User-submitted Waterfall Write-up of the Month, and the latest news and updates both within the website as well as around the wonderful world of waterfalls. Helicopter tours are often one of the trip-highlights that people remember for a long time and worth considering if you are willing to spend the money. This Upper Waikani Falls, Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA 2. Bear right at the top of the hill onto the main street of Honomu town. Stunning Big Island Hawaii Waterfalls Worth a Stop, planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, Courtyard by Marriotts King Kamehameha Beach Hotel, Check out the latest prices and more details, discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour, Legends of the Waterfalls and Volcano Tour, budget-friendly things to do on the Big Island. This is also close to where most of the black sand beaches on the Big Island are located. 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 half-day tour takes you to the three most famous Big Island waterfalls: 'Akaka Falls, Hi'ilawe Falls and Rainbow Falls. Read more about the Rainbow Falls on our website. These 7 Big Island waterfalls are truly spectacular and well worth checking out during your stay here! One of the, As you are driving on Hana Highway from the north, the first notable attraction you will discover is these twin waterfalls, also known as Hololawa Falls. Don't miss them because once you see them, you'll never forget them! The content on this website may not be copied or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission. The falls are located in Waimanu Valley. The hike is suitable for the whole family and takes half an hour if you take your time. The path to Onomea Falls is stunning in itself. Get your discounted ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience. In addition, if weather and conditions permit, you may be able to swim, kayak or paddleboard under the waterfalls. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. If you are looking for an adventure or just want to relax on your vacation, these seven waterfalls will not disappoint. While youre enjoying these natural attractions, be sure to take lots of pictures! We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. 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. There are much safer spots to swim - a.k.a. Also, be sure to check out all the waterfalls in Hawaii on ourHawaii Waterfallspage. Youll also pass by Boulder Creek on your way to the falls, which is a gorgeous sight to see. 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! It takes about 20-30 minutes to complete the loop. No, swimming at Akaka Falls is no longer allowed. Credit: John McCollum. Plus, youll keep an eye out for Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles and stop at Big Island Candies for the most famous Hawaiian candy on the Big Island. These include stargazing and helicopter tours and is absolutely worth the time and money. from the air is as part of a helicopter tour. Umauma Falls is a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation. Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing, History (From $226.96) Hawaii Volcano Adventure Tour from Hilo (From $195.99) Aside from waterfalls, youll also be able to see red-hot lava flows, the Kohala Mule Station lookout, and more! Looking for a car rental in Kona, Big island? The area beyond that is private property, so be aware of where youre going! 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. Its location allows the sun to hit the water at just the perfect angle. The best part? Waterfalls of Kohala A helicopter tour of the waterfalls along the Kohala Coast. Swimming is not allowed here, so keep that in mind when you visit. Umauma Falls Location: North east side of Big Island. Some of which are so beautiful that they inspired some of Hawaiis most popular songs. Akaka Falls on the Big Island. Along the way, youll see verdant vegetation and immense, ancient Banyan trees, overgrown by fig vines and moss. Akaka Falls is a spectacularly tall waterfall that hurls down an incredible 422 feet down a mountain face. Please keep in mind that the falls are not accessible to the general public. Wading through these pools is not recommended. There are so many incredible waterfalls, making it hard to know where to start. 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 Majestic Waterfalls Tour is one of the best tours on this list. 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). 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. Big Island Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Big Island Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. If you are short on time, we recommend that you limit yourself to the more spectacular Akaka and Rainbow waterfalls. Yes, but all of them require some sort of entrance fee. First, youll head to the Kohala Mountains where youll fly the coastline of Waipio Valley and Waimanu Valley. The Wailuku River flows along the bottom of the gorge and downstream to Rainbow Falls. Hiilawe Falls is visible only within the valley or from the air, as the Waipio Valley is very steep. More waterfalls can be found at the northern Hamakua coast seaside cliffs and the valleys of the Kohala coast. In any case, as you can see from the map above and the list below that . When river safety conditions permit, you can also go swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding under the Kulaniapia Falls using on-site equipment. A couple of the best waterfalls near Hilo can be seen in Akaka Falls State Park, including Akaka Falls (422 feet) and Kahuna Falls (100 feet). Youll find the largest waterfall in Hawaii on the secluded island of Molokai. You can see all sorts of hidden waterfalls if you go kayaking, take a boat tour, or ride in a helicopter. The majority of waterfalls on the Big Island can be seen on your own. Big Island of Hawaii Waterfalls Simply put, waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii are some of the world's finest. 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! Good to know: The river feeding Hiilawe is used for irrigation purposes. 2. Their list contains the following 13 waterfalls: The location of these waterfalls is marked on the map higher up this page, and you can read more about each fall separately in the list of 13 Big Island Waterfalls published on the World of Waterfalls website. Akaka Falls are extremely accessible, as the trail to the waterfall stretches only 0.4 miles long. They also offer ATV tours, waterfall rappelling and horseback riding tours to the falls as well. To get to the waterfalls you need to make a pleasant and short 0.4-mile hike through the lush rainforest filled with wild orchids, bamboo groves and draping ferns. You no longer need to book a tour with the Umauma Experience to get to the falls. Youll see places on the Big Island only accessible by air. The admission fee to the park is $5.00 per car or $1 per person for pedestrians. Swimming here can be dangerous and has proved lethal several times in the past. Because these incredible destinations are fed waterfalls, it is important to issue a friendly warning about the risks associated with flash flooding, and leptospirosis bacteria found in many of Hawaiis natural pools. It stretches hundreds of feet tall and is surrounded by greenery. 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. 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. click here to go to our instagram account, ATV Tours on the Big Island (BIG list of all tour operators), BIG LIST of Kona Coffee Tours on the Big Island, Stand Up Paddle (SUP) boarding: Rentals, Classes and Tours. 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. Just make sure to leave this waterfall in Hawaii as clean as you found it. Are there a lot of waterfall swimming holes in Hawaii? Access to the overview for the waterfalls lies on private land which is being managed by the Umauma Experience. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. 1. Please do not put these waterfalls on your to-do list. Get your discounted Kohala Tour from Kona Tour. Download and/or view the map of all 9 waterfalls here. Be sure to pay at least a few of them a visit and create some unforgettable memories that youll treasure forever! Off the main street is the Mana's Aloha Fruit Stand. Of course, the most popular and simple strategy is to include a visit into your itinerary as you drive by one or two waterfalls. 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. 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. Akaka, Kahuna, Hiilawe, Rainbow, Umauma, Peepee, Kulaniapia, Onomeaand WaiilikahiFalls. Find the best prices here. They are very safe and you will have amazing views. A delicious catered lunch is provided in our secluded pavilion. You can access this trail from the Waipio Valley lookout. For the adventurous, go off-roading on the Big Islands Hamakua Coast in a Honda ATV or a Side x Side UTV. 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. Zip with up to 65 miles per hour on 9 long lines, over 14 rushing waterfalls, suspension bridges, and treetops of the lush Hamakua coast rainforest. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Sign up for this discounted Legends of the Waterfalls & Volcano Tour. Download and/or view the map of all 9 waterfalls here. 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. Table of Contents hide 1 Rainbow Falls 2 Akaka Falls 3 Umauma Falls 4 Wai'ale Falls 5 PeePee Falls 6 Hi'ilawe Falls 7 Private Waterfalls 8 Why Are There So Many Waterfalls in Hawaii? Check out the latest prices and more details. Although smaller, the Kahuna Falls is similarly beautiful. Their list contains the following waterfalls: In Hilo: Rainbow falls, Pe'epe'e falls, Wai'ale falls, Kulaniapia falls. Another stop on Mauis Road to Hana, Puaa Kaa translates to rolling pig in Hawaiian. This is a great family-friendly waterfall as there are no strong currents or falling rocks around. Which Hawaiian island has the best waterfall hikes? Hiilawe Falls (or Hi'ilawe Falls) was one of those waterfalls where it seemed it had a reputation that it can no longer live up to. On Highway 19's bridge, most drivers will pass by these 2 neat waterfalls without realizing it! However, they have started opening the grounds to the public for a $49 day pass. Its accessible through several different methods and gorgeous no matter how you see it. Hawaii's Big Island is home to some of the islands' most accessible waterfalls, and here are five of the most popular. Youll get to hear a bit about the history of Coconut Island (it will totally surprise you) as you paddle around Hilo Bay. One of the coolest ways to experience Kulaniapia Falls is by booking a spot in one of the Experience Packages available at the property. This air tour hits up the 7 Kohala waterfalls from the Kona airport. As a paradise for active travelers it is rich in experiences that include nature, culinary discoveries, historic landmarks, shopping, nightlife and festivals. Check out the latest prices and details! First trip to the Big Island? You may have a luxury problem though: there are more waterfalls on the Big Island than you can reasonable visit during your stay! Peepee Falls are another great waterfall that you can visit. Enjoy! From USD 130.62. If you're looking for the best Big Island waterfall adventures, then look no further. Directions: About 30 min north from Hilo airport, park on the mauka (mountain-side) of highway 19 just after the 16 mile marker. This has some of the best waterfalls on Maui. It is located in the Pelekunu Preserve on the windward side of Molokai. The Kulaniapia Falls is a private 90-100 foot waterfall located at the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls. Flash floods are also a risk, so stay out of the water if its raining (where you are or upstream). Youll be able to see 3 of the most famous Big Island waterfalls (Akaka Falls, Hiilawe Falls, and Rainbow Falls) on a half-day tour. 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. In fact, there is a small parking lot near the falls, as well as a short but slippery path to visit the base. The waterfall flows from a water source called the Onomea Stream. There are tons of gorgeous waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii. 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. Nanue Falls is located on the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. Image credit: Mark. While you can access most of these on your own, you can also join Hawaii waterfall tours for a more personalized experience. This tour takes you on a journey through Hilo, stopping by at the Rainbow Falls, tidepools, and ocean beaches. You might hear that people go swimming here, but dont do it! Lava from Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa meet near the base of Peepee Falls, about 2 miles downstream. Youll be treated to an entirely new and equally beautiful view of the waterfalls. Below we've included links to several of the best waterfalls on the Big Island, most of which you can see without ahelicopter(all falls visible from the air only are noted). 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. The Umauma falls are three waterfalls in close proximity to the Umauma River, 16 miles north of Hilo on the Hamakua coast. Please keep in mind that the historic area located by the parking lot is not safe for swimming. Soak in soaring sea cliffs, remote valleys, and even go for a swim under one of seven waterfalls. They are one of the best helicopter companies in Hawaii. In fact, some still consider it a secret or hidden spot on the island even though it has been featured in several magazines and TV shows. On the Hamakua coast: 'Akaka falls, Kolekole falls, Umauma falls, Onomea falls, Nanue falls, Hanapueo falls + lower Umauma falls. Click the button below. While I was there I witnessed two people hike to the top, even though it clearly said not to do so. Hanapueo and Umauma Falls. Rainbow Falls One of Hawaii's most stunning waterfalls, Rainbow Falls is named for the rainbows that can be seen in the mist. Its the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago and has some of the most popular waterfalls in all of Hawaii! She was a professional hula dancer for 20 years and even wrote her college thesis on Hawaiian history. Another popular way to observe the Umauma Falls is through a short 1.7 mile hike within the World Botanical Garden that most consider to be unchallenging. The hike itself can be challenging and involves multiple stream crossings. You can now drive on a concrete road right to the falls and tropical garden. Rainbow Falls is one of the easiest to see and most popular waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii. Its an impressive 1,450-foot natural waterfall with a main drop of 1,201 feet. The hike is beautiful, surrounded by bamboo groves and delicate wild orchids. This is a 120ft waterfall on the Waiau Stream situated on the lower slopes of Mauna Kea not far from Hilo. Rappelling at the Kulaniapia Falls. For those with a daring spirit, the Deleuze ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience tour is for you. Although the Hawaiian archipelago has a multitude of famous waterfalls, especially on Oahu, Maui, and Kauai. This is a full-day trip from Kona. This amazingly unique experience takes place on the beautiful landscapes near the Umauma stream, held on pristinely-kept private property. pro tip for another close-by waterfall: if you continue up Wailuku drive a few minutes longer you get to a bridge crossing the Wailuku river. Double your adventure with the Kohala Zip and Dip and explore the enchanting lands of North Kohala. The property also offers lava encounter tours and lava tube tours as well if you are interested. The hike to the waterfall takes either 5 or 15 minutes, depending on which route you decide to take. This waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls across all of the Islands, standing at its maximum height at 1,450 feet. Love Hawaii? Both waterfalls are beautiful Big Island attractions. Big Island waterfall tours Legends of the Waterfalls & Volcano Full-Day Tour At the writing of this post, the Umauma Falls are now accessible through the botanical gardens. Enjoy! Just two weeks ago, the couple posted a YouTube video of the mum-to-be at 38-weeks pregnant interacting with dolphins in the sea. The Umauma Falls are a spectacular 3-tiered falls and one of the best waterfalls on the Big Island. The Waipio Valley lookout trailhead is a very steep but short half-mile hike. This adds ~1 hour/waterfall to your itinerary will be the best option for the large majority of visitors. Our most popular hotels on the Island of Hawaii Big Island travel tips & recommendations , Explore Big Island Hotels & Resorts Search Now. Are you traveling to the Big Island of Hawaii? It will take you about an hour to reach the end of the path, which is lined with lush greenery and beautiful scenery. I visited Rainbow Falls in September of 2021 and the trail to get to the top was closed. Map of Big Island Waterfalls Wrapping Up the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island from $85 + taxes & fees | Child $75. The Experiences Package allows you to water rappel. Sustainable Travel guide and itineraries for the Big Island of Hawaii. This is the perfect pre or post-hike pit stop for pineapples and fresh coconuts that you can't miss. Get your discounted Kohala Zip and Dip Tour. Along the way, youll be privy to various wild orchids. The best time to visit the rainbow falls is in the early morning because this is when you have the most chance to see rainbows in the spray of the waterfall. 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 waterfall, however, is worth the effort it takes to access it. Most waterfalls on the Hamakua coast are a 90-mile drive away. Visit the State Parks website for updated pricing. Dont miss them because once you see them, youll never forget them! The farmers markets are a little-known gem allowing visitors to meet locals, shop for arts and crafts and enjoy edible treasures. Furthermore, flash floods and strong currents are a real danger there. Are you as obsessed with Hawaiian waterfalls as we are? Subscribe to receive 5 emails in 5 days: Call us for advice! 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. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. While there are gorgeous waterfalls on Kauai, Oahu, and Maui, the Big Island has some of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii. Deluxe Big Island ATV Tour & Waterfall Swim at Umauma Falls . Another, more expensive but more spectacular way to see waterfalls (and the volcano!) These are just a few of the many, many tours that can be booked to see the beautiful waterfalls on the Big Island. All Rights Reserved If you follow the path, youll see the beautiful Kahuna Falls along the way just before you see Akaka Falls. With all that you can do at Kulaniapia Falls, it makes this waterfall a top-rated Hawaii waterfall on the Big Island. Sign up for a discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour. Mahalo! A tour across the Hamakua Coast that stops at Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls and Richardson Beach Park. Swim, kayak, stand up paddleboard or just relax and enjoy the scenery with your friends and family. Here are a few top picks that are worth checking out! Compared to Rainbow Falls, Peepee Falls are less crowded and less known. Marvel at the beauty and adventure that makes up Hawaii. When people talk about swimming at Peepee Falls, they are probably referring to the boiling pots located by the lookout point. There may be no better way to experience Hawaiian waterfalls than with a helicopter tour. The state park is located along the northeastern Hilo Coast, west of Honom. To make the process easier you can look directly into Kona jeep rental deals and reserve the one that meets your needs. If youre lucky, you may be able to see honu (green sea turtle) and even dolphins! Rainbow Falls, located along the length of the Waikuku River and well-known for its beauty and accessibility, is one of the most popular waterfalls on the Big Island. Standing at 2,954 feet tall, this waterfall is spectacular. Where are the best waterfalls to swim in Hawaii? document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Having traveled to Hawaii MORE THAN 40 TIMES, Marcie is a self-proclaimed Hawaii travel expert! So no one is taking care of it and ensuring the area remains clean. Akaka Falls. Hi'ilawe Falls in the Waipio Valley. It aims to take you on an unforgettable journey through the Hamakua Coast. To be exact, you can find it along the Umauma River in Hakalau. The Best Hiking Shoes for Hawaii in 2021(The Ultimate buying Guide), The 5 Best Reef Safe Sunscreens for Hawaii. The water conceals long lava ridges, so its easy to be pulled in and trapped. Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. The waterfalls are located less than half a mile from the parking lot. The view is spectacular and the tame and paved nature hike was enjoyable too. Peepee Falls form a rather risky, but popular local swimming hole known as boiling pots. However, swimming here has proved to be lethal and should be avoided. Due to its location, the sun hits the water at just the right angle to show off. They are all unique in their own ways. Its not a difficult hike to get to the foot of the waterfall, so you wont need any special gear to visit this beautiful waterfall. This waterfall can only be accessed from the lookout, and swimming here is no longer allowed. Read more: in our guide to visiting the Rainbow falls. We enjoy nature, the ocean, mountains, adventure, and all things outdoors. The content on this website may not be copied or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission. The most popular way to observe the Umauma Falls is from a tranquil overlook accessible through the World Botanical Garden.