16 Maui Waterfalls That Are Open in 2024 + Map
Breathtaking waterfalls in Maui could be discovered all through the island, every providing a definite expertise for vacationers. Some are nestled deep throughout the coronary heart of verdant rainforests, whereas others are accessible by brief hikes or scenic drives alongside the well-known Street to Hana.
Maui, the second-largest Hawaiian island, is famend for its lush landscapes, pristine seashores, and awe-inspiring waterfalls. A visit to Hawaii can’t be full with out exploring a few of these magnificent cascades.
This information delves into the main points, offering insights on top, surrounding fauna, accessibility, swimming choices, and distinctive options, in addition to any close by sights you received’t need to miss.
Every Maui waterfall’s description shall be adopted by a quick “Tips on how to get there?” part, outlining sensible particulars comparable to the closest metropolis, driving distance, parking, and entrance charges. With this information, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on an unforgettable journey to witness the cascading great thing about Maui’s most charming waterfalls.
Waterfalls of Maui with a map
Maui, Hawaii is house to a few of the most breathtaking waterfalls on the planet. This lovely island provides guests an opportunity to discover these gorgeous pure wonders and immerse themselves within the lush, tropical environment.
The highest waterfall in Maui is Honokohau Falls. It’s a breathtaking two-tiered cascade positioned within the West Maui Mountains solely accessible through helicopter. It has a powerful whole top of roughly 1,100 ft, making it the tallest waterfall on Maui. If you’re searching for the very best you possibly can really hike to, Waimoku Falls with its 400-foot top ought to be up subsequent.
For these searching for a extra intimate waterfall expertise on Maui, the island provides enchanting small cascades. Twin Falls, alongside the well-known Street to Hana, is a pleasant sequence of light waterfalls, creating serene swimming pools good for wading. Or Higher Waikani Falls, also referred to as Three Bears Falls, includes a trio of smaller cascades, every with its personal distinct character. These areas are superb for individuals who cherish the tranquil great thing about smaller waterfalls.
The Ohe’o Gulch Falls or Seven Sacred Swimming pools , a part of Haleakala Nationwide Park, present a picturesque swimming expertise with their cascading waterfalls and pure swimming pools main into the ocean. These areas are good for these in search of each the great thing about a waterfall and the enjoyment of a swim in nature.
On Maui, hidden gems like Makamakaole Falls provide secluded and serene waterfall experiences. It has off-the-beaten-path attraction in a peaceable setting for eco-tourists in search of solitude amidst Maui’s pure magnificence.
For households touring with youngsters or these in search of easy-access waterfalls in Maui, Twin Falls and Wailua Falls are wonderful decisions.
Honokohau Falls – The very best waterfall in Maui
Honokohau Falls, certainly one of Maui’s tallest waterfalls, is a panoramic two-tiered cascade positioned within the West Maui Mountains. Accessible primarily by helicopter excursions, this distant waterfall plunges over 1,100 ft, surrounded by pristine rainforest. Its secluded location makes it a spectacular sight for these in search of an aerial journey.
Tips on how to get there? – Helicopter tours sometimes depart from Kahului or Kapalua, with flight instances various based mostly on the tour operator. Please be aware that if you’re searching for an eco-friendly exercise, select to go to one of many different Maui waterfalls on this checklist.
Waimoku Falls (and Makahiku Falls)
Waimoku Falls is a shocking 400-foot waterfall positioned on the finish of the Pipiwai Path in Haleakala Nationwide Park. The 4-mile round-trip hike is reasonably difficult. As you embark on this journey, you’ll cross the 185-foot Makahiku Falls and the mesmerizing Bamboo Forest, each providing picturesque views and a serene environment. The path culminates at Waimoku Falls, a robust and awe-inspiring sight. Whereas swimming just isn’t suggested at Waimoku Falls attributable to potential hazards, you possibly can nonetheless respect the gorgeous magnificence and highly effective presence of the waterfall.
Tips on how to get there? – The closest city is Hana, with a drive time of about Quarter-hour to the Haleakala National Park‘s Kipahulu District. Right here, you can find parking and entry to the trailhead for the Pipiwai Path. There may be an entrance payment which you’ll pay at Haleakala Nationwide Park.
Twin Falls Maui
Twin Falls, a picturesque duo of waterfalls for 10-15 ft, is positioned alongside the well-known Street to Hana. These well-known falls are simply accessible, with a brief stroll of about 0.5 miles from the parking space. The encompassing space is lush with tropical vegetation, providing a vibrant show of Maui’s pure flora. The decrease falls have a small pool appropriate for swimming, making it a preferred spot for households and informal guests. The accessibility and attraction of Twin Falls make it a pleasant first cease on the Hana journey.
Tips on how to get there? – The closest city is Haiku, with a drive time of about 10-Quarter-hour to the trailhead. The falls are positioned simply past mile marker 2 on the Hana Freeway, close to the Ho’olawa nui Stream. There’s a paid parking space obtainable for guests, which ought to be used if you wish to get entry to the path.
Wailua Falls (+ Pua’a Lu’u Falls and Hahalawe Falls)
Don’t mistake it for the 173-foot tall Wailua Falls in Kauai. The Wailua Falls in Maui is a shocking 80-foot waterfall, seen from the Hana Freeway. Identified for its straightforward accessibility, it requires no mountaineering, permitting guests to view the falls immediately from the roadside. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery, making a picturesque backdrop. Whereas there is no such thing as a pool for swimming, the sheer great thing about Wailua Falls makes it a must-see for vacationers on the Street to Hana.
Guests may also discover Pua’a Lu’u Falls and Hahalawe Falls, each positioned a little bit farther down the highway from Wailua Falls.
Tips on how to get there? – Wailua Falls is located alongside the well-known Street to Hana, which could be simply accessed by driving. The falls are only a brief 10-min drive previous the city of Hana, and there’s a handy parking space close to the waterfall.
Makamakaole Falls
Makamakaole Falls, a 270-foot tall waterfall, is accessible through the 5-mile roundtrip Waihe’e Ridge Path on Maui’s western coast. The path, providing breathtaking views and passing by way of a bamboo forest, results in distant views of the falls set towards a lush jungle backdrop. This hike is a rewarding expertise for these in search of each journey and pure magnificence.
Tips on how to get there? – The closest city is Wailuku, with a drive time of roughly 20-25 minutes to the trailhead. Whereas the falls are accessible and not using a payment, parking is perhaps restricted, so it’s advisable to plan your go to accordingly.
Puaa Kaa Falls
Located in Pua’a Ka’a State Wayside Park, Puaa Kaa Falls is an enthralling 20-foot waterfall accessible through a brief, straightforward path of 0.37 miles. The path, appropriate for all ages, winds by way of a verdant panorama, providing a glimpse into Maui’s wealthy ecosystem. The falls characteristic a small, welcoming pool, good for a refreshing swim in a serene setting.
Tips on how to get there? – The closest city is Hana, with a drive time of roughly 20-25 minutes to the state park. The waterfall is roughly 22 miles east of Kahului and could be discovered between mile markers 22 and 23 on the freeway. There’s a parking space at Pua’a Ka’a State Wayside Park, and from there, it’s only a brief stroll to the falls. No entrance charges are required to go to this lovely attraction.
Swimming pools of Oheo (Oheo Gulch)
The Swimming pools of Oheo, also referred to as the Seven Sacred Swimming pools, are a sequence of picturesque swimming pools and small cascades positioned in Haleakala Nationwide Park. A brief hike on the Kuloa Level Path, about Quarter-hour, results in this tranquil spot. The realm is surrounded by lush tropical flora, providing a peaceable swimming expertise amidst nature’s magnificence.
Tips on how to get there? – The closest city is Hana, with a drive time of round Quarter-hour to the nationwide park entrance. There may be an entrance fee to be paid to enter the park together with the swimming pools.
Punalau Falls
Punalau Falls, a hidden gem in northeastern Maui, is a 100-foot waterfall reached through a difficult hike. The path, requiring correct gear and warning, just isn’t really helpful after rains attributable to flash flood dangers. This secluded waterfall is surrounded by dense forest, providing a serene and rugged journey for skilled hikers.
Tips on how to get there? – The closest city is Hana, with a drive time of roughly 30-35 minutes to the trailhead. Parking is available at the milemarker 13 on the Street to Hana.
Alelele Falls
Alelele Falls, positioned within the Kipahulu District of Haleakala Nationwide Park, is an 80-foot tall waterfall. The path to Alelele is brief and comparatively straightforward, that includes just a few stream crossings. The falls are set in a tranquil space, superb for a peaceable swim within the pool beneath the cascade.
Tips on how to get there? – The closest city is Hana, with a drive time of about 25-Half-hour to the nationwide park space. Parking is out there after the Alelele Bridge the place the entry to the path can also be positioned. As it’s a part of a Nationwide Park, there may be an entrance fee to be paid.
Kopiliula Falls
Seen from the Hana Freeway, Kopiliula Falls is a scenic waterfall accessible through a two-mile, reasonably rated path. The path is steep and could be muddy, however it results in a phenomenal waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, providing a serene expertise.
Tips on how to get there? – The closest city is Hana, with a drive time of roughly 10-Quarter-hour to the trailhead. It’s extra off-the-beaten-path vacation spot, so restricted parking is out there.
Makapipi Falls
Makapipi Falls, simply accessible from the Street to Hana, provides a novel view from a bridge over the stream. A brief hike right down to the water’s edge supplies a more in-depth take a look at this waterfall, finest skilled after rainfall for a extra highly effective circulate.
Tips on how to get there? – Positioned close to Hana, it’s a couple of 10-15 minute drive from the city heart. There is no such thing as a designated parking space, however there could also be casual or roadside parking obtainable.
‘Iao Valley State Park Waterfall
‘Iao Valley State Park Waterfall is nestled within the lush ‘Iao Valley, a traditionally vital and culturally wealthy space. The waterfall is definitely accessible, with a paved walkway resulting in a scenic viewpoint. Surrounded by the towering partitions of the valley and dense rainforest, this waterfall provides a glimpse into the center of Maui’s pure splendor.
Tips on how to get there? – The closest metropolis is Wailuku, with a drive time of roughly 5-10 minutes to the state park. There’s a parking in addition to an entrance payment for ‘Iao Valley State Park.
Three Bear Falls (aka Waikani Falls)
Waikani Falls, also referred to as Three Bears Falls, is a shocking sequence of cascades positioned on the Street to Hana. This waterfall is definitely seen from the highway, making it a handy cease for vacationers. The falls drop into a big, inviting pool, surrounded by lush greenery and rugged cliffs. The convenience of entry and the breathtaking view make Waikani Falls a favourite amongst households and informal guests.
Tips on how to get there? – The closest city is Hana, with a drive time of about 30-40 minutes alongside the Hana Freeway, relying on the place to begin. There is no such thing as a designated parking zone and no entrance payment.
Nahiku Pond and Nahiku Touchdown – CLOSED
Nahiku Pond and Nahiku Touchdown are positioned off the Hana Freeway, providing a serene retreat. The pond, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, is a hidden gem, good for a peaceable swim. Nahiku Touchdown supplies gorgeous ocean views and a glimpse of Maui’s rugged shoreline. The realm is accessible through a brief hike, revealing the quiet great thing about East Maui.
Tips on how to get there? – The closest city is Hana, with a drive time of about 20-25 minutes alongside the Hana Freeway.
Decrease Puohokamoa Falls – CLOSED
Decrease Puohokamoa Falls is an enthralling and simply accessible waterfall positioned alongside the well-known Street to Hana in Maui. This hidden gem provides a brief and delicate stroll, resulting in a viewpoint that overlooks the swish cascade. The falls are surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, offering a picturesque and serene setting. This spot is right for these in search of a fast and straightforward waterfall expertise with out the necessity for a strenuous hike.
Tips on how to get there? – The closest city is Paia, with a drive time of roughly 15-20 minutes alongside the Hana Freeway.
Security concerns
When exploring the waterfalls of Maui, it’s important to maintain security in thoughts. The waterfalls’ magnificence is perhaps charming, however swimming of their swimming pools and venturing close to them requires warning. Elements just like the potential for flash floods, land situations, and micro organism within the water should be taken under consideration.
Swimming: Not all waterfalls on Maui are protected for swimming. Some might have sturdy currents or hidden rocks that might be hazardous. It is very important analysis every waterfall beforehand and observe posted indicators within the space, as situations can change. The water at many waterfalls could be chilly, which can result in cramps or hypothermia if you’re not ready.
Flash Flooding: One other vital security concern is the potential for flash flooding. Sudden, heavy rainfall within the area could cause water ranges to rise shortly, creating highly effective currents that might be harmful for swimmers and hikers alike. All the time examine the climate forecast earlier than heading out and stay vigilant for any indicators of quickly altering water ranges.
Cuts and Wounds: Watch out when swimming in Maui waterfalls, as Leptospirosis bacteria could be current within the water. Open cuts and wounds can turn into contaminated if uncovered to those micro organism, so it’s suggested to keep away from swimming with open wounds.
Slippery Terrain: The realm round waterfalls could be moist and slippery, making it straightforward to lose your footing and fall. Put on sturdy, non-slip footwear and use warning when strolling close to the waterfalls.
To make sure a protected and pleasurable go to, be sure you observe these security concerns and cling to any posted indicators and warnings. Your Maui waterfall expertise shall be all of the extra memorable when undertaken with warning and respect for the setting.
FAQs
Twin Falls is taken into account one of many best waterfalls to achieve on Maui since it’s positioned on the well-known Street to Hana. It’s a brief stroll on a well-maintained path.
Some fashionable waterfalls you possibly can swim in embrace Twin Falls, Oheo Gulch and Pua’a Ka’a Falls. All the time keep in mind to not swim with open cuts and by no means drink the water, as micro organism could be current in Hawaiian streams.
Alelele Falls is positioned in East Maui or Honokohau Falls, a towering 1,100-foot waterfall in West Maui, which is accessible solely by helicopter excursions.
Emese Maczko is a journey blogger behind Eco Lodges Anyplace. Having explored a number of locations round Europe, the US, Indonesia, and Australia, and resided in Germany, the UK, and Luxembourg, Emese possesses a eager understanding of numerous cultures and an appreciation for the great thing about every vacation spot she visits. She advocates for sustainable journey and ecotourism.
