Nanua Falls is a series of waterfalls on the Hamakua Coast, about 18 miles north of Hilo. If youre lucky, you may be able to see honu (green sea turtle) and even dolphins! The largest waterfall in Hawaii is Oloupena Falls, located in Molokai. During the tour, youll travel along the coastline. Standing at around 80 feet tall, this waterfall is a must-see year round on the Big Island. The Wailuku River flows along the bottom of the gorge and downstream to Rainbow Falls. It takes about 60 to 90 minutes to hike to the waterfall. 12 Most Beautiful Big Island Waterfalls (+ How to Visit!) - Next is Hawaii 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 Compared to many other Hawaiian Islands, the Big Island is huge. This ziplining tour is the option for those who love a thrill. A Guide To The Best Waterfalls In The Big Island Of Hawaii This is a very difficult hike to complete in one day and is not recommended for beginners. Each island has some of the best waterfall swimming holes in Hawaii, so no matter where you are, youll find something amazing! How to use this map: Above youll find a map of waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii. Great for first-time visitors. 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. The government or any private party does not manage Nanua Falls. swimming in waterfalls - Island of Hawaii Forum - Tripadvisor If conditions are suitable you can use on-property SUP and kayak equipment to explore the waterfall. I highly recommend checking out Viator for some of the best tours in Hawaii. Zipline high above the forest floor, picnic on the rim of Pololu Valley & swim under a private waterfall fed by a cool mountain stream. While you can access most of these on your own, you can also join Hawaii waterfall tours for a more personalized experience. Now they have opened up their grounds to a limited amount of daily visitors. Hiilawe Falls is located on the Big Island. There have been instances where people lost their lives here. Akaka Falls are about 422 feet tall, but are only viewable from the viewing platform. Located only 1.5 miles upstream from Rainbow Falls, Peepee Falls is another beautiful spot. Shared under a CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 license. Free cancellation: up to 24 hours before tour. The Umauma Falls are a spectacular 3-tiered falls and one of the best waterfalls on the Big Island. You can find many waterfalls on the north and east side of the Big Island thanks to lots of rain and a large gradient in elevation (volcanoes!). Location: North east side of Big Island. 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. Dont miss them because once you see them, youll never forget them! There are different, The private property is currently managed by the. Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. The waterfalls are located less than half a mile from the parking lot. One of the risks is that rocks occasionally get washed over the falls and can land on unsuspecting swimmers. Be sure to pay at least a few of them a visit and create some unforgettable memories that youll treasure forever! All the waterfalls listed below are spectacular in their own way, and when you visit them theyre sure to impress. 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. Sign up for this discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour. Sign up for this discounted Majestic Waterfalls Tour. Flash floods are also a risk, so stay out of the water if its raining (where you are or upstream). Oloupena Falls is an impressive 2,953-foot Hawaiian waterfall. The tranquility and solitude youll feel there is truly unmatched. Are you planning to travel to the Big Island of Hawaii? Swimming here can be dangerous and has proved lethal several times in the past. Which waterfall can you swim at on the Big Island? More waterfalls can be found at the northern Hamakua coast seaside cliffs and the valleys of the Kohala coast. Kayak & Swim in the Umauma River. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. The state park is located along the northeastern Hilo Coast, west of Honom. Looking for a car rental in Kona, Big island. Where are the best waterfalls to swim in Hawaii? Be sure not the trespass onto the private land that surrounds the waterfall. 'Akaka Falls 'Akaka Falls is located just north of Hilo and are a gem of the Big Island's waterfalls. One other thing to note is that there are 13 streams you will have to cross before getting to the water. The water conceals long lava ridges, so its easy to be pulled in and trapped. Check out the latest prices and details! This is part of Hawaiis state park system. In addition, if weather and conditions permit, you may be able to swim, kayak or paddleboard under the waterfalls. Do you like waterfalls a LOT and are you also visiting another island in the Hawaiian island chain? This is a great family-friendly waterfall as there are no strong currents or falling rocks around. Content on this site is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical, health, or safety advice. For those with a daring spirit, the Deleuze ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience tour is for you. Also, if you are visiting Oahu and want to know where the best waterfall hikes are on Oahu, Ive got you covered. Maunawili Falls Thank you! The waterfall is located inside Waipio Valley and is about 1,450 feet tall. Youll start off driving up the Kona coastline pas lava flows and check out sweeping views from the old Kohala Mule Station lookout. Our most popular hotels on the Island of Hawaii Swimming is not allowed here, so keep that in mind when you visit. There are no lifeguards here, so please be extremely cautious. If you think you've located a Big Island waterfall we've omitted, please contact us, and we'll make sure it's added. They also offer ATV tours, waterfall rappelling and horseback riding tours to the falls as well. Check out the latest prices and more details. 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). Check out the latest prices and details. Take a full-day waterfall adventure tour of the Big Islands Kohala Coast. 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 Not only that, but this island is still expanding! 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. Please dont take the risk there are many places more suitable for swimming in Hilo (the beach!). 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. Guests will witness mantas up close as they grace the waters and feed on plankton. Akaka Falls is located within the Akaka Falls State Park, roughly 3.6 miles south of Honomu on the Hilo Coast. Get your discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. Stunning Big Island Hawaii Waterfalls (2023) - Hawaii Travel Spot The waterfall is split into two waterfalls that fall into a pool below. 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. This, Located within Waimea Valley is this charming waterfall, perfect for a family swim. What takes a waterfall from "beautiful" to "spectacular" is height- and Hawaii's falls undoubtedly have it! Facebook Pinterest Twitter Instagram Subscribe to our Newsletter. 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. Please do not put these waterfalls on your to-do list. Plus. The admission fee to view the 422 ft tall falls is $5.00 per car or $1.00 per person for pedestrians. This tour takes you on a journey through Hilo, stopping by at the Rainbow Falls, tidepools, and ocean beaches. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Sign up for a discounted Legends of the Waterfalls and Volcano Tour. If you plan to camp here, please make sure you obtain the proper permits, as they are required. Unfortunately, the strength of the falls is often dependent on rainfall - so here's to hoping you catch it on a good day. It takes about 20-30 minutes to complete the loop. The trail is surrounded by beautiful vegetation and singing birds, and the falls are absolutely worth the effort! Where are all the waterfalls in Hilo Hawaii? What are the best hikes on the Big Island? Here you will find a delightful selection of art galleries and gift stores as well as several cafes. 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). 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! Rainbow Falls is one of the easiest to see and most popular waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. There are so many incredible waterfalls, making it hard to know where to start. Waiilikahi Falls are yet another gem on the Big Island, but it takes a lot to hike to the falls. Even though swimming is no longer allowed here, its worth the drive as the view is amazing and can be seen from the parking lot. The Northern beach is one of the potential crash sites in Sons of the Forest, and it's also one of the best base locations. 4 Easy Big Island Waterfalls For Those Who Are Tired - Aloha With Love Double your adventure with the Kohala Zip and Dip and explore the enchanting lands of North Kohala. These include stargazing and helicopter tours and is absolutely worth the time and money. Due to its location, the sun hits the water at just the right angle to show off. Although Akaka Falls is the main event during the hike, the smaller Kahuna Falls is a must-see as well. I would plan 10 hours out of your day if you are thinking about doing the hike. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. This has some of the best waterfalls on Maui. Just make sure to leave this waterfall in Hawaii as clean as you found it. There are so many beautiful waterfalls to check out during your visit to the Big Island. The private property is currently managed by the Umauma Experience. The Peepee Falls are located about 1.5 miles upstream the rainbow falls, at the Wailuku river on the end of Wailuku drive. The trailhead is easy to find just off the parking lot. Rainbow Falls, or Wainuenue, is located inside the Wailuku River State Park in Hilo, Hawaii. On the list of Big Island of Hawaii waterfalls below, we've included the height of the falls, a ranking, have noted if it's a seasonal waterfall, and have added any additionalinformation as necessary. The Rainbow Falls are the easiest waterfalls to see on the Big Island! Each hike has its charm, and all offer beautiful views of different parts of the island. as a very big person in the future I want to help people I want to give a gift to the. This multi tiered, Oheo Gulch, OheO Gulch, Hawaii 96713, USA. Image credit: Mark. 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. The waterfall is named for the beautiful rainbow that forms at the waterfalls base. For a beautiful view and unforgettable experience, sign up for a discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. Alternatively, you could think of going for this scenic drive to see all the waterfalls close to Hilo in half a day. 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 Akaka Falls and the Rainbow Falls are hands-down the most-visited waterfalls on the Big Island. The lush landscape alone is enough to warrant a hike here. However, they have started opening the grounds to the public for a $49 day pass. The Hiilawe waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls of the state of Hawai. The 5 Best Waterfalls on Hawaii's Big Island If you are staying in Kona, meet up with a local driver who takes you to North Kohala. Sign up for a discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour. Regardless, they are still worth the visit if you love nature and gorgeous views. 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. Where is the Blue Pool waterfall in Hawaii? The three-tier fall has a combined height of 300 feet, but it doesn't seem very high when you look at it from the viewing bridge. There are other adventurous activities that you can enjoy here too. 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. We decided to take a scenic drive while staying on the Hilo side to see some of these waterfalls. Hi'ilawe Falls Whether you want to soar over the falls or dive right in and swim them, we have the tour for you. Can you swim in any waterfalls on the Big Island? Get your discounted Hilo Bay Kayaking Tickets. They are all unique in their own ways. It is one of the most idyllic and beautiful waterfalls in the world. This one has amazing views of the Kohala Coast while listening to fascinating commentary from the pilot. While some are hidden behind long and strenuous hikes, many waterfalls on the big island and other islands are visible from the road or after an easy hike. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Which Hawaiian island has the best waterfall hikes? Check out the latest prices and more details. Besides the abundant disease there are a lot of rock chunks that get eroded and transported by the stream So there are chunks in the waterfall normaly Entry Fees:For Akaka Falls, entry is free for children under ten years old and $5 per adult. 7 Best Big Island Hawaii Waterfalls (2023) - Hawaii Travel with Kids A couple of travel dreamers who fell in love with Hawaii and want to share the beauty of the Islands! Park your car after the bridge and walk back to the river to see the Waiale Falls: Just upstream from the Boiling Pots you can find another waterfall at the bridge over the Wailuku river in Hilo. You have to be a guest at the Inn to access the trail leading to the waterfall. Did we list it? Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing, History (From $226.96) Hawaii Volcano Adventure Tour from Hilo (From $195.99) To be exact, you can visit Hiilawe Falls by going to the Waipio Valley at the Kohala Coast in Hawaii. This article covers seven of the Big Islands most beautiful waterfalls! 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. Big Island, Hawaii Rivers and Waterfalls - Umauma Experience If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. Hawaii: Big Island, Big Fun | VAX VacationAccess Hiilawe Falls is one of the top Big Island waterfall hikes to do. Umauma Falls is located on the Big Island in Hawaii. Located up the Wailua River, you will need to either rent kayaks or book a guided tour to reach the trailhead. You will need to stop at the visitor center to register before heading to the falls. Stretching 93 miles long, its nearly four times as big as Maui. Are you as obsessed with Hawaiian waterfalls as we are? If you are in the Kona area, I highly recommend Paradise Helicopters. Hi'ilawe Falls in the Waipio Valley. The Northern beach offers the best base location for those wanting to live by the sea in Sons of the Forest. 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. Approximately 16 miles north of Hilo, on the Umauma River, lies one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Hawaii: Umauma Falls. Located along the Umauma River in Hakalau, Umauma Falls is a series of three, short cascading waterfalls. Youll find the largest waterfall in Hawaii on the secluded island of Molokai. Head to Waimea Falls for the best, A short hike within the Puaa Kaa State Wayside will reward you with a relatively secluded and picturesque waterfall, cascading into the delightful pool below. Hiilawe Falls - Legendary Waterfall with Temporary Flow However, it is important to note that Umauma Falls is a private waterfall that can only be accessed through small group tours. Access to the overview for the waterfalls lies on private land which is being managed by the Umauma Experience. This amazingly unique experience takes place on the beautiful landscapes near the Umauma stream, held on pristinely-kept private property. The Big Island is filled with tourist attractions! That means, you should take extra care to make sure you leave it as you saw it! This, Upper Waikani Falls, Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA, Perhaps one of Oahus most stunning hidden waterfalls, this trek through the mud is never uphill for too long and offers the opportunity to jump in a beautiful waterfall at the end. Good to know: to access the falls you must purchase a $49 daypass to the grounds. Another great way to see these waterfalls is to take an organized tour. Get your discounted Kohala Tour from Kona Tour. 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. #1. Peepee Falls are another great waterfall that you can visit. The Big Island, however, also has breathtaking waterfalls. But dont worry, this is a very easy hike to do and the trail is paved and well maintained. You can also book one of their events to have access to their waterfall. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. Map of Big Island Waterfalls Wrapping Up the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island Check out the latest prices and details here! The total height of the falls is about 1,450 feet (442m), with a highest direct drop of 1,201 feet (366m)! Overview . 7 Best Hawaii Waterfalls to Visit | Hawaii Travel with Kids (2023) The 422 ft. tall Akaka falls are a pleasant stop on your way to or from Hilo. The falls are located in the rainforest. 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. Kulaniapia Falls is once again located on private property, this time belonging to The Inn and usually reserved exclusively for residents there. By far, Akaka Falls are my favorite waterfall to visit on the Big Island. Ultimate Guide to the Polynesian Cultural Center with Kids, Traditional Hawaiian Food: 24 Classic Dishes of Hawaiian Cuisine. Nonetheless, its still a breathtaking sight to see. This adds ~1 hour/waterfall to your itinerary will be the best option for the large majority of visitors. 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. The most popular way to observe the Umauma Falls is from a tranquil overlook accessible through the World Botanical Garden.