We enjoy nature, the ocean, mountains, adventure, and all things outdoors. The waterfall is located inside Waipio Valley and is about 1,450 feet tall. A 20-acre rainforest greenhouse, the area is filled with beautiful plant life and wild animals. Its such a fun, Combine vibrant sapphire pools with some stellar spots for cliff jumping, and youve got one of Mauis local hangouts. This adds ~1 hour/waterfall to your itinerary will be the best option for the large majority of visitors. Big Island waterfall tours Legends of the Waterfalls & Volcano Full-Day Tour For a beautiful view and unforgettable experience, sign up for a discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. It is located inside the private property and theres no other way to access it. Join this tour to see waterfalls and the stunning Hilo scenery and learn about King Kamehameha the Great and his preference for the area. Umauma Falls is located on the Big Island in Hawaii. 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. Are you as obsessed with Hawaiian waterfalls as we are? I highly recommend checking out Viator for some of the best tours in Hawaii. Of this list, youre not allowed to swim in both Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls, as it is both dangerous and illegal. Its secluded and quiet, and staying here really forces you to slow down and enjoy many of the natural beauties that Hawaii has to offer. Unfortunately, swimming is not allowed at Rainbow Falls, and there are signs warning about the danger of swimming. Be sure to bring extra clothing. The path to Onomea Falls is stunning in itself. If you decide to swim, please take extra precautions as rivers are prone to flash flooding. Youll find the largest waterfall in Hawaii on the secluded island of Molokai. Each has its own unique beauty that will leave you in awe from start to finish! 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. However, you need to pay a fee to be able to access the viewing deck. 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. It is one of the most idyllic and beautiful waterfalls in the world. For those with a daring spirit, the Deleuze ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience tour is for you. The hike is suitable for the whole family and takes half an hour if you take your time. There are plenty of these tours you can take while on the Big Island. Night Swim with Manta Rays. 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. Download and/or view the map of all 9 waterfalls here. There are more than seven pools, and they arent sacred rumor has it that a local hotel owner coined the name in order to attract more visitors to his establishment. In general, yes, but there are several risks associated with swimming under waterfalls in the state of Hawaii that you should be aware of. the State Parks website for updated pricing. Hiilawe Falls is one of the top Big Island waterfall hikes to do. This is an activity in which you descend the rocks surrounding the waterfall with a harness and equipment ensuring your safety. Deluxe Big Island ATV Tour & Waterfall Swim at Umauma Falls . You can either go left or right after you go down the stairs from the parking lot. Hiilawe Falls is best seen at a distance, as public access to the base of the falls is not possible. There are other adventurous activities that you can enjoy here too. Address: 875 Akaka Falls Rd, Honomu, HI 96728, United States. This picture shows the Hiilawe falls on an almost dry day. The website World of waterfalls is an excellent resource to find out more about the smaller waterfalls on the island. This remote, Makaleha Trailhead, 7290 Kahuna Rd, Kapa?a, HI 96746, USA, Makapipi Falls is visible from the Road to Hana, and is unique in that the waterfall plummets into a striking blue pool. Click here to see all our recommended waterfall tours on our website. 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 tour takes you on a journey through Hilo, stopping by at the Rainbow Falls, tidepools, and ocean beaches. As you travel, youll stop at the famous Big Island Candies store, where youll be treated to some of the best candy on the Big Island! The 422 ft tall Akaka falls are part of the Akaka falls state park, located just north of Hilo. 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. You may have a luxury problem though: there are more waterfalls on the Big Island than you can reasonable visit during your stay! Akaka Falls on the Big Island. Please dont take the risk there are many places more suitable for swimming in Hilo (the beach!). The waterfalls of Hawaii on the Big Island are absolutely stunning. The trailhead is easy to find just off the parking lot. Free cancellation: up to 24 hours before tour. Read more about ourHawaii adventureshere. Also, if you are visiting Oahu and want to know where the best waterfall hikes are on Oahu, Ive got you covered. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. Bear right at the top of the hill onto the main street of Honomu town. HOME PRIVACY POLICY TERMS. It stretches hundreds of feet tall and is surrounded by greenery. The famous triple-tiered Umauma Falls. Whether you want to soar over the falls or dive right in and swim them, we have the tour for you. If you already have accommodations, water rappelling can also be booked by the general public. This air tour hits up the 7 Kohala waterfalls from the Kona airport. Due to its relative obscurity, especially compared to the rest of the waterfalls on this list, going to this waterfall and relaxing in the area may seem like a scene out of a movie. This 8-hour tour takes you from Kona to the oldest volcano on the Big Island for an inspiring and exhilarating day. The Waipio Valley lookout trailhead is a very steep but short half-mile hike. 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. Have you gone to any of the best waterfalls in Hawaii to swim? The Big Island is filled with tourist attractions! 9 Hawaii Big Island Waterfalls Rainbow Falls 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. Akaka, Kahuna, Hiilawe, Rainbow, Umauma, Peepee, Kulaniapia, Onomeaand WaiilikahiFalls. Big Island is home to some of the tallest falls in the state. They offer a variety of tours to see the falls with ziplining being our favorite way to see the falls. 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. 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. The water conceals long lava ridges, so its easy to be pulled in and trapped. Entry to the state park will cost $5 . Please do not put these waterfalls on your to-do list. Entry Fees:For Akaka Falls, entry is free for children under ten years old and $5 per adult. 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. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. If the idea of planning a self-guided waterfall trip causes you anxiety, or if you simply want to sit back and enjoy the view, you can always book one of these tours! I have seen other people recommend Peepee Falls as another great option. For the adventurous, go off-roading on the Big Islands Hamakua Coast in a Honda ATV or a Side x Side UTV. Access costs $12 per person (walk-in fee, no pre-bookings required), which also buys you access to their garden. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. These are just a few of the many, many tours that can be booked to see the beautiful waterfalls on the Big Island. Access to the overview for the waterfalls lies on private land which is being managed by the Umauma Experience. The day pass includes access to amazing hiking trails, tropical gardens and a total of four waterfalls - with Kulaniapia Falls being our favorite. The gigantic waterfall stands out from the dry, rocky background of the red-walled canyon. Alternatively, you could think of going for this scenic drive to see all the waterfalls close to Hilo in half a day. The hike down is very easy and can take as little as 20 minutes. Hi'ilawe Falls is visible only within the valley or from the air, as the . Check out the latest prices and details here! You can access the waterfall for free and its one of the best Big Island hikes. The enormous waterfall cascades down a steep lava rock wall into a boulder-strewn pool. Maunawili Falls Are you traveling to the Big Island of Hawaii? When people talk about swimming at Peepee Falls, they are probably referring to the boiling pots located by the lookout point. . You will need to pay an admission fee to see these falls. Mahalo! Sign up for this discounted ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience. Stretching 93 miles long, its nearly four times as big as Maui. There is a chance of injury or death if you decide to go swimming or wading in any waterfall. 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. Here you will find a delightful selection of art galleries and gift stores as well as several cafes. Check out the latest prices and more details. Nonetheless, its still a breathtaking sight to see. Spend a few hours relaxing luxuriating in a private area of the Umauma River. 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. 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. This is a great way to see some of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. Sustainable Travel guide and itineraries for the Big Island of Hawaii. Here is our list of the top 9 waterfalls in Hawaii that wont disappoint! Furthermore, flash floods and strong currents are a real danger there. Sign up for this discounted Legends of the Waterfalls & Volcano Tour. If you are looking for an adventure or just want to relax on your vacation, these seven waterfalls will not disappoint. All Rights Reserved You can contact the State Division of Forestry and Wildlife at 808-974-4221. Get your discounted Waterfalls of Kohala Tour. Approximately 16 miles north of Hilo, on the Umauma River, lies one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Hawaii: Umauma Falls. There are no lifeguards here, so please be extremely cautious. This is part of Hawaiis state park system. Meet with a local driver and travel to North Kona to experience multiple zip-lines that stretch over beautiful landscapes, including waterfalls. 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. Just make sure to leave this waterfall in Hawaii as clean as you found it. On the Hamakua coast: 'Akaka falls, Kolekole falls, Umauma falls, Onomea falls, Nanue falls, Hanapueo falls + lower Umauma falls. My personal favorites are Polulu Valley, The Puna Trail, and The hike to Makalawena Beach, to name a few. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu. The content on this website may not be copied or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission. Turn inland (mauka) between mile markers 14 and 13 onto Honomu Road. Star the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. Youll also pass by Boulder Creek on your way to the falls, which is a gorgeous sight to see. Flash flooding in this area is common, so please proceed with caution. Then, you have to complete the 45-minute hike through the muddy jungle to reach the falls. The falls used to only be open to those staying at the hotel located on the grounds. The content on this website may not be copied or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission. All the waterfalls listed below are spectacular in their own way, and when you visit them theyre sure to impress. Their list contains the following waterfalls: In Hilo: Rainbow falls, Pe'epe'e falls, Wai'ale falls, Kulaniapia falls. What is the best way to visit all these 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. The most notable waterfalls on the Big Island that are free to visit are the Peepee Falls and the Rainbow falls. You dont want any surprises that could ruin your trip. If you dont want to search out the waterfalls on your own, this might be the right tour for you. Rainbow Falls is not safe for swimming. They can be difficult to spot, so it may be worthwhile bringing a pair of binoculars if you really want to get a good look. Why not go on one of our perfectly planned waterfall road trips with itineraries for both Oahu and Maui. The Big Island, however, also has breathtaking waterfalls. Visit the State Parks website for updated pricing. Take a full-day waterfall adventure tour of the Big Islands Kohala Coast. Download your copy of our Check out the latest prices and more details. The waterfall flows from a water source called the Onomea Stream. This article covers seven of the Big Islands most beautiful waterfalls! Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. 2. 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? Great for first-time visitors. Unfortunately, the strength of the falls is often dependent on rainfall - so here's to hoping you catch it on a good day. Mahalo! This waterfall can only be accessed from the lookout, and swimming here is no longer allowed. As you tour, youll be able to enjoy amazing photo spots and unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean, waterfalls, and the Mauna Kea. I would plan 10 hours out of your day if you are thinking about doing the hike. This waterfall is smaller than the rainbow falls but also far less crowded. 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. Which Cities Have Nonstop Flights to Hawaii. Family friendly zipline tour + private waterfall swim. 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. From USD 221.99 (9) Umauma Falls Zipline Tour & Waterfall Swim Adventure . The Kulaniapia Falls is a private 90-100 foot waterfall located at the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls. It takes about 60 to 90 minutes to hike to the waterfall. more, 2006-2023 World Of Waterfalls, They are amazing natural wonders that should definitely be on your list of things to do while visiting this tropical paradise! If you are in the Kona area, I highly recommend Paradise Helicopters. There have been instances where people lost their lives here. Both falls are located on a family-friendly hiking loop (.4 miles) that takes about 30-45 minutes to see both waterfalls. Kulaniapia Falls is located inside a 42-acre private property in Hilo, Hawaii. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Hiilawe (the barely visible waterfall in the back of the valley) is one of the tallest waterfalls on the Big Island. Its 93 miles across and has all sorts of terrain and natural wonders. 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. Wrapping Up the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island. However, the waterfall tends to be dry in early spring, around March. 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. 5 out of 6 of our favorites are close to Hilo, and these falls are very easy to visit. 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. Youll be treated to an entirely new and equally beautiful view of the waterfalls. The on-site Inn organizes this tour which is led a team of expert canyoneering guides. 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. These are gorgeous Hawaii Big Island waterfalls worth checking out. The waterfall, however, is worth the effort it takes to access it. 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. Enjoy this 8-hour adventure as you explore Kohala, the oldest of five volcanos that make up the Big Island. 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. You can also walk down from the upper parking lots and viewing decks. Akaka Falls is a spectacularly tall waterfall that hurls down an incredible 422 feet down a mountain face. One other thing to note is that there are 13 streams you will have to cross before getting to the water. 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. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! And these are just the most popular waterfalls on Big Island. The Umauma falls are three waterfalls in close proximity to the Umauma River, 16 miles north of Hilo on the Hamakua coast. There may be no better way to experience Hawaiian waterfalls than with a helicopter tour. All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. 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. This one has amazing views of the Kohala Coast while listening to fascinating commentary from the pilot. The size of these waterfalls and their location in the lush and tropical rainforest makes them a popular and spectacular attraction to check out. The tranquility and solitude youll feel there is truly unmatched. Do you like waterfalls a LOT and are you also visiting another island in the Hawaiian island chain? Check out the latest prices and details! 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. Sign up for this discounted Majestic Waterfalls Tour. Nanua Falls is a series of waterfalls on the Hamakua Coast, about 18 miles north of Hilo. The Big Island of Hawaii offers so much for visitors with its lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes. This is also close to where most of the black sand beaches on the Big Island are located. Whats the Honolulu Sister Cities Program? 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. Although it is dwarfed in size by its beautiful neighbors, the Peepee Falls and the Ayaka Falls, its unique feature that inspired its namesake makes it worth a visit. You might hear that people go swimming here, but dont do it! Here, youll zipline across the forest, have lunch in the Pololu Valley, and even swim in a Big Island waterfall. So keep an eye out for honu (green sea turtles) and admire the coast! Papalaua Falls in Molokai is an unbelievably impressive waterfall, and unsurprising that's it on Molokai as this island is home to some of the tallest waterfalls in the entire world. Rappelling at the Kulaniapia Falls. 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 Thank you! Keep in mind that youll need to clear a full day of your itinerary for this. A picnic lunch and hotel transport are included for a hassle-free experience. It is simply breathtaking. Off the main street is the Mana's Aloha Fruit Stand. This has some of the best waterfalls on Maui. Please keep in mind that the historic area located by the parking lot is not safe for swimming. To be exact, you can find it along the Umauma River in Hakalau. 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. While transporting logs over to build the base might be a nuisance, the beach offers a wealth of advantages that . Get more stories delivered right to your email. A delicious catered lunch is provided in our secluded pavilion. Enjoy spectacular views of Mauna Kea and the Pacific Ocean, awesome photo spots, swim in a private pond and really experience off-road Hawaii. ), make small hikes, and admire the sweeping views and scenic coastlines and rugged valleys. Photos of Kulania attached . Visit the Botanical Gardens website for updated pricing. And if youre heading to Akaka Falls with kids, check out my guide HERE. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. During the tour, youll travel along the coastline. 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. Dont miss them because once you see them, youll never forget them! 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. Hawaii Waterfall Swim Adventure, Waipio Valley Lookout & Botanical Garden . While visiting the Wailuku River State Park, you can also stop by the Peepee Falls. Akaka Falls. What Are The Must-Visit Waterfalls On Big Island? The pots are called boiling pots because, during heavy rain, the flow of water increases and the pots appear to be boiling. If you visit when the sky is clear and the sun is out, youll be able to see a beautiful rainbow at the foot of the waterfall. Double your adventure with the Kohala Zip and Dip and explore the enchanting lands of North Kohala. Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. Its a 100-foot waterfall that youll pass by on your way to Akaka if you follow the footpath. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. Check out the latest prices and more details. Please remember that all of these falls have different levels of water throughout the year. Which waterfall can you swim at on the Big Island? If you think you've located a Big Island waterfall we've omitted, please contact us, and we'll make sure it's added. Located in the Waipio Valley, this waterfall is absolutely breathtaking. Youll get to hear a bit about the history of Coconut Island (it will totally surprise you) as you paddle around Hilo Bay. It takes less than an hour to hike leisurely and is only somewhat sloped uphill. with the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing snack break at the waterfalls where you can swim and paddleboard. In a 30-minute call we help you set up the trip of your dreams. Rappel down 120 feet past Hawaiis largest privately accessible waterfall supervised by expert canyoneering guides. You can start the hike to this waterfall from the Waipio Valley lookout. You can read the full story here. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. The visit is well worth your time, even just to enjoy the tranquility of this Hawaiian rainforest. Check out the latest prices and more details. You will need to stop at the visitor center to register before heading to the falls. Click the button below. If youre staying in Hilo and enjoy learning about history, you might get a kick out of this Legends of the Waterfalls tour where youll learn why Hilo was one of the favorite places for Kamehameha the Great. Read more about the Rainbow Falls on our website. At the bottom of the valley, take a left and walk for roughly 5-10 minutes to see the falls. However, it is important to note that Umauma Falls is a private waterfall that can only be accessed through small group tours.