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, a la the Makaleha Trail in Kauai.
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.
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.
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.
Have you ever hiked the Makaleha Trail in Kauai? What's your favorite waterfall hike in Hawaii? Share it with us in the comments below - we love hearing from you!
And for more incredible waterfall swimming holes in the Aloha State, be sure check out our previous article.
Hawaii's lush landscapes and tropical beauty are renowned worldwide, and among its many natural wonders is a trail that leads to a captivating, tiny waterfall. The Makaleha Falls Trail, located on the island of Kauai, offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers, showcasing the serene beauty of a lesser-known yet enchanting waterfall. Here’s everything you need to know to embark on this magical Hawaii waterfall trail.
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The Makaleha Falls Trail is nestled in the lush forests of Kauai, near the town of Kapa'a.
To reach the trailhead, drive north from Kapa'a on Kuhio Highway and take a right onto Kahuna Road. Continue on Kahuna Road until it becomes Makaleha Road, then follow it to the end, where you will find parking. The trailhead is unmarked but begins at the end of the road, so using a map or GPS is advisable to ensure you’re on the right path.
The trail itself is approximately 3 miles round trip, offering a moderately challenging hike through dense jungle terrain.
The path is less maintained than more popular trails and involves stream crossings, muddy sections, and navigating through thick vegetation. It is suitable for hikers with experience and a sense of adventure. Proper footwear and a good sense of direction are important!
Makaleha Falls is best visited during the drier months, from May to September, when the trail conditions are a little more favorable.
The lush greenery and blooming tropical flowers create a picturesque backdrop for your hike. However, the trail can be hiked year-round, with the waterfall being particularly impressive after rainfall, though the path will be more challenging.
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As you hike along the Makaleha Falls Trail, you’ll be surrounded by a vibrant and dense jungle.
The trail meanders through lush vegetation, including towering bamboo, wild ginger, and various ferns. The sound of rustling leaves, distant bird calls, and the rush of water create an immersive and serene atmosphere that enhances the sense of adventure.
Upon reaching Makaleha Falls, you’ll be greeted by the sight of a cascading waterfall surrounded by verdant cliffs and foliage.
The waterfall consists of multiple tiers, with water flowing down moss-covered rocks into a series of tranquil pools. The secluded and tranquil setting offers a perfect spot to relax and soak in the natural beauty.
In addition to the waterfall, the Makaleha Falls Trail offers a glimpse into Hawaii’s rich biodiversity.
The area is home to a variety of native plant species, such as koa and ohia trees, as well as unique flowers like the Hawaiian hibiscus. Bird enthusiasts may spot native species such as the pueo (Hawaiian owl) and the 'apapane, adding to the allure of this tropical paradise.
The Makaleha Falls Trail offers a unique and immersive hiking experience, highlighting the rich natural beauty of Kauai.
This trail provides a refreshing escape into the rainforest for locals and visitors. This hike invites you to experience the vibrant ecosystems and serene landscapes that make Kauai special!
Have you ever hiked this Hawaii waterfall trail? Let us know in the comments below and make sure to download the AllTrails+ app! Looking for more great waterfalls in Hawaii? I adore this waterfall road trip in Hawaii!
And don’t forget to update your hiking boots! I love the ones at North Face.
With literally thousands of cascades to choose from in the Aloha State (Kauai, alone, boasts more than 10,000!), it's really impossible to curate a list of the best waterfalls in Hawaii. But it's our job, and gosh darn it, we're going to try! Based on the categories we came up with, we selected a dozen well-known or popular falls that we also happen to think are some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Hawaii. So, next time you're searching for "waterfalls near me" in Hawaii, one of these is sure to fit the bill.
Hawaii boasts some truly soaring waterfalls, including some of the tallest in the world. Many of these cascades, however, only flow after heavy rains, like 2,950-foot Olo’upena Falls on Molokai - the highest in the Aloha State and the fourth tallest waterfall in the world - and Mount Waialeale’s Wall of Tears on Kauai. Many of the biggest waterfalls in Hawaii are also extremely difficult to access by any means other than helicopter. Here’s a trio of towering waterfalls in Hawaii that are among the state’s tallest.
Popularity: Not popular due to extremely limited access.
Need To Know: As of this writing, access to the Waipio Valley has been extremely limited due to deteriorating road conditions. Non-Hawaii County residents may only access the valley with a licensed tour operator. No pedestrian traffic - including via the Waipio Valley Trail - is permitted, and all access to the valley may be prohibited during certain weather conditions. Be sure to check current conditions before you book a tour.
The remote, rugged, and beautiful Waipio Valley is located on the Big Island’s stunning Hamakua Coast, at the island’s extreme northeastern coast. One of the tallest cascades in the state, 1,450-foot Hiilawe Falls is located at the back of the valley. Access to the valley floor and views of the falls are extremely limited, however there is an overlook that’s open to the public near the top of the access road. Although Hiilawe Falls is not visible from the overlook, a handful of other waterfalls can be seen cascading down the walls of the deep valley.
Popularity: The trail to this waterfall is a popular hike.
Need To Know: The falls are accessible by a three-mile, out-and-back, hike in Koke’e State Park. Nonresidents must pay a $5 per person entrance fee and a $10 parking fee to park. There is no charge for Hawaii residents with ID.
Often referred to as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, Waimea Canyon is one the most incredible natural wonders in the Hawaiian Islands. Within the beautiful place, you’ll find stunning Waipo’o Falls, which plummets more than 800 feet from the rim of the canyon to its floor. You can visit the precipice of Waipo’o via a moderately-challenging, three-mile hike. Be sure to bring sturdy footwear, trekking poles, and rain gear - the trails are frequently muddy, and Waimea Canyon is often rainy.
Need To Know: Manawaiopuna Falls is only accessible via helicopter tour.
At a respectable 400 feet, Kauai’s Manawaiopuna Falls is not in the top echelon of the state’s tallest waterfalls, but it’s no slouch, either. However, it may be the most popular among the hidden waterfalls in Hawaii. It gained its popularity when it was featured in an early scene of Steven Spielberg’s blockbuster, Jurassic Park. Ever since, helicopter tour operators on Kauai have ensured that Manawaiopuna Falls is on their itineraries.
Best Waterfall Hikes In Hawaii
The Aloha State is a hiker’s paradise, and there may not be a better combination than incredible hiking trails and some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Hawaii. Many of Hawaii’s hiking trails are fairly remote, so you’ll definitely want to bring along an app like AllTrails Plus when you set on some of these stunning waterfall hikes in Hawaii.
Popularity: This park is extremely popular, and the parking lot often fills up.
Need To Know: Nonresidents must pay a $5 per person entrance fee and a $10 parking fee to park in the lot. Only credit and debit cards are accepted. There is no charge for Hawaii residents with ID.
Although the paved loop trail at Akaka Falls State Park, just north of Hilo, is a relatively short half-mile, it’s considered moderately challenging due to its many stairs and steepness. That being said, this trail through lush, tropical forest is absolutely worth it and includes views of two of the best-known Big Island waterfalls: 442-foot Akaka Falls and 100-foot Kahuna Falls, both of which plunge down from the shoulders of Mauna Kea, as their respective streams make their way to the Pacific Ocean on the northeast coast of the Big Island.
Popularity: The trail to this waterfall is popular and can be crowded.
Need To Know: You will need to obtain a permit in from the Hawaii Division of State Parks to hike beyond the first two miles of the Kalalau Trail. In addition, you must have advance reservations to enter Hā’ena State Park and pay a fee to park there.
The 7.7-mile, out and back, trail to Hanakapiai Falls is considered difficult, can be dangerous, and involves considerable advance planning and jumping through several hoops. But when you set eyes on this amazing 300-foot hidden waterfall in Hawaii on the ruggedly beautiful Na Pali Coast, you may forget all about the journey it took to get there. Of course, you’ll still have to hike back to the Kalalau Trail Head...
Location: Kipahulu District, Haleakala National Park, Hawaii.
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Popularity: While less crowded than the Summit District, this part of the park can be crowded, especially on weekends.
Need To Know: You will have to pay a fee or present a pass to enter Haleakala National Park.
Getting to 400-foot Waimoku Falls involves hiking almost four miles, round trip, on the Pipiwai Trail, which ascends along the Oheo Gulch and Pipiwai Stream. You’ll gain more than 1,000 feet in elevation on this moderately challenging hike, but the payoffs are huge. You’ll traverse the wooded shoulders of Haleakala Volcano, passing banyan trees and bamboo forests, and even 200-foot Makahiku Falls on your way to Waimoku. If this isn’t one of the prettiest waterfall hikes in Hawai’i, we don’t know what is.
Accessible Waterfalls In Hawaii (No Hiking Required)
Many of Hawaii’s best known waterfalls require a bit hiking to reach. Fortunately, however, that’s not the case for all of the Aloha State’s cascades. In fact there are several popular waterfalls you can practically drive up to in Hawaii, like this trio.
Popularity: Located within an urban park, this waterfall is popular with locals and visitors, alike.
Need To Know: There is no fee for entering or parking in Wailuku River State Park, however, finding a parking space may require some patience.
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Stunning Rainbow Falls is located right in the city of Hilo, within Wailuku River State Park. You can practically see this waterfall from the parking lot, but you should definitely get out of your car and walk a few feet to the viewing area to take in the wonder of this cascade. If you’re feeling like exploring a little more, you’ll find two more easy-access waterfalls, Pe’epe’e Falls and Wai'ale Falls, just upstream from Rainbow Falls. Getting to Wai'ale Falls does require a short, .4-mile roundtrip, hike.
Popularity: The waterfalls are some of the most popular stops along the road to Hana, prepare for parking congestion at these stops.
Need To Know: Don’t forget a swimsuit and a towel.
The stretch of the Hana Highway along Maui’s between Pa’ia and Hana - or for those who venture a little farther, the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park - is more familiarly known as the famous Road to Hana. Along this curvy drive on Maui’s north shore, you’ll find many of the Valley Isle’s most renowned waterfalls, including Twin Falls, which you can access via a short walk through a bamboo forest, and several other cascades you can enjoy right from parking lots on the side of the road, like Upper Waikani Falls, Hanawi Falls, and Makapipi Falls. These Hawaii waterfalls are not only beautiful, they are super accessible - as long as you don’t mind the drive.
Popularity: This is a very popular destination for visitors to Kauai and can be quite busy.
Need To Know: There is no fee to enter or park at Wailua River State Park.
All it takes is a short walk from the parking lot to get to the viewpoint for Wailua Falls, which is located on the Wailua River within its namesake state park. This beautiful waterfall was famously featured in the opening credits of the television show Fantasy Island, which helped cement its popularity as a tourist destination. Wailua Falls is beautiful, to be sure, but don’t pass up the chance to visit the lovely, 150-foot Opaeka’a Falls, which is also located within the park.
Best Waterfalls Near Honolulu, Hawaii
Oahu residents also don't have to go too far to see some beautiful Hawaiian waterfalls. In fact, there are several stunning waterfalls within easy reach of Honolulu - you could even string them together into an Oahu waterfalls road trip! Here are three of our favorites.
Popularity: This waterfalls proximity to Honolulu makes it a popular destination with both locals and visitors. The trail can be crowded, especially on weekends.
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Need To Know: Getting to the waterfall requires a 1.8-mile, out and back, hike.
Manoa Falls is located just a few minutes from Honolulu, but when you step onto the trail to get there (less than one mile each way), you’ll feel like you’re in another world. The trail will lead you through a canopy of tropical trees and a bamboo forest, only to arrive at stunning, 150-foot Manoa Falls.
Popularity: This is a very popular spot that can be crowded on Thursdays and weekends.
Need To Know: To access the waterfall, you must purchase admission to Waimea Valley. General admission for nonresident adults is $25; Hawaii residents are $10. Discounts are available based on age, military status, and other categories.
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Waimea Falls is located within Waimea Valley, a botanical garden on the north shore of Oahu. The entire valley is beautiful and fascinating, but the waterfall is also a popular swimming hole - Don’t forget a swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen! The walk to the falls is 1.9 miles, round trip, on a well-maintained trail.
Popularity: This waterfall can be a popular destination for island visitors.
Need To Know: The hike to Lulumahu Falls is an unsanctioned trail that crosses private property and a day-use permit from the Division of Forestry and Wildlife is required. For this reason, you may wish to go with a guided tour
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Lulumahu Falls is located on the edge of Honolulu and requires a bit of a hike (less than a mile each way) to access. However, this hidden waterfall in Hawaii is a magical place where you’ll want to linger. You may not even realize just how close you are to the city as you splash around in the pool at this tropical waterfall oasis.
We know our list of the best waterfalls in Hawaii is not comprehensive, and you may certainly have some favorites that don’t appear here. Don’t be shy! Tell us which of these waterfalls you’ve visited, and let us know what others you would have included.
