youll get to taste seasonal fruit and macadamia nuts, swim at private waterfalls, and enjoy local food for lunch. It is one of the most idyllic and beautiful waterfalls in the world. Here are some tours you can check out: This half-day tour takes you to the three most famous Big Island waterfalls: Akaka Falls, Hiilawe Falls and Rainbow Falls. There is only one way to get here, and thats by hiking along the coastal trail. When river safety conditions permit, you can also go swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding under the Kulaniapia Falls using on-site equipment. 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). 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. While there are gorgeous waterfalls on Kauai, Oahu, and Maui, the Big Island has some of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii. Akaka Falls are about 422 feet tall, but are only viewable from the viewing platform. The Big Island Waterfalls page is where we narrow our focus of Hawaiian Waterfalls to the Big Island of Hawaii. But dont worry, this is a very easy hike to do and the trail is paved and well maintained. If you are looking for a bit more of an adventure, more waterfalls can be found in the valleys of the Kohala coast, as well as on the northern Hamakua coast. Farmers Markets. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. Each has its own unique beauty that will leave you in awe from start to finish! Love Hawaii? If you follow the path, youll see the beautiful Kahuna Falls along the way just before you see Akaka Falls. It is simply breathtaking. To be exact, you can find it along the Umauma River in Hakalau. If you're visiting the Big Island of Hawaii soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Big Island Visitor Guides. This picture shows the Hiilawe falls on an almost dry day. The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls is one of the only waterfalls I recommend swimming at while on the Big Island. 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. 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. The gigantic waterfall stands out from the dry, rocky background of the red-walled canyon. Our most popular hotels on the Island of Hawaii 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. This would allow you to see almost all of our favorite waterfalls and is recommended for people that really love waterfalls. P?palaua Falls, Hawaii 96748, USA 6. Onomea Falls is a stunning multi-tiered waterfall set amidst a beautiful botanical garden: the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. However, they have started opening the grounds to the public for a $49 day pass. Did we list it? You can also book a stay at The Inn, a high-quality resort thats well worth the money. This is for kids at least 5 years old who can comfortably stay in a kayak. Here at Only In Hawaii, weve talked about waterfalls, and weve talked about swimming holes, but now were combining the two and giving you our exclusive list of 13 of the best waterfalls in Hawaii to swim in across all of the islands from spots found only from hiking through the deep jungle of Oahus windward coast, to various scenic spots visible from Mauis breathtaking Hana Highway. The Hamakua Coast is beautiful and this half-day waterfall tour will stop at Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls, and Richardson Beach Park. 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. In fact, there is a small parking lot near the falls, as well as a short but slippery path to visit the base. Now you know some of the best waterfalls Big Island has to offer. Mahalo! Please keep in mind that the falls are not accessible to the general public. Although this tour doesnt take you to any of the immensely popular waterfalls on the Big Island, youll be treated to a view of seven obscure and uncrowded Kohala waterfalls, where youll be allowed to swim and picnic. This, Located within Waimea Valley is this charming waterfall, perfect for a family swim. Enjoy! The lush landscape alone is enough to warrant a hike here. They are a series of small pools fed by the Wailuku River. 2. 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. Check out the latest prices and details. Starting from the pickup points in Kona you are driven along the sweeping northern Kona coast past ancient lava flows up to the old Kohala Mule Station lookout with its sweeping views. Mahalo! Big Island is home to some of the tallest falls in the state. Furthermore, flash floods and strong currents are a real danger there. To make the process easier you can look directly into Kona jeep rental deals and reserve the one that meets your needs. It is comprised of three short waterfalls that are located close to each otherthe water actually cascades down this series of waterfalls from the river. You can now drive on a concrete road right to the falls and tropical garden. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! Umauma Falls is a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation. Get your discounted Waterfalls of Kohala Tour. 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. Swimming Holes on the Big Island of Hawaii. The famous triple-tiered Umauma Falls. There are other adventurous activities that you can enjoy here too. Its a way to connect with nature and experience the waterfall closer than otherwise. It takes about 20-30 minutes to complete the loop. The view is spectacular and the tame and paved nature hike was enjoyable too. The falls are located in Waimanu Valley. Another great way to visit all of these falls is through a helicopter tour. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. It aims to take you on an unforgettable journey through the Hamakua Coast. Star the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. I visited Rainbow Falls in September of 2021 and the trail to get to the top was closed. One of the, As you are driving on Hana Highway from the north, the first notable attraction you will discover is these twin waterfalls, also known as Hololawa Falls. It is located inside the private property and theres no other way to access it. Sugar Water: Hawaiis Plantation Ditches by Carol Wilcox. Take your first right onto Akaka Falls Road and continue for 3.75 miles until you reach the parking lot. One of the, Often referred to as Secret Falls, this beautiful waterfall will require substantial work to reach but we think its totally worth it. This is part of Hawaiis state park system. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. 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. There are so many incredible waterfalls, making it hard to know where to start. Find the best prices here. And, youll pass it on the way to Akaka Falls. Family friendly zipline tour + private waterfall swim. Sign up for discounted Hilo Bay Kayaking Tickets. Seeing waterfalls is a great way to save money while on your vacation to Hawaii. If conditions are suitable you can use on-property SUP and kayak equipment to explore the waterfall. [more], 2006-2023 World Of Waterfalls, All Rights Reserved Akaka, Kahuna, Hiilawe, Rainbow, Umauma, Peepee, Kulaniapia, Onomeaand WaiilikahiFalls. Each island has some of the best waterfall swimming holes in Hawaii, so no matter where you are, youll find something amazing! This is a very difficult hike to complete in one day and is not recommended for beginners. The visit is well worth your time, even just to enjoy the tranquility of this Hawaiian rainforest. Get your discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. You can also walk down from the upper parking lots and viewing decks. Most waterfalls in Hawaii have a great pool of water to swim in. Just make sure to leave this waterfall in Hawaii as clean as you found it. Keep in mind that youll need to clear a full day of your itinerary for this. While there arent really Kona waterfalls, you see tons of waterfalls in Hilo. 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. If youre considering visiting Akaka Falls, check out my full guide HERE. However, you need to pay a fee to be able to access the viewing deck. 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. Most of the waterfalls on the Big Island are fairly close to Hilo. The tour will stop at Rainbow Falls, Akaka Falls, and Richardson Beach Park. The Wailuku River flows along the bottom of the gorge and downstream to Rainbow Falls. Why not go on one of our perfectly planned waterfall road trips with itineraries for both Oahu and Maui. Rappel down 120 feet past Hawaiis largest privately accessible waterfall supervised by expert canyoneering guides. Hi'ilawe Falls 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! Also, be sure to check out all the waterfalls in Hawaii on ourHawaii Waterfallspage. Read THIS first! Drive down yourself (only with 4WD), or get down to the valley floor as part of a horseback riding tour in the valley. The volume of the rainbow falls (or Waianuenue) changes on a daily basis. Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden The best part? 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. This is a great family-friendly waterfall as there are no strong currents or falling rocks around. Step Into The World Of Narnia On This Forbidden Waterfall Hike In Hawaii, The Hike In Hawaii That Takes You To Not One, But TWO Insanely Beautiful Waterfalls, Hike Less Than A Mile To This Spectacular Waterfall Swimming Hole In Hawaii, Embark On An Epic 7.3-Mile Trail In Hawaii That Features Waterfalls And Jaw-Dropping Views, The 14 Tallest Waterfalls In Hawaii Will Drop Your Jaw, This Waterfall Swimming Hole In Hawaii Is So Hidden Youll Probably Have It All To Yourself, This Tiered Waterfall And Swimming Hole In Hawaii Must Be On Your Summer Bucket List, The Ultimate Bucket List For Anyone In Hawaii Who Loves Waterfall Hikes. Its a 422-foot natural waterfall. Compared to Maui, Oahu, and Kauai, The Big Island of Hawaii has some of the most popular waterfalls in all of Hawaii. Top 9 Waterfalls on The Big Island Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls Hi'ilawe Falls Rainbow Falls Pe'epe'e Falls Umauma Falls Kulaniapia Falls Onomea Falls Wai'ilikahi Falls What is the best way to visit all these waterfalls? Her next trip to Hawaii is never too far away! I am not sure how people did this as signs warn against it, and its illegal and can be dangerous. However, you need to pay a fee to access the private viewing deck. While visiting the Wailuku River State Park, you can also stop by the Peepee Falls. The Big Island is filled with tourist attractions! Subscribe to receive 5 emails in 5 days: Call us for advice! 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. Get your discounted Kohala Tour from Kona Tour. Entry to the state park will cost $5 . The Waipio Valley lookout trailhead is a very steep but short half-mile hike. The state park entry fees are $5/car or $1/pedestrian. Aside from waterfalls, youll also be able to see red-hot lava flows, the Kohala Mule Station lookout, and more! Most waterfalls on the Hamakua coast are a 90-mile drive away. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. There are plenty of these tours you can take while on the Big Island. On Highway 19's bridge, most drivers will pass by these 2 neat waterfalls without realizing it! Are you as obsessed with Hawaiian waterfalls as we are? These 7 Big Island waterfalls are truly spectacular and well worth checking out during your stay here! Check out the latest prices and more details. The hike is beautiful, surrounded by bamboo groves and delicate wild orchids. Check out the latest prices and more details. 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 package can include waterfall rappelling, which is the best way to experience Kulaniapia. Check out the latest prices and more details. If youd like to dabble in something slightly more adventurous, you can go ziplining or rappelling over the area. The height and sheer beauty of its surroundings make Akaka Falls one of the most visited waterfalls on Big Island, but it will take a bit of effort to see them. It stretches hundreds of feet tall and is surrounded by greenery. On the bright side, they did not jump off the falls as they planned to. Read more about ourHawaii adventureshere. Onomea Falls is located along the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW. Looking for a car rental in Kona, Big island? Youll never run out of things to do here. This place is good for viewing and taking photos. Located in the Waipio Valley, this waterfall is absolutely breathtaking. If you are short on time, we recommend that you limit yourself to the more spectacular Akaka and Rainbow waterfalls. This is an activity in which you descend the rocks surrounding the waterfall with a harness and equipment ensuring your safety. Always a classic, this, Located just a mile upstream of Rainbow Falls on the Wailua River, Peepee Falls feeds a series of several pools known as the boiling pots. Rainbow Falls One of Hawaii's most stunning waterfalls, Rainbow Falls is named for the rainbows that can be seen in the mist. With a population of less than 75,000, Kauai is truly a small-town island, littered with open space, protected preserves, and old plantation history. 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. While Kahuna Falls are also located in this state park, you can hear them more than you can see them. First, youll head to the Kohala Mountains where youll fly the coastline of Waipio Valley and Waimanu Valley. Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. If you are staying in Kona, meet up with a local driver who takes you to North Kohala. What takes a waterfall from "beautiful" to "spectacular" is height- and Hawaii's falls undoubtedly have it! And these are just the most popular waterfalls on Big Island. Its easily accessible and it will only take you about half an hour to get here. You dont want any surprises that could ruin your trip. The property offers helicopter, lava tube exploration, stargazing, and lava encounter tours as well. They are one of the best helicopter companies in Hawaii. This waterfall used to have a high volume of water in the stream, making swimming here dangerous. Location: North east side of Big Island. The tranquility and solitude youll feel there is truly unmatched. If ATVing is a bit too adventurous for you, try this tranquil kayaking tour that starts in Hilo town and takes you past hidden waterfalls. The trail is surrounded by beautiful vegetation and singing birds, and the falls are absolutely worth the effort! 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. Its a 1,450 feet tall waterfall, although most of it drops 1,201 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. 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. 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 enormous waterfall cascades down a steep lava rock wall into a boulder-strewn pool. Yes, but all of them require some sort of entrance fee. Get in touch with us! If waterfalls are your thing you most likely wont be happy to see only the biggest six. Read more: in our guide to visiting the Akaka falls. Unfortunately, the strength of the falls is often dependent on rainfall - so here's to hoping you catch it on a good day. This waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls across all of the Islands, standing at its maximum height at 1,450 feet. From USD 221.99 (9) Umauma Falls Zipline Tour & Waterfall Swim Adventure . If youre staying in Hilo and enjoy learning about history, you might get a kick out of this Legends of the Waterfalls tour where youll learn why Hilo was one of the favorite places for Kamehameha the Great. All the waterfalls listed below are spectacular in their own way, and when you visit them theyre sure to impress. Off the main street is the Mana's Aloha Fruit Stand. Some of which are so beautiful that they inspired some of Hawaiis most popular songs. A 20-acre rainforest greenhouse, the area is filled with beautiful plant life and wild animals. The size of these waterfalls and their location in the lush and tropical rainforest makes them a popular and spectacular attraction to check out. Which Cities Have Nonstop Flights to Hawaii. Zipline high above the forest floor, picnic on the rim of Pololu Valley & swim under a private waterfall fed by a cool mountain stream. Each one of these is worth visiting at least once in my opinion. HOME PRIVACY POLICY TERMS. Waiilikahi Falls are yet another gem on the Big Island, but it takes a lot to hike to the falls. Log in, We are passionate waterfall lovers eager to share our experiences chasing waterfalls around the world! A couple of travel dreamers who fell in love with Hawaii and want to share the beauty of the Islands! The waterfalls themselves might be short, but the picturesque pools are well worth the short hike. However, it is important to note that Umauma Falls is a private waterfall that can only be accessed through small group tours. Compared to Rainbow Falls, Peepee Falls are less crowded and less known. 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. Swimming in tropical fresh water ( and I use the term loosely) is a product of Hollywood movies like blue Lagoon. At the writing of this post, the Umauma Falls are now accessible through the botanical gardens. The Majestic Waterfalls Tour is one of the best tours on this list. It stretches over 120 feet high, although the tiers make it difficult to measure accurately. Here you will find a delightful selection of art galleries and gift stores as well as several cafes. The Rainbow Falls are the easiest waterfalls to see on the Big Island! A helicopter tour of the waterfalls along the Kohala Coast. The waterfall is split into two waterfalls that fall into a pool below. The most important is the water-born disease leptospirosis: dont go swimming if you have any abrasions, scrapes, blisters or other skin lesions. We love this easy, Twin Falls Maui Waterfall, 6300 Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA, Located within Haleakala National Park near the Pipiwai Trailhead, these beautiful stream-fed pools are also known as the seven sacred pools. As an Amazon Associate, thistraveldream.com earns from qualifying purchases. Most of these waterfalls are located very close to each other, and it makes sense to see them in one day as it only takes a few minutes to get from one to the other. This air tour hits up the 7 Kohala waterfalls from the Kona airport. Akaka Falls are extremely accessible, as the trail to the waterfall stretches only 0.4 miles long. Access to the overview for the waterfalls lies on private land which is being managed by the Umauma Experience. A delicious catered lunch is provided in our secluded pavilion. Wrapping Up the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island. The best time to visit the rainbow falls is in the early morning because this is when you have the most chance to see rainbows in the spray of the waterfall. They are all unique in their own ways. For a beautiful view and unforgettable experience, sign up for a discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. Youll experience 7 incredible Kohala waterfalls plus a picnic lunch. The admission fee to the park is $5.00 per car or $1 per person for pedestrians. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. 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. See below for the sign that was there when I went. On the Hamakua coast: 'Akaka falls, Kolekole falls, Umauma falls, Onomea falls, Nanue falls, Hanapueo falls + lower Umauma falls. As you travel, youll stop at the famous Big Island Candies store, where youll be treated to some of the best candy on the Big Island! The Big Island, however, also has breathtaking waterfalls. Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. This article covers seven of the Big Islands most beautiful waterfalls! The waterfall is named for the beautiful rainbow that forms at the waterfalls base. Although the Hawaiian archipelago has a multitude of famous waterfalls, especially on Oahu, Maui, and Kauai. from the air is as part of a helicopter tour. Its such a fun, Combine vibrant sapphire pools with some stellar spots for cliff jumping, and youve got one of Mauis local hangouts. The state park is located along the northeastern Hilo Coast, west of Honom. Download and/or view the map of all 9 waterfalls here. These are just a few of the many, many tours that can be booked to see the beautiful waterfalls on the Big Island. Due to its relative obscurity, especially compared to the rest of the waterfalls on this list, going to this waterfall and relaxing in the area may seem like a scene out of a movie. Youll be able to see 3 of the most famous Big Island waterfalls (Akaka Falls, Hiilawe Falls, and Rainbow Falls) on a half-day tour. However, Id always watch for signs near waterfalls and follow their instructions if they indicated not to swim. Alternatively, you can zipline or rappel at the Umauma Falls. Thankfully they didnt, as there appeared to be rocks under the shallow water at the bottom of the falls. Along the way, youll be privy to various wild orchids. Directions: About 30 min north from Hilo airport, park on the mauka (mountain-side) of highway 19 just after the 16 mile marker. Get your discounted Kohala Zip and Dip Tour. Copyright 2019-2023 Hawaii Travel With Kids/Marcie In Mommyland, Top 7 Big Island Hawaii Waterfalls You Should Visit, Privacy Policy for Hawaii Travel with Kids, Courtyard by Marriotts King Kamehameha Beach Hotel. If you are staying on the other side of the Big Island, be sure to plan these excursions into your vacation plans. Amidst the countless natural attractions on the Big Island, Ive picked seven of the top waterfalls on the Big Island to check out! Approximately 16 miles north of Hilo, on the Umauma River, lies one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Hawaii: Umauma Falls. Cooling lava flows created columns, which connect a series of cascading waterfalls and pools that appear to be bubbling. This waterfall is created from a small stream and is a multiple-tier waterfall located inside the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden. Another great way to see these waterfalls is to take an organized tour. Big Island of Hawaii Waterfalls Simply put, waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii are some of the world's finest. Now they have opened up their grounds to a limited amount of daily visitors. This one has amazing views of the Kohala Coast while listening to fascinating commentary from the pilot. I have seen people continue to do it anyway, but this is just asking for trouble. It takes less than an hour to hike leisurely and is only somewhat sloped uphill. You can contact the State Division of Forestry and Wildlife at 808-974-4221. Thats not to say that the Big Island has the best waterfalls I think all the islands have something great to offer when it comes to these fascinating feats of nature. Sign up for this discounted Waipio Valley and Waterfalls Adventure. Please do not be tempted to hike up if there are signs that say hiking is not allowed and its blocked off. It takes about 60 to 90 minutes to hike to the waterfall. You might hear that people go swimming here, but dont do it!