Hawaii is undoubtedly a magical land full of unsurpassed natural beauty, and some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the world. And while places like Maui's Hana Highway are littered with waterfalls, you'll find quite a few stunning cascades just outside the bustling capital city of Honolulu on the island of Oahu. To celebrate Hawaii’s incredible waterfalls, we’ve come up with the ultimate Oahu waterfalls road trip, which combines two of our favorite things: waterfalls, and road trips.

At less than 70 miles and just under two hours, this road trip will take you to seven of the best waterfalls in Oahu. Unfortunately, there aren’t many waterfalls in Oahu you can drive to that are easily visible from the road. This means that many of these waterfalls require a substantial hike. While the entire trip is possibly completed in one (very long) day, you will more than likely want to split up these adventures and tackle the "road trip" over the course of a long weekend. When getting ready for your adventure, be sure to use our ultimate road trip packing list so that you have everything you need!

To help you find your way on this waterfall road trip in Oahu we have preset your route on Google Maps.

1. Manoa Falls

You’ll start your morning at one of the most popular hikes on the island. Manoa Falls is approximately 150 feet tall, and the short 1.6-mile road trip hike is easily completed in about an hour. Unfortunately, a massive landslide in 2002 forced the state to rope off the actual pool, but it is well worth the trip.

2. Kapena Falls

Located near the Nu’uanu Memorial Park is this swimming hole that requires only a short walk to reach the modest 20-foot waterfall. Follow the road from the park toward a small traffic circle, and then head left — there is a small parking lot near the dead end, and the trailhead is on the left, unmarked.

3. Waikahalulu Falls

Located within Liliuokalani Botanical Garden is this lovely — albeit quite small — urban waterfall that cascades a little more than 10 feet over a wide rock bed in a picnic setting. Though the falls aren’t necessarily impressive, we’re including them on this list simply due to easy accessibility.

4. Lulumahu Falls

The 40-minute hike to Lulumahu Falls will lead you through a bamboo forest, a beautiful hillside and reservoir, and a lush, verdant jungle before reaching the magnificent waterfall. Don’t forget to get your free permit so you don’t get in trouble while hiking in this slice of paradise!

5. Waipuhia Falls

Known as the Upside Down Waterfall, Waipuhia is visible on the right side of the road when driving eastbound on Pali Highway. If the conditions are right — which they rarely are — the waterfall appears as though it is suspended upside down, never quite hitting the ground.

6. Maunawili Falls

Here’s where you’ll want to make a decision — you can either take on the challenge of completing this three-hour hike, or continue north to our last stop and save this trail for another day. The trail to Maunawili Falls is quite muddy after it rains, and hikers will need to cross the riverbank several times during the hike, though the resulting waterfall and swimming hole are quite refreshing — and there are several spots perfect to jump into the pool below.

7. Waimea Falls

Located within Waimea Valley is this charming waterfall, perfect for a family swim. Visitors will have to pay an entrance fee for the botanical garden, but once inside, the paved stroll to the waterfall is quick and features a changing room, available life jackets, and lifeguards on duty.

This list is by no means a comprehensive list of Oahu waterfalls — what other waterfalls near you would you add to this list? Are you excited to take the ultimate Oahu waterfalls road trip?

For a shorter scenic drive on the island of Oahu, check out this ten-mile stretch of highway on the southeastern shore that stops at some mighty gorgeous spots — from beaches to lookout points!

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/hawaii/southeast-oahu-hi/

Take a break from waterfall chasing to enjoy some of Hawaii's best beaches: