Secret Jungle Tide Pool Short Hike (Private)

The Secret Jungle Tide Pool Short Hike offers an exclusive and immersive nature experience on Hawaii’s Big Island. Led by knowledgeable guides, participants embark on a challenging yet rewarding 2.5-hour journey through diverse terrain, culminating in a stunning coastal destination. Here, they’ll discover vibrant tide pools teeming with marine life and have the opportunity to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. While the $100 price tag may deter some, those seeking a deeper connection to the island’s natural beauty will find this intimate excursion well worth the investment. But what exactly can adventurers expect along the way?

Key Points

• A private 2.5-hour excursion to a secluded tide pool experience on the Big Island, priced at $100 per person.
• A 1-mile round-trip hike with intermediate to difficult terrain, not suitable for those with mobility issues or young children.
• Immersive exploration of a crystal-clear tide pool teeming with diverse marine life, including fish, hermit crabs, and sea cucumbers.
• Stunning panoramic views of dramatic cliffs and the ocean from the Makaukiu Point lookout.
• Flexible booking options, including a "reserve now & pay later" option and full refunds for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview and Pricing

The "Secret Jungle Tide Pool Hike" offers a private, 2.5-hour excursion to a unique location, priced at $100.00 per person.

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a "reserve now & pay later" option is available.

The hike provides a chance to explore a secret tide pool resembling an infinity pool, with crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life.

Participants can swim, snorkel, and view wildlife at the site, making this an unforgettable experience.

With free cancellation and flexible payment options, this hike caters to adventurous travelers seeking a secluded, nature-based activity on the Big Island.

Itinerary and Hiking Details

Starting from Waiakahiula Beach Park on Government Beach Road, the hike to Makaukiu Point takes approximately 25 minutes one-way.

Along the way, hikers will enjoy sightseeing, swimming, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing for about 1.5 hours. The total hiking distance is 1 mile, with a 25-35 minute trek each way. This intermediate to difficult hike involves light scrambling, making it unsuitable for those with mobility impairments or children under 8.

• The hike traverses through jungle, boulder fields, and lava fields, with stable lava rock providing good footing.

• Snorkeling gear is optional, and participants are encouraged to bring a first aid kit.

• Reef-safe sunscreen should be applied before the hike, as bug spray is unnecessary due to few insects in the area.

• The guide, Josh, is a 32-year-old UNC-Chapel Hill graduate who moved to the Big Island in 2018.

Tide Pool Experience

A unique tide pool resembling an infinity pool awaits visitors at Makaukiu Point, overlooking dramatic cliffs. This natural wonder is 4-7 feet deep in the central area and 1-4 feet deep in the shallows. The crystal-clear waters teem with diverse marine life, including fish, hermit crabs, sea cucumbers, shrimp, snails, opihi, spaghetti worms, pink algae, and seaweed. The pool fills with waves like a blowhole, creating a captivating experience. Participants can fully immerse themselves and enjoy the pool for as long as desired.

Tide Pool Depth	Water Clarity	Marine Life
4-7 ft (deep area)	Crystal clear	Fish, hermit crabs, sea cucumbers, shrimp, snails, opihi, spaghetti worms, pink algae, seaweed
1-4 ft (shallow area)	Fills with waves like a blowhole	–
–	–	–
–	–	–

Preparation and Recommendations

Participants are advised to wear proper attire and gear for the hike and tide pool experience. Recommended items include:

• Hiking shoes or closed-toe sandals for the trail
• Water shoes for navigating the rocky tide pool area
• Bathing suit for swimming and snorkeling
• Towel to dry off after the experience

While snorkeling gear is optional, it’s recommended to bring a mask or goggles to fully appreciate the vibrant marine life.

Reef-safe sunscreen should be applied before the hike, as there’s little need for bug spray due to the few insects in the area.

Participants are encouraged to bring a first-aid kit, as none is provided during the tour.

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Personal Guide Information

The tour is led by Josh, a 32-year-old guide who moved to the Big Island in 2018 after graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Josh is familiar with the hike’s terrain, which involves traversing through jungle, boulder fields, and lava fields. The stable lava rock provides reliable footing throughout the journey.

According to customer reviews, Josh is praised for providing a private and scenic experience, with the unique tide pool being the highlight.

While fitness levels may impact the perceived difficulty, Josh’s expertise ensures a memorable and safe adventure for participants.

Customer Reviews

Customer reviews of the Secret Jungle Tide Pool Hike highlight the beauty and natural healing qualities of the experience.

Customers praised the hike’s scenic views, with one reviewer noting the "breathtaking panorama of cliffs and ocean."

Another described the tide pool as a "private oasis of calm and tranquility."

Participants also commented on the unique nature of the experience, with one stating they felt "a sense of renewal and connection to the land."

While some found the difficulty level challenging, the majority of reviewers agreed the hike was well worth it, citing these key takeaways:

• Stunning natural scenery
• Rejuvenating and therapeutic experience
• Sense of solitude and privacy
• Unique and unforgettable adventure

Safety Considerations

While the Secret Jungle Tide Pool Hike offers a unique and breathtaking experience, it’s essential to consider the safety aspects of this adventure.

The trail involves intermediate to difficult terrain, with light scrambling that may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or young children. Participants should wear proper hiking shoes and be prepared for the challenging conditions.

The tide pool itself can be up to 7 feet deep, requiring caution and swimming ability. Visitors are encouraged to bring a first-aid kit, as none is provided.

Booking and Reservations

Booking the Secret Jungle Tide Pool Hike is a straightforward process, with a range of convenient options to suit different needs.

From $100 per person, this 2.5-hour private tour offers:

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
• Reserve now, pay later option
• Flexible scheduling to accommodate various travel plans
• Ability to add additional participants at the time of booking

With the convenience of online reservations and payment, securing your spot on this unique and scenic adventure has never been easier.

Take advantage of the flexible booking policies and explore the hidden tide pool in the lush Hawaiian jungle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Hike?

The hike does not allow pets. Participants are encouraged to focus on the natural environment and wildlife during the experience. Bringing pets could disturb the fragile ecosystem and distract from the intended hiking and tide pool activities.

How Long Does It Take to Hike to the Tide Pool?

The hike to the tide pool takes 25-35 minutes each way, for a total hiking distance of 1 mile. The difficulty level is intermediate to difficult, with some light scrambling not suitable for those with mobility impairments or young children.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Trail?

There are no restroom facilities along the hiking trail to the tide pool. Hikers should plan accordingly and utilize restroom facilities before or after the hike, as the trail is in a remote, natural area.

Can I Drink Alcohol During the Hike?

Drinking alcohol during a hike is generally not recommended, as it can impair judgment, balance, and decision-making, potentially increasing the risk of accidents or injuries. The guide may advise against consuming alcohol on the hike for safety reasons.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The maximum group size for the tour is not specified in the provided information. Tour operators typically set a group limit to ensure a quality experience, but without further details, the exact maximum group size is unknown.

Recap

The Secret Jungle Tide Pool Short Hike offers a captivating 2.5-hour adventure on the Big Island. For $100 per person, this private excursion features a challenging hike through diverse terrain, culminating in stunning tide pools teeming with vibrant marine life. With an expert guide, participants can enjoy breathtaking views, swimming, and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, all while immersed in the island’s natural beauty and ensuring a safe, comfortable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: