The size of these waterfalls and their location in the lush and tropical rainforest makes them a popular and spectacular attraction to check out. However, you need to pay a fee to be able to access the viewing deck. Oahu is the lively center and most visited of all Hawaiian Islands. Its an impressive 1,450-foot natural waterfall with a main drop of 1,201 feet. This half-day tour takes you to the three most famous Big Island waterfalls: 'Akaka Falls, Hi'ilawe Falls and Rainbow Falls. 5 out of 6 of our favorites are close to Hilo, and these falls are very easy to visit. This is why we list the tallest, most popular, and most easily accessible waterfalls on the Big Island: to make sure you spend your waterfall-time as efficient as possible. Soak in soaring sea cliffs, remote valleys, and even go for a swim under one of seven waterfalls. Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. You can access the waterfall for free and its one of the best Big Island hikes. Umauma Falls 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. Akaka Falls is located within the Akaka Falls State Park, roughly 3.6 miles south of Honomu on the Hilo Coast. It stretches hundreds of feet tall and is surrounded by greenery. Also known as Three Bears falls, Waikani is approximately 70 feet tall, and visible from the Hana Highway. Akaka Falls on the Big Island. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. They are amazing natural wonders that should definitely be on your list of things to do while visiting this tropical paradise! There may be no better way to experience Hawaiian waterfalls than with a helicopter tour. Please do not put these waterfalls on your to-do list. Seeing waterfalls is a great way to save money while on your vacation to Hawaii. For a beautiful view and unforgettable experience, sign up for a discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. Now you know some of the best waterfalls Big Island has to offer. Check out the latest prices and more details. They also offer ATV tours, waterfall rappelling and horseback riding tours to the falls as well. Youll see places on the Big Island only accessible by air. While youre enjoying these natural attractions, be sure to take lots of pictures! Some of which are so beautiful that they inspired some of Hawaiis most popular songs. 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. If you are visiting the rainbow falls and have the time and interest to see another set of waterfalls you should check out these falls. Standing at 2,954 feet tall, this waterfall is spectacular. Get your discounted ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience. 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. If you are staying on the other side of the Big Island, be sure to plan these excursions into your vacation plans. Yes, but all of them require some sort of entrance fee. Another, more expensive but more spectacular way to see waterfalls (and the volcano!) 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. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Download your copy of our However, the waterfall tends to be dry in early spring, around March. Swimming in tropical fresh water ( and I use the term loosely) is a product of Hollywood movies like blue Lagoon. Check out the latest prices and more details. However, because you descend over 900 feet in such a short distance, the hike up is immensely steep and challenging to manage. 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. Love Hawaii? Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing, History (From $226.96) Hawaii Volcano Adventure Tour from Hilo (From $195.99) Did we list it? Check out the latest prices and more details. There are different, The private property is currently managed by the. 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. The property also offers lava encounter tours and lava tube tours as well if you are interested. This would allow you to see almost all of our favorite waterfalls and is recommended for people that really love waterfalls. 1. Great for first-time visitors. Turn inland (mauka) between mile markers 14 and 13 onto Honomu Road. The tour will stop at Rainbow Falls, Akaka Falls, and Richardson Beach Park. Akaka Falls are extremely accessible, as the trail to the waterfall stretches only 0.4 miles long. 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. You may have a luxury problem though: there are more waterfalls on the Big Island than you can reasonable visit during your stay! Majestic Waterfalls Tour A tour across the Hamakua Coast that stops at 'Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls and Richardson Beach Park. Youll be able to get up close and personal with this body of water and have the most memorable time in Hawaii. Please dont take the risk there are many places more suitable for swimming in Hilo (the beach!). Before we talk about the best waterfalls, lets discuss some FAQs you might have: Swimming is NOT allowed at Akaka Falls State Park. It takes less than an hour to hike leisurely and is only somewhat sloped uphill. The Best Hiking Shoes for Hawaii in 2021(The Ultimate buying Guide), The 5 Best Reef Safe Sunscreens for Hawaii. Its accessible through several different methods and gorgeous no matter how you see it. Enjoy spectacular views of Mauna Kea and the Pacific Ocean, awesome photo spots, swim in a private pond and really experience off-road Hawaii. This has some of the best waterfalls on Maui. The best hikes on the Big Island of Hawaii are indeed a mixed bag. Do you like waterfalls a LOT and are you also visiting another island in the Hawaiian island chain? A 20-acre rainforest greenhouse, the area is filled with beautiful plant life and wild animals. This article covers seven of the Big Islands most beautiful waterfalls! Which Cities Have Nonstop Flights to Hawaii. Which waterfall can you swim at on the Big Island? 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. Looking for a car rental in Kona, Big island. A couple of the best waterfalls near Hilo can be seen in Akaka Falls State Park, including Akaka Falls (422 feet) and Kahuna Falls (100 feet). 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. Note: There is an admission fee to the state park, $5.00 per car or $1 per person if you are walking. And if youre heading to Akaka Falls with kids, check out my guide HERE. 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. Check out the latest prices and more details. Why not go on one of our perfectly planned waterfall road trips with itineraries for both Oahu and Maui. Interested? More waterfalls can be found at the northern Hamakua coast seaside cliffs and the valleys of the Kohala coast. You will need to stop at the visitor center to register before heading to the falls. 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. Waiilikahi Falls are yet another gem on the Big Island, but it takes a lot to hike to the falls. Its location allows the sun to hit the water at just the perfect angle. Get our brand-new trip planning series delivered directly to your inbox - for FREE (more info). Regardless, they are still worth the visit if you love nature and gorgeous views. This is one of the most famous waterfalls on the Big Island. Swimming Holes on the Big Island of Hawaii. The Hiilawe waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls of the state of Hawai. All the waterfalls listed below are spectacular in their own way, and when you visit them theyre sure to impress. Their list contains the following 13 waterfalls: The location of these waterfalls is marked on the map higher up this page, and you can read more about each fall separately in the list of 13 Big Island Waterfalls published on the World of Waterfalls website. 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. Most of the waterfalls on the Big Island are fairly close to Hilo. Waipoo Falls. As a paradise for active travelers it is rich in experiences that include nature, culinary discoveries, historic landmarks, shopping, nightlife and festivals. Click the button below. Let us know in the comments below! If you're looking for the best Big Island waterfall adventures, then look no further. To get to the waterfalls you need to make a pleasant and short 0.4-mile hike through the lush rainforest filled with wild orchids, bamboo groves and draping ferns. However, to visit Onomea Falls, you need to go through the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden and pay an entrance fee. Which one was your favorite? There is a chance of injury or death if you decide to go swimming or wading in any waterfall. Log in, We are passionate waterfall lovers eager to share our experiences chasing waterfalls around the world! 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. Read more: in our guide to visiting the Rainbow falls. 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. Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. Read more about waterfall safety. For those with a daring spirit, the Deleuze ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience tour is for you. 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. Check out the latest prices and details here! 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. Click here to see all our recommended waterfall tours on our website. One other thing to note is that there are 13 streams you will have to cross before getting to the water. Be sure to bring extra clothing. Upper Waikani Falls Joe Parks/Flickr Also known as Three Bears falls, Waikani is approximately 70 feet tall, and visible from the Hana Highway. I would plan 10 hours out of your day if you are thinking about doing the hike. Standing at 422ft tall, this free-falling waterfall drops to the bottom of the gorge, creating an amazing panoramic view of the area. This picture shows the Hiilawe falls on an almost dry day. 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. Not only that, but this island is still expanding! Get more stories delivered right to your email. All Rights Reserved. She was a professional hula dancer for 20 years and even wrote her college thesis on Hawaiian history. 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). Credit: John McCollum. No, swimming at Akaka Falls is no longer allowed. Both falls are located on a family-friendly hiking loop (.4 miles) that takes about 30-45 minutes to see both waterfalls. This waterfall can only be accessed from the lookout, and swimming here is no longer allowed. You can view all three of them from an overlook that you can access via a private botanical garden. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. On the paved uphill Akaka Falls Loop Trail, you'll venture past these two beautiful waterfalls . Check out the latest prices and details. 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). This is one of the best waterfalls to visit while on the Big Island, and I highly recommend staying here. How to use this map: Above youll find a map of waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii. While you can access most of these on your own, you can also join Hawaii waterfall tours for a more personalized experience. The private property is currently managed by the Umauma Experience. Its 93 miles across and has all sorts of terrain and natural wonders. The waterfalls are located less than half a mile from the parking lot. Big Island waterfall tours Legends of the Waterfalls & Volcano Full-Day Tour P?palaua Falls, Hawaii 96748, USA 6. This ziplining tour is the option for those who love a thrill. For more information on waterfalls in Maui, You can check out this post on the best 15 stops on the Road to Hana. Sign up for a discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour. Peepee Falls are another great waterfall that you can visit. The Big Island, however, also has breathtaking waterfalls. 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. 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 the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago and has some of the most popular waterfalls in all of Hawaii! You'll receive your first newsletter soon! Youll start off driving up the Kona coastline pas lava flows and check out sweeping views from the old Kohala Mule Station lookout. Overview . We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. 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? It is located about 1.6 miles (5-minute drive) from Rainbow Falls and is also part of the Wailuku River. Helicopter tours are often one of the trip-highlights that people remember for a long time and worth considering if you are willing to spend the money. True to its name, this island is so big that it's said to be able to fit all the rest of the Hawaiian Islands. Hanapueo and Umauma Falls. If you are not interested in these tours, you can pay $12 per person to visit the beautiful botanical gardens. Waterfalls of Kohala A helicopter tour of the waterfalls along the Kohala Coast. You might hear that people go swimming here, but dont do it! Ultimate Guide to the Polynesian Cultural Center with Kids, Traditional Hawaiian Food: 24 Classic Dishes of Hawaiian Cuisine. I also included a table of contents, so feel free to skip to the sections you are most interested in. 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. Whether you are looking to Big Island waterfall tours or waterfalls you can swim in on the Big Island, this guide will give you everything you need to plan your next adventure. At the writing of this post, the Umauma Falls are now accessible through the botanical gardens. Be sure to do both if you have the time. Location: North east side of Big Island. In addition, if weather and conditions permit, you may be able to swim, kayak or paddleboard under the waterfalls. On an especially clear day, you'll be able to see Mauna Kea behind them. Read more about the Rainbow Falls on our website. 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. Sugar Water: Hawaiis Plantation Ditches by Carol Wilcox. Which Hawaiian island has the best waterfall hikes? 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 most popular way to observe the Umauma Falls is from a tranquil overlook accessible through the World Botanical Garden. Swim, kayak, stand up paddleboard or just relax and enjoy the scenery with your friends and family. Please remember that all of these falls have different levels of water throughout the year. 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. Youll never run out of things to do here. Its a 1,450 feet tall waterfall, although most of it drops 1,201 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. Where are the best waterfalls to swim in Hawaii? Besides the abundant disease there are a lot of rock chunks that get eroded and transported by the stream So there are chunks in the waterfall normaly 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. pro tip for another close-by waterfall: if you continue up Wailuku drive a few minutes longer you get to a bridge crossing the Wailuku river. ), make small hikes, and admire the sweeping views and scenic coastlines and rugged valleys. This 8-hour tour takes you from Kona to the oldest volcano on the Big Island for an inspiring and exhilarating day. If youre lucky, you may be able to see honu (green sea turtle) and even dolphins! It is located inside the private property and theres no other way to access it. This, Located within Waimea Valley is this charming waterfall, perfect for a family swim. For the adventurous, go off-roading on the Big Islands Hamakua Coast in a Honda ATV or a Side x Side UTV. The gigantic waterfall stands out from the dry, rocky background of the red-walled canyon. Hiilawe Falls is often considered to be the tallest waterfall in Hawaii. 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 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. There are tons of gorgeous waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Big Island Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? 9 Hawaii Big Island Waterfalls Rainbow Falls See the northern Kohala highlights with this 8-hour adventure and visit 7 stunning private waterfalls (and swim in one! All Rights Reserved The most important is the water-born disease leptospirosis: dont go swimming if you have any abrasions, scrapes, blisters or other skin lesions. Drive down yourself (only with 4WD), or get down to the valley floor as part of a horseback riding tour in the valley. Peepee Falls on the Big Island. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. I visited Rainbow Falls in September of 2021 and the trail to get to the top was closed. Whether you want to soar over the falls or dive right in and swim them, we have the tour for you. It's a 1,450 feet tall waterfall, although most of it drops 1,201 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. As you travel, youll be privy to the views of obscure but beautiful hidden waterfalls, coasts, and beaches. This multi tiered, Oheo Gulch, OheO Gulch, Hawaii 96713, USA. And be sure to keep your eyes out for sea turtles, which are known to hang out in this 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. If you are on this side of the Big Island, for example, to see the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a bit of planning will make sure that you can see some spectacular waterfalls. Most of the waterfalls are found near Hilo and northeastern, or Hamakua, coast. Youll be treated to an entirely new and equally beautiful view of the waterfalls. I highly discourage doing this hike during the rainy season. Hiilawe Falls is best seen at a distance, as public access to the base of the falls is not possible. See below for the sign that was there when I went. There have been instances where people lost their lives here. First trip to the Big Island? 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. 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? Get your discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. If youre considering visiting Akaka Falls, check out my full guide HERE. Come join the Big Island's only horseback ride that offers swimming at a waterfall! Even when the falls are dry, the lush landscape is incredible. What is the best way to visit all these waterfalls? Drive along the cliffs and over rugged landscape Free cancellation Recommended by 97% of travelers from $225.13 per adult Reserve Travelers talk about " plants and animals " Sign up for this discounted Legends of the Waterfalls & Volcano Tour. The volume of the rainbow falls (or Waianuenue) changes on a daily basis. . 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. This is a full-day trip from Kona. On the bright side, they did not jump off the falls as they planned to. 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. Peepee Falls form a rather risky, but popular local swimming hole known as boiling pots. However, swimming here has proved to be lethal and should be avoided. Spend a few hours relaxing luxuriating in a private area of the Umauma River. From USD 221.99 (9) Umauma Falls Zipline Tour & Waterfall Swim Adventure . Akaka Falls is located inside the Akaka Falls State Park in Hawaii. Sustainable Travel guide and itineraries for the Big Island of Hawaii. I work as a factory electrician. 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 Here is our list of the top 9 waterfalls in Hawaii that wont disappoint! This adds ~1 hour/waterfall to your itinerary will be the best option for the large majority of visitors. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Kulania Falls is nearby and just as beautiful. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Directions: About 30 min north from Hilo airport, park on the mauka (mountain-side) of highway 19 just after the 16 mile marker. Mahalo! Nanue Falls is located on the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. A tour across the Hamakua Coast that stops at Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls and Richardson Beach Park. Check out the latest prices and more details. The pots are called boiling pots because, during heavy rain, the flow of water increases and the pots appear to be boiling. Dont miss them because once you see them, youll never forget them! If you plan to camp here, please make sure you obtain the proper permits, as they are required. youll get to taste seasonal fruit and macadamia nuts, swim at private waterfalls, and enjoy local food for lunch. Take a comfortable ride through stunning countryside up to the hiking trailhead. 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. This amazingly unique experience takes place on the beautiful landscapes near the Umauma stream, held on pristinely-kept private property. The best part? click here to go to our instagram account, ATV Tours on the Big Island (BIG list of all tour operators), BIG LIST of Kona Coffee Tours on the Big Island, Stand Up Paddle (SUP) boarding: Rentals, Classes and Tours. Sign up for this discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour. 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. After some time, the streams flow lessened and it is now safe to swim here. There are several ways people choose to see the waterfalls. 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. Have you gone to any of the best waterfalls in Hawaii to swim? The falls are located in Waimanu Valley. The dark blue/purple waterfalls are more difficult to see and smaller waterfalls. 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! Furthermore, flash floods and strong currents are a real danger there. Compared to many other Hawaiian Islands, the Big Island is huge. Both waterfalls are beautiful Big Island attractions. If you visit when the sky is clear and the sun is out, youll be able to see a beautiful rainbow at the foot of the waterfall. The Onomea Falls is located within the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, This s private property owned by Dan Lutkenhouse, first opened in 1984. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu. The good news is, while youre inside the botanical garden, youll be able to see the beautiful flora and fauna species that are native to Hawaii. Located in the Waipio Valley, this waterfall is absolutely breathtaking. Keep in mind that youll need to clear a full day of your itinerary for this. You can visit their website at the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls for additional details. Its only 80-foot-tall but its still a beautiful natural feature with gushing water all year-round and a large pool below. Absolutely! If you dont want to search out the waterfalls on your own, this might be the right tour for you. Nonetheless, its still a breathtaking sight to see. That means, you should take extra care to make sure you leave it as you saw it! Waterfall tours are among our favorites because of the amount of nature they allow you to experience in a relatively short amount of time and because they often feature a visit to a private waterfall that permits you to actually swim under a waterfall.