Last Updated on July 21, 2024 by Nikole
Are you ready for an adventure in Oahu, Hawaii? Get your hiking boots ready because we’re about to explore the top 20 waterfalls to visit on this beautiful island. Just like the top hiking trails in Oahu, these waterfalls will blow your mind.
From towering cascades to hidden gems, Oahu is home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in the world. So, pack your swimsuit, grab your camera, and add hiking to a waterfall to your list of things to do in Oahu.
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What to Know Before Going
Let’s be honest coming from an area like North Carolina we were very little prepared for how remote and in the middle of nowhere these Oahu waterfalls seemed to be.
So, I am here to prepare you for the worst and help keep you out of trouble before you embark on your journey.
Bacteria in the water
Bacteria are present around the world in every body of water and some are more dangerous than others. Be aware of the common bacteria Leptospirosis that is found in almost every waterfall on the Island of Oahu.
The rule of thumb is to never swim in a waterfall area with open cuts or wounds and DO NOT drink the water… PERIOD.
Leptospirosis is a bacteria that comes from the feces of animals such as rats, mice, pigs, and other animals. It can cause symptoms such as headaches, fever, nausea, and even as extreme as organ failure.
Plan ahead
Most waterfall hikes are prone to flash floods and should not be taken lightly. Check the weather before you go out on a hike to avoid disasters. If there is a set in rain you’re better off not going.
The best time to see the waterfalls is typically after a rain, however, you don’t want to go after it’s been downpouring for days. Oahu’s rainy season is between October and April, but flash floods can happen any time of the year.
Wear proper attire
Waterfall hikes in Oahu are typically wet, unpredictable, muddy, and buggy. Wear trail shoes with great traction so it’s less likely you slip in the mud.
Be prepared for rain on any waterfall hike you take. Most waterfalls are located in jungle-like atmospheres and they may start downpouring at any moment. People also complain about the wind, which can be quite cold especially when it’s raining. Wear a windproof and waterproof jacket like this Kungala rain jacket from Amazon.
Mosquitos are also rampant in these areas due to thick vegetation and ever-present water. Try something safer for your skin and the environment such as the Tongo deet free bug spray.
If you aren’t a fan of bugs flying into your nose and around your face you might also consider a bug net hat like the Yoption Mosquito net to keep the pests away from your head.
Let’s talk about how important hiking boots are. A mile into our hike at Moana Falls my ankles were killing me because I wore the wrong shoes. I was also slipping everywhere due to the thick muddy areas. Learn from my mistake wear high-traction hiking boots and be careful of foot placement!
1. Manoa Falls
Located in the Manoa Valley, Manoa Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls on Oahu. In fact, the area is so popular various movies were filmed here such as the TV series Lost and Jurassic Park.
This 150-foot waterfall has its shining moments especially when it rains when it’s more than just a trickle. However, the waterfall is still stunning during nonrainy days when it is just a “trickle”.
The hike to Manoa Falls is relatively easy, taking about 1.5 miles round trip. The trail takes you through a rainforest-like atmosphere so even when it’s not raining the air is extremely damp and the ground is muddy.
When we hiked to the falls there were several uneven areas, most likely due to rain corrosion, so be careful of foot placement. Unfortunately, a family member couldn’t make the hike due to a knee injury, which was a bummer because they couldn’t see Daimond head either.
Price: $7 for parking
Location: Honolulu, HI 96822
Tour Price: If you would like to hike with a tour guide you can book a tour of Moana Falls on Viator.
2. Waimea Falls
Waimea Falls, also known as “Waihi Falls,” is a 45-foot waterfall located in Waimea Valley, and is one of the waterfalls you can swim at in Oahu Hawaii.
This stunning cascade is part of a botanical garden and nature preserve, which actually used to be an adventure park. The hike to Waimea Falls is a leisurely 3.5-mile walk through the botanical garden and is mostly paved so it’s suitable for most ages and fitness levels.
If you don’t want to hike I heard rumors of shuttle services being available to those with young children or the elderly.
Price: $25 entry fee
Location: Waimea Valley Road, Haleiwa, Hawaii 96712 (do not type in Waimea Falls into Google Maps, it’s wrong. The link I provided is more accurate)
Tour Info: If you don’t have transportation, look into the Waimea waterfall tour package where they will transport you to the area and guide you to the waterfall. You can also learn about Hawaiian history and see the sea turtles at the seashore.
3. Lulumahu Falls
Hidden in the lush rainforest of Oahu, Lulumahu Falls is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This 50-foot waterfall is tucked away in a secluded valley, accessible via a moderate 2-mile hike, and requires a permit which you can purchase at the Division of State Parks Oahu.
You will come across a few amazing things during your hike to the falls including:
- Ruins
- A reservoir
- River
The trail is extremely muddy and slippery, so wear sturdy hiking shoes and boots with lots of traction.
Price: $2-$3 for permits (1 permit should be good for up to 5 people)
Location: 4459 HI-61, Honolulu, HI 96817, Park and start the trail at the beginning of Nuuanu Pali Dr.
4. Likeke Falls
Likeke Falls, also known as “Old Pali Road Falls,” is a picturesque waterfall located near the Pali Highway.
This 30-foot cascade is easily accessible via a short hike, making it a great option for those looking for a quick outdoor adventure. The trail to Likeke Falls offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush vegetation.
Price: $10 for official parking or park on the side fo the road if you want to save some money.
Location: The trailhead starts at 45-550 Kionaole Rd, Kaneohe, HI 96744
5. Kaliuwa’a Falls (Sacred Falls)
Kaliuwa’a Falls, also known as “Sacred Falls,” is a majestic 1,000-foot waterfall located in the Ko’olau Mountains. Unfortunately, this most beautiful waterfall in Oahu Hawaii is now closed due to a lawsuit in 1999 over a tragic landslide incident.
The only way to see the falls now is to embark on a helicopter tour of the surrounding area. The main helicopter tour that includes this waterfall on the flight is the complete Island Oahu Helicopter tour.
6. Laie Falls
Laie Falls is a 15-foot waterfall located in the Laie area of Oahu. This hidden gem can be accessed via a challenging 7-mile hike, rewarding adventurous hikers with a secluded oasis at the end of the trail.
The journey to Laie Falls is actually a more impressive sight to see than the waterfall itself. Keep in mind that this is on PRIVATE PROPERTY and can only be accessed by invitation of owners only.
The journey takes you through diverse terrain, including bamboo groves, stream crossings, and panoramic viewpoints. There are even ropes you can use to climb the cascade of the waterfall, but please use them with extreme caution.
Price: Free, invite by owner only
Location: 55-261 Poohaili St, Laie, HI 96762
7. Kahana Falls
Kahana Falls, also known as “Kahana Valley State Park,” is home to a series of beautiful waterfalls surrounded by lush tropical foliage. It is a 2.5-mile round trip hike and a 400 ft elevation gain and should take up to 3 hours to hike.
You will need a permit for this Waterfall visit in Oahu Hawaii. Be aware of several river crossings where rocks are quite slippery and dangerous.
8. Maunawili Falls
Maunawili Falls is a popular waterfall and cliff-jumping location in the Maunawili Valley. This 20-foot cascade can be reached via a moderate 3-mile out-and-back hike, offering hikers a chance to explore the island’s diverse landscape.
The trail to Maunawili Falls includes stream crossings and muddy sections, so be prepared for an adventure off the beaten path. There are several sections with uneven stairs.
Price: Free
Location: Maunawili, HI 96734
9. Kaipapau Falls
Kaipapau Falls is a stunning 100-foot waterfall nestled in the remote backcountry of Oahu. This hidden gem can be accessed via a challenging 8-mile hike, rewarding intrepid hikers with a breathtaking view of the cascading falls.
The trail to Kaipapau Falls takes you through rugged terrain and offers opportunities to spot native flora and fauna along the way. Wait, before you go you will need a pass to hike this area because it is considered private property. You can find your pass at hrihelp.com– just fill it out and email it when you are ready to hike.
I am unsure of where to find this trail
10. Kapena Falls
Kapena Falls is a serene waterfall located in the Nu’uanu Valley of Oahu. This hidden gem can be reached via a short and easy hike through a graveyard or by the highway, making it a great option for families and casual hikers.
Though the falls aren’t very big it does provide a great swimming pool in Oahu and there is a built-in rope swing. The falls was also featured in movies such as “Lost” and “The Rundown”.
11. Waimano Falls
Waimano Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the Waimano Valley of Oahu. This 45-foot cascade can be reached via a challenging 3-mile hike, rewarding hikers with a refreshing dip in the natural pool at the base of the falls.
The trail to Waimano Falls winds through lush vegetation and offers ropes for guidance while hiking downhill. You will also find numerous signs pointing your easily on your way to the falls so you won’t get lost.
12. Kaunala Falls
Kaunala Falls is a hidden gem tucked away in the North Shore of Oahu. This 25-foot waterfall can be reached via a moderate 5-mile round-trip hike, offering hikers a chance to explore the island’s diverse landscape.
The trail to Kaunala Falls includes scenic overlooks, fruit trees, and lush vegetation. There are reports of the area being super buggy because of rotten fruit falling from the trees so bring the bug spray.
13. Koloa Falls
Koloa Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Koloa Gulch of Oahu. This 40-foot cascade can be reached via a challenging 4 or more-mile hike. To be honest no one knows the exact mileage of this area as there are two waterfalls you can hike to in this valley. I couldn’t find the exact mileage for the Gulch
Rewarding intrepid hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding valley. The trail to Koloa Falls includes steep inclines and rugged terrain, so be prepared for an adventure off the beaten path.
I’ve heard how extreme this trail is, so only go if you are well-prepared and willing to go on an extreme adventure. Keep in mind flash floods become dangerous in Gulches and could quickly become deadly.
14. Wahiawa Falls
Wahiawa Falls is a serene waterfall located in the Wahiawa Botanical Garden on Oahu. This hidden gem can be reached via a 4.7 hike and is considered difficult.
The trail takes you in a loop with several inclines and declines through the Koʻolau Mountains. There were several complaints about getting lost because the trails were not marked very well.
You will find that the trail starts at the Schofield Waikane Trailhead.
15. Waipuhia Falls
Waipuhia Falls, also known as “Upside-Down Waterfall,” is a unique natural wonder located in the backcountry of Oahu. This stunning cascade can be reached via a challenging .75-mile hike.
Don’t let the short distance fool you, because the Waipuhia Falls is one of the hardest waterfalls to hike to in Oahu. Some reported not even seeing the trail half the time and they had to follow a GPS the whole time.
Location: Honolulu, HI 96817
In Conclusion
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll through nature, Oahu’s waterfalls offer something for everyone.
From towering cascades to hidden gems, these natural wonders are waiting to be explored. So, lace up your hiking boots and get ready to discover the beauty of Oahu’s waterfalls firsthand!
