As an Amazon Associate, thistraveldream.com earns from qualifying purchases. So no one is taking care of it and ensuring the area remains clean. Please keep in mind that the falls are not accessible to the general public. Overview . However, if you continue hiking along the trail in the area and do some stream scrambling, youll be able to see more of natures beauty. It is located in the Pelekunu Preserve on the windward side of Molokai. Zipline high above the forest floor, picnic on the rim of Pololu Valley & swim under a private waterfall fed by a cool mountain stream. Stretching 93 miles long, its nearly four times as big as Maui. 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. Get in touch with us! Onomea Falls is located along the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. Along the way, youll see verdant vegetation and immense, ancient Banyan trees, overgrown by fig vines and moss. This, Located within Waimea Valley is this charming waterfall, perfect for a family swim. Furthermore, flash floods and strong currents are a real danger there. 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. The falls are located in the rainforest. Drive along the cliffs and over rugged landscape Free cancellation Recommended by 97% of travelers from $225.13 per adult Reserve Travelers talk about " plants and animals " Location: North east side of Big Island. It is alleged to have a height of 1,450 feet. Before we talk about the best waterfalls, lets discuss some FAQs you might have: Swimming is NOT allowed at Akaka Falls State Park. Read more about waterfall safety. Check out the latest prices and details. However, Id always watch for signs near waterfalls and follow their instructions if they indicated not to swim. Most of the waterfalls are found near Hilo and northeastern, or Hamakua, coast. The couple run a healing retreat on Hawaii's Big Island - and Dorina has been swimming with dolphins throughout her pregnancy. However, you need to pay a fee to be able to access the viewing deck. They are very safe and you will have amazing views. This one has amazing views of the Kohala Coast while listening to fascinating commentary from the pilot. The on-site Inn organizes this tour which is led a team of expert canyoneering guides. There is only one way to get here, and thats by hiking along the coastal trail. Enjoy! There are tons of gorgeous waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii. The farmers markets are a little-known gem allowing visitors to meet locals, shop for arts and crafts and enjoy edible treasures. Spend a few hours relaxing luxuriating in a private area of the Umauma River. Love Hawaii? Another great way to see these waterfalls is to take an organized tour. The height and sheer beauty of its surroundings make Akaka Falls one of the most visited waterfalls on Big Island, but it will take a bit of effort to see them. Which waterfall can you swim at on the Big Island? Bear right at the top of the hill onto the main street of Honomu town. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. Their list contains the following waterfalls: In Hilo: Rainbow falls, Pe'epe'e falls, Wai'ale falls, Kulaniapia falls. And these are just the most popular waterfalls on Big Island. It will take you about an hour to reach the end of the path, which is lined with lush greenery and beautiful scenery. If you're visiting the Big Island of Hawaii soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Big Island Visitor Guides. Read more on the Umauma experience website. Nanua Falls is a series of waterfalls on the Hamakua Coast, about 18 miles north of Hilo. The pots are called boiling pots because, during heavy rain, the flow of water increases and the pots appear to be boiling. 1: Kauai Overview 2: Things to Do 3: Where to Stay 4: Popular Sights and Destinations 5: The Npali Coast 6: Kauai Itinerary 7: Kauai blog posts. 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. Many people stop their journey at the lower waterfall. 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. Night Swim with Manta Rays. Also, if you are visiting Oahu and want to know where the best waterfall hikes are on Oahu, Ive got you covered. Are you as obsessed with Hawaiian waterfalls as we are? You can also book one of their events to have access to their waterfall. This would allow you to see almost all of our favorite waterfalls and is recommended for people that really love waterfalls. Waipoo Falls. Located in Hilo, Hawaii in Wailuku River State Park, Rainbow Falls might be the most famous waterfall on the island. The admission fee to the park is $5.00 per car or $1 per person for pedestrians. The cliffs were formed from the lava flow from Mauna Kea that once flowed down the mountainside. The Falls has recently been named in the top ten best swimming holes in America by the magazine Travel + Leisure. Youll find the largest waterfall in Hawaii on the secluded island of Molokai. The government or any private party does not manage Nanua Falls. 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. The waterfalls of Hawaii on the Big Island are absolutely stunning. Get your discounted Waterfalls of Kohala Tour. Akaka Falls. Nanue Falls is located on the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. If you think you've located a Big Island waterfall we've omitted, please contact us, and we'll make sure it's added. Hi'ilawe Falls in the Waipio Valley. Also, be sure to check out all the waterfalls in Hawaii on ourHawaii Waterfallspage. Are you planning to travel to the Big Island of Hawaii? Most of the waterfalls on the Big Island are fairly close to Hilo. However, they have started opening the grounds to the public for a $49 day pass. You may have a luxury problem though: there are more waterfalls on the Big Island than you can reasonable visit during your stay! There are plenty of these tours you can take while on the Big Island. It depends on which one you choose! And it is surrounded by immense boulders and greenery. While there are gorgeous waterfalls on Kauai, Oahu, and Maui, the Big Island has some of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii. [more], 2006-2023 World Of Waterfalls, All Rights Reserved 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. Why not go on one of our perfectly planned waterfall road trips with itineraries for both Oahu and Maui. Another great way to visit all of these falls is through a helicopter tour. This isn't one that you can swim under though. Majestic Waterfalls Tour A tour across the Hamakua Coast that stops at 'Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls and Richardson Beach Park. Big Island travel tips & recommendations , Explore Big Island Hotels & Resorts Search Now. from $85 + taxes & fees | Child $75. Interested? 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. If you're looking for the best Big Island waterfall adventures, then look no further. Free cancellation: up to 48 hours before tour. 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. It stretches over 120 feet high, although the tiers make it difficult to measure accurately. While I was there I witnessed two people hike to the top, even though it clearly said not to do so. A helicopter tour of the waterfalls along the Kohala Coast. Check out the latest prices and details! Nonetheless, its still a breathtaking sight to see. Kayak & Swim in the Umauma River. If you are looking for an adventure or just want to relax on your vacation, these seven waterfalls will not disappoint. Rainbow Falls is not safe for swimming. Kulaniapia Falls is once again located on private property, this time belonging to The Inn and usually reserved exclusively for residents there. Akaka Falls are about 422 feet tall, but are only viewable from the viewing platform. Sign up for this discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour. If you plan to camp here, please make sure you obtain the proper permits, as they are required. I hope that these waterfalls and tours will give you an idea of what you can add to your itinerary for your trip to the Big Island! Not only that, but this island is still expanding! Then, there are waterfalls where the access is rather ambiguous (to my knowledge), and these include Hi'ilawe Falls, Nanue Falls, and the so-called Narnia Waterfalls (which are actually a convergence of three named waterfalls). Mahalo! What is the best way to visit all these waterfalls? It is simply breathtaking. 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. Plus it has numerous attractions, from volcanic rock formations to beautiful waterfalls. These are gorgeous Hawaii Big Island waterfalls worth checking out. The Big Island of Hawaii offers so much for visitors with its lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes. 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. If you are on this side of the Big Island, for example, to see the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a bit of planning will make sure that you can see some spectacular waterfalls. 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. The 422 ft tall Akaka falls are part of the Akaka falls state park, located just north of Hilo. Youll get to hear a bit about the history of Coconut Island (it will totally surprise you) as you paddle around Hilo Bay. You might hear that people go swimming here, but dont do it! Please do not be tempted to hike up if there are signs that say hiking is not allowed and its blocked off. Other than water rappelling, the Experiences Package offers a multitude of other activities. Maunawili Falls We are independently owned so content written by us merely reflect our own opinions. Kohala Waterfalls Small Group Adventure Tour 183 By Hawaii Forest and Trail Adventure Tours 6+ hours See the highlights of Kohala in a day on this small-group adventure tour. Which one was your favorite? Located along the Umauma River in Hakalau, Umauma Falls is a series of three, short cascading waterfalls. The lush landscape alone is enough to warrant a hike here. Its the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago and has some of the most popular waterfalls in all of Hawaii! If you only have time to see one of the waterfalls, we suggest seeing the incredible Akaka Falls. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. If youd like to dabble in something slightly more adventurous, you can go ziplining or rappelling over the area. There are different car rental companies in Kona, Hawaii that will set it up for you. Check out the latest prices and more details. Most waterfalls can be found on the slopes of the Mauna Kea volcano close to Hilo and on the Hamakua coast. The gigantic waterfall stands out from the dry, rocky background of the red-walled canyon. This is a 120ft waterfall on the Waiau Stream situated on the lower slopes of Mauna Kea not far from Hilo. Please do not put these waterfalls on your to-do list. Directions: About 30 min north from Hilo airport, park on the mauka (mountain-side) of highway 19 just after the 16 mile marker. This is for kids at least 5 years old who can comfortably stay in a kayak. Its a 1,450 feet tall waterfall, although most of it drops 1,201 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. Find the best prices here. So keep an eye out for honu (green sea turtles) and admire the coast! After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. Lava from Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa meet near the base of Peepee Falls, about 2 miles downstream. No, swimming at Akaka Falls is no longer allowed. The waterfalls are located less than half a mile from the parking lot. The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls is one of the only waterfalls I recommend swimming at while on the Big Island. You can also book a stay at The Inn, a high-quality resort thats well worth the money. 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. Our most popular hotels on the Island of Hawaii Its a 422-foot natural waterfall. Located up the Wailua River, you will need to either rent kayaks or book a guided tour to reach the trailhead. Now you know some of the best waterfalls Big Island has to offer. There is no swimming allowed here; you can only view the falls from a safe distance. Check out the latest prices and more details. The best part? Plus. 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. Sign up for discounted Hilo Bay Kayaking Tickets. The Northern beach is one of the potential crash sites in Sons of the Forest, and it's also one of the best base locations. If you are staying on the other side of the Big Island, be sure to plan these excursions into your vacation plans. This might cost more, but its well worth it. 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. Hours: Daily, 8:30AM - 6:00PM. Flash flooding in this area is common, so please proceed with caution. It is one of the most idyllic and beautiful waterfalls in the world. Address: 875 Akaka Falls Rd, Honomu, HI 96728, United States. Hawaii's Big Island is home to some of the islands' most accessible waterfalls, and here are five of the most popular. Where are the best waterfalls to swim in Hawaii? There are much safer spots to swim - a.k.a. The waterfall got its name from the rainbow that often forms at the base. Click the button below. Log in, We are passionate waterfall lovers eager to share our experiences chasing waterfalls around the world! Please do not put these waterfalls on your to-do list. Looking for a car rental in Kona, Big island? These 7 Big Island waterfalls are truly spectacular and well worth checking out during your stay here! If you are not interested in these tours, you can pay $12 per person to visit the beautiful botanical gardens. 5 out of 6 of our favorites are close to Hilo, and these falls are very easy to visit. Read more: in our guide to visiting the Akaka falls. This is a great way to see some of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. Its an impressive 1,450-foot natural waterfall with a main drop of 1,201 feet. Its only 80-foot-tall but its still a beautiful natural feature with gushing water all year-round and a large pool below. 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. They are all unique in their own ways. Youll be treated to an entirely new and equally beautiful view of the 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. However, the waterfall tends to be dry in early spring, around March. Sign up for this discounted Majestic Waterfalls Tour. For more information on waterfalls in Maui, You can check out this post on the best 15 stops on the Road to Hana. The Peepee Falls are located about 1.5 miles upstream the rainbow falls, at the Wailuku river on the end of Wailuku drive. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. 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. It takes less than an hour to hike leisurely and is only somewhat sloped uphill. Download and/or view the map of all 9 waterfalls here. There are several ways people choose to see the waterfalls. Content on this site is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical, health, or safety advice. Most waterfalls on the Hamakua coast are a 90-mile drive away. While there are gorgeous waterfalls on Kauai, Oahu, and Maui, the Big Island has some of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii. Image credit: Mark. 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. The Best Hiking Shoes for Hawaii in 2021(The Ultimate buying Guide), The 5 Best Reef Safe Sunscreens for Hawaii. You can either go left or right after you go down the stairs from the parking lot. Sign up for our free monthly updates (more info) about everything that is new and happening in Hawaii. Rainbow Falls is one of the easiest to see and most popular waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii. The Magical Waterfall Tour is an airborne tour that takes you on a visit to the coastline of Waipio Valley and Waimanu Valley. Check out the latest prices and details here! While Kahuna Falls are also located in this state park, you can hear them more than you can see them. They are a series of small pools fed by the Wailuku River. Swimming here can be dangerous and has proved lethal several times in the past. Check out the latest prices and more details. The website World of waterfalls is an excellent resource to find out more about the smaller waterfalls on the island. This broad waterfall in the Wailuku river is conveniently located within Hilo town. See below for the sign that was there when I went. This picture shows the Hiilawe falls on an almost dry day. After some time, the streams flow lessened and it is now safe to swim here. Visit the Akaka Falls State Park and take the pleasant 0.4 mile paved foot path loop that takes you to viewing spots of both Akaka Falls (442 feet) and Kahuna Falls (100 feet). The Rainbow Falls are located in Hilo and are fed by the Wailuku River the same river that also feeds the Peepee Falls. However, to visit Onomea Falls, you need to go through the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden and pay an entrance fee. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Unfortunately, swimming is not allowed at Rainbow Falls, and there are signs warning about the danger of swimming. There are other adventurous activities that you can enjoy here too. Hiilawe (the barely visible waterfall in the back of the valley) is one of the tallest waterfalls on the Big Island. Check out the latest prices and details! The Majestic Waterfalls Tour is one of the best tours on this list. Do you like waterfalls a LOT and are you also visiting another island in the Hawaiian island chain? Youll be able to get up close and personal with this body of water and have the most memorable time in Hawaii. 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. Kulaniapia Falls is a private waterfall located on the Waiau Stream, not far from Hilo. If you prefer places that are not busy, then you will love Peepee Falls. 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