Plus it has numerous attractions, from volcanic rock formations to beautiful waterfalls. The closest waterfalls in the Kohala district (about 50 miles) require a tour to visit. The waterfalls themselves might be short, but the picturesque pools are well worth the short hike. 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. Seeing waterfalls is a great way to save money while on your vacation to Hawaii. Aside from waterfalls, youll also be able to see red-hot lava flows, the Kohala Mule Station lookout, and more! I have seen other people recommend Peepee Falls as another great option. The Umauma Falls are a spectacular 3-tiered falls and one of the best waterfalls on the Big Island. You can also walk down from the upper parking lots and viewing decks. Most of the waterfalls are found near Hilo and northeastern, or Hamakua, coast. My personal favorites are Polulu Valley, The Puna Trail, and The hike to Makalawena Beach, to name a few. Find the best prices here. Enjoy this 8-hour adventure as you explore Kohala, the oldest of five volcanos that make up the Big Island. On the paved uphill Akaka Falls Loop Trail, you'll venture past these two beautiful waterfalls . Unfortunately, the strength of the falls is often dependent on rainfall - so here's to hoping you catch it on a good day. Love Hawaii? And, youll pass it on the way to Akaka Falls. Content on this site is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical, health, or safety advice. Overview . Come join the Big Island's only horseback ride that offers swimming at a waterfall! Hawaii Waterfall Swim Adventure, Waipio Valley Lookout & Botanical Garden . Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden Photo credit: Island of Hawaii Visitors Bureau (IHVB) / Tyler Schmitt. However, because you descend over 900 feet in such a short distance, the hike up is immensely steep and challenging to manage. This half-day tour takes you to the three most famous Big Island waterfalls: 'Akaka Falls, Hi'ilawe Falls and Rainbow Falls. Rainbow Falls One of Hawaii's most stunning waterfalls, Rainbow Falls is named for the rainbows that can be seen in the mist. Read more: in our guide to visiting the Akaka falls. Akaka Falls is located inside the Akaka Falls State Park in Hawaii. Its a 100-foot waterfall that youll pass by on your way to Akaka if you follow the footpath. Akaka Falls are about 422 feet tall, but are only viewable from the viewing platform. 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! Although smaller, the Kahuna Falls is similarly beautiful. If you prefer places that are not busy, then you will love Peepee Falls. Starting in Hilo town, this tour takes you on a slow-paced kayaking trip through the waters of Hilo Bay, where youll learn about some of the culture and history of the area. The left is a shorter route to get to the Akaka waterfall, but if you are up for an adventure I recommend taking a right for a longer but beautiful hike. 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. . The water conceals long lava ridges, so its easy to be pulled in and trapped. Read more: in our guide to visiting the Rainbow falls. 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. One of the greatest, Makapipi Falls, Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA, Located off Pali Highway is this extraordinary waterfall hike complete with a trek through a bamboo forest, views of a stunning field and reservoir, the beauty of the Hawaiian jungle, and of course the jaw-dropping, 50-foot Lulumahu Falls. Here at Only In Hawaii, weve talked about waterfalls, and weve talked about swimming holes, but now were combining the two and giving you our exclusive list of 13 of the best waterfalls in Hawaii to swim in across all of the islands from spots found only from hiking through the deep jungle of Oahus windward coast, to various scenic spots visible from Mauis breathtaking Hana Highway. Rainbow Falls is one of the easiest to see and most popular waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii. I would plan 10 hours out of your day if you are thinking about doing the hike. Located in Hilo, Hawaii in Wailuku River State Park, Rainbow Falls might be the most famous waterfall on the island. 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. Don't miss them because once you see them, you'll never forget them! Another, more expensive but more spectacular way to see waterfalls (and the volcano!) They also offer ATV tours, waterfall rappelling and horseback riding tours to the falls as well. 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. Due to its location, the sun hits the water at just the right angle to show off. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! You may have a luxury problem though: there are more waterfalls on the Big Island than you can reasonable visit during your stay! However, it is important to note that Umauma Falls is a private waterfall that can only be accessed through small group tours. Its a way to connect with nature and experience the waterfall closer than otherwise. The good news is, while youre inside the botanical garden, youll be able to see the beautiful flora and fauna species that are native to Hawaii. 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. These 7 Big Island waterfalls are truly spectacular and well worth checking out during your stay here! The famous triple-tiered Umauma Falls. Big Island Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Big Island Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. They are one of the best helicopter companies in Hawaii. Both waterfalls are beautiful Big Island attractions. Swimming here is not recommended, even on days where it feels safe. You can visit their website at the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls for additional details. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. Youll never run out of things to do here. Located within the Hilo city limits, Wainuenue (Rainbow Falls) is very easy to visit. The tour will stop at Rainbow Falls, Akaka Falls, and Richardson Beach Park. Take a comfortable ride through stunning countryside up to the hiking trailhead. The 422 ft tall Akaka falls are part of the Akaka falls state park, located just north of Hilo. Our most popular hotels on the Island of Hawaii Sign up for this discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour. Compared to Oahu or Maui, the Big Island of Hawaii is massive! Whether you are looking to Big Island waterfall tours or waterfalls you can swim in on the Big Island, this guide will give you everything you need to plan your next adventure. You can contact the State Division of Forestry and Wildlife at 808-974-4221. This waterfall is created from a small stream and is a multiple-tier waterfall located inside the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden. The private property is currently managed by the Umauma Experience. You can access this trail from the Waipio Valley lookout. There have been instances where people lost their lives here. You can start the hike to this waterfall from the Waipio Valley lookout. Stretching 93 miles long, its nearly four times as big as Maui. The Oloupena Falls is the tallest waterfall in Hawaii, located on the tiny island of Molokai, stretching an immense 2,953 feet high. In fact, there is a small parking lot near the falls, as well as a short but slippery path to visit the base. Most waterfalls can be found on the slopes of the Mauna Kea volcano close to Hilo and on the Hamakua coast. This is what the falls look like after a good rain upstream. This allows you to experience a birds-eye view of the waterfall! While there are gorgeous waterfalls on Kauai, Oahu, and Maui, the Big Island has some of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii. 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). All Rights Reserved. The Best Hiking Shoes for Hawaii in 2021(The Ultimate buying Guide), The 5 Best Reef Safe Sunscreens for Hawaii. I visited Rainbow Falls in September of 2021 and the trail to get to the top was closed. If you are looking for a bit more of an adventure, more waterfalls can be found in the valleys of the Kohala coast, as well as on the northern Hamakua coast. The Akaka Falls and the Rainbow Falls are hands-down the most-visited waterfalls on the Big Island. The enormous waterfall cascades down a steep lava rock wall into a boulder-strewn pool. Zipline high above the forest floor, picnic on the rim of Pololu Valley & swim under a private waterfall fed by a cool mountain stream. Flash flooding in this area is common, so please proceed with caution. This would allow you to see almost all of our favorite waterfalls and is recommended for people that really love waterfalls. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. Most of the waterfalls on the Big Island are fairly close to Hilo. This might cost more, but its well worth it. On the Hamakua coast: 'Akaka falls, Kolekole falls, Umauma falls, Onomea falls, Nanue falls, Hanapueo falls + lower Umauma falls. Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Big Island Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? As we all know, a trip to Hawaii can be expensive and doing free or cheap activities is how most of us can afford to travel. The content on this website may not be copied or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission. Youll get to play in the ocean, explore a tidepool, and see Rainbow Falls. Akaka Falls is a spectacularly tall waterfall that hurls down an incredible 422 feet down a mountain face. You will need to pay an admission fee to see these falls. The waterfall got its name from the rainbow that often forms at the base. 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. The waterfall is named for the beautiful rainbow that forms at the waterfalls base. Located along the Umauma River in Hakalau, Umauma Falls is a series of three, short cascading waterfalls. Her next trip to Hawaii is never too far away! I have seen people continue to do it anyway, but this is just asking for trouble. First trip to the Big Island? Sign up for this discounted Legends of the Waterfalls & Volcano Tour. Here you will find a delightful selection of art galleries and gift stores as well as several cafes. Map of Big Island Waterfalls Wrapping Up the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island The most important is the water-born disease leptospirosis: dont go swimming if you have any abrasions, scrapes, blisters or other skin lesions. When river safety conditions permit, you can also go swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding under the Kulaniapia Falls using on-site equipment. The size of these waterfalls and their location in the lush and tropical rainforest makes them a popular and spectacular attraction to check out. If youd like to dabble in something slightly more adventurous, you can go ziplining or rappelling over the area. Sign up for our free monthly updates (more info) about everything that is new and happening in Hawaii. Top 9 Waterfalls on The Big Island Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls Hi'ilawe Falls Rainbow Falls Pe'epe'e Falls Umauma Falls Kulaniapia Falls Onomea Falls Wai'ilikahi Falls What is the best way to visit all these waterfalls? 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. It is located about 1.6 miles (5-minute drive) from Rainbow Falls and is also part of the Wailuku River. There are plenty of these tours you can take while on the Big Island. The hike to the Rainbow Falls is immensely short, and although reaching the top of the falls may seem intimidating, its both simple and worth the effort. 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 volume of the rainbow falls (or Waianuenue) changes on a daily basis. Whats the Honolulu Sister Cities Program? Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. Mahalo! The Big Island of Hawaii offers so much for visitors with its lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes. The content on this website may not be copied or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission. To make the process easier you can look directly into Kona jeep rental deals and reserve the one that meets your needs. Now they have opened up their grounds to a limited amount of daily visitors. This is an activity in which you descend the rocks surrounding the waterfall with a harness and equipment ensuring your safety. HOME PRIVACY POLICY TERMS, Affiliate Disclosure: We receive compensation from companies whose products or services are used, referenced, or reviewed regardless of whether we endorse or criticize them. from $85 + taxes & fees | Child $75. The on-site Inn organizes this tour which is led a team of expert canyoneering guides. Not really. In addition, if weather and conditions permit, you may be able to swim, kayak or paddleboard under the waterfalls. Upper Waikani Falls Joe Parks/Flickr Also known as Three Bears falls, Waikani is approximately 70 feet tall, and visible from the Hana Highway. Its easily accessible and it will only take you about half an hour to get here. 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. Big Island waterfall tours Legends of the Waterfalls & Volcano Full-Day Tour Kulaniapia Falls is located inside a 42-acre private property in Hilo, Hawaii. It depends on which one you choose! Kulania Falls is nearby and just as beautiful. Even when the falls are dry, the lush landscape is incredible. This Upper Waikani Falls, Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA 2. Onomea Falls is a stunning multi-tiered waterfall set amidst a beautiful botanical garden: the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. From USD 218.85 (9) Big Island Waterfall Swim & Rainforest Hiking Tour & Nature Eco-Adventure . Youll see places on the Big Island only accessible by air. Nanua Falls is a series of waterfalls on the Hamakua Coast, about 18 miles north of Hilo. However, you need to pay a fee to access the private viewing deck. Facebook Pinterest Twitter Instagram Subscribe to our Newsletter. For a beautiful view and unforgettable experience, sign up for a discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. Swimming is not allowed here, so keep that in mind when you visit. 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? Each has its own unique beauty that will leave you in awe from start to finish! The best part? 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. Rappel down 120 feet past Hawaiis largest privately accessible waterfall supervised by expert canyoneering guides. Kulaniapia Falls is a private waterfall located on the Waiau Stream, not far from Hilo. And these are just the most popular waterfalls on Big Island. From USD 221.99 (9) Umauma Falls Zipline Tour & Waterfall Swim Adventure . Bear right at the top of the hill onto the main street of Honomu town. Youll experience 7 incredible Kohala waterfalls plus a picnic lunch. Here, youll zipline across the forest, have lunch in the Pololu Valley, and even swim in a Big Island waterfall. Another great way to visit all of these falls is through a helicopter tour. Keep scrolling for the best waterfalls on the Big Island and discover why people love coming back again and again to this magical island destination. Youll be treated to an entirely new and equally beautiful view of the waterfalls. 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. Youll also pass by Boulder Creek on your way to the falls, which is a gorgeous sight to see. Located in the Cummins Falls State Park in Jackson County, Tennessee, the Cummins Falls is 75 feet high and is the eighth largest waterfall in Tennessee by volume. There is no swimming allowed here; you can only view the falls from a safe distance. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. In any case, as you can see from the map above and the list below that . Access to the overview for the waterfalls lies on private land which is being managed by the Umauma Experience. Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls. One of the coolest ways to experience Kulaniapia Falls is by booking a spot in one of the Experience Packages available at the property. Visit the State Parks website for updated pricing. Flash floods are also a risk, so stay out of the water if its raining (where you are or upstream). This one has amazing views of the Kohala Coast while listening to fascinating commentary from the pilot. Its a 422-foot natural waterfall. Drive down yourself (only with 4WD), or get down to the valley floor as part of a horseback riding tour in the valley. Waterfalls of Kohala A helicopter tour of the waterfalls along the Kohala Coast. Sign up for discounted Hilo Bay Kayaking Tickets. However, the best views come when you climb under the bridge and follow a short jungle path to the base of the waterfall. As a paradise for active travelers it is rich in experiences that include nature, culinary discoveries, historic landmarks, shopping, nightlife and festivals. 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. The 422 ft. tall Akaka falls are a pleasant stop on your way to or from Hilo. Of course, the most popular and simple strategy is to include a visit into your itinerary as you drive by one or two waterfalls. Nanue Falls is located on the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. Mahalo! 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. This article covers seven of the Big Islands most beautiful waterfalls! This amazingly unique experience takes place on the beautiful landscapes near the Umauma stream, held on pristinely-kept private property. This can cause the falls to be (almost) dry even during the wet season. What is the best way to visit all these waterfalls? Which waterfall can you swim at on the Big Island? They are very safe and you will have amazing views. 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. During the tour, youll travel along the coastline. Enjoy spectacular views of Mauna Kea and the Pacific Ocean, awesome photo spots, swim in a private pond and really experience off-road Hawaii. 'Akaka Falls 'Akaka Falls is located just north of Hilo and are a gem of the Big Island's waterfalls. For the adventurous, go off-roading on the Big Islands Hamakua Coast in a Honda ATV or a Side x Side UTV. Umauma Falls is located on the Big Island in Hawaii. Akaka, Kahuna, Hiilawe, Rainbow, Umauma, Peepee, Kulaniapia, Onomeaand WaiilikahiFalls. If you are short on time, we recommend that you limit yourself to the more spectacular Akaka and Rainbow waterfalls. The total height of the falls is about 1,450 feet (442m), with a highest direct drop of 1,201 feet (366m)! While you can access most of these on your own, you can also join Hawaii waterfall tours for a more personalized experience. Also, if you are visiting Oahu and want to know where the best waterfall hikes are on Oahu, Ive got you covered. Rainbow Falls, or Wainuenue, is located inside the Wailuku River State Park in Hilo, Hawaii. You have to be a guest at the Inn to access the trail leading to the waterfall. One of the, Often referred to as Secret Falls, this beautiful waterfall will require substantial work to reach but we think its totally worth it. The only waterfall you can swim at on the Big Island is the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls. This waterfall can only be accessed from the lookout, and swimming here is no longer allowed. Akaka Falls are extremely accessible, as the trail to the waterfall stretches only 0.4 miles long. 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. Please keep in mind that the falls are not accessible to the general public. 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. Located up the Wailua River, you will need to either rent kayaks or book a guided tour to reach the trailhead. Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing, History (From $226.96) Hawaii Volcano Adventure Tour from Hilo (From $195.99) There are much safer spots to swim - a.k.a. 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. If you decide to swim, please take extra precautions as rivers are prone to flash flooding. Its location allows the sun to hit the water at just the perfect angle. Sustainable Travel guide and itineraries for the Big Island of Hawaii. It is located in the Pelekunu Preserve on the windward side of Molokai. This, Located within Waimea Valley is this charming waterfall, perfect for a family swim. The waterfall is split into two waterfalls that fall into a pool below. Waiilikahi Falls are yet another gem on the Big Island, but it takes a lot to hike to the falls. Entry to the state park will cost $5 . Visitors will have to pay an entrance fee for the botanical garden, but once inside, the paved stroll to the waterfall is quick, and features a changing room, available life jackets and lifeguards on duty. Other than water rappelling, the Experiences Package offers a multitude of other activities. So no one is taking care of it and ensuring the area remains clean. Check out the latest prices and more details. Its such a fun, Combine vibrant sapphire pools with some stellar spots for cliff jumping, and youve got one of Mauis local hangouts. Wading through these pools is not recommended. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. Youll need to pay an entrance fee to enter the area. Rappelling at the Kulaniapia Falls. Join this tour to see waterfalls and the stunning Hilo scenery and learn about King Kamehameha the Great and his preference for the area. Whether you want to soar over the falls or dive right in and swim them, we have the tour for you. As you tour, youll be able to enjoy amazing photo spots and unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean, waterfalls, and the Mauna Kea. Plan to hike on slippery rocks, uphill slogs, tree roots, mud, and unmaintained trails. The waterfalls of Hawaii on the Big Island are absolutely stunning. Akaka Falls on the Big Island. And if youre heading to Akaka Falls with kids, check out my guide HERE. Onomea Falls is located along the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. The hike is suitable for the whole family and takes half an hour if you take your time. This is an 8-hour zipline + waterfall swim tour that takes you to Kohala, the oldest volcano on the island, for an inspiring and exhilarating day. Deluxe Big Island ATV Tour & Waterfall Swim at Umauma Falls . You will need to stop at the visitor center to register before heading to the falls. 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. This tour is unique in that it focuses almost entirely on the history and culture of Hawaii. To be able to visit the waterfall, you can book a guest room at The Inn or book one of the Experience Packages available at the property. As an Amazon Associate, thistraveldream.com earns from qualifying purchases. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. 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 picturesque spot can be found past mile marker 16 on the Hana Highway, below the bridge that crosses Palauhulu Stream. Log in, We are passionate waterfall lovers eager to share our experiences chasing waterfalls around the world! Credit: John McCollum. The water can be seen while hiking down the valley, and it should be visible to the left within around 7 minutes into the hike (depending on how fast you walk). Get your discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. Step Into The World Of Narnia On This Forbidden Waterfall Hike In Hawaii, The Hike In Hawaii That Takes You To Not One, But TWO Insanely Beautiful Waterfalls, Hike Less Than A Mile To This Spectacular Waterfall Swimming Hole In Hawaii, Embark On An Epic 7.3-Mile Trail In Hawaii That Features Waterfalls And Jaw-Dropping Views, The 14 Tallest Waterfalls In Hawaii Will Drop Your Jaw, This Waterfall Swimming Hole In Hawaii Is So Hidden Youll Probably Have It All To Yourself, This Tiered Waterfall And Swimming Hole In Hawaii Must Be On Your Summer Bucket List, The Ultimate Bucket List For Anyone In Hawaii Who Loves Waterfall Hikes. On the bright side, they did not jump off the falls as they planned to. Each one of these is worth visiting at least once in my opinion. 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. The most notable waterfalls on the Big Island that are free to visit are the Peepee Falls and the Rainbow falls. The most popular way to observe the Umauma Falls is from a tranquil overlook accessible through the World Botanical Garden. It stretches over 120 feet high, although the tiers make it difficult to measure accurately. But dont worry, this is a very easy hike to do and the trail is paved and well maintained. Its accessible through several different methods and gorgeous no matter how you see it. The Majestic Waterfalls Tour is one of the best tours on this list. The beach! Are you planning to travel to the Big Island of Hawaii? To be exact, you can find it along the Umauma River in Hakalau. Standing at 2,954 feet tall, this waterfall is spectacular. It aims to take you on an unforgettable journey through the Hamakua Coast. At the writing of this post, the Umauma Falls are now accessible through the botanical gardens. Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. Peepee Falls are another great waterfall that you can visit. HOME PRIVACY POLICY TERMS. The package can include waterfall rappelling, which is the best way to experience Kulaniapia. I highly discourage doing this hike during the rainy season. There are many tours available if you would rather visit with a guide. Download and/or view the map of all 9 waterfalls here. It takes about 60 to 90 minutes to hike to the waterfall. It is advised that you check weather reports and ocean conditions before heading out for the day, never swim in these pools when you have open wounds and to always watch your step.