Check out the latest prices and details! All Rights Reserved Hawaii's Big Island is home to some of the islands' most accessible waterfalls, and here are five of the most popular. The most important is the water-born disease leptospirosis: dont go swimming if you have any abrasions, scrapes, blisters or other skin lesions. If you are in the Kona area, I highly recommend Paradise Helicopters. Swim, kayak, stand up paddleboard or just relax and enjoy the scenery with your friends and family. Another stop on Mauis Road to Hana, Puaa Kaa translates to rolling pig in Hawaiian. Youll never run out of things to do here. Visit the Botanical Gardens website for updated pricing. To be exact, you can find it along the Umauma River in Hakalau. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. This picturesque spot can be found past mile marker 16 on the Hana Highway, below the bridge that crosses Palauhulu Stream. As you travel, youll be privy to the views of obscure but beautiful hidden waterfalls, coasts, and beaches. During the tour, youll travel along the coastline. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. Photo credit: Island of Hawaii Visitors Bureau (IHVB) / Tyler Schmitt. 1: Maui Overview 2: Things to Do 3: Where to Stay 4: Popular Sights and Destinations 5: Road to Hana (Maui) 6: Maui Itinerary 7: Maui blog posts, The second-biggest island in the chain, much of Mauis appeal comes from its natural landscape and biodiversity, including its two massive volcanoes, whale watching and marine ecosystems, 1: Oahu Overview 2: Things to Do 3: Where to Stay 4: Popular Sights and Destinations 5: Oahu Beaches 6: Oahu Itinerary 7: Oahu blog posts. Here is our list of the top 9 waterfalls in Hawaii that wont disappoint! If youre considering visiting Akaka Falls, check out my full guide HERE. There are several ways people choose to see the waterfalls. If you already have accommodations, water rappelling can also be booked by the general public. The Hamakua Coast is beautiful and this half-day waterfall tour will stop at Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls, and Richardson Beach Park. Youll get to hear a bit about the history of Coconut Island (it will totally surprise you) as you paddle around Hilo Bay. Entry to the state park will cost $5 . She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. Head to Waimea Falls for the best, A short hike within the Puaa Kaa State Wayside will reward you with a relatively secluded and picturesque waterfall, cascading into the delightful pool below. We grouped this one group of Hawaii Big Island waterfalls together as they both are located in Akaka Falls State Park. The Umauma falls are three waterfalls in close proximity to the Umauma River, 16 miles north of Hilo on the Hamakua coast. Download your copy of our The volume of the rainbow falls (or Waianuenue) changes on a daily basis. With all that you can do at Kulaniapia Falls, it makes this waterfall a top-rated Hawaii waterfall on the Big Island. If you think you've located a Big Island waterfall we've omitted, please contact us, and we'll make sure it's added. The three-tier fall has a combined height of 300 feet, but it doesn't seem very high when you look at it from the viewing bridge. The best part? We've updated both travel guides with a lot of new great information for potential visitors (and those who've been a time or two as well). The Magical Waterfall Tour is an airborne tour that takes you on a visit to the coastline of Waipio Valley and Waimanu Valley. And this rainfall provides lots of opportunities to appreciate the island's falls. Just two weeks ago, the couple posted a YouTube video of the mum-to-be at 38-weeks pregnant interacting with dolphins in the sea. This waterfall is created from a small stream and is a multiple-tier waterfall located inside the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden. Umauma Falls You can find many waterfalls on the north and east side of the Big Island thanks to lots of rain and a large gradient in elevation (volcanoes!). Which Hawaiian island has the best waterfall hikes? Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Big Island Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I have included a downloadable map of these waterfalls at the bottom of this post to help with your planning and navigation. The largest waterfall in Hawaii is Oloupena Falls, located in Molokai. This is awesome for those not renting a car. It is one of the most idyllic and beautiful waterfalls in the world. 1: Kauai Overview 2: Things to Do 3: Where to Stay 4: Popular Sights and Destinations 5: The Npali Coast 6: Kauai Itinerary 7: Kauai blog posts. They also offer ATV tours, waterfall rappelling and horseback riding tours to the falls as well. In fact, some still consider it a secret or hidden spot on the island even though it has been featured in several magazines and TV shows. as a very big person in the future I want to help people I want to give a gift to the. Akaka, Kahuna, Hiilawe, Rainbow, Umauma, Peepee, Kulaniapia, Onomeaand WaiilikahiFalls. The hike to the Rainbow Falls is immensely short, and although reaching the top of the falls may seem intimidating, its both simple and worth the effort. Also, be sure to check out all the waterfalls in Hawaii on ourHawaii Waterfallspage. Well, you are in luck. If you plan to camp here, please make sure you obtain the proper permits, as they are required. You can see all sorts of hidden waterfalls if you go kayaking, take a boat tour, or ride in a helicopter. We decided to take a scenic drive while staying on the Hilo side to see some of these waterfalls. You no longer need to book a tour with the Umauma Experience to get to the falls. Big Island waterfall tours Legends of the Waterfalls & Volcano Full-Day Tour While there arent really Kona waterfalls, you see tons of waterfalls in Hilo. It is located in the Pelekunu Preserve on the windward side of Molokai. Love Hawaii? This 8-hour tour takes you from Kona to the oldest volcano on the Big Island for an inspiring and exhilarating day. Which waterfall can you swim at on the Big Island? Its an impressive 1,450-foot natural waterfall with a main drop of 1,201 feet. Rainbow Falls, located along the length of the Waikuku River and well-known for its beauty and accessibility, is one of the most popular waterfalls on the Big Island. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. Another, more expensive but more spectacular way to see waterfalls (and the volcano!) The Big Island of Hawaii offers so much for visitors with its lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes. Shared under a CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 license. You can access this trail from the Waipio Valley lookout. Please do not be tempted to hike up if there are signs that say hiking is not allowed and its blocked off. With a 440-foot summit, this waterfall is wildly popular due to the easy 0.4-mile paved loop, which takes you to the viewing spots of both Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls. If youd like to dabble in something slightly more adventurous, you can go ziplining or rappelling over the area. You will need to pay an admission fee to see these falls. The Northern beach offers the best base location for those wanting to live by the sea in Sons of the Forest. Papalaua Falls in Molokai is an unbelievably impressive waterfall, and unsurprising that's it on Molokai as this island is home to some of the tallest waterfalls in the entire world. But dont worry, this is a very easy hike to do and the trail is paved and well maintained. This is one of the best waterfalls to visit while on the Big Island, and I highly recommend staying here. Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. HOME PRIVACY POLICY TERMS. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Having traveled to Hawaii MORE THAN 40 TIMES, Marcie is a self-proclaimed Hawaii travel expert! Regardless, they are still worth the visit if you love nature and gorgeous views. Whether youd like to hike or bike along tranquil trails, visit scenic overlooks, snorkel, or just relax on the shore of a sunny beach, the Big Island wont disappoint. This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. Check out the latest prices and more details. What Are The Must-Visit Waterfalls On Big Island? P?palaua Falls, Hawaii 96748, USA 6. Peepee Falls on the Big Island. However, you need to pay a fee to be able to access the viewing deck. This article covers seven of the Big Islands most beautiful waterfalls! Hi'ilawe Falls in the Waipio Valley. They are one of the best helicopter companies in Hawaii. From USD 130.62. Access to the overview for the waterfalls lies on private land which is being managed by the Umauma Experience. The on-site Inn organizes this tour which is led a team of expert canyoneering guides. These falls are not reachable without trespassing and access to them is restricted. If you only have time to see one of the waterfalls, we suggest seeing the incredible Akaka Falls. They are amazing natural wonders that should definitely be on your list of things to do while visiting this tropical paradise! What takes a waterfall from "beautiful" to "spectacular" is height- and Hawaii's falls undoubtedly have it! It takes about 60 to 90 minutes to hike to the waterfall. It will take you about two hours to hike to Nanue Falls, but the path isnt too hard to walk on so youll be fine. You can view all three of them from an overlook that you can access via a private botanical garden. Check out the latest prices and details here! Rainbow Falls, or Wainuenue, is located inside the Wailuku River State Park in Hilo, Hawaii. Directions: About 30 min north from Hilo airport, park on the mauka (mountain-side) of highway 19 just after the 16 mile marker. However, it is important to note that Umauma Falls is a private waterfall that can only be accessed through small group tours. The closest waterfalls in the Kohala district (about 50 miles) require a tour to visit. The Hiilawe waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls of the state of Hawai. Mahalo! The tour will stop at Rainbow Falls, Akaka Falls, and Richardson Beach Park. One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Hawaii is Onomea Falls. Be sure to do both if you have the time. The Onomea Falls is located within the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, This s private property owned by Dan Lutkenhouse, first opened in 1984. Location: North east side of Big Island. Nanue Falls is located on the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. Waterfalls of Kohala A helicopter tour of the waterfalls along the Kohala Coast. Most waterfalls on the Hamakua coast are a 90-mile drive away. One of the, Pua'a Ka'a Falls, Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA, This secluded swimming spot is a phenomenal reward after a hike that should not be braved unless you are an experienced hiker. In addition, if weather and conditions permit, you may be able to swim, kayak or paddleboard under the waterfalls. In any case, as you can see from the map above and the list below that . She was a professional hula dancer for 20 years and even wrote her college thesis on Hawaiian history. Are you as obsessed with Hawaiian waterfalls as we are? Sign up for this discounted Majestic Waterfalls Tour. These 7 Big Island waterfalls are truly spectacular and well worth checking out during your stay here! Its a way to connect with nature and experience the waterfall closer than otherwise. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. This would allow you to see almost all of our favorite waterfalls and is recommended for people that really love waterfalls. youll get to taste seasonal fruit and macadamia nuts, swim at private waterfalls, and enjoy local food for lunch. The waterfall is located inside Waipio Valley and is about 1,450 feet tall. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. Check out the latest prices and details! Swimming here can be dangerous and has proved lethal several times in the past. Sign up for a discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour. Waiilikahi Falls are yet another gem on the Big Island, but it takes a lot to hike to the falls. There are different, The private property is currently managed by the. Later you transfer to an off-road vehicle to get off the beaten path and take a small hike along the tunnels and aqueducts of an over 100 year old sugar plantation. Sign up for this discounted Waipio Valley and Waterfalls Adventure. Where are the best waterfalls to swim in Hawaii? The water can be seen while hiking down the valley, and it should be visible to the left within around 7 minutes into the hike (depending on how fast you walk). Thankfully they didnt, as there appeared to be rocks under the shallow water at the bottom of the falls. While Kahuna Falls are also located in this state park, you can hear them more than you can see them. Located within the Hilo city limits, Wainuenue (Rainbow Falls) is very easy to visit. This is a great way to see some of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. Its accessible through several different methods and gorgeous no matter how you see it. Some of which are so beautiful that they inspired some of Hawaiis most popular songs. These falls are more difficult to visit and include the last of our favorites that can only be seen from a distance: the Hiilawe falls. ), make small hikes, and admire the sweeping views and scenic coastlines and rugged valleys. Most waterfalls can be found on the slopes of the Mauna Kea volcano close to Hilo and on the Hamakua coast. However, if you continue hiking along the trail in the area and do some stream scrambling, youll be able to see more of natures beauty. When river safety conditions permit, you can also go swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding under the Kulaniapia Falls using on-site equipment. Youll be treated to an entirely new and equally beautiful view of the waterfalls. Akaka Falls are about 422 feet tall, but are only viewable from the viewing platform. See below for the sign that was there when I went. If you prefer places that are not busy, then you will love Peepee Falls. And it is surrounded by immense boulders and greenery. Check out the latest prices and more details. Rappelling at the Kulaniapia Falls. This isn't one that you can swim under though. Free cancellation: up to 48 hours before tour. The Kulaniapia Falls is a private 90-100 foot waterfall located at the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls. Then, there are waterfalls where the access is rather ambiguous (to my knowledge), and these include Hi'ilawe Falls, Nanue Falls, and the so-called Narnia Waterfalls (which are actually a convergence of three named waterfalls). You can swim in this one! Read more on the Umauma experience website. The water conceals long lava ridges, so its easy to be pulled in and trapped. Youll also pass by Boulder Creek on your way to the falls, which is a gorgeous sight to see. Its one of the tallest and most powerful waterfalls in Hawaii, although it gets a bit dry around March. Read more about ourHawaii adventureshere. Located in the Cummins Falls State Park in Jackson County, Tennessee, the Cummins Falls is 75 feet high and is the eighth largest waterfall in Tennessee by volume. But make sure to read up on the waterfall you visit, because sometimes certain areas in the Hawaiian islands are prone to flooding, and can be dangerous to swim in after a heavy rainfall. What are the best hikes on the Big Island? Even though swimming is no longer allowed here, its worth the drive as the view is amazing and can be seen from the parking lot. Standing at around 80 feet tall, this waterfall is a must-see year round on the Big Island. Kulaniapia Falls is once again located on private property, this time belonging to The Inn and usually reserved exclusively for residents there. However, it is not totally uncommon to see that the waterfall is dry, which is a result of the Hamakua Ditch that diverts the flow of water. These are gorgeous Hawaii Big Island waterfalls worth checking out. You can also see these waterfalls as part of a zipline tour or an ATV and dip (swim) tour at the gardens. Get your discounted ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience. Why not go on one of our perfectly planned waterfall road trips with itineraries for both Oahu and Maui. And if youre heading to Akaka Falls with kids, check out my guide HERE. The lush landscape alone is enough to warrant a hike here. It is advised that you check weather reports and ocean conditions before heading out for the day, never swim in these pools when you have open wounds and to always watch your step. The Akaka Falls and the Rainbow Falls are hands-down the most-visited waterfalls on the Big Island. This gorgeous waterfall stretches 442 feet high and descends into a beautiful gorge eroded over time by water, which now lays dozens of feet below ground level. The waterfalls of Hawaii on the Big Island are absolutely stunning. Hi'ilawe Falls All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. HOME PRIVACY POLICY TERMS, Affiliate Disclosure: We receive compensation from companies whose products or services are used, referenced, or reviewed regardless of whether we endorse or criticize them. To be exact, you can visit Hiilawe Falls by going to the Waipio Valley at the Kohala Coast in Hawaii. At the bottom of the valley, take a left and walk for roughly 5-10 minutes to see the falls. However, the waterfall tends to be dry in early spring, around March. This state park is home to two amazing waterfalls, one of which plunges 422 feet into a stream-eroded gorge below. The waterfall is named for the beautiful rainbow that forms at the waterfalls base. You can also book a stay at The Inn, a high-quality resort thats well worth the money. There are no lifeguards here, so please be extremely cautious. Big Island is home to some of the tallest falls in the state. While visiting the Wailuku River State Park, you can also stop by the Peepee Falls. Big Island of Hawaii Waterfalls Simply put, waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii are some of the world's finest. Both waterfalls are beautiful Big Island attractions. One other thing to note is that there are 13 streams you will have to cross before getting to the water. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. Get your discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. Are there a lot of waterfall swimming holes in Hawaii? Nonetheless, its still a breathtaking sight to see. Not only that, but this island is still expanding! It depends on which one you choose! From USD 221.99 (9) Umauma Falls Zipline Tour & Waterfall Swim Adventure . Sign up for this discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour. This is a very difficult hike to complete in one day and is not recommended for beginners. Rainbow Falls One of Hawaii's most stunning waterfalls, Rainbow Falls is named for the rainbows that can be seen in the mist. You can either go left or right after you go down the stairs from the parking lot. It stretches hundreds of feet tall and is surrounded by greenery. This, Upper Waikani Falls, Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA, Perhaps one of Oahus most stunning hidden waterfalls, this trek through the mud is never uphill for too long and offers the opportunity to jump in a beautiful waterfall at the end. If you decide to swim, please remember to always swim with caution and be aware of the danger around you no matter where you are. If you are not interested in these tours, you can pay $12 per person to visit the beautiful botanical gardens. Her next trip to Hawaii is never too far away! This waterfall is smaller than the rainbow falls but also far less crowded. Plus. So no one is taking care of it and ensuring the area remains clean. While theyre all worth seeing, we must warn you that most of them do not have a swimming hole or pool available. This is an activity in which you descend the rocks surrounding the waterfall with a harness and equipment ensuring your safety. Access costs $12 per person (walk-in fee, no pre-bookings required), which also buys you access to their garden. I hope that these waterfalls and tours will give you an idea of what you can add to your itinerary for your trip to the Big Island! The 422 ft tall Akaka falls are part of the Akaka falls state park, located just north of Hilo. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. Click here to see all our recommended waterfall tours on our website. Keep scrolling for the best waterfalls on the Big Island and discover why people love coming back again and again to this magical island destination. These include stargazing and helicopter tours and is absolutely worth the time and money. The trailhead is easy to find just off the parking lot. As youre admiring the view of the Kohala Coast, youll also be privy to commentary about the history and culture of the area by the pilot. The trail is surrounded by beautiful vegetation and singing birds, and the falls are absolutely worth the effort! Keep in mind that youll need to clear a full day of your itinerary for this. Swimming here is not recommended, even on days where it feels safe. Plus it has numerous attractions, from volcanic rock formations to beautiful waterfalls. Also known as Three Bears falls, Waikani is approximately 70 feet tall, and visible from the Hana Highway. Log in, We are passionate waterfall lovers eager to share our experiences chasing waterfalls around the world! Youll be able to get up close and personal with this body of water and have the most memorable time in Hawaii. Standing at 2,954 feet tall, this waterfall is spectacular. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW. The waterfalls are located less than half a mile from the parking lot. 'Akaka Falls 'Akaka Falls is located just north of Hilo and are a gem of the Big Island's waterfalls. Do you like waterfalls a LOT and are you also visiting another island in the Hawaiian island chain? One of several waterfalls you hike to on a tour with Hawaii Forest and Trail. Before you get to Akaka Falls, you can also visit Kahuna Falls inside the state park. To be able to visit the waterfall, you can book a guest room at The Inn or book one of the Experience Packages available at the property. You can now drive on a concrete road right to the falls and tropical garden. If you follow the path, youll see the beautiful Kahuna Falls along the way just before you see Akaka Falls. What is the best way to visit all these waterfalls? This tour is unique in that it focuses almost entirely on the history and culture of Hawaii. [more], 2006-2023 World Of Waterfalls, All Rights Reserved There is no swimming allowed here; you can only view the falls from a safe distance. Also, if you are visiting Oahu and want to know where the best waterfall hikes are on Oahu, Ive got you covered. Hiilawe Falls (or Hi'ilawe Falls) was one of those waterfalls where it seemed it had a reputation that it can no longer live up to. You can also walk down from the upper parking lots and viewing decks. The left is a shorter route to get to the Akaka waterfall, but if you are up for an adventure I recommend taking a right for a longer but beautiful hike. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Kulania Falls is nearby and just as beautiful. Read more about the Rainbow Falls on our website. First trip to the Big Island? And these are just the most popular waterfalls on Big Island. These falls form also the access to a popular but risky local swimming spot called the boiling pots. The most spectacular waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii Rainbow Falls Pe'epe'e Falls Wai'ale Falls 'Akaka Falls Onomea Falls Umauma Falls Kulaniapia Falls Hi'ilawe Falls Map of the Big Island waterfalls How to decide which Big Island waterfall to visit? The waterfalls themselves might be short, but the picturesque pools are well worth the short hike. The size of these waterfalls and their location in the lush and tropical rainforest makes them a popular and spectacular attraction to check out. Along the way, youll see verdant vegetation and immense, ancient Banyan trees, overgrown by fig vines and moss. While transporting logs over to build the base might be a nuisance, the beach offers a wealth of advantages that . Waianuenue Falls, Big Island James Walsh/Flickr Akaka and Kahuna Falls are part of the Akaka Falls State Park, located north of Hilo. Because these incredible destinations are fed waterfalls, it is important to issue a friendly warning about the risks associated with flash flooding, and leptospirosis bacteria found in many of Hawaiis natural pools. This multi tiered, Oheo Gulch, OheO Gulch, Hawaii 96713, USA. 5 out of 6 of our favorites are close to Hilo, and these falls are very easy to visit. Sign up for discounted Hilo Bay Kayaking Tickets. Its only 80-foot-tall but its still a beautiful natural feature with gushing water all year-round and a large pool below. Map of Big Island Waterfalls Wrapping Up the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island This is a great family-friendly waterfall as there are no strong currents or falling rocks around. However, Id always watch for signs near waterfalls and follow their instructions if they indicated not to swim. A delicious catered lunch is provided in our secluded pavilion. An aerial view of Kulaniapia Falls. These are just a few of the many, many tours that can be booked to see the beautiful waterfalls on the Big Island. The only waterfall you can swim at on the Big Island is the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls. You have to be a guest at the Inn to access the trail leading to the waterfall. Hiilawe Falls is often considered to be the tallest waterfall in Hawaii. Even when the falls are dry, the lush landscape is incredible. Aside from waterfalls, youll also be able to see red-hot lava flows, the Kohala Mule Station lookout, and more! If you dont want to search out the waterfalls on your own, this might be the right tour for you. Its secluded and quiet, and staying here really forces you to slow down and enjoy many of the natural beauties that Hawaii has to offer.