The Hike To This Gorgeous Hawaii Swimming Hole Is Everything You Could Imagine

While Hawaii certainly does not have a shortage of pristine, white sand beaches or man-made, oceanfront pools for us to choose from, occasionally we crave something a little more adventurous – like waterfall swimming holes. While it can seem like swimming holes are a dime a dozen in Hawaii, not all of these incredible destinations are created equally, and we’re sharing one of our absolute favorite waterfall swimming holes -- Upper Waikani Falls -- with you today.

Because this destination is fed by waterfalls, it is important for us to issue a friendly warning about the risks associated with flash flooding and leptospirosis bacteria found in many of Hawaii’s natural swimming holes. It is advised that you check weather reports before heading out for the day, and to always watch your step. With that warning out of the way, let’s talk about one of our absolute favorite Hawaiian waterfall swimming holes, and the steep hike it takes to get there.

Maui’s famous Hana Highway stretches approximately 64 miles along the coast and is populated by countless striking waterfalls. And of all these incredible waterfalls, Upper Waikani Falls might just be the prettiest.

But many tourists come across the waterfall, snap a photo, and continue on with their journey. Why? There are few places to stop and park along this stretch of the Hana Highway. If you’re able to snag a parking spot near the waterfall, however, we promise you won’t be disappointed.

(Pro tip: If you continue 1/10th of a mile past the waterfall, you will find a small parking area.)

After all, the best views of this striking waterfall await when you climb under the bridge and follow a short, steep jungle path to the base of the waterfall — when the falls are flowing at a safe rate, that is.

Not only will you experience a serene beauty you can’t get from above, but the crystalline water is enticing, and soon, you’ll be taking a dip in one of Hawaii’s most stunning waterfall swimming holes.

Appropriately referred to as Three Bears Falls, you will find a surreal series of three waterfalls, each taller than the last, from 70 feet to more than 150 feet tall, according to various estimations we found on the internet.

Don’t forget your camera! While the falls themselves are striking, the surrounding verdant flora-lined cliffs are quite picturesque as well.

With one glimpse at these striking cascades, it's easy to see why Upper Waikini Falls is one of Hawaii's best waterfalls, so what are you waiting for? This stunning slice of paradise deserves a spot on your summer bucket list.

Upper Waikani Falls is located past Mile Marker 19 on Maui's Road to Hana.

Want to add other waterfall swimming holes in Hawaii to your summer bucket list? Here are 13 of our all-time favorites.