Posted in Hawaii June 10, 2018 by Megan Shute

This 2.5-Mile Hike In Hawaii Leads To The Dreamiest Swimming Hole

While the breathtaking Hawaiian Islands are home to countless stunning beaches, sometimes you want something a little more adventurous — perhaps a local swimming hole with a gorgeous waterfall accessible only via a lovely hike through the Hawaiian jungle?

Before we dive into exploring this stunning waterfall swimming hole, it is important to issue a friendly warning about the risks associated with flash flooding, and leptospirosis bacteria found in many of Hawaii’s natural pools. It is advised that you check weather reports before heading out for the day, never swim when you have open wounds, and to always watch your step. With that warning out of the way, welcome to Makaleha Falls.

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Hawaiian waterfalls are a dime a dozen, but the tiered Makaleha Falls is easily one of the most impressive and secluded cascades in the Aloha State.

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.

Though there is only 500 feet in elevation gain over the course of the hike, the trail is minimally maintained and features plenty of mud and rock scrambling.

You will make your journey through a bamboo forest....

...and even over and under fallen trees.

But all of the intense jungle hiking will all be worth it when you reach the stunning slice of paradise known as Makaleha Falls.

A tiered-waterfall cascading down a narrow canyon, Makaleha looks as though it has been ripped from the pages of your favorite fantasy novel. The waterfall is absolutely awe-inspiring.

In Hawaiian, Makaleha translates to "eyes that glance upward," an apt description for both this stunning waterfall and the ridge that surrounds you as you hike through the jungle.

After your strenuous hike, you'll want to cool off in the waterfall's striking pool, which we're told is quite chilly.

Once you've spent time splashing around in the water, it's time to head back to reality from the dreamland you've just experienced.

Don't forget to snap a few photographs before you leave. A visit to Makaleha Falls is truly unique experience you'll want to document.

For more information about Makaleha Falls and to find the trailhead, head on over to AllTrails. And for more incredible waterfall swimming holes, check out our previous article.