I visited Rainbow Falls in September of 2021 and the trail to get to the top was closed. The hike takes you past 7 waterfalls with as grand finale a cooling dip in the final one! Shared under a CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 license. The 422 ft tall Akaka falls are part of the Akaka falls state park, located just north of Hilo. The Falls has recently been named in the top ten best swimming holes in America by the magazine Travel + Leisure. 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. Located in Hilo, Hawaii in Wailuku River State Park, Rainbow Falls might be the most famous waterfall on the island. This state park is home to two amazing waterfalls, one of which plunges 422 feet into a stream-eroded gorge below. Swimming is not allowed here, so keep that in mind when you visit. In fact, there is a small parking lot near the falls, as well as a short but slippery path to visit the base. One of the greatest, Makapipi Falls, Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA, Located off Pali Highway is this extraordinary waterfall hike complete with a trek through a bamboo forest, views of a stunning field and reservoir, the beauty of the Hawaiian jungle, and of course the jaw-dropping, 50-foot Lulumahu Falls. Hi'ilawe Falls in the Waipio Valley. Big Island travel tips & recommendations , Explore Big Island Hotels & Resorts Search Now. You might hear that people go swimming here, but dont do it! The government or any private party does not manage Nanua Falls. A tour across the Hamakua Coast that stops at Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls and Richardson Beach Park. The only waterfall you can swim at on the Big Island is the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls. Good to know: The river feeding Hiilawe is used for irrigation purposes. more, 2006-2023 World Of Waterfalls, The content on this website may not be copied or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission. They are very safe and you will have amazing views. The couple run a healing retreat on Hawaii's Big Island - and Dorina has been swimming with dolphins throughout her pregnancy. 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. They are all unique in their own ways. Log in, We are passionate waterfall lovers eager to share our experiences chasing waterfalls around the world! There is only one way to get here, and thats by hiking along the coastal trail. Check out the latest prices and more details. This, Upper Waikani Falls, Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA, Perhaps one of Oahus most stunning hidden waterfalls, this trek through the mud is never uphill for too long and offers the opportunity to jump in a beautiful waterfall at the end. Hiilawe Falls - Legendary Waterfall with Temporary Flow Its hard not to love this, Lulumahu Falls, 4459 HI-61, Honolulu, HI 96817, USA, Wailua Falls flows from Honolewa Stream, and is visible from the highway. 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. Please remember that all of these falls have different levels of water throughout the year. Its a 100-foot waterfall that youll pass by on your way to Akaka if you follow the footpath. Big Island of Hawaii Waterfalls and How To Visit Them Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. Compared to Rainbow Falls, Peepee Falls are less crowded and less known. Swim, kayak, stand up paddleboard or just relax and enjoy the scenery with your friends and family. 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. 13 Best Waterfalls In Hawaii To Swim - OnlyInYourState The largest waterfall in Hawaii is Oloupena Falls, located in Molokai. While there are gorgeous waterfalls on Kauai, Oahu, and Maui, the Big Island has some of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii. Natural swimming pool with crystal clear water on the island This gorgeous waterfall stretches 442 feet high and descends into a beautiful gorge eroded over time by water, which now lays dozens of feet below ground level. The 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? Located only 1.5 miles upstream from Rainbow Falls, Peepee Falls is another beautiful spot. While youre enjoying these natural attractions, be sure to take lots of pictures! As you tour, youll be able to enjoy amazing photo spots and unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean, waterfalls, and the Mauna Kea. The waterfall is named for the beautiful rainbow that forms at the waterfalls base. Rainbow Falls is not safe for swimming. What Are The Must-Visit Waterfalls On Big Island? Most of the waterfalls on the Big Island are fairly close to Hilo. There is no swimming allowed here; you can only view the falls from a safe distance. Here, youll zipline across the forest, have lunch in the Pololu Valley, and even swim in a Big Island waterfall. Akaka Falls is located within the Akaka Falls State Park, roughly 3.6 miles south of Honomu on the Hilo Coast. This half-day tour takes you to the three most famous Big Island waterfalls: 'Akaka Falls, Hi'ilawe Falls and Rainbow Falls. A couple of travel dreamers who fell in love with Hawaii and want to share the beauty of the Islands! Its a 1,450 feet tall waterfall, although most of it drops 1,201 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. This adds ~1 hour/waterfall to your itinerary will be the best option for the large majority of visitors. Youll see places on the Big Island only accessible by air. 7 Best Hawaii Waterfalls to Visit | Hawaii Travel with Kids (2023) Do you like waterfalls a LOT and are you also visiting another island in the Hawaiian island chain? The volume of the rainbow falls (or Waianuenue) changes on a daily basis. Some of which are so beautiful that they inspired some of Hawaiis most popular songs. 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. What is the best way to visit all these waterfalls? Kulaniapia Falls is located inside a 42-acre private property in Hilo, Hawaii. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu. 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. 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. Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden A helicopter tour of the waterfalls along the Kohala Coast. One of the coolest ways to experience Kulaniapia Falls is by booking a spot in one of the Experience Packages available at the property. This is part of Hawaiis state park system. A picnic lunch and hotel transport are included for a hassle-free experience. Another, more expensive but more spectacular way to see waterfalls (and the volcano!) Check out the latest prices and more details. The Majestic Waterfalls Tour is one of the best tours on this list. 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. You can swim in this one! Hi'ilawe Falls They are one of the best helicopter companies in Hawaii. This Upper Waikani Falls, Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA 2. This picturesque spot can be found past mile marker 16 on the Hana Highway, below the bridge that crosses Palauhulu Stream. The best hikes on the Big Island of Hawaii are indeed a mixed bag. See the northern Kohala highlights with this 8-hour adventure and visit 7 stunning private waterfalls (and swim in one! 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 are different, The private property is currently managed by the. The Oloupena Falls is the tallest waterfall in Hawaii, located on the tiny island of Molokai, stretching an immense 2,953 feet high. All Rights Reserved. Swimming here can be dangerous and has proved lethal several times in the past. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. However, you need to pay a fee to be able to access the viewing deck. Get prepared to go off the beaten road (literally) and be stained with mud as you go off-road in a Honda ATV or a Side x Side ATV! However, it is important to note that Umauma Falls is a private waterfall that can only be accessed through small group tours. 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. Onomea Falls is located along the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. You can also book one of their events to have access to their waterfall. In addition, if weather and conditions permit, you may be able to swim, kayak or paddleboard under the waterfalls. Hiilawe Falls is located on the Big Island. 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. 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? It is located in the Pelekunu Preserve on the windward side of Molokai. Check out the latest prices and details! 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. 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. Umauma Falls My personal favorites are Polulu Valley, The Puna Trail, and The hike to Makalawena Beach, to name a few. Double your adventure with the Kohala Zip and Dip and explore the enchanting lands of North Kohala. Its location allows the sun to hit the water at just the perfect angle. Access to the falls is right off the road. Guide To The Best Waterfalls You Can Swim In The Big Island To be exact, you can visit Hiilawe Falls by going to the Waipio Valley at the Kohala Coast in Hawaii. A full-day rainforest adventure for all ages. Swimming in tropical fresh water ( and I use the term loosely) is a product of Hollywood movies like blue Lagoon. 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. Location: North east side of Big Island. Kulaniapia Falls is a private waterfall located on the Waiau Stream, not far from Hilo. 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 State Park Information, Photos & More - Hawaii Guide If youre lucky, you may be able to see honu (green sea turtle) and even dolphins! There are other adventurous activities that you can enjoy here too. I also included a table of contents, so feel free to skip to the sections you are most interested in. Check out the latest prices and more details. The total height of the falls is about 1,450 feet (442m), with a highest direct drop of 1,201 feet (366m)! There are so many incredible waterfalls, making it hard to know where to start. Get your discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. 2. 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 Be sure to do both if you have the time. First trip to the Big Island? Hi'ilawe Falls No, swimming at Akaka Falls is no longer allowed. Onomea Falls is a stunning multi-tiered waterfall set amidst a beautiful botanical garden: the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. Id be sure to go at least a few days after heavy rain to avoid flash flooding and a swollen stream. Check out the latest prices and details here! Be sure to bring extra clothing. There are tons of gorgeous waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii. Did we list it? * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. 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. Hiilawe Falls is one of the top Big Island waterfall hikes to do. Check out the latest prices and more details. The hike itself can be challenging and involves multiple stream crossings. At the writing of this post, the Umauma Falls are now accessible through the botanical gardens. Photos of Kulania attached . 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. Although the Hawaiian archipelago has a multitude of famous waterfalls, especially on Oahu, Maui, and Kauai. There are so many beautiful waterfalls to check out during your visit to the Big Island. 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? Below we've included links to several of the best waterfalls on the Big Island, most of which you can see without ahelicopter(all falls visible from the air only are noted). You will need to pay an admission fee to see these falls. Yes, but all of them require some sort of entrance fee. If the idea of planning a self-guided waterfall trip causes you anxiety, or if you simply want to sit back and enjoy the view, you can always book one of these tours! 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. 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. Star the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. Nanue Falls is located on the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. Along the way, youll see verdant vegetation and immense, ancient Banyan trees, overgrown by fig vines and moss. Akaka Falls. I have seen people continue to do it anyway, but this is just asking for trouble. Before you get to Akaka Falls, you can also visit Kahuna Falls inside the state park. I highly recommend checking out Viator for some of the best tours in Hawaii. 'Akaka Falls 'Akaka Falls is located just north of Hilo and are a gem of the Big Island's waterfalls. Mahalo! If you are not interested in these tours, you can pay $12 per person to visit the beautiful botanical gardens. 20 Waterfalls in the US that you can swim in - Money Inc Sons of the Forest best base locations | Rock Paper Shotgun This is also close to where most of the black sand beaches on the Big Island are located. Be sure not the trespass onto the private land that surrounds the waterfall. This is one of the most famous waterfalls on the Big Island. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. And these are just the most popular waterfalls on Big Island. 12 Most Beautiful Big Island Waterfalls (+ How to Visit!) - Next is Hawaii It takes about 60 to 90 minutes to hike to the waterfall. 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. 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. So, if youd rather sit back and enjoy a guided tour past some of our best waterfalls you could consider one of the following tours: This is a small-group adventure tour that lets you explore the beautiful and historic north Kohala forests and waterfalls. Are you traveling to the Big Island of Hawaii? 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. One of the most unique tours on this list, the Waterfalls of Kohala tour takes you on a helicopter journey that allows you a unique birds-eye view of some of the prettiest waterfalls on the Big Island. Flash flooding in this area is common, so please proceed with caution. Sign up for this discounted Legends of the Waterfalls & Volcano Tour. Enjoy! The Northern beach offers the best base location for those wanting to live by the sea in Sons of the Forest. Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. 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. 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. The Top 9 Waterfalls to Visit on the Big Island of Hawaii I work as a factory electrician. One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Hawaii is Onomea Falls. The lush landscape alone is enough to warrant a hike here. Beautiful Big Island Waterfall Hikes - Hawaii Travel with Kids 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. More waterfalls can be found at the northern Hamakua coast seaside cliffs and the valleys of the Kohala coast. Akaka Falls is located inside the Akaka Falls State Park in Hawaii. Its easily accessible and it will only take you about half an hour to get here. Park your car after the bridge and walk back to the river to see the Waiale Falls: Just upstream from the Boiling Pots you can find another waterfall at the bridge over the Wailuku river in Hilo. The hike is beautiful, surrounded by bamboo groves and delicate wild orchids. 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. If youre considering visiting Akaka Falls, check out my full guide HERE. While there arent really Kona waterfalls, you see tons of waterfalls in Hilo. Get your discounted Kohala Tour from Kona Tour. The most popular way to observe the Umauma Falls is from a tranquil overlook accessible through the World Botanical Garden. After some time, the streams flow lessened and it is now safe to swim here. Photo credit: Island of Hawaii Visitors Bureau (IHVB) / Tyler Schmitt. A 20-acre rainforest greenhouse, the area is filled with beautiful plant life and wild animals. One other thing to note is that there are 13 streams you will have to cross before getting to the water. Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. The waterfalls are located less than half a mile from the parking lot. Get your discounted Kohala Zip and Dip Tour. We like to get up and close to any waterfall we see, and know the same is true for many of our readers. Our featured listings highlight those tours that combine exceptional waterfall experiences, professional guides, and more fun than you can imagine. Its an impressive 1,450-foot natural waterfall with a main drop of 1,201 feet. Visiting the Big Island of Hawaii is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and weve done all the work for you to help plan your trip. 6 Must-Visit Waterfalls On Big Island Top Picks From Locals The Hiilawe waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls of the state of Hawai. Another popular way to observe the Umauma Falls is through a short 1.7 mile hike within the World Botanical Garden that most consider to be unchallenging. The Kulaniapia Falls are with a 120ft drop the tallest private waterfalls on the Big Island. Each one of these is worth visiting at least once in my opinion. No experience necessary! The Kulaniapia Falls for example require a day pass, and others are on private property and only reachable as part of a tour. Directions: About 30 min north from Hilo airport, park on the mauka (mountain-side) of highway 19 just after the 16 mile marker. Akaka Falls on the Big Island. There are several ways people choose to see the waterfalls. If you have the time and are already visiting Rainbow Falls, add a short hike to continue your waterfall adventure. Hiilawe Falls is one of the best Big Island waterfall hikes. Aside from waterfalls, youll also be able to see red-hot lava flows, the Kohala Mule Station lookout, and more! Youll find the largest waterfall in Hawaii on the secluded island of Molokai. Check out the latest prices and more details. 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. This 8-hour tour takes you from Kona to the oldest volcano on the Big Island for an inspiring and exhilarating day. Rainbow Falls (Hilo) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go - Tripadvisor Get your discounted ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience. If youd like to dabble in something slightly more adventurous, you can go ziplining or rappelling over the area. Free cancellation: up to 48 hours before tour. Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Big Island Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Also, be sure to check out all the waterfalls in Hawaii on ourHawaii Waterfallspage. Narnia is the name given to a set of waterfalls in the Hilo Forest Reserve. Soak in soaring sea cliffs, remote valleys, and even go for a swim under one of seven waterfalls. Come join the Big Island's only horseback ride that offers swimming at a waterfall! This is what the falls look like after a good rain upstream. I have seen other people recommend Peepee Falls as another great option.