18 Breathtaking Waterfalls in Hawaii You Can’t Miss!

Hawaii is a paradise on Earth, known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and incredible waterfalls. With so many beautiful cascades to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why I’ve put together this list of my top 18 favorite waterfalls across the Hawaiian islands of Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. Get ready to be amazed by these natural wonders! 🌿💦

Kauai Waterfalls

Kauai is known as the “Garden Isle” for its lush landscapes and incredible waterfalls. Here are some of my favorites:

1. Wailua Falls

Virtual Tour

Not to be confused with the Wailua Falls on Maui, this Kauai waterfall is a double-tiered cascade that plunges 173 feet into a pool below. It’s easily accessible from the road, making it a popular spot for photos. 📸

2. Opaekaa Falls

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This 151-foot waterfall is located on the east side of Kauai and is visible from a scenic lookout point. The name “Opaekaa” means “rolling shrimp,” which refers to the shrimp that used to be abundant in the stream. 🦐

3. Waipoo Falls

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Located in Waimea Canyon, known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waipoo Falls is a stunning 800-foot cascade that plunges into the canyon below. You can see it from various lookout points along the canyon rim.

4. Hanakapiai Falls

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To reach this 300-foot waterfall, you’ll need to hike the challenging Kalalau Trail along the Na Pali Coast. The trail can be dangerous, especially when it’s raining, so be sure to check conditions before you go.

Oahu Waterfalls

Let’s kick things off with the waterfalls on Oahu, the most populated of the Hawaiian islands.

5. Waimea Falls

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Located in the stunning Waimea Valley, this 45-foot waterfall is easily accessible via a paved path. You can even swim in the pool at the base of the falls! 🏊‍♀️

6. Manoa Falls

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Manoa Falls is a 150-foot waterfall located in the lush Manoa Valley. The hike to the falls is a relatively easy 1.6-mile round trip through a beautiful rainforest. Fun fact: Manoa Falls was featured in the movie Jurassic Park! 🦖

7. Lulumahu Falls

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This hidden gem requires a bit of a trek to reach, but it’s so worth it. Lulumahu Falls is a 50-foot waterfall that cascades into a serene pool. The hike can be challenging, so be sure to wear proper shoes and bring plenty of water.

8. Maunawili Falls

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The hike to Maunawili Falls is a bit more strenuous, but the payoff is a beautiful waterfall with a swimming hole. It’s the perfect spot to cool off after a hot day of hiking.

Maui Waterfalls

Now let’s head over to Maui, known as the “Valley Isle” for its lush landscapes and incredible waterfalls.

9. Honokohau Falls

At 1,100 feet tall, Honokohau Falls is the tallest waterfall on Maui. It’s only accessible by air, so if you want to see it up close, you’ll need to book a helicopter tour. 🚁

10. Waimoku Falls

Virtual Tour

To reach this 400-foot waterfall, you’ll need to hike through the bamboo forest in Haleakala National Park. The trail can be slippery, but the view of the falls is absolutely breathtaking.

Big Island Waterfalls

Last but not least, let’s explore the waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii.

11. Waianuenue Falls

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Also known as “Rainbow Falls,” this 80-foot waterfall is located in Wailuku River State Park near Hilo. The best time to see the rainbow effect is in the morning when the sun is shining. 🌞

12. Akaka Falls

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This 442-foot waterfall is one of the most famous in Hawaii. It’s located in Akaka Falls State Park and is easily accessible via a short hike through a lush rainforest. 🌳

13. Rainbow Falls

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As the name suggests, this 80-foot waterfall is known for the rainbows that often appear in its mist. It’s located in Hilo and is a popular spot for photos.

14. Hiilawe Falls

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At 1,450 feet tall, Hiilawe Falls is the tallest waterfall in Hawaii. It’s located in the remote Waipio Valley and is only accessible by hiking or horseback riding. 🐎

15. Umauma Falls

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This triple-tiered waterfall is located along the Hamakua Coast and is visible from the Umauma Falls Trail. The hike is relatively easy and offers stunning views of the falls and the surrounding rainforest.

16. Kulaniapia Falls

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Located on private property, Kulaniapia Falls is a 120-foot waterfall that cascades into a large pool. You can swim in the pool or even rappel down the falls with a guide. 🧗‍♀️

17. Onomea Falls

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This small but picturesque waterfall is located in the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden near Hilo. The garden is home to over 2,000 species of tropical plants, making it a must-see for nature lovers. 🌺

18. Kahuna Falls

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Located just upstream from Akaka Falls, Kahuna Falls is a smaller but equally stunning waterfall. It’s often overlooked by visitors, making it a peaceful spot to take in the beauty of nature.

Conclusion

There you have it – my top 20 favorite waterfalls in Hawaii! Whether you’re a hiker, a photographer, or just someone who loves the beauty of nature, these cascades are sure to take your breath away. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to the Hawaiian islands for an adventure you’ll never forget! 🌴🌊