While Hawaii is home to stunning beaches, sometimes you want something a little more adventurous – like a local swimming hole with a gorgeous waterfall, or an epic cliff jumping spot. In honor of the perfect summer spent in the water, here are eight Hawaii swimming holes that are sure to satisfy your need for exploration.

Looking to feed your wanderlust? Click here to sign up for our Bucket List Newsletter for a weekly peek at the best destinations throughout the country to inspire your next adventures.

1. Makupu'u Tide Pools, Oahu
Makapu‘u Lighthouse, Waimanalo, HI, USA
Eric Tessmur/Flickr
You’ll find the steep and rocky trail that leads to this picturesque series of tide pools near the halfway point on the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail near a whale watching lookout, but unlike the main trail, which is full-paved, the path to the tide pools isn’t exactly maintained well — so venture at your own risk.
2. Pua'a Ka'a State Wayside
Pua'a Ka'a State Wayside, Hana Highway, Haiku, HI, USA
Ryan/Flickr
Pua’a Ka’a State Wayside is home to five acres of jaw-dropping rainforest and cascading waterfalls. A short hike will reward you with a relatively secluded and quite picturesque waterfall, cascading into the delightful pool below. Another stop on Maui’s Road to Hana, Pua’a Ka’a translates to "rolling pig" in Hawaiian.
3. Makaleha Falls, Kauai
Makaleha Trailhead, 7290 Kahuna Rd, Kapa?a, HI 96746, USA
Brian McGuire/AllTrails
Hawaiian waterfalls are a dime a dozen, but the tiered Makaleha Falls is easily one of the most impressive and secluded cascades - with one of the most gorgeous natural pools in Hawaii. Nestled near Kapa’a at the end of Kaiwahau Road, this 2.5-mile, lightly-trafficked trail is not for the hiking novice, but rather those who have quite a bit of experience hiking through the Hawaiian jungle.
4. Ching's Pond, Maui
Hana Highway Scenic Route, Hawaii 360, Hana, HI, USA
Tgidenver/Flickr
Located approximately 0.9 miles after Mile Marker 16 on the Hana Highway, you won’t see Ching’s Pond while driving, but if you pull off just before the bridge, you’ll find a series of deep sapphire blue pools beneath. With beautiful crystalline blue pools and superb cliff jumping, there is no wonder as to why this place is a local favorite.

Related Stories

The Downhill Summer Tubing Adventure In Hawaii That’s Unlike Any Other

The Downhill Summer Tubing Adventure In Hawaii That’s Unlike Any Other

 This Off-The-Beaten-Path Destination, Kawela Bay In Hawaii, Is The Perfect Place To Escape

This Off-The-Beaten-Path Destination, Kawela Bay In Hawaii, Is The Perfect Place To Escape

 22 Epic Hawaii Beaches To Visit Before You Die

22 Epic Hawaii Beaches To Visit Before You Die
5. Olivine Pools, Maui
Olivine Pools trailhead, Wailuku, HI, USA
bobafred/Flickr
These dramatic tide pools located along Maui’s western coast were first recognized in a popular Maui guidebook, though we would like to urge visitors that the short hike to reach the pools can be dangerous - and that you should only enter the water during calm ocean conditions.
6. Pe'epe'e Falls, Big Island
Peepee Falls, Hilo, HI, USA
Jongela19/Flickr
Located just one mile past the famous Rainbow Falls is an equally gorgeous — but dangerous — natural phenomena; Pe’epe’e Falls, pictured below, feeds a series of several pools known as the boiling pots. This oasis should only be accessed when the Wailuku River is in low flow, but man is it a gorgeous sight.
7. Shark's Cove, Oahu
Shark’s Cove, Haleiwa, HI, USA
Thomas Shahan/Flickr
Located on Oahu’s north shore, Sharks Cove is known for its crystalline water, impressive sea life, and positively enchanting tide pools. During the summer months when the waves are calmer, this is easily one of the best snorkeling spots on Oahu, and don't worry, you won't find sharks here.
8. Queen's Bath, Kauai
Queen’s Bath, Kapiolani Loop, Princeville, HI, USA
Brian/Flickr
Fed by the ocean waves, this saltwater swimming hole is perfect for those seeking a little thrill via cliff jumping. Though dangerous high surf in the winter months is common, low surf in the summer months makes this pool a popular spot for swimming — as long as you're careful!

So, tell me, which of these Hawaii swimming holes is your favorite? Did I miss your go-to swimming hole for summer fun? Next time you’re on Maui, be sure to check out one of our all-time favorite swimming holes in Hawaii.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Hawaii Swimming Holes

Megan Shute | April 27, 2020

Are there any good swimming holes in Hawaii? 

Of course, there are! From waterfall-fed swimming holes to tide pools nestled along the coast as well as miles and miles of breathtaking beaches, epic swimming holes are everywhere here in the Aloha State. Some of our favorites summer destinations include these 13 beaches tailor-made for summer as well as these 13 Hawaiian bays.

What are the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii? 

With 750 miles of pristine coastline and hundreds upon hundreds of stunning stretches of sand, this question feels nearly impossible to answer — but these 27 Hawaii beaches consistently top our travel bucket list. From Kauai's picture-perfect Hanalei Bay to Papakolea Green Sand Beach, found on the southern shore of Hawaii Island, these beaches are truly remarkable.

Where can I find the bluest water in Hawaii?

The Hawaiian Islands are known across the world for the crystalline turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean, but these 15 swimming spots have some of the clearest, most pristine water in the state. As for the bluest water, we'd have to give that title to the series of beaches you'll find along Oahu's windward coast.

Related Articles

Explore Hawaii