Other waterfalls nearby: A short hike to the base of Manoa Falls in the Manoa Valley in Honolulu, Oahu, the Manoa Falls Trail winds through a lush Hawaiian tropical rainforest filled with movie scene locations from Jurassic Park and LOST. You are treated to an amazing view of blue waters and sea turtles. The trail then loops around and takes you to the viewing area for Akaka Falls. This provides for an endless supply of waterfalls and rainbows, making it a truly magical place to visit. Do you know if there are any taxi's that will take you there (my 84 year old mother will be with us). The hike described below covers the entire park in a large loop, but you could obviously visit locations individually for shorter hikes. Fascinating wilderness, volcanic formations, and pristine beaches define the gorgeous, By This trail is estimated to be 4.2 mi long. Definitely worth spending a couple of hours here. The best views of the falls are from the parking lot or from the top of the falls after a short hike. The views from the top are incredible, and you can really see the whole island from up there. Park your car and proceed through the gate. You will soon pass an intersection with the Hu'e Hu'e Trail that heads back toward the Park Headquarters. Quickly pass a small fishpond and follow the trail as it passes several ancient sites for about a half-mile. The unmissable Wailua Falls is located a few miles past the town of Hana on the Hana Highway itself. Proceed around the bend to the west end of a very large parking lot. Also known as the Seven Sacred Pools at Oheo, Oheo Gulch is nested in Haleakala National Park in its Kipahulu District, just downstream of Waimoku Falls. For example, at nearly 3,000 feet high, the Oloupena Falls pour down what is considered the highest sea cliffs in the world. After enjoying the views of Akaka Falls, continue on the loop trail to see more of the rainforest before heading back to the parking lot. . According to Hawaiian legend, Rainbow Falls was home to the goddess of the moon, Hina. The content on this website may not be copied or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission. My husband ended up going to the car and driving over to the entrance so that we all didn't have to walk back that way. The waterfall gets its name from the rainbow that can be seen in the mist created by the falling water. It is nestled in the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park, and a 15-minute hike is all it takes to get to the falls! Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiring travel guides and articles from around the world! More information honokohau falls maui | Honokohau Falls in Maui - Imgur More like this Vacation Places Vacation Destinations The gorgeously lush West Maui has few waterfalls which can be accessed by land, and Makamakaole is one spectacular one. There is no camping in this Park. The Race Brook Falls - Lower Falls hike at Mount Everett State Reservation near Sheffield, Massachusetts is a moderate 1.3-mile out-and-back trek that leads to a ~80-foot tall waterfall, Lower Race Brook Falls. What restaurants are near Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park? Access: 30-foot path (9 metres) going down to the pools from the road. Do not enter this heiau or walk on its walls. WELCOME!!! This trail circles around to the other side of Kaloko Fishpond. All rights reserved. There are several lookout points where you will be able to see the falls in all their glory. Are you ready to take in one of the most magnificent views of West Maui from above? Overall, Hawaii is home to some of the most beautiful and majestic waterfalls in the world. The waterfall is over 100 feet tall, and the pool at the bottom is perfect for swimming. Thanks to its dramatic views, Wailua Falls was featured in the opening scene of the Fantasy Island TV show. Kaloko-Honokhau National Historic Park Coastal Wetland Amenities Features Managed by: National Park Service Hours & Site Information: Visit Website Important Info: Bring water and wear sunscreen. Check out the beachfront hotels and monthly rentals for your accommodation needs. Enjoy the turtles, they are amazing. However, don't be fooled by its beauty as getting there is not as convenient as you think. Not only is the waterfall the tallest in Maui but it also happens to be two-tiered, plunging into the depths of its base pools with great force. Along the way to Akaka Falls, you will be surrounded by stunning views of the rainforest. Spectacular park with view of sea turtles. Makapipi Falls The final breathtaking views of the falls, however, will be well worth the challenging hike! The hike generally takes around 30 minutes. When it comes to ancient Hawaiian culture, this Park really has it all: heiau (temple) ruins; ruins of homes and other structures; fishponds; a fishtrap; a canoe hale; rock art; a freshwater-fed Queen's bath surrounded by mysterious mounds; and impressive petroglyph fields. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Honokohau Falls. The quick hike to the top of the falls offers stunning views of the rainforest. Maui. The trail then loops around and takes you to the viewing area for Akaka Falls. In addition to the lush vegetation, you will witness gigantic banyan trees. You will walk about 1/2 mile onto the beach. Youll be surprised, they do listen! For those keen on getting close-up views of the falls, a short steep hike down the edge of the water will give you this opportunity. Access: One mile hiking up the Waihee Ridge Trail or Kahekili Highway just past mile marker 8, Difficulty of hike: 2.5 miles (4 km), 1,500 feet (457 meters) ascent, Moderate-Difficult. Created by a volcanic eruption, Diamond Head is estimated to be about 200,000 years old. we will be arriving by cruise ship. Wailua Falls sits at the south end of Wailua River, and no hiking is needed for an up-close look at this double-tiered waterfall. For a closer view, take a helicopter tour of the area it is the only way to get legally closer to the falls. Within minutes we spotted 9 turtles within mere steps.- dont get closer than 10. It has a nice, sandy bottom and a fairly even depth perfect for hanging out. Although it can only be accessed with a permit, it is definitely worth the extra effort to visit it. I don't recommend that. Along the way to Akaka Falls, you will be surrounded by stunning views of the rainforest. Length: 1.7 mi Est. The 80-foot-tall (24 meters) cascade can be viewed from a lookout point, where they flow under a one lane bridge. Adventurers can even try cliff jumping to the pool below, and after thoroughly exploring the area, get back to the food stand for a quick snack. There is no entrance fee. Visitors can enjoy nature trips, hiking, and birding in the area, or take a hike to the falls for a refreshing swim. We opted for a hike to the lake which took about 20 minutes. The hike is on gravel and not too difficult. The lot even overlooks the falls, and early in the morning look for rainbows. In addition to the lush vegetation, you will witness gigantic banyan trees. According to Hawaiian legend, Rainbow Falls was home to the goddess of the moon, Hina. If you prefer to hike, the trail is mostly flat. , You wont find any crowds there since the falls cant be seen from the highway and, as a result, tends to be overlooked on the Road to Hana. For even better views of Rainbow Falls, stop by in the morning when the sun is behind you. Annette, discounthawaiicarrental Check them out online, no commitment and you compare your opportunities I think youll think a car rental would be very convenient. Once at the waterfalls, enjoy clear water suited for swimming and snapping pictures. Mauis tropical paradise draws nature lovers to colorful beaches, ecosystems and remote spots tucked away from development. This trailhead is open from 8:30am to 4:00pm every day, otherwise a gate is locked. The entire stop takes about an hour, so plan accordingly if driving the Road to Hana in one day. Maui waterfalls + Ocean tour on Horseback, Rappel Maui waterfalls and rainforest cliffs, 8 Best Luaus on Kauai (+ Fire Shows, Hula, & Tips! Use our trail maps, elevation charts, pictures, and get directions to the trailhead to plan your next hike! Two mile round trip walk on mostly flat but rugged surface leading to the water. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. The site is right near downtown Kailua-Kona and is free so definitely worth a visit. There is a bridge crossing the Makapipi Stream, behind which you will find a small pull-off area. The rainier the day, the larger the flow of the waterfall. From there, find marked paths that lead to the farm and Twin Falls. Some of which are only accessible by helicopter or cruise. There are restrooms at the trailhead. Do not go through that route. The best time to view the falls is before noon so that crowds can be avoided. View the resorts of Kaanapali and Kapalua. Thanks for you help! You will walk along the river bank and even get to use a rope to help you cross some rapids! A rainy day will send water gushing down 400 feet across smooth lava rock into a boulder-stern pool. 73-4786 Kanalani St. #14 So plan your trip accordingly and enjoy a truly memorable experience. 1 Continue this thread More posts from the Hawaii community 952 Posted by u/ivegotdiabetusssshoe 2 months ago Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 57 min to complete. If youre traveling to Maui and are looking for some of the best tours to see some of these waterfalls, you can see our top picks below! And no trip will feel complete without these top Maui waterfalls. The park has two unique fishponds, listen to park staff discuss how they were built and used in ancient Hawaii. Eventually, you will reach the end of the Hanakapiai Falls Trail, where you will be treated to an incredible view of the waterfall, which drops 300 feet into a beautiful green pool. There is also a 35-foot cliff-jumping spot at the top of the falls perfect for those looking for an adrenaline rush! This is a great hike for all ages and fitness levels and is one of the best ways to see two of Hawaiis most famous waterfalls. Front Entrance view. The waterfalls in Maui are straight out of picture-perfect postcards - blinding white streams of water cascading down dark grey rocks to plunge into the depths of brilliant blue pools of water, surrounded by verdant, lush tropical forests. Although Twin Falls can be visited any time of year, the best time to go is right after a rainstorm when the waterfall is at its fullest. This is very close to town. While Oloupena Falls may not be the easiest place to get to, it is definitely worth the effort to see one of the tallest waterfalls in the world in person. This is a popular trail for hiking and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. History and Naming Honokohau Falls is the name of this waterfall. Certain areas of this shoreline are also marked as sacred, and you should avoid them. Turn left on Kealakehe Parkway and drive 0.4 miles to the entrance to the marina. The path takes hikers to three waterfalls ranging in different lengths. The best views of the falls are from the parking lot or from the top of the falls after a short hike. The first trail starts from the parking lot and is a rather muddy one, while the second one is longer but easier, safer, and less steep. From the lookout point at Crouching Lion, youll be able to see the Sacred Falls plunging 1,100 feet into the valley below. From the lookout point at Crouching Lion, youll be able to see the Sacred Falls plunging 1,100 feet into the valley below. On your way to the falls, you will pass by the popular Hanakapiai Beach a hotspot for experienced surfers who come to ride its massive waves. Beach Hiking in Kaloko-Honokhau National Historical Park. . If you are feeling adventurous, you can also hike to the falls. However, suppose you are looking for a more family-friendly adventure. The 5-mile roundtrip Waihee Ridge Trail passes a bamboo forest that will lead you to a natural oasis. Fed by the Koolau Rainforest in the Hoolawa Valley, Twin Falls is accessible year-round, but make sure to visit after heavy rain to take in the full beauty of the falls. Honokohau Falls measures two-tiers cascading a total of over 1,100 feet, making it the tallest waterfall in Maui. The best way to experience the Waialeale Waterfalls is by taking a helicopter tour. Jumping into the pools is strictly prohibited post-rainfall since the water depths after rain can be deceiving. Proceed around the bend to the west end of a very large parking lot. Viewable from the road about three miles up Maalo Road, north of Lihue, Wailua Falls is a must-see for any visitor to Kauai. 2 mo. You will see people up close taking a pic of the turtlesbe a good citizen and nicely tell them to step away. To get to the larger falls, you need first to climb smaller cascades and scramble along a rocky bed, which promises a wet adventure! The trail meanders through a lush rainforest environment and culminates at a jaw-dropping 150-foot waterfall that cascades down the mountainside. Puuhonua o Hnaunau National Historical Park, Ka Desert - Mauna Iki Trail from Hilina Pali Road. Aipio fishtrap itself is a fantastic spot to wade, especially when it's not safe to swim elsewhere due to high surf. The area around the falls is very tranquil, making it the perfect spot to relax and admire the gorgeous scenery before heading back on the road. If you are looking for a breathtaking natural wonder to explore on your next vacation, be sure to add Manoa Falls to your list! Once we got to the beach, there were turtles everywhere and there is a breakwater and thus very calm water for swimming. Due to time constraints we only did the hike as far as the petroglyphs, which were cool to see. Take the Diamond Head Trail to the summit of Oahu's volcanic tuff cone nestled along the coastline, and find panoramic views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. Explore different ways to experience this place. The 4-mile round trip Pipiwai Trail hike in Haleakala National Park passes lush greenery, bamboo forest, and banyan trees and is one of the best hikes in Maui, which will offer you the most breathtaking scenery of the falls from a few lookout points. Skip the luxurious dinner cruises just this time and explore the waters of the 400-foot-high (122 meters) Waimoku Falls instead. Manoa Falls is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island of Oahu. Located on the Road to Hana, Waimoku Falls sits at the end of Pipiwai Trail above Seven Sacred Pools. Featuring two parallel tiers of water that fall and pour down into the Wailua River, the falls are especially beautiful after a heavy rain, when the two falls often merge into one giant gushing torrent of water. The lush green of the Hawaiian forests surrounding the cascades glisten in the mist arising from the cascades, making for million-dollar photo ops. A couple of trees for shade and a few benches for resting are available on the hike. (Do a quick search on the following sites). See our privacy policy for more information on how we use your data. If you are looking for a breathtaking natural wonder to explore on your next vacation, be sure to add Manoa Falls to your list! The best way to see Akaka Falls is by taking a short hike through the rainforest. Point of clarification- we ready one review that stated the turtles were nesting on the beach, however, as the ranger explained, the only turtle nesting site in the entire state of Hawaii is on Maui. A 15-minute hike on Kuloa Point Trail is all it takes to reach your destination! Honokohau Falls is also a two-tiered waterfall, which makes it even more impressive. What Is Rental Car Insurance Coverage? In this case, its as much about the journey as it is about the destination! Your first stop on the Road to Hana will be the gorgeous Twin Falls, which is considered one of the busiest falls on this list. Rain may also affect the falls, so hikers may only see the lower part during dry weather. We will have a t 3 yr old and a 1 yr old and a 9 yr old and three grandmothers!!! Waterfall height: 1,119 feet (341 metres). From the lookout, visitors get an obstructed view of Punalau Beach alongside Maui's rugged cliffs . Description This waterfall is often cruised by without a glance by tourists in a hurry. As a result, they can only be accessed by air and ocean. Visit the park to meander through the ancient settlement where thatched-hut hale (houses) sit on the shore, explore the area's trails, or relax at the white sand Honokohau Beach. Take water, a hat and wear decent slippers or sandals. Trailhead #2: Kaloko Road: This trailhead is a rough, unpaved road that leads to Kaloko fishpond. Hawaii is well-known for its beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and lush rainforests. Even at that distance, Lower Puohokamoa is a sight to behold. Also known as Three Bears, Upper Waikani Falls is a group of three parallel waterfalls nestled side by side and cascading 70 feet into the Wailua Nui Stream. The trail measures 5 miles round-trip, ascending 1,500 feet through forests toward the clouds. You can then view it on your cell phone or computer by heading to your Google Maps account, click the menu and add it to Your Places. Eventually, you will reach the end of the Hanakapiai Falls Trail, where you will be treated to an incredible view of the waterfall, which drops 300 feet into a beautiful green pool. This will allow you to see the falls from above and get a true sense of their size and beauty. You can either stop by for a short bathroom break and admire the falls or stick around to have a family picnic with a view of it! As such you either spend a lot of time looking at native lava wondering if a line is a natural feature or a petroglyph, or you risk missing some. There are many impressive waterfalls in Hawaii, each with its own unique beauty. And for those looking for a little bit of adventure, during ancient times, Hawaiians used to take the 83-foot drop as a test of bravery and adulthood though we do not recommend doing that today! Lauren Abbott, When you think of paradise, do you envision sandy beaches. To see this 400-foot waterfall, hike the 4-mile trail, which gains 650 feet in elevation and has some muddy conditions. If you'd like a nice strip of beach to yourself, you might be able to find it here. You'll see a circular parking area and a few structures just off the highway. Turn right, and drive 0.3 miles. Get out your hiking boots and raingear and get your cameras clicking as you set out on these best waterfall hikes in Maui, Hawaii. Thank you! While there, the chances are high that you will have the 80 ft tall waterfall all to yourself. Blessings, Is there snorkeling at this beach? What hotels are near Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park? Sustained by the spring-fed Hanawi stream, both the Upper and Lower falls cascade throughout the year - a stunning aquatic splendor that is one of the most photographed spots on the island of Maui. Located along Waihe'e Ridge, Makamakaole Falls is one of the few waterfalls located on Maui's western coast. ). ), 20 Best Waterfalls near Franklin, NC (Highest & Most Beautiful), 15 Best Texas Waterfalls (With Hiking Trails & Amazing Views), 15 Best Waterfalls Near Chicago (To Explore & Enjoy), 20 Best Waterfalls Near Chattanooga (Easily Accessible For All), 15 Best Waterfalls in Oregon (Highest & Most Beautiful), 10 Best Waterfalls Near Phoenix (Most Beautiful & Easily Accessible). Getting to Uluwehi Falls is an adventure in itself and can only be done by kayak and hiking. Understanding the weather conditions is important because the river can be quite challenging to paddle on some days. The views along the trail are simply gorgeous, making the Waimea Valley Trail one of the best hikes in Oahu. Take in Old Lahaina Town with its quaint historic whaling harbor. Subsites and information about National Parks on Hawai'i Island, Learn about the unique aquatic ecosystems and the animals that live in the anchialine pools. Dont forget to buy some goodies from the snack stand before heading to the next spot. Head to Maui and dont miss seeing any of these water wonders! 98% of travelers recommend this experience. Kona Tour: Coffee Plantation, Kealakekua Bay, Kaloko-Honokohau Park, and Bee Farm, Kona Shore Excursion: Hawaiian Sea Turtles , Historic Kona & Coffee, Big Island Adventure Bundle: 5 Epic Audio Driving Tours, Big Island - Kona Big Kahuna GPS Driving Tour, UltimateSnorkeling Adventures in Kailua Kona Hawaii. But be cautious, because after heavy rainfalls, the trail may become muddy, and the hike can become a challenge. Starting at Trailhead #1, the Welcome House and main parking area, find a trail that departs from the southern side of the parking area, called Ike Hawai'i trail. The falls themselves are small (about 20 feet), but the surrounding area is lush and green, with huge boulders and giant leaves providing a lovely backdrop. This is a great hike for all ages and fitness levels and is one of the best ways to see two of Hawaiis most famous waterfalls. The views are breathtaking from the beach and you can walk out to see lots of ocean life. This is not a hike or a walk, but instead requires a couple of steps out of your vehicle to enjoy this nice lookout. 25 miles (0.4 km) to the lookout point, Easy, Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account. . Arizona has over 170 named waterfalls and. If you look closely mauka (toward the mountains), you should be able to spot several large mounds of stacked lava rocks. Join a cruise or a helicopter tour to get the best views of these falls as they cascade down the cliff face into the ocean below. I do wish we had taken the time to go down to the beach and see the turtles - maybe next time. The walk was very hot as the lava rocks radiated the heat. 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. Enjoy learning about the top Maui waterfalls? The 0.37-mile lightly trafficked out and back Puaa Kaa Falls Trail winds through lush greenery to get you to the waterfall up close. It was quite enjoyable and we even spent a few minutes walk, studying, and learning about the historical sites in the Park. 95% of travelers recommend this experience. A standard paddle will take about 45 minutes. Scroll to see the property features, tax value, mortgage calculator, nearby schools and similar homes for sale. In actuality, there are more than just two waterfalls which lie along different trails and which are less crowded as well. Never fear. It is in the middle of an inaccessible valley, where no roads and trails are located. From Kaloko fishpond, head back inland along the Kaloko road, a rough unpaved road. There, you will find a gate into the park. Access: Hana Highway just past mile marker 45, Difficulty of hike: 60 feet (18 metres), Moderate due to steep incline and slippery, muddy rocks. This stunning natural wonder is located within Waimea Valley Park and can be reached by taking a leisurely one-mile hike through the park. Never fear. The Maui waterfall trail is steep and muddy, so dont forget to take your hiking shoes and comfy clothes with you. The flow of water may vary a lot depending on the seasons rainfall. Honokohau Falls ( see more photos) is the tallest waterfall on Maui, dropping in two tiers at a total of 1,119 feet (341 m). ago Hawaii (Big Island) There's no trail there. By: Mkorenew. This is not a hike, but rather a short walk to a seaside cliff vista. The gorgeous Maui waterfall is nestled amidst lush tropical foliage and cascades 80 ft in two streams, making it the most photographed waterfall on Maui. The falls are even more beautiful during the winter months when the water flow is at its heaviest. The water begins falling as a narrow stream and then widens towards the bottom, similar to the appearance of a horse's tail. Town and Tourist, Chicago is known as one of the largest cities in, As one of the biggest cities in Tennessee, Chattanooga has, Oregon is home to many spectacular natural sights and waterfalls,, By Past this fishpond, find a barren lava field past the foliage. When is Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park open? We saw so many sea turtles! ), 7 Best Big Island Helicopter Tours (+ Volcano Flights! Walk is easy and you can stand in the shade during the presentation. Kaloko-Honokhau National Historical Park contains a wealth of ancient Hawaiian history in a beautiful place to hike. Be sure to take all the necessary gear with you, such as hiking boots, sticks, and rubber gloves to support yourself. Do buy some nice Hawaiian fruits from the roadside stand to support the rural community. My daughter slipped and sliced her foot wide open on the coral so you definitely want to wear water shoes. The park is very well maintained and gives you the Natural Hawaii experience. When driving by notice a busy parking lot and snack stand on Wailele Farm. There is also a 35-foot cliff-jumping spot at the top of the falls perfect for those looking for an adrenaline rush! As you stroll along the trail, you will be surrounded by beautiful flora and fauna. Around the edge of Aipio fishtrap is Pu'uoina Heaiu, a ancient temple at waters' edge. Head to the bridge for a birds eye view of the awe-inspiring falls and the blue pool underneath it. This ramrod-straight ancient route will take you south past the intersection with the Hu'e Hu'e trail and eventually back to the other side of the Hale Ho'okipa Welcome House and the parking area where you began. Do you need to book in advance to visit Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park? Preview trail Kid friendly Hiking Walking Beach Views Wildlife Description I think we would be able to do this park if it is not too difficult to get around in. The falls are located along the Hana Highway, where youll need to cross the Makapipi Stream, which flows within the lava streambed into a pristine azure pool. August 02, 2021. But, once we got to the beach area it was amazing! It plays in your favor to know before you go, the common name for this waterfall is "Mile 10 Falls" as it is a short walk upstream from the bridge adjacent the mile marker itself. Corals are sadly dead, though. Featuring two parallel tiers of water that fall and pour down into the Wailua River, the falls are especially beautiful after a heavy rain, when the two falls often merge into one giant gushing torrent of water. Lulumahu Falls is a beautiful 50-foot tall waterfall. The best time to visit the falls is after heavy rainfall, which plays a vital role in the powerful flow of Makapipi Falls, naturally! To survive in a hot and arid environment the native Hawaiians (kanaka maoli) used ancient fishing skills, including the building of fishponds, and the knowledge of the location of precious fresh water (wai) that flows into the many brackish pools throughout the park. The trail meanders through a lush rainforest environment and culminates at a jaw-dropping 150-foot waterfall that cascades down the mountainside. At present, these cliffs are considered one of the tallest seaside cliffs in the world. Alelele Falls is one of the lesser-known waterfalls in Maui on this list. Guests can see Honokohau Falls via helicopter tours. These are the best Maui waterfalls to visit including a map of where to find them! Updated September 26, 2022. Bring plenty of water and sun protection. But did you know that it is also home to some of the best waterfalls in the world? It is one of the Hawaiian Islands most popular waterfalls thanks in part to its location just off the Road to Hana. Nakalele Lookout. Wailua Falls measures about 80 feet, and during heavy rains the two falls will merge into one.