All Rights Reserved. Note: There is an admission fee to the state park, $5.00 per car or $1 per person if you are walking. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. Off the main street is the Mana's Aloha Fruit Stand. You can see all sorts of hidden waterfalls if you go kayaking, take a boat tour, or ride in a helicopter. The only waterfall you can swim at on the Big Island is the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls. If you think you've located a Big Island waterfall we've omitted, please contact us, and we'll make sure it's added. 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. Sign up for this discounted Waipio Valley and Waterfalls Adventure. Be sure to do both if you have the time. 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. If you only have time to see one of the waterfalls, we suggest seeing the incredible Akaka Falls. Soak in soaring sea cliffs, remote valleys, and even go for a swim under one of seven waterfalls. Visiting the Big Island of Hawaii is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and weve done all the work for you to help plan your trip. These are gorgeous Hawaii Big Island waterfalls worth checking out. Most waterfalls on the Hamakua coast are a 90-mile drive away. To make the process easier you can look directly into Kona jeep rental deals and reserve the one that meets your needs. It is simply breathtaking. Hawaii Waterfall Swim Adventure, Waipio Valley Lookout & Botanical Garden . The Big Island of Hawaii offers so much for visitors with its lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes. From USD 221.99 (9) Umauma Falls Zipline Tour & Waterfall Swim Adventure . However, they have started opening the grounds to the public for a $49 day pass. Also, be sure to check out all the waterfalls in Hawaii on ourHawaii Waterfallspage. You no longer need to book a tour with the Umauma Experience to get to the falls. Get in touch with us! It is a privately owned so you need to go with a tour group but well worth it! It takes less than an hour to hike leisurely and is only somewhat sloped uphill. There are so many incredible waterfalls, making it hard to know where to start. So without further ado, here are the best of the Big Island Waterfalls that we've personally swam in or at least see ourselves swimming in PEEPEE FALLS (PE'EPE'E FALLS & BOILING POTS) A couple swimming in one of the pools of the Boiling Pots just downstream of Pe'epe'e Falls Before you get to Akaka Falls, you can also visit Kahuna Falls inside the state park. from $85 + taxes & fees | Child $75. We've updated both travel guides with a lot of new great information for potential visitors (and those who've been a time or two as well). Its location allows the sun to hit the water at just the perfect angle. A full-day rainforest adventure for all ages. Then, you have to complete the 45-minute hike through the muddy jungle to reach the falls. Wrapping Up the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island. The waterfall is named for the beautiful rainbow that forms at the waterfalls base. 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? Read more: in our guide to visiting the Akaka falls. Good to know: to access the falls you must purchase a $49 daypass to the grounds. This might cost more, but its well worth it. If youd like to dabble in something slightly more adventurous, you can go ziplining or rappelling over the area. The Wailuku River flows along the bottom of the gorge and downstream to Rainbow Falls. Enjoy this 8-hour adventure as you explore Kohala, the oldest of five volcanos that make up the Big Island. This waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls across all of the Islands, standing at its maximum height at 1,450 feet. But make sure to read up on the waterfall you visit, because sometimes certain areas in the Hawaiian islands are prone to flooding, and can be dangerous to swim in after a heavy rainfall. Which Cities Have Nonstop Flights to Hawaii. They are very safe and you will have amazing views. Some of which are so beautiful that they inspired some of Hawaiis most popular songs. 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. Another great way to see these waterfalls is to take an organized tour. Now they have opened up their grounds to a limited amount of daily visitors. Mahalo! The largest waterfall in Hawaii is Oloupena Falls, located in Molokai. The tropical gardens have a wonderful overlook that allows you to get a great view of Umauma Falls. Spend a few hours relaxing luxuriating in a private area of the Umauma River. Are you traveling to the Big Island of Hawaii? Here is our list of the top 9 waterfalls in Hawaii that wont disappoint! 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. Map of Big Island Waterfalls Wrapping Up the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island Rappelling at the Kulaniapia Falls. You can now drive on a concrete road right to the falls and tropical garden. The Kulaniapia Falls is a private 90-100 foot waterfall located at the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls. Double your adventure with the Kohala Zip and Dip and explore the enchanting lands of North Kohala. The state park entry fees are $5/car or $1/pedestrian. As youre admiring the view of the Kohala Coast, youll also be privy to commentary about the history and culture of the area by the pilot. There are much safer spots to swim - a.k.a. Visit the Botanical Gardens website for updated pricing. Waimoku Falls is a 400 foot waterfall that you see pictured on the cover of many of Maui's guidebooks and is one of the tallest waterfalls on Maui. There is no swimming allowed here; you can only view the falls from a safe distance. 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. Zipline high above the forest floor, picnic on the rim of Pololu Valley & swim under a private waterfall fed by a cool mountain stream. What I mean by this is that it was once one of the tallest and mightiest waterfalls in all the islands of Hawai'i with its often quoted cumulative height of 1,450ft. 1: Maui Overview 2: Things to Do 3: Where to Stay 4: Popular Sights and Destinations 5: Road to Hana (Maui) 6: Maui Itinerary 7: Maui blog posts, The second-biggest island in the chain, much of Mauis appeal comes from its natural landscape and biodiversity, including its two massive volcanoes, whale watching and marine ecosystems, 1: Oahu Overview 2: Things to Do 3: Where to Stay 4: Popular Sights and Destinations 5: Oahu Beaches 6: Oahu Itinerary 7: Oahu blog posts. from the air is as part of a helicopter tour. [more], 2006-2023 World Of Waterfalls, All Rights Reserved 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. This one has amazing views of the Kohala Coast while listening to fascinating commentary from the pilot. The falls used to only be open to those staying at the hotel located on the grounds. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. This is one of the best waterfalls to visit while on the Big Island, and I highly recommend staying here. Turn inland (mauka) between mile markers 14 and 13 onto Honomu Road. Akaka, Kahuna, Hiilawe, Rainbow, Umauma, Peepee, Kulaniapia, Onomeaand WaiilikahiFalls. 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). ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. Where are all the waterfalls in Hilo Hawaii? The Experiences Package allows you to water rappel. It will take you about two hours to hike to Nanue Falls, but the path isnt too hard to walk on so youll be fine. The beach! Another, more expensive but more spectacular way to see waterfalls (and the volcano!) Narnia is the name given to a set of waterfalls in the Hilo Forest Reserve. This is a 120ft waterfall on the Waiau Stream situated on the lower slopes of Mauna Kea not far from Hilo. The Oloupena Falls is the tallest waterfall in Hawaii, located on the tiny island of Molokai, stretching an immense 2,953 feet high. #1. Standing at around 80 feet tall, this waterfall is a must-see year round on the Big Island. Directions: About 30 min north from Hilo airport, park on the mauka (mountain-side) of highway 19 just after the 16 mile marker. Download and/or view the map of all 9 waterfalls here. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu. Bear right at the top of the hill onto the main street of Honomu town. We decided to take a scenic drive while staying on the Hilo side to see some of these waterfalls. It is located inside the private property and theres no other way to access it. One of the coolest ways to experience Kulaniapia Falls is by booking a spot in one of the Experience Packages available at the property. Flash flooding in this area is common, so please proceed with caution. Check out the latest prices and more details. The Northern beach offers the best base location for those wanting to live by the sea in Sons of the Forest. Rappel down 120 feet past Hawaiis largest privately accessible waterfall supervised by expert canyoneering guides. Don't miss them because once you see them, you'll never forget them! You can get access to the falls either by purchasing a day pass (limited availability of 10 guests / day), or by joining their Rappel down the 120ft Kulaniapia Falls experience. This multi tiered, Oheo Gulch, OheO Gulch, Hawaii 96713, USA. Its one of the quietest and least touristy waterfalls on the island, so you can enjoy a chill day with your friends when you visit. Are you as obsessed with Hawaiian waterfalls as we are? Big Island is home to some of the tallest falls in the state. Check out the latest prices and more details. 1. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW. 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. Take your first right onto Akaka Falls Road and continue for 3.75 miles until you reach the parking lot. This picture shows the Hiilawe falls on an almost dry day. Please keep in mind that the historic area located by the parking lot is not safe for swimming. With all that you can do at Kulaniapia Falls, it makes this waterfall a top-rated Hawaii waterfall on the Big Island. Stretching 93 miles long, its nearly four times as big as Maui. And while you can certainly get to some of these places on your own, a great way to see the highlights is by booking aBig Island Tourwith The Volcano Van. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. The path to Onomea Falls is stunning in itself. 6 Favorite waterfalls Akaka falls (inside state park, small entrance fee required) Rainbow falls (free to visit) Umauma falls (on private grounds, entrance fee required) Kulaniapia Falls (on private grounds, entrance fee required) Peepee Falls (+ 1 extra, free to visit) Hiilawe falls (viewable from public road) 7 other waterfalls The best hikes on the Big Island of Hawaii are indeed a mixed bag. Read more: in our guide to visiting the Rainbow falls. Take a full-day waterfall adventure tour of the Big Islands Kohala Coast. Sign up for this discounted Majestic Waterfalls Tour. While youre enjoying these natural attractions, be sure to take lots of pictures! Thankfully they didnt, as there appeared to be rocks under the shallow water at the bottom of the falls. There is a chance of injury or death if you decide to go swimming or wading in any waterfall. The Magical Waterfall Tour is an airborne tour that takes you on a visit to the coastline of Waipio Valley and Waimanu Valley. The lush landscape alone is enough to warrant a hike here. The website World of waterfalls is an excellent resource to find out more about the smaller waterfalls on the island. These falls are more difficult to visit and include the last of our favorites that can only be seen from a distance: the Hiilawe falls. The water conceals long lava ridges, so its easy to be pulled in and trapped. The famous triple-tiered Umauma Falls. This air tour hits up the 7 Kohala waterfalls from the Kona airport. In fact, there is a small parking lot near the falls, as well as a short but slippery path to visit the base. Their list contains the following waterfalls: In Hilo: Rainbow falls, Pe'epe'e falls, Wai'ale falls, Kulaniapia falls. I have seen people continue to do it anyway, but this is just asking for trouble. Akaka Falls are extremely accessible, as the trail to the waterfall stretches only 0.4 miles long. This is the perfect pre or post-hike pit stop for pineapples and fresh coconuts that you can't miss. Check out the latest prices and more details. Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. Waianuenue Falls, Big Island James Walsh/Flickr Unfortunately, the strength of the falls is often dependent on rainfall - so here's to hoping you catch it on a good day. The 422 ft. tall Akaka falls are a pleasant stop on your way to or from Hilo. The trailhead is easy to find just off the parking lot. She was a professional hula dancer for 20 years and even wrote her college thesis on Hawaiian history. Sign up for a discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour. The enormous waterfall cascades down a steep lava rock wall into a boulder-strewn pool. If youre debating on visiting Oahu or Maui, you can check out my other article on Oahu Vs Maui to learn more. Regardless, they are still worth the visit if you love nature and gorgeous views. You can view all three of them from an overlook that you can access via a private botanical garden. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. Copyright 2019-2023 Hawaii Travel With Kids/Marcie In Mommyland, Top 7 Big Island Hawaii Waterfalls You Should Visit, Privacy Policy for Hawaii Travel with Kids, Courtyard by Marriotts King Kamehameha Beach Hotel. Check out the latest prices and details here! The hike itself can be challenging and involves multiple stream crossings. Guests will witness mantas up close as they grace the waters and feed on plankton. The most popular way to observe the Umauma Falls is from a tranquil overlook accessible through the World Botanical Garden. A delicious catered lunch is provided in our secluded pavilion. On Highway 19's bridge, most drivers will pass by these 2 neat waterfalls without realizing it! Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. Access to the overview for the waterfalls lies on private land which is being managed by the Umauma Experience. Its 93 miles across and has all sorts of terrain and natural wonders. Waterfall tours are among our favorites because of the amount of nature they allow you to experience in a relatively short amount of time and because they often feature a visit to a private waterfall that permits you to actually swim under a waterfall. Youll find the largest waterfall in Hawaii on the secluded island of Molokai. As you tour, youll be able to enjoy amazing photo spots and unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean, waterfalls, and the Mauna Kea. Commonly, especially if you visit in the early morning, the positioning of the Rainbow Falls sends a rainbow arching from its base into the water. Find the best prices here. 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. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. This 80-ft. waterfall on the Wailuku river is the site of a Hawaiian legend that involves the demigod Maui, his mother the Goddess Hina, the Volcano Goddess Pele, and a giant Mo'o or lizard monster up to no good. 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! P?palaua Falls, Hawaii 96748, USA 6. No, swimming at Akaka Falls is no longer allowed. 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. Thank you! They also offer ATV tours, waterfall rappelling and horseback riding tours to the falls as well. The Onomea Falls is located within the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, This s private property owned by Dan Lutkenhouse, first opened in 1984. These are just a few of the many, many tours that can be booked to see the beautiful waterfalls on the Big Island. I highly recommend checking out Viator for some of the best tours in Hawaii. 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? The hike down is very easy and can take as little as 20 minutes. The total height of the falls is about 1,450 feet (442m), with a highest direct drop of 1,201 feet (366m)! Most of these places do not have a lifeguard on duty, making you solely responsible for your safety. Love Hawaii? If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. As an Amazon Associate, thistraveldream.com earns from qualifying purchases. Each has its own unique beauty that will leave you in awe from start to finish! You can read the full story here. Peepee Falls on the Big Island. With a population of less than 75,000, Kauai is truly a small-town island, littered with open space, protected preserves, and old plantation history.