14 Oahu Waterfalls That Are Open in 2024 + Map
Oahu, the third-largest Hawaiian island, is house to among the most breathtaking waterfalls attracting guests from all over the world. These waterfalls on Oahu not solely present breathtaking views but in addition supply unbelievable experiences for out of doors fanatics and nature lovers alike.
The island options all kinds of waterfalls, differing in peak, distinctive traits, and accessibility. Some are simply reachable, whereas others require an adventurous hike by dense forests and steep ridges. Many of those waterfalls present a refreshing swimming alternative, making them excellent spots for a soothing dip and even thrilling cliff leaping.
From the majestic ones to the lesser-known hidden gems, every waterfall presents a singular allure that leaves guests in awe. So pack your mountaineering gear, enterprise into Oahu’s verdant surroundings.
For extra concepts on learn how to benefit from your Hawaiian journey, take a look at our complete information on things to do in Hawaii. Whether or not you’re a thrill-seeker or a seashore lounger, Hawaii provides a plethora of actions to go well with each style.
Waterfalls of Oahu with a map
The island’s lush panorama and considerable rainfall give beginning to those magnificent cascades. There’s a variety of waterfalls obtainable for all sorts of tourists. An added bonus is the fascinating surrounding fauna that enhances the fantastic thing about these pure wonders.
Manoa Falls stands as the very best and hottest waterfall on Oahu. With an imposing peak of 150 toes (not as excessive because the waterfalls of Maui), it captivates guests with its spectacular cascade, nestled within the lush Manoa Valley. This waterfall is not only a sight to behold but in addition a testomony to the island’s pure magnificence.
For these seeking to mix a waterfall go to with a refreshing swim, Oahu has a number of choices. Waimea Falls, Maunawili Falls and Ginger Pool are fashionable decisions the place guests can take pleasure in a dip within the pure swimming pools shaped on the base of those falls. These waterfalls are excellent for a rejuvenating swim in a picturesque setting.
Households visiting Oahu with youngsters can take pleasure in simple hikes to a number of lovely waterfalls. Waimea Falls, Manoa Falls, and Waikahalulu Falls supply comparatively simple trails which can be appropriate for youths. These hikes result in gorgeous waterfalls and supply an amazing alternative for households to take pleasure in nature collectively.
For these in search of a special form of waterfall expertise, Oahu provides a sequence of small cascades. Waimano Falls and Kapena Falls every current a singular allure. These spots are excellent for guests who recognize the delicate great thing about smaller waterfalls.
Oahu is house to a number of hidden gems that supply serene and fewer crowded experiences. Laie Falls and Koloa Gulch Waterfall are amongst these lesser-known treasures. Every of those waterfalls offers a tranquil escape, preferrred for explorers seeking to enterprise off the crushed path.
Manoa Falls – The very best waterfall in Oahu
Nestled within the lush Manoa Valley, Manoa Falls is a wide ranging 150-foot waterfall, a mere 1.6 miles hike from the closest highway. Surrounded by a tropical rainforest, the path to the falls provides hikers a glimpse of Hawaii’s numerous flora, together with bamboo and eucalyptus. The hike, largely flat with a slight incline, is taken into account simple, making it fashionable amongst households and informal hikers. Whereas the pool on the base will not be appropriate for swimming, the scenic view of the cascading water is a rewarding sight. Manoa Falls’ accessibility and pure magnificence make it a must-visit spot on Oahu.
get there? – Manoa Falls Path, about 1.6 miles spherical journey. Parking is accessible for a price on the trailhead. The closest metropolis is Honolulu, with a drive time of roughly 15-20 minutes to the trailhead.
Waimea Falls
Positioned within the verdant Waimea Valley, Waimea Falls is a picturesque 45-foot waterfall, only a 0.75-mile stroll (approx. Half-hour) from the Waimea Valley Visitor Center. This family-friendly hike, by a well-maintained botanical backyard, is straightforward and accessible. The falls function a big, welcoming pool on the base, excellent for swimming in a serene setting. Well-liked amongst vacationers, Waimea Falls provides each pure magnificence and cultural significance, making it a spotlight of the North Shore.
get there? – Waimea Valley Path, a simple 0.75-mile stroll. Entrance price to Waimea Valley is required, which incorporates parking. The closest metropolis is Haleiwa, North Shore with a drive time of round 10-Quarter-hour to Waimea Valley Customer Heart.
Laie Falls
Laie Falls, a serene 15-foot waterfall, is the reward after a difficult 6-mile round-trip hike close to Laie. The path, providing views of the windward coast and native flora, is reasonably tough with some steep sections. This less-crowded path leads adventurers by lush landscapes to a tranquil spot, preferrred for rest. Swimming is feasible within the small pool, however warning is suggested. Laie Falls is a hidden gem for these in search of a extra rugged expertise.
get there? – Laie Falls Path, a 6-mile spherical journey. Requires a hiking permit, however there is no such thing as a parking price.The closest metropolis is Laie, with a drive time of about 5-10 minutes to the trailhead.
Maunawili Falls
Tucked away in Kailua, Maunawili Falls is a captivating 20-foot waterfall, accessible through a 3-mile round-trip path. The trail, surrounded by tropical greenery and streams, is reasonably difficult with muddy situations. This fashionable spot, identified for its picturesque setting and swimming gap, attracts each locals and vacationers. The pool’s depth varies, making it a favourite for cliff leaping, although security ought to at all times be a precedence.
get there? – The closest metropolis is Kailua, with a drive time of roughly 10-Quarter-hour to the trailhead. Please observe that Maunawili Falls Trail is closed since 2021, however guests can nonetheless attain through the Maunawili Demonstration Path.
Likeke Falls
Likeke Falls, a hidden oasis close to the closed Ko’olau Golf Club, provides a scenic 2-mile round-trip hike from the Pali Lookout. This comparatively simple path passes by lush forest, unveiling a modest (35-ft) but enchanting waterfall. The world, wealthy in island flora, offers a peaceable retreat. Whereas the pool is small, the tranquil environment make Likeke Falls a pleasant escape from town’s hustle.
get there? – The closest metropolis is Kaneohe, with a drive time of roughly 10-Quarter-hour to the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout or Ko’olau Golf Membership. No entrance or parking price.
Kapena Falls
Only a quick distance from downtown Honolulu, Kapena Falls is a small but charming waterfall, accessible by a quick 0.5-mile hike. This native favourite, identified for its cliff leaping spots, is surrounded by tropical foliage. The pool, deep sufficient for swimming, is a well-liked spot for a fast, refreshing dip. Kapena Falls provides a singular mix of pure magnificence and concrete accessibility.
get there? – Brief path, lower than 0.5 miles. There isn’t any entrance or parking price, and parking is accessible alongside the highway. The closest metropolis is Honolulu, with a drive time of simply 5-10 minutes to the trailhead.
Koloa Gulch Waterfall
Koloa Gulch Waterfall, in northeastern Oahu, is a distant and gorgeous 70-foot waterfall, requiring a difficult and prolonged hike by the gulch. The precise distance varies, however the journey is rewarded with a wide ranging view of the falls, set amidst lush, tropical surroundings. This less-visited location is right for knowledgeable hikers in search of a rugged and less-trodden path.
get there? – A difficult 8-mile spherical journey hike. No entrance or parking price, however you want a hiking permit. The closest cities are Laie or Hauula, with a drive time of roughly 15-20 minutes to the trailhead.
Papali Falls
Positioned within the Koolau Mountains, Papali Falls is a hidden waterfall requiring a challenging hike on Maakua Ridge Trail by rugged terrain. The space varies, however the path leads by dense forest, providing a glimpse into Oahu’s wild magnificence. This much less frequented spot is a haven for knowledgeable hikers searching for a peaceable escape.
get there? – You’ll be able to attain it as a part of the Maakua aka Papali Trail. No entrance or parking price.The closest metropolis is Kaneohe, with a drive time of about 20-Half-hour to the trailhead within the Koolau Mountains.
Waikahalulu Falls
Within the coronary heart of Honolulu, Waikahalulu Falls is a small however charming waterfall inside Lili’uokalani Botanical Garden. Simply accessible with minimal strolling required, this waterfall provides a tranquil oasis amidst town’s bustle. The backyard’s lush setting enhances the fantastic thing about the falls, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely go to.
get there? – No mountaineering. No entrance or parking price. It’s contained in the Botanical Backyard in Honolulu, with minimal driving required inside the metropolis.
Palolo Falls
Positioned behind Palolo Valley, Palolo Falls is a hidden gem, accessible through a hike of various distance. This less-traveled path takes adventurers by lush landscapes to a secluded waterfall. The world’s pure magnificence and tranquility make it a rewarding vacation spot for these in search of a peaceable mountaineering expertise.
get there? – Accessible through a hike in Palolo Valley. No entrance or parking price. The closest metropolis is Honolulu, with a drive time of roughly 15-20 minutes to the trailhead.
Lulumahu Falls
Nestled close to the Pali Freeway, Lulumahu Falls is a hidden 50-foot waterfall, reached by a 2-mile round-trip hike by enchanting bamboo forests and over babbling streams. This reasonably difficult path, wealthy in pure magnificence, results in a picturesque waterfall and a small, inviting pool appropriate for a refreshing swim. The falls, surrounded by lush greenery, supply a serene escape from the bustling metropolis.
get there? – It’s alongside the Lulumahu Falls Path, which is approx. 2 miles spherical journey. Parking is mostly alongside the roadside, no price. The closest metropolis is Honolulu, with a drive time of about 15-20 minutes to the trailhead.
Pali Twin Falls (Waipuilani Falls)
Pali Twin Falls, often known as Waipuilani Falls, are positioned off the Pali Freeway, providing a singular twin waterfall expertise. Accessible through a comparatively quick however typically muddy and slippery hike, these falls are a hidden gem. The falls, every with their very own distinct character, cascade into shallow swimming pools, making a picturesque and tranquil setting.
get there? – It’s positioned off the Pali Freeway, accessible through a brief hike. No entrance or parking price. The closest metropolis is Honolulu, and the drive to the trailhead is roughly 15-20 minutes, making it a handy nature getaway.
Waimano Falls
Located in Pearl Metropolis, Waimano Falls incorporates a sequence of small cascades and swimming pools on the finish of a 3-mile round-trip hike. The path, reasonably tough with some steep areas, winds by dense forest, resulting in a well-liked native swimming spot. The falls and the encompassing space supply a peaceable retreat, preferrred for a day of exploration and rest. The pure magnificence and relative seclusion of Waimano Falls make it a worthwhile journey for these in search of tranquility.
get there? – The Waimano Pool Path is an round 3 miles spherical journey. There isn’t any entrance or parking price. The closest metropolis is Pearl Metropolis, with a drive time of roughly 10 minutes to the trailhead.
Ginger Pool
It’s named as Jackass Ginger Pool. This pretty waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, and its clear waters make for an amazing swimming expertise. The peak of the waterfall is comparatively modest, making it extra accessible for swimmers of all ranges. The encompassing fauna is numerous, with many native plant species thriving within the space.
get there? – To go to the Ginger Pool, you possibly can hike a mile-long spherical journey of Judd Path. It’s a simple path that results in this refreshing swimming spot.
Sacred Falls (Kaliuwaa Falls) – CLOSED
Sacred Falls, often known as Kaliuwaa Falls, is an imposing 110-foot waterfall in Hauula. Nonetheless, it’s necessary to notice that entry to Sacred Falls is legally prohibited resulting from security issues following a tragic rockfall in 1999. The falls stay a big a part of Oahu’s pure heritage, however guests are urged to respect the closure and discover different secure and authorized waterfall choices on the island.
Kalihi Ice Ponds – CLOSED
The Kalihi Ice Ponds, positioned within the Kalihi Valley, are a sequence of small waterfalls and swimming pools, about 2 miles from the closest highway. This less-known spot, surrounded by dense forest, provides a quiet retreat for these prepared to navigate the reasonably difficult path. Nonetheless, the falls and the mountaineering path is closed since April 2020 since it’s on personal property.
Hamama Falls (Waihe’e Falls) – CLOSED
Hidden in Waihe’e Valley, Hamama Falls, often known as Waihe’e Falls, is a 40-foot waterfall on the finish of a 3.5-mile round-trip hike. The path, reasonably difficult, is much less frequented, providing a peaceable journey by lush landscapes. Nonetheless, getting into is not permitted since 2021.
Kaipapa’u Falls – CLOSED
On the windward facet of Oahu, Kaipapa’u Falls is a secluded 90-foot waterfall on the finish of a difficult hike by Kaipapa’u Valley. The space and problem fluctuate, however the path provides an immersive expertise in Hawaii’s pure panorama. The closest metropolis is Hauula, with a drive time of roughly 10-Quarter-hour to the trailhead. Nonetheless, it’s a personal property and entry is denied.
Climbing preparations
When making ready to hike Oahu waterfalls, it’s important to contemplate the rainforest atmosphere. Carrying acceptable apparel, like light-weight clothes and durable mountaineering boots, is essential since trails can get muddy and slippery. Moreover, it’s extremely advisable to deliver insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, a rain jacket, and loads of water for hydration.
Take into account packing a swimsuit if the waterfall you’re visiting has a swimming space. Lastly, at all times concentrate on your environment and climate situations as flash floods can happen in sure areas.
Oahu provides a wide range of waterfall hikes catering to totally different ability ranges. Some trails could be tougher than others, so it’s important to analysis the precise path you intend to hike beforehand. Take into account your mountaineering expertise and health degree when selecting to hike to a waterfall in Oahu to make sure a secure and satisfying expertise.
Security concerns
When visiting the waterfalls of Oahu, it’s necessary to prioritize security whereas having fun with the pure magnificence. Probably the most important security elements is being cautious across the waterfalls, on condition that they could have slippery surfaces and surprising rocks beneath the water. It’s at all times a good suggestion to put on acceptable footwear and train warning when swimming or mountaineering close to the falls.
- Keep on designated trails
- Put on correct footwear with good grip
- Keep away from climbing on moist, slippery surfaces
- Observe posted warning indicators
- Maintain an acceptable distance from cliffs or steep drops
To plan your waterfall adventures, I like to recommend utilizing the Hawaii Trail and Access System and Department of Land and Natural Resources. These sources offers precious data on path places, situations, and accessibility. Climate situations on Oahu can considerably impacting path accessibility and waterfall visibility. By staying knowledgeable about present situations, you possibly can guarantee a secure and satisfying expertise. Bear in mind, the fantastic thing about these pure wonders is matched by their energy and unpredictability, so at all times prioritize security throughout your visits.
FAQs
There are a minimum of 18 waterfalls on Oahu, lots of that are accessible by mountaineering trails. A few of the fashionable waterfalls embrace Waimea Falls, Manoa Falls, Lulumahu Falls, and extra. The variety of waterfalls on the island can fluctuate relying on rainfall and different environmental elements.
One of many largest waterfalls in Oahu is Manoa Falls, positioned near Honolulu. This gorgeous waterfall has a peak of roughly 150 toes and is surrounded by lush vegetation. It’s simply accessible by a 1.6-mile hike, making it a well-liked vacation spot for guests of all health ranges.
A few of the most scenic waterfalls on Oahu embrace Waimea Falls, Manoa Falls, Lulumahu Falls, and Maunawili Falls. Nonetheless, there may very well be an enormous distinction in relying on the season you go to there. They’ll ran dry, however within the wet season it could have heavy flows.
Swimming at Oahu’s waterfalls is mostly secure, nevertheless it’s important to pay attention to potential hazards, reminiscent of slippery rocks, sturdy currents, and flash floods. It’s advisable to examine for any warning indicators and respect native tips for swimming in these areas.
Sure, there are restricted waterfalls on Oahu, reminiscent of Sacred Falls, the place entry is prohibited resulting from security issues following a lethal rockslide in 1999. Additionally, the Maunawili Falls Path is closed since 2021, however guests can nonetheless attain it through the Maunawili Demonstration Path.
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 fantastic thing about every vacation spot she visits. She advocates for sustainable journey and ecotourism.
