Get our brand-new trip planning series delivered directly to your inbox - for FREE (more info). with the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing snack break at the waterfalls where you can swim and paddleboard. This half-day tour takes you to the three most famous Big Island waterfalls: 'Akaka Falls, Hi'ilawe Falls and Rainbow Falls. Check out the latest prices and more details. However, Id always watch for signs near waterfalls and follow their instructions if they indicated not to swim. 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 adds ~1 hour/waterfall to your itinerary will be the best option for the large majority of visitors. The pots are called boiling pots because, during heavy rain, the flow of water increases and the pots appear to be boiling. By far, Akaka Falls are my favorite waterfall to visit on the Big Island. However, because you descend over 900 feet in such a short distance, the hike up is immensely steep and challenging to manage. If youre an old soul, this Hilo Bay Waterfalls by Kayak tour was made for you. Plus it has numerous attractions, from volcanic rock formations to beautiful waterfalls. Plan to hike on slippery rocks, uphill slogs, tree roots, mud, and unmaintained trails. If you are staying in Kona, meet up with a local driver who takes you to North Kohala. The famous triple-tiered Umauma Falls. Kulaniapia Falls is a private waterfall located on the Waiau Stream, not far from Hilo. Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. 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. Subscribe to receive 5 emails in 5 days: Call us for advice! It is located inside the private property and theres no other way to access it. This is a full-day trip from Kona. Each hike has its charm, and all offer beautiful views of different parts of the island. Directions: About 30 min north from Hilo airport, park on the mauka (mountain-side) of highway 19 just after the 16 mile marker. 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. Check out the latest prices and more details. This is one of the best waterfalls to visit while on the Big Island, and I highly recommend staying here. They are one of the best helicopter companies in Hawaii. The best part? However, the waterfall tends to be dry in early spring, around March. Get more stories delivered right to your email. With a 440-foot summit, this waterfall is wildly popular due to the easy 0.4-mile paved loop, which takes you to the viewing spots of both Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls. Spend a few hours relaxing luxuriating in a private area of the Umauma River. Great for first-time visitors. 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. Oahu is the lively center and most visited of all Hawaiian Islands. First, youll head to the Kohala Mountains where youll fly the coastline of Waipio Valley and Waimanu Valley. 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. 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. Located up the Wailua River, you will need to either rent kayaks or book a guided tour to reach the trailhead. Alternatively, you can zipline or rappel at the Umauma Falls. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. 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. Why not go on one of our perfectly planned waterfall road trips with itineraries for both Oahu and Maui. Our most popular hotels on the Island of Hawaii This is what the falls look like after a good rain upstream. Facebook Pinterest Twitter Instagram Subscribe to our Newsletter. Read more about waterfall safety. Nanue Falls is located on the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. What is the best way to visit all these waterfalls? Use tab to navigate through the menu items. 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. If waterfalls are your thing you most likely wont be happy to see only the biggest six. 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. The Big Island is filled with tourist attractions! The Oloupena Falls is the tallest waterfall in Hawaii, located on the tiny island of Molokai, stretching an immense 2,953 feet high. Each island has some of the best waterfall swimming holes in Hawaii, so no matter where you are, youll find something amazing! Id be sure to go at least a few days after heavy rain to avoid flash flooding and a swollen stream. It aims to take you on an unforgettable journey through the Hamakua Coast. These falls form also the access to a popular but risky local swimming spot called the boiling pots. Seeing waterfalls is a great way to save money while on your vacation to Hawaii. All Rights Reserved You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of waterfalls we mention in this guide. Wrapping Up the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island. As you tour, youll be able to enjoy amazing photo spots and unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean, waterfalls, and the Mauna Kea. This tour takes you on a journey through Hilo, stopping by at the Rainbow Falls, tidepools, and ocean beaches. Swim, kayak, stand up paddleboard or just relax and enjoy the scenery with your friends and family. Hi'ilawe Falls Hiilawe Falls is a great waterfall to visit and is one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. Located along the Umauma River in Hakalau, Umauma Falls is a series of three, short cascading waterfalls. It depends on which one you choose! And this rainfall provides lots of opportunities to appreciate the island's falls. The Northern beach offers the best base location for those wanting to live by the sea in Sons of the Forest. 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. Located only 1.5 miles upstream from Rainbow Falls, Peepee Falls is another beautiful spot. Here is our list of the top 9 waterfalls in Hawaii that wont disappoint! After some time, the streams flow lessened and it is now safe to swim here. There are so many beautiful waterfalls to check out during your visit to the Big Island. Make sure your tour includes all of the waterfalls you want to see. A full-day rainforest adventure for all ages. This is a great way to see some of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. Drive down yourself (only with 4WD), or get down to the valley floor as part of a horseback riding tour in the valley. Photos of Kulania attached . 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. Of this list, youre not allowed to swim in both Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls, as it is both dangerous and illegal. Peepee Falls are another great waterfall that you can visit. Check out the latest prices and more details. Access to the falls is right off the road. . Narnia is the name given to a set of waterfalls in the Hilo Forest Reserve. Whats the Honolulu Sister Cities Program? Youll be able to get up close and personal with this body of water and have the most memorable time in Hawaii. Akaka, Kahuna, Hiilawe, Rainbow, Umauma, Peepee, Kulaniapia, Onomeaand WaiilikahiFalls. The Best Hiking Shoes for Hawaii in 2021(The Ultimate buying Guide), The 5 Best Reef Safe Sunscreens for Hawaii. Are you planning to travel to the Big Island of Hawaii? I highly encourage taking a helicopter tour through the Kohala Coast if you want to see these waterfalls, unless you are a very experienced hiker looking for some adventure. If you are looking for an adventure or just want to relax on your vacation, these seven waterfalls will not disappoint. More waterfalls can be found at the northern Hamakua coast seaside cliffs and the valleys of the Kohala coast. 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? The farmers markets are a little-known gem allowing visitors to meet locals, shop for arts and crafts and enjoy edible treasures. Sign up for this discounted ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience. 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! Check out the latest prices and more details. Unfortunately, the strength of the falls is often dependent on rainfall - so here's to hoping you catch it on a good day. Of course, the most popular and simple strategy is to include a visit into your itinerary as you drive by one or two waterfalls. Love Hawaii? Another stop on Mauis Road to Hana, Puaa Kaa translates to rolling pig in Hawaiian. What are the best hikes on the Big Island? 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. Looking for a car rental in Kona, Big island? 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. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. Although this tour doesnt take you to any of the immensely popular waterfalls on the Big Island, youll be treated to a view of seven obscure and uncrowded Kohala waterfalls, where youll be allowed to swim and picnic. The waterfalls themselves might be short, but the picturesque pools are well worth the short hike. You can swim in this one! What youll see along the route will depend on what trail you choose, but each one is worth it! The Rainbow Falls are located in Hilo and are fed by the Wailuku River the same river that also feeds the Peepee Falls. [more], 2006-2023 World Of Waterfalls, All Rights Reserved Majestic Waterfalls Tour A tour across the Hamakua Coast that stops at 'Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls and Richardson Beach Park. You have to be a guest at the Inn to access the trail leading to the waterfall. There is no swimming allowed here; you can only view the falls from a safe distance. At the bottom of the valley, take a left and walk for roughly 5-10 minutes to see the falls. You can now drive on a concrete road right to the falls and tropical garden. During the tour, youll travel along the coastline. 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. However, you need to pay a fee to be able to access the viewing deck. This is a great family-friendly waterfall as there are no strong currents or falling rocks around. Be sure to bring extra clothing. The state park is located along the northeastern Hilo Coast, west of Honom. 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. Be sure to pay at least a few of them a visit and create some unforgettable memories that youll treasure forever! The visit is well worth your time, even just to enjoy the tranquility of this Hawaiian rainforest. Check out the latest prices and details! The trail is surrounded by beautiful vegetation and singing birds, and the falls are absolutely worth the effort! This waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls across all of the Islands, standing at its maximum height at 1,450 feet. Shared under a CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 license. Check out the latest prices and details here! Soak in soaring sea cliffs, remote valleys, and even go for a swim under one of seven waterfalls. This isn't one that you can swim under though. The waterfalls of Hawaii on the Big Island are absolutely stunning. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. Flash floods are also a risk, so stay out of the water if its raining (where you are or upstream). However, you need to pay a fee to access the private viewing deck. Here, youll zipline across the forest, have lunch in the Pololu Valley, and even swim in a Big Island waterfall. The hike down is very easy and can take as little as 20 minutes. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Hi'ilawe Falls 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 Falls has recently been named in the top ten best swimming holes in America by the magazine Travel + Leisure. Most waterfalls on the Hamakua coast are a 90-mile drive away. Compared to Rainbow Falls, Peepee Falls are less crowded and less known. Unfortunately, swimming is not allowed at Rainbow Falls, and there are signs warning about the danger of swimming. 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). Sign up for discounted Hilo Bay Kayaking Tickets. 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. You might hear that people go swimming here, but dont do it! You may have a luxury problem though: there are more waterfalls on the Big Island than you can reasonable visit during your stay! Youll need to pay an entrance fee to enter the area. The path to Onomea Falls is stunning in itself. Its only 80-foot-tall but its still a beautiful natural feature with gushing water all year-round and a large pool below. Akaka Falls on the Big Island. The Kulaniapia Falls is a private 90-100 foot waterfall located at the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls. 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Having traveled to Hawaii MORE THAN 40 TIMES, Marcie is a self-proclaimed Hawaii travel expert! Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. Aside from waterfalls, youll also be able to see red-hot lava flows, the Kohala Mule Station lookout, and more! Have you gone to any of the best waterfalls in Hawaii to swim? Standing at 422ft tall, this free-falling waterfall drops to the bottom of the gorge, creating an amazing panoramic view of the area. Youll start off driving up the Kona coastline pas lava flows and check out sweeping views from the old Kohala Mule Station lookout. However, it is important to note that Umauma Falls is a private waterfall that can only be accessed through small group tours. Umauma Falls is located on the Big Island in Hawaii. Check out the latest prices and details. The gigantic waterfall stands out from the dry, rocky background of the red-walled canyon. This waterfall can only be accessed from the lookout, and swimming here is no longer allowed. This waterfall is smaller than Rainbow falls, but also way less crowded. For more information on waterfalls in Maui, You can check out this post on the best 15 stops on the Road to Hana. Its such a fun, Combine vibrant sapphire pools with some stellar spots for cliff jumping, and youve got one of Mauis local hangouts. The Majestic Waterfalls Tour is one of the best tours on this list. Come join the Big Island's only horseback ride that offers swimming at a waterfall! No, swimming at Akaka Falls is no longer allowed. Hiilawe Falls is located on the Big Island. If you're visiting the Big Island of Hawaii soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Big Island Visitor Guides. Youre planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, and you want to visit some of the many beautiful waterfalls on this volcanic island. Big Island is home to some of the tallest falls in the state. This waterfall is smaller than the rainbow falls but also far less crowded. 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! True to its name, this island is so big that it's said to be able to fit all the rest of the Hawaiian Islands. 5 out of 6 of our favorites are close to Hilo, and these falls are very easy to visit. 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. Located in the Waipio Valley, this waterfall is absolutely breathtaking. Lava from Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa meet near the base of Peepee Falls, about 2 miles downstream. Read more about the Rainbow Falls on our website. This is for kids at least 5 years old who can comfortably stay in a kayak. Waiilikahi Falls are yet another gem on the Big Island, but it takes a lot to hike to the falls. A delicious catered lunch is provided in our secluded pavilion. Compared to Oahu or Maui, the Big Island of Hawaii is massive! It is also possible to rappel down along the Kulaniapia Falls. Thankfully they didnt, as there appeared to be rocks under the shallow water at the bottom of the falls. The largest waterfall in Hawaii is Oloupena Falls, located in Molokai. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. Approximately 16 miles north of Hilo, on the Umauma River, lies one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Hawaii: Umauma Falls. My personal favorites are Polulu Valley, The Puna Trail, and The hike to Makalawena Beach, to name a few. The Akaka Falls and the Rainbow Falls are hands-down the most-visited waterfalls on the Big Island. There are much safer spots to swim - a.k.a. And be sure to keep your eyes out for sea turtles, which are known to hang out in this area! The Kulaniapia waterfall is located on the grounds of the Inn at Kulaniapia and up until recently access to their waterfalls was restricted uniquely to their overnight guests. 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. Drive along the cliffs and over rugged landscape Free cancellation Recommended by 97% of travelers from $225.13 per adult Reserve Travelers talk about " plants and animals " If you are short on time, we recommend that you limit yourself to the more spectacular Akaka and Rainbow waterfalls. These 7 Big Island waterfalls are truly spectacular and well worth checking out during your stay here! Get your discounted Waterfalls of Kohala Tour. The closest waterfalls in the Kohala district (about 50 miles) require a tour to visit. 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. Although smaller, the Kahuna Falls is similarly beautiful. As a paradise for active travelers it is rich in experiences that include nature, culinary discoveries, historic landmarks, shopping, nightlife and festivals. Most of these places do not have a lifeguard on duty, making you solely responsible for your safety. The beach! 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. Another great way to visit all of these falls is through a helicopter tour. 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 Umauma falls are three waterfalls in close proximity to the Umauma River, 16 miles north of Hilo on the Hamakua coast. Now they have opened up their grounds to a limited amount of daily visitors. 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. This gorgeous waterfall stretches 442 feet high and descends into a beautiful gorge eroded over time by water, which now lays dozens of feet below ground level. If you only have time to see one of the waterfalls, we suggest seeing the incredible Akaka Falls. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu. You can contact the State Division of Forestry and Wildlife at 808-974-4221. To be exact, you can visit Hiilawe Falls by going to the Waipio Valley at the Kohala Coast in Hawaii.