Here is our list of the top 9 waterfalls in Hawaii that wont disappoint! Off the main street is the Mana's Aloha Fruit Stand. Good to know: The river feeding Hiilawe is used for irrigation purposes. Youre planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, and you want to visit some of the many beautiful waterfalls on this volcanic island. There may be no better way to experience Hawaiian waterfalls than with a helicopter tour. If you want to see the base of the falls, you must rent a car with four-wheel drive - and even then, the grade is so steep that it can be dangerous. I would plan 10 hours out of your day if you are thinking about doing the hike. Each island has some of the best waterfall swimming holes in Hawaii, so no matter where you are, youll find something amazing! In fact, there is a small parking lot near the falls, as well as a short but slippery path to visit the base. In addition, if weather and conditions permit, you may be able to swim, kayak or paddleboard under the waterfalls. If youre lucky, you may be able to see honu (green sea turtle) and even dolphins! The government or any private party does not manage Nanua Falls. Hiking to the waterfall is not possible as the trail crosses private property, but you can see the Hiilawe falls from many places within Waipio valley. It is one of the most idyllic and beautiful waterfalls in the world. However, it is important to note that Umauma Falls is a private waterfall that can only be accessed through small group tours. Id be sure to go at least a few days after heavy rain to avoid flash flooding and a swollen stream. Location: North east side of Big Island. It depends on which one you choose! 6 Favorite waterfalls Akaka falls (inside state park, small entrance fee required) Rainbow falls (free to visit) Umauma falls (on private grounds, entrance fee required) Kulaniapia Falls (on private grounds, entrance fee required) Peepee Falls (+ 1 extra, free to visit) Hiilawe falls (viewable from public road) 7 other waterfalls Get your discounted Kohala Tour from Kona Tour. Plus it has numerous attractions, from volcanic rock formations to beautiful waterfalls. Both waterfalls are beautiful Big Island attractions. Along the way, youll see verdant vegetation and immense, ancient Banyan trees, overgrown by fig vines and moss. Photos of Kulania attached . Description: Considered one of the best family waterfall hikes on the island, the 800-foot Waipoo Falls can be approached via the Waipoo Falls Trail at Waimea Canyon. Its not a difficult hike to get to the foot of the waterfall, so you wont need any special gear to visit this beautiful waterfall. Zip with up to 65 miles per hour on 9 long lines, over 14 rushing waterfalls, suspension bridges, and treetops of the lush Hamakua coast rainforest. It aims to take you on an unforgettable journey through the Hamakua Coast. Another great way to visit all of these falls is through a helicopter tour. Are there a lot of waterfall swimming holes in Hawaii? 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. Deluxe Big Island ATV Tour & Waterfall Swim at Umauma Falls . Table of Contents hide 1 Rainbow Falls 2 Akaka Falls 3 Umauma Falls 4 Wai'ale Falls 5 PeePee Falls 6 Hi'ilawe Falls 7 Private Waterfalls 8 Why Are There So Many Waterfalls in Hawaii? While there are gorgeous waterfalls on Kauai, Oahu, and Maui, the Big Island has some of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii. On the Hamakua coast: 'Akaka falls, Kolekole falls, Umauma falls, Onomea falls, Nanue falls, Hanapueo falls + lower Umauma falls. Here, youll zipline across the forest, have lunch in the Pololu Valley, and even swim in a Big Island waterfall. 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. However, to visit Onomea Falls, you need to go through the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden and pay an entrance fee. youll get to taste seasonal fruit and macadamia nuts, swim at private waterfalls, and enjoy local food for lunch. You dont want any surprises that could ruin your trip. It stretches over 120 feet high, although the tiers make it difficult to measure accurately. Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Big Island Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? The tour will stop at Rainbow Falls, Akaka Falls, and Richardson Beach Park. For those with a daring spirit, the Deleuze ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience tour is for you. Rainbow Falls, or Wainuenue, is located inside the Wailuku River State Park in Hilo, Hawaii. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. Then, you have to complete the 45-minute hike through the muddy jungle to reach the falls. On the list of Big Island of Hawaii waterfalls below, we've included the height of the falls, a ranking, have noted if it's a seasonal waterfall, and have added any additionalinformation as necessary. Check out the latest prices and more details. The tranquility and solitude youll feel there is truly unmatched. A delicious catered lunch is provided in our secluded pavilion. Akaka Falls is located within the Akaka Falls State Park, roughly 3.6 miles south of Honomu on the Hilo Coast. 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. Not really. Hiilawe Falls is one of the top Big Island waterfall hikes to do. The waterfalls are located less than half a mile from the parking lot. Download and/or view the map of all 9 waterfalls here. The famous triple-tiered Umauma Falls. Youll get to hear a bit about the history of Coconut Island (it will totally surprise you) as you paddle around Hilo Bay. Unfortunately, swimming is not allowed at Rainbow Falls, and there are signs warning about the danger of swimming. Its accessible through several different methods and gorgeous no matter how you see it. Hi'ilawe Falls in the Waipio Valley. Please remember that all of these falls have different levels of water throughout the year. This half-day tour takes you to the three most famous Big Island waterfalls: 'Akaka Falls, Hi'ilawe Falls and Rainbow Falls. Click here to see all our recommended waterfall tours on our website. The Akaka Falls and the Rainbow Falls are hands-down the most-visited waterfalls on the Big Island. Also, be sure to check out all the waterfalls in Hawaii on ourHawaii Waterfallspage. the State Parks website for updated pricing. Swimming is not allowed here, so keep that in mind when you visit. Download your copy of our You can also see these waterfalls as part of a zipline tour or an ATV and dip (swim) tour at the gardens. Its a way to connect with nature and experience the waterfall closer than otherwise. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. Compared to Oahu or Maui, the Big Island of Hawaii is massive! Another stop on Mauis Road to Hana, Puaa Kaa translates to rolling pig in Hawaiian. Are you planning to travel to the Big Island of Hawaii? Sign up for this discounted Legends of the Waterfalls & Volcano Tour. You can contact the State Division of Forestry and Wildlife at 808-974-4221. If you have the time and are already visiting Rainbow Falls, add a short hike to continue your waterfall adventure. The on-site Inn organizes this tour which is led a team of expert canyoneering guides. One of several waterfalls you hike to on a tour with Hawaii Forest and Trail. Which waterfall can you swim at on the Big Island? Another, more expensive but more spectacular way to see waterfalls (and the volcano!) If you decide to swim, please take extra precautions as rivers are prone to flash flooding. The hike is beautiful, surrounded by bamboo groves and delicate wild orchids. If youre thinking of driving a 44 vehicle down, Id be careful and ensure that it has enough horsepower and gas to make it back up. So without further ado, here are the best of the Big Island Waterfalls that we've personally swam in or at least see ourselves swimming in PEEPEE FALLS (PE'EPE'E FALLS & BOILING POTS) A couple swimming in one of the pools of the Boiling Pots just downstream of Pe'epe'e Falls If you dont want to search out the waterfalls on your own, this might be the right tour for you. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. Sign up for this discounted Majestic Waterfalls Tour. Youll be treated to an entirely new and equally beautiful view of the waterfalls. It is a privately owned so you need to go with a tour group but well worth it! A couple of travel dreamers who fell in love with Hawaii and want to share the beauty of the Islands! The property also offers lava encounter tours and lava tube tours as well if you are interested. This waterfall is smaller than Rainbow falls, but also way less crowded. You can view all three of them from an overlook that you can access via a private botanical garden. The falls are located in Waimanu Valley. 1. We grouped this one group of Hawaii Big Island waterfalls together as they both are located in Akaka Falls State Park. For a beautiful view and unforgettable experience, sign up for a discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. Its one of the quietest and least touristy waterfalls on the island, so you can enjoy a chill day with your friends when you visit. The lush green northeastern coast- the Hilo and Hamakua Coast regions- is home to lovely tropical gardens nourished by the abundant rainfall the area receives. Be sure to do both if you have the time. Its such a fun, Combine vibrant sapphire pools with some stellar spots for cliff jumping, and youve got one of Mauis local hangouts. Note: There is an admission fee to the state park, $5.00 per car or $1 per person if you are walking. While there arent really Kona waterfalls, you see tons of waterfalls in Hilo. The Majestic Waterfalls Tour is one of the best tours on this list. I have seen other people recommend Peepee Falls as another great option. The dark blue/purple waterfalls are more difficult to see and smaller waterfalls. Not only that, but this island is still expanding! Have you gone to any of the best waterfalls in Hawaii to swim? However, the best views come when you climb under the bridge and follow a short jungle path to the base of the waterfall. Come join the Big Island's only horseback ride that offers swimming at a waterfall! Hi'ilawe Falls Akaka, Kahuna, Hiilawe, Rainbow, Umauma, Peepee, Kulaniapia, Onomeaand WaiilikahiFalls. Sign up for this discounted Majestic Waterfalls Tour. All Rights Reserved This ziplining tour is the option for those who love a thrill. There are more than seven pools, and they arent sacred rumor has it that a local hotel owner coined the name in order to attract more visitors to his establishment. You can access the waterfall for free and its one of the best Big Island hikes. All Rights Reserved. Now you know some of the best waterfalls Big Island has to offer. We decided to take a scenic drive while staying on the Hilo side to see some of these waterfalls. This state park is home to two amazing waterfalls, one of which plunges 422 feet into a stream-eroded gorge below. During the tour, youll travel along the coastline. Hours: Daily, 8:30AM - 6:00PM. 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. This is a 120ft waterfall on the Waiau Stream situated on the lower slopes of Mauna Kea not far from Hilo. Stunning Big Island Hawaii Waterfalls Worth a Stop, planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, Courtyard by Marriotts King Kamehameha Beach Hotel, Check out the latest prices and more details, discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour, Legends of the Waterfalls and Volcano Tour, budget-friendly things to do on the Big Island. Star the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. Sign up for discounted Hilo Bay Kayaking Tickets. These falls form also the access to a popular but risky local swimming spot called the boiling pots. This is an 8-hour zipline + waterfall swim tour that takes you to Kohala, the oldest volcano on the island, for an inspiring and exhilarating day. I have seen people continue to do it anyway, but this is just asking for trouble. Please keep in mind that the historic area located by the parking lot is not safe for swimming. Plus. Zipline high above the forest floor, picnic on the rim of Pololu Valley & swim under a private waterfall fed by a cool mountain stream. Get your discounted Waterfalls of Kohala Tour. Farmers Markets. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Waipoo Falls. It is located about 1.6 miles (5-minute drive) from Rainbow Falls and is also part of the Wailuku River. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. Let us know in the comments below! Peepee Falls are another great waterfall that you can visit. If you are short on time, we recommend that you limit yourself to the more spectacular Akaka and Rainbow waterfalls. A 20-acre rainforest greenhouse, the area is filled with beautiful plant life and wild animals. Read THIS first! It is located inside the private property and theres no other way to access it. The Northern beach offers the best base location for those wanting to live by the sea in Sons of the Forest. I am not sure how people did this as signs warn against it, and its illegal and can be dangerous. Soak in soaring sea cliffs, remote valleys, and even go for a swim under one of seven waterfalls. Read more: in our guide to visiting the Rainbow falls. The lush landscape alone is enough to warrant a hike here. The Hiilawe waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls of the state of Hawai. I work as a factory electrician. Plus, youll keep an eye out for Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles and stop at Big Island Candies for the most famous Hawaiian candy on the Big Island. Read more about waterfall safety. Do you like waterfalls a LOT and are you also visiting another island in the Hawaiian island chain? You will need to stop at the visitor center to register before heading to the falls. Check out the latest prices and details here! Nonetheless, its still a breathtaking sight to see. Keep in mind that youll need to clear a full day of your itinerary for this. It stretches hundreds of feet tall and is surrounded by greenery. Akaka Falls are extremely accessible, as the trail to the waterfall stretches only 0.4 miles long. And be sure to keep your eyes out for sea turtles, which are known to hang out in this area! This would allow you to see almost all of our favorite waterfalls and is recommended for people that really love waterfalls. 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. Hiilawe Falls is a great waterfall to visit and is one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. Sign up for this discounted ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience. The Big Island is filled with tourist attractions! While youre enjoying these natural attractions, be sure to take lots of pictures! Akaka Falls is a spectacularly tall waterfall that hurls down an incredible 422 feet down a mountain face. Wrapping Up the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island. Mahalo! How to use this map: Above youll find a map of waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii. This, Located within Waimea Valley is this charming waterfall, perfect for a family swim. Onomea Falls is located along the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. Looking for a car rental in Kona, Big island? The Rainbow Falls are located in Hilo and are fed by the Wailuku River the same river that also feeds the Peepee Falls. It takes about 20-30 minutes to complete the loop. Get your discounted Hilo Bay Kayaking Tickets. 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. 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. While some are hidden behind long and strenuous hikes, many waterfalls on the big island and other islands are visible from the road or after an easy hike. 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. This is a full-day trip from Kona. Located in Hilo, Hawaii in Wailuku River State Park, Rainbow Falls might be the most famous waterfall on the island. 9 Hawaii Big Island Waterfalls Rainbow Falls #1. Seeing waterfalls is a great way to save money while on your vacation to Hawaii. First, youll head to the Kohala Mountains where youll fly the coastline of Waipio Valley and Waimanu Valley. Be sure to bring extra clothing. Rainbow Falls One of Hawaii's most stunning waterfalls, Rainbow Falls is named for the rainbows that can be seen in the mist. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. Love Hawaii? Are you as obsessed with Hawaiian waterfalls as we are? from the air is as part of a helicopter tour. The package can include waterfall rappelling, which is the best way to experience Kulaniapia. Rappelling at the Kulaniapia Falls. The lush green northeastern coast- the Hilo and Hamakua Coast regions- is home to lovely tropical gardens nourished by the abundant rainfall the area receives. Although it is dwarfed in size by its beautiful neighbors, the Peepee Falls and the Ayaka Falls, its unique feature that inspired its namesake makes it worth a visit. The property offers helicopter, lava tube exploration, stargazing, and lava encounter tours as well. 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. Wading through these pools is not recommended. With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. The Big Island of Hawaii offers so much for visitors with its lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes. Dont miss them because once you see them, youll never forget them! This picturesque spot can be found past mile marker 16 on the Hana Highway, below the bridge that crosses Palauhulu Stream. Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls. These 7 Big Island waterfalls are truly spectacular and well worth checking out during your stay here! Youll need to pay an entrance fee to enter the area. Kulania Falls is nearby and just as beautiful. Its no wonder that you might be having issues deciding where to go. If youre looking for a little piece of paradise on the Big Island, just keep your eyes peeled and head to one of these gorgeous waterfalls. Its the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago and has some of the most popular waterfalls in all of Hawaii! This place is good for viewing and taking photos. Youll see places on the Big Island only accessible by air. Sign up for our free monthly updates (more info) about everything that is new and happening in Hawaii. . You no longer need to book a tour with the Umauma Experience to get to the falls. Shared under a CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 license. The largest waterfall in Hawaii is Oloupena Falls, located in Molokai. Its a 422-foot natural waterfall. This is a great way to see some of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. However, because you descend over 900 feet in such a short distance, the hike up is immensely steep and challenging to manage. Whether you want to soar over the falls or dive right in and swim them, we have the tour for you. Entry to the state park will cost $5 . These are gorgeous Hawaii Big Island waterfalls worth checking out. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. You can read the full story here. Rainbow Falls are beautiful and can be viewed from a relatively close location, making them that much more enjoyable. If youd like to dabble in something slightly more adventurous, you can go ziplining or rappelling over the area. This picture shows the Hiilawe falls on an almost dry day. The gigantic waterfall stands out from the dry, rocky background of the red-walled canyon. You can access this trail from the Waipio Valley lookout. The only waterfall you can swim at on the Big Island is the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls. 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. There is only one way to get here, and thats by hiking along the coastal trail. Check out the latest prices and more details. One of the risks is that rocks occasionally get washed over the falls and can land on unsuspecting swimmers. The trail is surrounded by beautiful vegetation and singing birds, and the falls are absolutely worth the effort! This has some of the best waterfalls on Maui. Log in, We are passionate waterfall lovers eager to share our experiences chasing waterfalls around the world! However, they have started opening the grounds to the public for a $49 day pass. This broad waterfall in the Wailuku river is conveniently located within Hilo town. Each hike has its charm, and all offer beautiful views of different parts of the island. 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. Before you get to Akaka Falls, you can also visit Kahuna Falls inside the state park. Please do not be tempted to hike up if there are signs that say hiking is not allowed and its blocked off. Alternatively, you can zipline or rappel at the Umauma Falls. You have to be a guest at the Inn to access the trail leading to the waterfall. Image credit: Mark. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu. Our most popular hotels on the Island of Hawaii This remote, Makaleha Trailhead, 7290 Kahuna Rd, Kapa?a, HI 96746, USA, Makapipi Falls is visible from the Road to Hana, and is unique in that the waterfall plummets into a striking blue pool. You can now drive on a concrete road right to the falls and tropical garden. 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). Waianuenue Falls, Big Island James Walsh/Flickr If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. The waterfall is named for the beautiful rainbow that forms at the waterfalls base. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Youll find the largest waterfall in Hawaii on the secluded island of Molokai. The content on this website may not be copied or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission. On an especially clear day, you'll be able to see Mauna Kea behind them. So no one is taking care of it and ensuring the area remains clean. Hanapueo and Umauma Falls. The waterfall is split into two waterfalls that fall into a pool below. If you are not interested in these tours, you can pay $12 per person to visit the beautiful botanical gardens. If you want to see the base of the falls, you must rent a car with four-wheel drive - and even then, the grade is so steep that it can be dangerous. There are however several safety tips to keep in mind while doing so on the Big Island: We share our favorite tips and images on Instagram, click here to go to our instagram account. The hike down is very easy and can take as little as 20 minutes. The falls are located in the rainforest. You can get access to the falls either by purchasing a day pass (limited availability of 10 guests / day), or by joining their Rappel down the 120ft Kulaniapia Falls experience. Free cancellation: up to 48 hours before tour. Rainbow Falls is not safe for swimming. If you already have accommodations, water rappelling can also be booked by the general public. Read more: in our guide to visiting the Akaka falls. Akaka Falls is located inside the Akaka Falls State Park in Hawaii. And, youll pass it on the way to Akaka Falls. Get your discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. Youll start off driving up the Kona coastline pas lava flows and check out sweeping views from the old Kohala Mule Station lookout. User-submitted Waterfall Write-up of the Month, and the latest news and updates both within the website as well as around the wonderful world of waterfalls. Hawaii's Big Island is home to some of the islands' most accessible waterfalls, and here are five of the most popular. First trip to the Big Island? The admission fee to the park is $5.00 per car or $1 per person for pedestrians. The best hikes on the Big Island of Hawaii are indeed a mixed bag. Both falls are located on a family-friendly hiking loop (.4 miles) that takes about 30-45 minutes to see both waterfalls. They can be difficult to spot, so it may be worthwhile bringing a pair of binoculars if you really want to get a good look. The total height of the falls is about 1,450 feet (442m), with a highest direct drop of 1,201 feet (366m)! Big Island is home to some of the tallest falls in the state. No experience necessary! You can swim in this one! In general, yes, but there are several risks associated with swimming under waterfalls in the state of Hawaii that you should be aware of. 2. as a very big person in the future I want to help people I want to give a gift to the. 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.
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