Subscribe to receive 5 emails in 5 days: Call us for advice! Get your discounted Kohala Zip and Dip Tour. Upper Waikani Falls Joe Parks/Flickr Also known as Three Bears falls, Waikani is approximately 70 feet tall, and visible from the Hana Highway. Swimming is not allowed here, so keep that in mind when you visit. This is what the falls look like after a good rain upstream. The total height of the falls is about 1,450 feet (442m), with a highest direct drop of 1,201 feet (366m)! The Rainbow Falls are the easiest waterfalls to see 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. There are plenty of these tours you can take while on the Big Island. Both falls are located on a family-friendly hiking loop (.4 miles) that takes about 30-45 minutes to see both waterfalls. 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. Check out the latest prices and more details. . Where is the Blue Pool waterfall in 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. Most waterfalls on the Hamakua coast are a 90-mile drive away. 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 I have included a downloadable map of these waterfalls at the bottom of this post to help with your planning and navigation. Standing at around 80 feet tall, this waterfall is a must-see year round on the Big Island. Do you like waterfalls a LOT and are you also visiting another island in the Hawaiian island chain? Looking for a car rental in Kona, Big island. There is only one way to get here, and thats by hiking along the coastal trail. Check out the latest prices and more details. Check out the latest prices and details here! In fact, there is a small parking lot near the falls, as well as a short but slippery path to visit the base. The hike to the waterfall takes either 5 or 15 minutes, depending on which route you decide to take. If you follow the path, youll see the beautiful Kahuna Falls along the way just before you see Akaka Falls. You will need to stop at the visitor center to register before heading to the falls. Our featured listings highlight those tours that combine exceptional waterfall experiences, professional guides, and more fun than you can imagine. Love Hawaii? Waterfalls of Kohala A helicopter tour of the waterfalls along the Kohala Coast. The Kulaniapia Falls for example require a day pass, and others are on private property and only reachable as part of a tour. Did we list it? We are independently owned so content written by us merely reflect our own opinions. What is the best way to visit all these waterfalls? I have seen people continue to do it anyway, but this is just asking for trouble. Visit the Botanical Gardens website for updated pricing. They are all unique in their own ways. Please do not be tempted to hike up if there are signs that say hiking is not allowed and its blocked off. This article covers seven of the Big Islands most beautiful waterfalls! Don't miss them because once you see them, you'll never forget them! The falls are located in the rainforest. 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. This tour is unique in that it focuses almost entirely on the history and culture of Hawaii. This picturesque spot can be found past mile marker 16 on the Hana Highway, below the bridge that crosses Palauhulu Stream. Sign up for this discounted Legends of the Waterfalls & Volcano Tour. Youll be treated to an entirely new and equally beautiful view of the waterfalls. 12 Most Beautiful Big Island Waterfalls (+ How to Visit!) - Next is Hawaii Free cancellation: up to 24 hours before tour. Each one of these is worth visiting at least once in my opinion. Check out the latest prices and details. The waterfall flows from a water source called the Onomea Stream. They are one of the best helicopter companies in Hawaii. The waterfall is named for the beautiful rainbow that forms at the waterfalls base. Before you get to Akaka Falls, you can also visit Kahuna Falls inside the state park. Now you know some of the best waterfalls Big Island has to offer. On Highway 19's bridge, most drivers will pass by these 2 neat waterfalls without realizing it! Unfortunately, swimming is not allowed at Rainbow Falls, and there are signs warning about the danger of swimming. Check out the latest prices and more details. #1. 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 have been instances where people lost their lives here. Kulaniapia Falls is a private waterfall located on the Waiau Stream, not far from Hilo. If you're looking for the best Big Island waterfall adventures, then look no further. This is one of the most famous waterfalls on the Big Island. Big Island of Hawaii Waterfalls and How To Visit Them Are you as obsessed with Hawaiian waterfalls as we are? 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. The state park entry fees are $5/car or $1/pedestrian. Hiilawe Falls - Legendary Waterfall with Temporary Flow For those with a daring spirit, the Deleuze ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience tour is for you. Get your discounted Kohala Tour from Kona Tour. This is a full-day trip from Kona. The only waterfall you can swim at on the Big Island is the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls. The Falls has recently been named in the top ten best swimming holes in America by the magazine Travel + Leisure. The hike down is very easy and can take as little as 20 minutes. 9 Hawaii Big Island Waterfalls Rainbow Falls Hi'ilawe Falls is a magnificent waterfall located in Waipio Valley on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island. Waipoo Falls. While visiting the Wailuku River State Park, you can also stop by the Peepee Falls. The falls are located in Waimanu Valley. Rainbow Falls are beautiful and can be viewed from a relatively close location, making them that much more enjoyable. 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. Get our brand-new trip planning series delivered directly to your inbox - for FREE (more info). Confirming what your tour includes will ensure that you wont miss out on any of the waterfalls. Unfortunately, the strength of the falls is often dependent on rainfall - so here's to hoping you catch it on a good day. First, youll head to the Kohala Mountains where youll fly the coastline of Waipio Valley and Waimanu Valley. The Rainbow Falls are located in Hilo and are fed by the Wailuku River the same river that also feeds the Peepee Falls. Umauma Falls Rainbow Falls (Hilo) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go - Tripadvisor Together with only a limited number of guests each day, this daypass gives you access to the waterfalls and to their 42-acre property, where you can enjoy miles of trails, incredible views of 4 waterfalls, bamboo gardens. Looking for a car rental in Kona, Big island? Its a way to connect with nature and experience the waterfall closer than otherwise. Sugar Water: Hawaiis Plantation Ditches by Carol Wilcox. This is part of Hawaiis state park system. Where are the best waterfalls to swim in Hawaii? At the bottom of the valley, take a left and walk for roughly 5-10 minutes to see the falls. Most of the waterfalls are found near Hilo and northeastern, or Hamakua, coast. Big Island Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Big Island Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. Be sure to bring extra clothing. This place is good for viewing and taking photos. This full-day tour will also introduce you to delicious Hawaiian cuisine in the Pololu Valley and even allow you to swim in a waterfall! With all that you can do at Kulaniapia Falls, it makes this waterfall a top-rated Hawaii waterfall 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. Its the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago and has some of the most popular waterfalls in all of Hawaii! 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. The farmers markets are a little-known gem allowing visitors to meet locals, shop for arts and crafts and enjoy edible treasures. Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. Weve rounded up our top picks for some of the most beautiful spots for waterfalls on the Big Island. Top 5 Big Island Waterfalls in Hilo, Hawaii Kulaniapia Falls I visited Rainbow Falls in September of 2021 and the trail to get to the top was closed. Oloupena Falls is an impressive 2,953-foot Hawaiian waterfall. Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. Spend a few hours relaxing luxuriating in a private area of the Umauma River. You can read the full story here. For a beautiful view and unforgettable experience, sign up for a discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. Alternatively, you can zipline or rappel at the Umauma 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. The 422 ft tall Akaka falls are part of the Akaka falls state park, located just north of Hilo. 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. However, because you descend over 900 feet in such a short distance, the hike up is immensely steep and challenging to manage. The size of these waterfalls and their location in the lush and tropical rainforest makes them a popular and spectacular attraction to check out. You can visit their website at the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls for additional details. 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. The Top 9 Waterfalls to Visit on the Big Island of Hawaii The package can include waterfall rappelling, which is the best way to experience Kulaniapia. Be sure not the trespass onto the private land that surrounds the waterfall. If conditions are suitable you can use on-property SUP and kayak equipment to explore the waterfall. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. Waiilikahi Falls are yet another gem on the Big Island, but it takes a lot to hike to the falls. The majority of waterfalls on the Big Island can be seen on your own. as a very big person in the future I want to help people I want to give a gift to the. Kohala Waterfalls Adventure (Kailua-Kona) - All You Need - Tripadvisor Hiilawe Falls is often considered to be the tallest waterfall in Hawaii. This waterfall is smaller than Rainbow falls, but also way less crowded. The trailhead is easy to find just off the parking lot. While there arent really Kona waterfalls, you see tons of waterfalls in Hilo. 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. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Take your first right onto Akaka Falls Road and continue for 3.75 miles until you reach the parking lot. 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. 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 Whether youd like to hike or bike along tranquil trails, visit scenic overlooks, snorkel, or just relax on the shore of a sunny beach, the Big Island wont disappoint. If youre considering visiting Akaka Falls, check out my full guide HERE. Seeing waterfalls is a great way to save money while on your vacation to Hawaii. Take a comfortable ride through stunning countryside up to the hiking trailhead. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. 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. Where to Find the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island, Hawaii Here you will find a delightful selection of art galleries and gift stores as well as several cafes. However, you need to pay a fee to be able to access the viewing deck. This waterfall used to have a high volume of water in the stream, making swimming here dangerous. As you travel, youll be privy to the views of obscure but beautiful hidden waterfalls, coasts, and beaches. Waimoku Falls is a 400 foot waterfall that you see pictured on the cover of many of Maui's guidebooks and is one of the tallest waterfalls on Maui. Turn inland (mauka) between mile markers 14 and 13 onto Honomu Road. It takes about 20-30 minutes to complete the loop. You can access the waterfall for free and its one of the best Big Island hikes. 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? This waterfall can only be accessed from the lookout, and swimming here is no longer allowed. Be sure to do both if you have the time. Get your discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. This would allow you to see almost all of our favorite waterfalls and is recommended for people that really love waterfalls. 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. Oahu is the lively center and most visited of all Hawaiian Islands. 6 Must-Visit Waterfalls On Big Island Top Picks From Locals Other than water rappelling, the Experiences Package offers a multitude of other activities. 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. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. 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). Check out the latest prices and more details. Drive down yourself (only with 4WD), or get down to the valley floor as part of a horseback riding tour in the valley. Sign up for a discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour. Its 93 miles across and has all sorts of terrain and natural wonders. Image credit: Mark. 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. You can now drive on a concrete road right to the falls and tropical garden. 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. Check out the latest prices and more details. 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. This might cost more, but its well worth it. There are many tours available if you would rather visit with a guide. If you dont want to search out the waterfalls on your own, this might be the right tour for you. Plus. 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. Content on this site is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical, health, or safety advice. This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. Sign up for this discounted Majestic Waterfalls Tour. The Experiences Package allows you to water rappel. When river safety conditions permit, you can also go swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding under the Kulaniapia Falls using on-site equipment. 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 Complete Guide to Big Island Waterfalls - bigisland.org This allows you to experience a birds-eye view of the waterfall! Approximately 16 miles north of Hilo, on the Umauma River, lies one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Hawaii: Umauma Falls. The most popular way to observe the Umauma Falls is from a tranquil overlook accessible through the World Botanical Garden. In general, yes, but there are several risks associated with swimming under waterfalls in the state of Hawaii that you should be aware of. Her next trip to Hawaii is never too far away! You may have a luxury problem though: there are more waterfalls on the Big Island than you can reasonable visit during your stay! Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. If you are looking for an adventure or just want to relax on your vacation, these seven waterfalls will not disappoint. 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. The trail is surrounded by beautiful vegetation and singing birds, and the falls are absolutely worth the effort! Photo credit: Island of Hawaii Visitors Bureau (IHVB) / Tyler Schmitt. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. Big Island is home to some of the tallest falls in the state. The waterfall, however, is worth the effort it takes to access it. The Big Island is filled with tourist attractions! The Hiilawe waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls of the state of Hawai. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. 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. Its approximately a 19-mile out and back hike that takes around 4 hours each way. However, the waterfall tends to be dry in early spring, around March. There is a chance of injury or death if you decide to go swimming or wading in any waterfall. You can swim in this one! 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. There are other adventurous activities that you can enjoy here too. Join this tour to see waterfalls and the stunning Hilo scenery and learn about King Kamehameha the Great and his preference for the area. While there are gorgeous waterfalls on Kauai, Oahu, and Maui, the Big Island has some of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii. The famous triple-tiered Umauma Falls. If you decide to swim, please take extra precautions as rivers are prone to flash flooding. However, you need to pay a fee to access the private viewing deck. These falls form also the access to a popular but risky local swimming spot called the boiling pots. 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. A helicopter tour of the waterfalls along the Kohala Coast. 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. Youll be able to get up close and personal with this body of water and have the most memorable time in Hawaii. See the northern Kohala highlights with this 8-hour adventure and visit 7 stunning private waterfalls (and swim in one! Hiilawe Falls is one of the top Big Island waterfall hikes to do. Of this list, youre not allowed to swim in both Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls, as it is both dangerous and illegal. Akaka Falls State Park Information, Photos & More - Hawaii Guide If you only have time to see one of the waterfalls, we suggest seeing the incredible Akaka Falls. The waterfall is located inside Waipio Valley and is about 1,450 feet tall. There are different car rental companies in Kona, Hawaii that will set it up for you. If youre lucky, you may be able to see honu (green sea turtle) and even dolphins! 20 Waterfalls in the US that you can swim in - Money Inc It is one of the most idyllic and beautiful waterfalls in the world. Located within the Hilo city limits, Wainuenue (Rainbow Falls) is very easy to visit. I highly encourage taking a helicopter tour through the Kohala Coast if you want to see these waterfalls, unless you are a very experienced hiker looking for some adventure. Check out the latest prices and more details. They are a series of small pools fed by the Wailuku River. Swimming here is not recommended, even on days where it feels safe. Their list contains the following waterfalls: In Hilo: Rainbow falls, Pe'epe'e falls, Wai'ale falls, Kulaniapia falls. Also, be sure to check out all the waterfalls in Hawaii on ourHawaii Waterfallspage. To be exact, you can visit Hiilawe Falls by going to the Waipio Valley at the Kohala Coast in Hawaii. 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. Furthermore, flash floods and strong currents are a real danger there. Good to know: to access the falls you must purchase a $49 daypass to the grounds. Hello, my name is Abduvaliev diyorbek. Why not go on one of our perfectly planned waterfall road trips with itineraries for both Oahu and Maui. That means, you should take extra care to make sure you leave it as you saw it! Aside from waterfalls, youll also be able to see red-hot lava flows, the Kohala Mule Station lookout, and more! All the waterfalls listed below are spectacular in their own way, and when you visit them theyre sure to impress. The lush landscape alone is enough to warrant a hike here. Our most popular hotels on the Island of Hawaii Yes, but all of them require some sort of entrance fee. Shared under a CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 license. You can contact the State Division of Forestry and Wildlife at 808-974-4221. It is a privately owned so you need to go with a tour group but well worth it! . Off the main street is the Mana's Aloha Fruit Stand. From USD 218.85 (9) Big Island Waterfall Swim & Rainforest Hiking Tour & Nature Eco-Adventure . 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.