crap. We made it back to the car, relieved that this experience was over. I regret the whole experience.
elena_c, Jun 2024
This was an incredible once in a lifetime experience where a local shows you an island secret—-we started with Josh finding mangos that just fell of a 100 year old tree (absolutely delicious!). Then we hiked through the forest, mangroves and the lava rock-which looks intimidating but the rocks are stable so as long as you take your time…it’s doable for anyone! (I went with my 65 year old dad who is healthy but not fit). The pools were absolutely gorgeous to look at and soak in but the magic is looking at the crevices in the walls where we saw island lobster, shrimp, 3 kinds of sea urchins, crabs, sea cucumbers, mollusks, multitude of various colorful fish. Towards the edge of the pool there is even coral! Amazing—-Josh was lovely as well….quietly letting us enjoy but if he saw something cool he let us know, helped us take a bunch of pictures and shared local tips! (He told us about a local market which was a huge hit!)
Elsie_P, May 2024
Our tour was amazing! Josh was awesome & super informative about the entire area, not just the tide pool. He gave us the chance to explore the tide pool on our own after he gave us some advice and information. He was super friendly & communication with him was great. Definitely recommend this tour to anyone coming to the area & looking to do something a little more private but still wanting to experience nature. This tour will definitely be a lifetime memory and forever be one of our favorites.
Qianye_Z, Apr 2024
This is a real wild exploration experience that you can meet the true environment of Big Island. The trial is not able to find on a map but local people may know. Climbing up and down on lava rocks is challenging and exciting. Josh is a very experienced tour guide and excellent hiker can always bring you to the secret pool safely.
Lorenzo_C, Apr 2024
This experience was absolutely amazing! Josh is a super chill guy and knew the area extremely well so we all felt very safe in his hands! The hike was moderate, you just want to make sure you take one step at a time and you are golden! The views were spectacular and well worth the trek!! Thank you Josh for showing us this!
Devon_B, Mar 2024
There are some mixed reviews so hopefully this helps…My family and I are in pretty good physical shape, I did have my two children, 5/7 with us.
Josh is nice enough, he is quiet and not your “tour guide” type personality which is why I think people were uncomfortable with the location.
We followed him in our car to a remote location, parked on the side of the road and got out to start walking through plants/woods towards the water.
At first sight the views are gorgeous BUT what is not explained by (I learned on a real tour the next day) the volcanic rock is A HA. Sharp, unstable, high peaks and ridges that with one wrong move or loss of balance you (or your children) could easily break your neck or take a life changing fall.
We only hiked about 50ft through this rock and refused to go any further because we saw our kids lives flashing in front of us…don't get me wrong, they were climbing like champs but it was WAY too close to 20-30 ft cliff falls that could kill someone. Not to mention I doubt this tour is properly insured incase of death
This excursion is ideal for young adventure seeking adults 20/30/40 who are well aware they are putting their lives in danger NOT FAMILIES!!
Response from Host, May 2025
The majority of my groups have not found the hike to be as dangerous as this reviewer found it, and I disagree with the reviewer's age recommendations. See the "What To Expect" section for more information Also, this tour is properly insured.
From $100.00
per person-You will not receive a refund if you cancel.
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Secret Tide Pool Hike - Jungle & Coast - Private
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