Kauai Zipline Tour: Eight Lines Over the Old Kōloa Plantation

The south shore of Kauai was sugar for 150 years, and the old plantation above Kōloa is now the island’s longest zipline course: eight lines across the reservoir and the cane roads with the ocean on the horizon and the mountains behind. It takes half a day, it is five minutes from Poʻipū, and it is the thing to do on the afternoon the boat trip is over.

This page covers the course, what it costs, who can ride, and what to wear so the harness fits.

Why this made our list

The lines. Eight of them, long ones, with the Waita zip running about half a mile across the island’s largest reservoir, the longest zipline on Kauai. Three of the eight are among the longest on the island. Long lines mean speed, time in the air and a view that lasts more than a few seconds.

The harness. The course built its own full-body rig, the Flyin’ Kauaʻian, that lets you fly hands-free, head first like Superman or flat on your back watching the sky. Anyone who would rather hold a handlebar can. Kids who are too light ride tandem next to a parent or guide. Nobody is left on the platform.

The setting. The Waita Reservoir, the wetlands and 22,000 acres of former sugar land roll out below you, with Poʻipū and the ocean beyond. The 3 pm tour finishes in sunset light. It holds 4.9 stars across more than 1,400 reviews.

Why this operator

Kauai has three zipline courses. The one near Līhuʻe pairs a shorter course with a kayak and a swimming hole, which is a great combination day if that is what you want. Another on the east side is a smaller course with a walk between lines. For the most ziplining, the longest lines and the easiest logistics from the south shore resorts, this is the one.

What the zipline tour is like

Plan on about 3.5 hours.

1. Check in 15 minutes early in Kōloa. Waivers, weights, gear fitting, and a choice of harness.
2. Ground school. A short, low practice line to learn the brake, the landing and the harness. Nervous riders do it twice.
3. The first lines. Shorter zips through the trees that build confidence and speed.
4. The big ones. The lines open out over the reservoir, each longer than the last, with the guides radioing across so your launch is timed and your catch is waiting.
5. The Waita zip. Half a mile over the water. Hands-free if you chose the harness, head first if you dare.
6. Back to base. Drinks, the inevitable photo review, and the drive down to Poʻipū for the beach.

Prices and what you get

From $159 per person plus tax and booking fees. That covers all eight lines, harness, helmet, gloves, ground school, two guides and drinks. Gratuity is extra.

Who it’s for (and who should skip it)

Anyone 7 and up who wants a thrill with a view, families, teenagers, and nervous first-timers, who do better here than on short courses because the ground school and the gentle early lines build up to the big ones.

Skip it if you are pregnant, had surgery in the last three months, or have a back, neck or knee injury. Riders must weigh under 280 lb, and the hands-free harness needs at least 100 lb; lighter riders use the standard harness or ride tandem.

Where to check in and how to get there

The course is in Kōloa on the south shore, five minutes from Poʻipū, 25 from Līhuʻe, 40 from Kapaʻa, an hour from Waimea and about 90 minutes from Princeville. The exact check-in address and directions are on your confirmation. Arrive 15 minutes early; the tours leave on time and late arrivals are rebooked at full charge.

Current tour times and the live calendar are on the booking page.

Best time to go

Time of day. First tour of the morning for cool air and clear views, or 3 pm for sunset on the last lines. Midday is hot on the platforms.

Time of year. Every month. Trade winds are steady in summer and the course runs in light rain year round; only lightning or strong wind stops it.

Local tips before you book

• Closed-toe shoes. They will turn you away in sandals.
• Dress for the harness. Long shorts and a shirt with sleeves. Tank tops chafe.
• Try the hands-free harness. It is the thing this course is known for.
• Book the 3 pm if you want the sunset photo on the long line.
• Strap the phone. Chest mounts or a lanyard. The reservoir is deep.
• Pair it with the Port Allen raft. The Nā Pali raft is back by noon and the course is 30 minutes from the harbor. Or finish at Poʻipū Beach; see our best beaches guide.

The verdict

For a Kauai zipline, this is the course we book: the most lines, the longest lines, the hands-free harness and the reservoir view, five minutes from Poʻipū. Book the morning or the 3 pm, wear closed shoes, and go head first on the Waita.