As Hawaii's youngest and largest island, the awesome power of nature is unparalleled and truly awe-inspiring. With geological features such as volcanoes, lush valleys, jet-black beaches, snow-capped mountains, and thundering waterfalls.
A big part of the adventure is exploring the world-class Big Island waterfalls. This guide breaks down the most popular waterfalls that you can get to on your own and also the hidden ones that are on private property or are ones you need a tour or helicopter for.
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Here's what we're covering:
Best Big Island Waterfalls
Some of the world's finest waterfalls can all be found on the Big Island of Hawaii. Tropical gardens dominate the northeast coasts of Hilo and Hamakua due to the abundance of rainfall they receive.
Before we dive in, it's worth talking about the island's name. Most of us refer to the island as Big Island but its official name is the Island of Hawaii. I know, this is confusing because it has the same name as the state. Sometimes you'll also hear the name Kona (especially for the coffee lovers out there) but this actually refers to a region on the west coast of the island.
Since there are so many Big Island waterfalls, we'll divide it between the ones that you can easily get to and others where you need the help of a local guide, tour, or entry into special garden.
Big Island Waterfalls You Can Visit Yourself
With your car rental, you'll be able to see many of the signature Hawaii Big Island waterfalls. These are cascades you can get to on your own without the need to book a tour or helicopter but there may still be entrance and parking fees.
Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls
The ‘Akaka Falls State Park has two waterfalls, the ‘Akaka Falls and the Kahuna Falls (not to be confused with hakuna matata). The trailhead is by the parking lot which is easy to find. The trail is mostly paved with hand railings and multiple steps. It's a family friendly loop that's 0.4 miles in length, that's approximately a 30-45 minute hike to see both falls.
If you only have time to see one waterfall, the panoramic view of ‘Akaka is the one to visit. ‘Akaka is a free-falling waterfall, it's unique in that the water drops down 442 feet from the cliff's edge to the bottom of the gorge.
Compared to ‘Akaka, Kahuna is a cascading waterfall that falls into various pools of water before its eventual drop to the Kolekole stream.
Read next: The best snorkeling spots on Big Island
Off the main street is the Mana's Aloha Fruit Stand. This is the perfect pre or post-hike pit stop for pineapples and fresh coconuts that you can't miss.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Location: North east side of Big Island
Address: 875 Akaka Falls Rd, Honomu, HI 96728, United States
Hours: Daily, 8:30AM – 6:00PM
Entrance Fee:
- Individual walk-in
- Residents: No charge with ID or DL
- Non-residents: $5
Parking Fee: There is limited parking in the lot and there is a machine to pay however to save time, you can pay ahead of schedule through CallToPark. If you decide to do this, make sure you do this ahead of time as cell reception there is limited. If it's full, you can always find street parking.
- Non-Commercial Vehicles
- Residents: No charge with ID or DL
- Non-residents: $10
- Commercial PUC Vehicles
- 1-7 passenger vehicles: $25
- 8-25 passenger vehicles: $50
- 26+ passenger vehicles: $90
Website: Division of State Parks
Difficulty: Easy
Great for kids?: Yes
Wheelchair accessibility: No, as there are too many stairs to reach the waterfalls.
Facilities: Restroom is by the parking lot, and water fountain.
Best time to visit: Mornings and after a heavy rainfall.
Prohibited: No bicycles. No alcoholic beverages. No pets. No smoking. No commercial activities. No open fires. No drones.
Closest hotels: Hawaiian Hideaway at Akaka Falls, Kapehu Retreat House, Mahana House Country Inn, Honomu Inn, and Hamakua Guesthouse and Camping Cabanas.
Nearby: Mana's Aloha Fruits Stand, Umauma Falls Experience, and Kolekole Beach Park.
Rainbow Falls
The 80-foot Rainbows Falls is located in the Wailuku River State Park. As the name of this waterfall suggest, it is best known for its rainbow formed from its morning mists.
For those with young children and elderly, the advantage of this waterfall is that you don't have to hike to see it. For a scenic viewpoint, there is a viewing platform with a ramp right off the parking lot.
At the base of the falls is a natural lava cave formed from the splash back of the falls. There are also a set of steep steps next to the falls where you can get a top down angle.
While you’re up there, walk another 100 feet on the trail and you'll find more huge banyan trees. If you can't make it up the steps, there are also a bountiful of banyan trees near the parking lot as well. Look up and you'll see the huge canopies you're under. You need to watch you footing around the banyan trees as there are many roots sticking out from the ground.
Trail Closure
Currently, the side trail to the top of the falls is closed.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Location: North east side of Big Island
Address: 2-198 Rainbow Dr, Hilo, HI 96720, United States
Hours: Daily, during daylight hours
Entrance Fee: None
Parking Fee: Free. The parking lot is a bit larger than the others but it can be limited when its busy.
What you will see: Rainbow Falls, natural lava cave, and giant banyan trees.
Website: Division of State Parks
Difficulty: Easy
Great for kids?: Yes
Wheelchair accessibility: Yes, ramp to the viewing platform. No wheelchair access for upper viewing area of the waterfall.
Facilities: Restroom is by the parking lot, and water fountain.
Can you swim by the falls: No
Best time to visit: Higher chances to see a rainbow in the morning or late afternoon and on sunny days.
Prohibited: No alcoholic beverages. No smoking. No commercial activities. No drones.
Closest hotels: The Falls at Reed's Island, Old Hawaiian Bed & Breakfast, Hilltop Legacy Vacation Rental
Nearby: Boiling Pots, Pe'epe'e Falls, Wailuku River State Park, and Kaumana Caves Park.
Pe'epe'e Falls
Another area of the Wailuku River State Park is the Boiling Pots Section with a view of Pe'epe'e Falls. This is worth a visit as both the Rainbow Falls and Pe'epe'e Falls are close in proximity.
On the same street as Rainbow Falls, a four-minute drive along Waiānuenue Avenue, Boiling Pots area is at the end of Peʻepeʻe Falls Drive. The Boiling Pots is more the highlight in this location as it is within a section of the Wailuku River that has a lot of twist and turns. These pots are caused by storm water rising and filling these holes with pools of water and the turbulent river swirling or “boiling” within these pots.
You'll still be able to get a view of the Pe'epe'e Falls as there's no hiking involved, you'll be able to view both the falls and the Boilings Pots from the lookout point.
WARNING: You may see some swimmers in the area but there are many warning signs along the fence that tell you that entering is not allowed. Not only does it harm the environment but there's a risk of unsuspecting flash flood. Use your own judgement here.
Once you're finished here, another small waterfall you can stop by to see is the Wailuku River Falls. This is a 3-minute drive from Pe'epe'e Falls. From the bridge of Waianuenue Avenue, you can see the pair of waterfalls. Unfortunately, there's no designated parking, so you can either take a peek as you're driving through or park off the street near the bridge and walk over.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Location: North east side of Big Island
Address: 1766 Wailuku Dr, Hilo, HI 96720, United States
Hours: Daily, 8AM – 6PM. Gates close at 6PM. Don't push the limits on this as they close the gates without remorse.
Entrance Fee: None
Parking Fee: Free
What you will see: Pe'epe'e Falls, and Boiling Pots.
Website: Division of State Parks
Difficulty: Easy
Great for kids?: Yes
Wheelchair accessibility: Yes, ramp to the viewing platform.
Facilities: Restroom is by the parking lot.
Can you swim by the falls: Yes, if you cross the fence.
Best time to visit: After heavy rainfall.
Prohibited: No alcoholic beverages. No smoking. No commercial activities. No drones.
Closest hotels: Same as Rainbow Falls.
Nearby: Same as Rainbow Falls.
Hiilawe Falls
The Waipi'o Valley opens right out into the Pacific Ocean and what leads it off to the left is the Hi'ilawe Falls, where water drops a thundering 1,450 feet, making it the tallest waterfall in the entire state of Hawaii.
Hi'ilawe Falls shares the same cliff wall as Hakalaoa Falls to the left which is often dry.
A heads up that this waterfall isn't always flowing as strongly as you see in the photos. Due to a dam and ditch that redirects water to nearby farms, don't be too disappointed if you find Hi'ilawe to also be dry.
If you're trying to figure out how you can see the waterfall, the short answer is that because of how deep it's set in the valley, the best way to see it is from within the valley or from the air. While you'd think that there's a good view of the falls from the Waipi'o Valley Lookout, you actually can't see it from there as you can only see across the valley.
For those that are intent to see the waterfall from the valley floor and fit, there is an access road along Waipio Valley Road. This one-way paved road is extremely steep downhill (25% grade and one of the steepest roads in the world) so it is only recommended if you have a 4×4. Depending on the water levels, there are also a few rivers that need to be crossed if you're looking to go all the way to the end of the road. From there, walk into the valley, past the junction, where you then get view of the falls. At this point, you're right in private lands so going any further would mean trespassing.
If you're going to walk it from the Waipi'o Valley Lookout parking lot, expect a 20 minute walk on the way down and about 40 minutes to get back up. You also don't necessarily need to hike all the way as there are many openings in the valley with views of the waterfall (vantage point of the photo above).
TIP: If you're attempting the hike, only do it if you're prepared to make the hike back uphill and make sure to have good hiking shoes or sandals, a few snacks, and plenty of water.
An alternative to walking or driving down is to experience Waipi'o Valley by horseback with a company like Waip'o on Horseback or to book a shuttle with Waipio Valley Shuttle.
LOCAL TIP: The best panoramic view of Hi'ilawe Falls and the Waipi'o Valley is actually on the Muliwai Trail (aka the Z-Trail) which is on the opposite side of the valley. There are incredible views of the valley and the falls about halfway up the switchbacks.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Location: North west side of Big Island
Address: Hiilawe Falls, Hawaii 96743
Parking: You can drive your 4×4 to the valley floor down the extremely steep road but for most, your best bet is to park at the Waipi'o Valley Lookout which is free. Parking here is limited especially during the busy hours of the day.
There may be cars parked on the street as you approach it but don't stress. Continue driving down into the parking lot as people are moving in and out all of the time.
What you will see: Hiilaw'e Falls, Waipi'o Valley Lookout
Website: This is not administered by Department of Land and Natural Resources.
Difficulty: Hike is challenging, lookout is easy.
Great for kids?: Strenuous hike is not suitable for kids but the lookout is kid-friendly.
Best time to visit: Early in the morning and on weekdays when it's less busy and easier to find parking.
Closest hotels: Cliff House Honoka'a, Private Honka'a Apartment, Waipi'o Lodge, and Hale Kukui Orchard & Cottages.
Facilities: Bathrooms at the lookout.
Nearby activities: Waipi'o on Horseback, Waipio Valley Shuttle, Muliwai Trail, Waipi'o Black Sand Beach (there's the Kaluahine Falls but use caution when walking east along the coastal boulders for 0.42 mile), Kahi Ola Mau Farm
Big Island Audio Guide Apps
To help in your road trip around Big Island, there are two different audio guide apps out there that I can recommend. Both of these apps use GPS to pinpoint where you are and as you're driving, you'll get commentary, stories, and directions to where you should visit.
The app doesn't require data so it works offline.
The most popular is one called GypsyGuide ($9.99) and the other is ShakaGuide ($29.99).
Guided Big Island Waterfalls Tours
Something unique to Big Island waterfalls is that there are a number to cross into private property which means you can't simply walk in yourself.
In addition to these private waterfalls, there are also a number of guided tours that will simply make your life a lot easier, not having to worry about having a 4×4, driving treacherous roads, and being able to see them all in a short span of time.
Something you'll quickly see is that this is Hawaii's zipline island with so many different ones to choose from, each flying through a different private waterfall.
These are the best paid experiences to see waterfalls on Big Island.
The Umauma Experience
For a thrilling day of zip-lining, waterfalls, swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, cliff-jumping, and lunch, this 4-hour experience has it all.
The Umauma Stream is one of the many water ways that flow from the mountains to the Pacific Ocean and perfectly situated are set of cascades called the Umauma Falls.
The best way to experience the entire grounds is with what they call the Zip N Dip but they also have an ATV Tour, horseback riding, and waterfall repel as well.
The not-so-well advertised secret is that if you're not interested in doing their tours, you can see the Umauma Falls and their tropical garden for $12 USD per person. The waterfalls themselves are open to visitors from 8AM to 5PM everyday and can be accessed by paved road.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Location: North east side of Big Island
Address: 31-313 Old Mamalahoa Hwy, Hakalau, HI 96710, United States
Hours: 8AM-4PM Monday – Friday, closed Saturday & Sunday
Price: Varies depending on the experiences.
Parking: Free parking
Difficulty: Moderate-advanced physical activity. No experience necessary.
Minimum requirements: Minimum 35 pounds maximum 275, age minimum 4 years old
Facilities: Bathrooms, visitor center, and snack shop & deli.
Reviews: The Umauma Experience
Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden
This is a high acclaimed garden on Big Island with 1,800 species of tropical plants including orchids and banana groves, and set in a beautiful paradise which also includes two cascades – Onomea Waterfalls and Boulder Creek Falls.
This is a well-curated botanical garden established as a not-for-profit and a legacy of education and experiences with incredible biodiversity of flora you won't find anywhere else on the island.
All paths are well-paved and marked, winding past waterfalls, an aviary and circles past views of isolated coves and beach as you make your way down towards the ocean.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Location: North east side of Big Island
Address: 27-717 Mamalahoa Hwy, Papaikou, HI 96781, United States
Parking: Free parking
Hours: Monday-Friday from 9AM to 4PM (last entry into the Garden is at 3PM). Closed Saturday and Sunday.
Price:
- Adults: $25
- Children (6-12): $12
- Children under 6: Free
Parking: Free parking
Difficulty: Easy.
Facilities: Bathrooms and gift shop.
Map: Full map
Reviews: Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden
Botanical World Adventures
Not to be confused with the botanical garden, the Botanical World Adventures is closer to The Umumu Experience and is actually next door to them. Think of this place as an adventure playground and botanical garden all-in-one.
For the nature lovers, once you enter the grounds, you'll be able to either do your own Kona Segway or Hakalau Segway Malu Pua Tour. These will allow you to take a stroll through the lush rainforest trail, Rainbow Gardens, Arboretum, giant maze, and their two waterfalls. Walking there, or driving up, you'll be able to see Kamae'e Falls and the small tumbles of Hanapueo Falls.
If you're looking for adventure, they have the Zip Isle zipline (6 including dual racing lines), Segway adventures (moderate and advanced), and Jungle Falls bike experiences.
Sufficed to say, even though you might only plan to be here for an hour, you can easily spend a half day here, if not more. You can even stay overnight at their vacation rental.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Location: North east side of Big Island
Address: 31-240 Old Mamalahoa Highway, Hakalau HI 96710
Hours: Garden is open 9AM-5:30PM, 7 days a week.
Price: Varies depending on the experiences.
Parking: Free parking
Difficulty: Garden and waterfall tours is for everyone. Moderate-advanced physical activity. No experience necessary.
Minimum requirements: Each activity has their own restrictions.
Facilities: Porta-potty bathrooms (not well maintained unfortunately)
Reviews: Botanical World Adventures
Kohala Waterfalls Adventure
A well-respected tour operator in Hawaii, Hawaii Forest & Trail has specialized tours on the Big Island that focuses on the hidden waterfalls of Northern Kohala.
The tour is called Kohala Waterfalls Adventure and this is an off-road expedition that takes you to private Kohala waterfalls, scenic coastlines, rugged valleys, and tranquil streams.
Since I haven't been on this tour and their access is so exclusive, I can't even pinpoint exactly which waterfalls they take you but if you read the reviews, this is easily one of the best day trips you can do if you love the outdoors.
One of the unique aspects of this tour is that it starts in Kona (west side of the island) and offers pickups at Waikoloa resorts so this is perfect for those that are based there during your time on Big Island.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Location: Tour starts in Kona (West side of Big Island) and takes you to the North west side of the island.
Address: 31-240 Old Mamalahoa Highway, Hakalau HI 96710
Tour start time: 6:50AM (not available every day of the week so make sure to check the calendar)
Total tour time: 7-9 hours
Price: $198.95 USD per person.
Difficulty: Easy. Expect to hike approximately 1.5 miles with an elevation gain of 200 feet in 1 – 2 hours.
Includes: Water (bring your own water bottle), walking stick, daypack, rain gear, lunch, and hotel pick up/drop off.
Reviews: Hawaii Forest and Trail
Guided Full Day Tours
There are a number of tour operators that run your “see everything in a day” type of tour or those that focus on Waipi'o Valley and take you to a bunch of different waterfalls. I've bundled a few in here to give you some choice if you'd rather put the trip planning in the hands of an expert.
The advantage of these tours is that they'll take you to all of the popular and hidden spots you need to see. These are done in small groups and your guide will be able to provide thoughtful commentary along the way. This is also great for those tight on time and want to pack in a lot without having to do the driving themselves.
The disadvantage of these tours is that you don't have as much flexibility as you would on your own. As a result, you might be a bit more rushed from spot to spot.
With each of these tours, pay attention to where they depart from and whether they offer pick-ups from your accommodations.
FULL DAY TOURS
Volcano Adventure from Kona: Why not combine the wonders of volcanoes and waterfalls all together in this small group tour that leaves from Kona.
Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing, History: Sounds ambitious but this tour manages to pack in black sand beaches, waterfalls, and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park . This tour includes pick up in Kona and Kohala Coast.
Small Group Waipio Valley and Waterfalls Adventure: See 3 of the Big Island's most famous waterfalls in a single day on this guided tour. You'll also get a chance to swim at a private waterfall as well. Pick ups available from Kona or Waikoloa hotels.
Big Island Private and Customized Tour: If you want a bit more control over exactly what you want to see and want to do it in your own private group, these guys do an amazing job.
Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour
The best-rated and most-reviewed helicopter on Big Island is this one operated by Blue Hawaiian Helicopters.
There's something magical about seeing the Hawaiian islands from the air but arguably the best island to do it, if you had to only pick one, is Big Island because you get the rainforests, mountains, waterfalls, and of course, volcanoes.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience with flybys of Kilauea Volcano and Kohala Coast.
The big elephant in the room though is safety and with this operator, you get the advantage that they've received the FAA Diamond Award every year since they started operating in 1998.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Location: Waikoloa Village (West side of Big Island)
Address: 68-690 Waikoloa Rd, Waikoloa Village, HI 96738, United States
Tour start time: There are two morning (8AM and 10:30AM) departures normally but currently it's set at 9AM.
Total tour time: 1.5 hours
Price: Starts at $638.94 USD per person
Reviews: Blue Hawaiian Helicopters
Map of all Big Island Waterfalls
Check out the map below to see where all of the Big Island waterfalls are located. You'll notice that all of them are clustered on the northern coast of the islan.
TIP: You can make a copy of this map in Google by opening it in a new tab (click on the full screen icon). Once you make a copy, you'll be able to then access this on the Google Maps app on your phone.
Tips for Visiting Waterfalls in Big Island
Before your trip, there a few things you need to know to make sure you're prepared.
Things you need to pack
- Hiking sandals – With all the hiking you'll be doing and dipping in the water, something versatile like the Keen Newport H2's. Closed-toe footwear are mandatory for zip-lining and these count.
- Sunglasses – As much as Ray Bans and Oakleys are popular, those that know about Maui Jim swear by it. I currently use the Chee Hoo.
- Sunglass straps – These Croakies are super helpful to make sure you always have sunglasses on you and won't fall off while you're doing something active like hiking or zip-lining.
- Reef safe sunscreen – Sun Bum is the leader here and is critical not only to protect your skin but also the reef and aquatic life. I recommend a minimum of 50 SPF.
- Hiking backpack – You don't need anything crazy here but if you're doing some hiking to a waterfall, you'll want to carry all the things you need including beach gear and cameras.
- Beach bag – Backpacks work but when you're packing snorkel gear, mats, chairs, and other gear, you need a large beach bag/tote.
- Waterproof case – If you want to carry some valuables and your phone with you as you snorkel, make sure to get one of these waterproof phone cases.
- Dry bag – Another way to keep your valuables from getting wet is by using these large dry bags.
- Flip flops – A good pair of flip flops is always important for Hawaii. I've had my pair of Rainbows for a long time and swear by them.
- Beach towel – While you might not be spending as much time on the beach as on the other islands, you'll be definitely dipping into your fair share of waterfall pools.
- Snorkel gear – While many resorts and tours will have free snorkel gear rental, you might as well pack your own if you plan on doing a lot of snorkeling. The full face snorkel is something that's becoming really popular too.
Car rentals
To properly explore the Big Island, you're definitely going to need a rental car.
When booking your car, here are a couple of things to remember:
- To get the best deal on car rentals, make sure to use car rental coupon codes.
- If you want to drive down to get close to Hi'ilawe Falls or any other off-road trails, make sure to get a 4×4 such as a Jeep Wrangler.
- Similar to the above, if you're going over more rugged terrain, make sure you get insurance.
When you go to Maui and the rest of Hawaii for a vacation, remember that you're a guest of the land and as a visitor you need to respect the fragile ecosystem. Here's how you can do your part.
Travel insurance
This is usually one of the last things you think of but as we talk about in our breakdown of travel insurance, better safe than sorry.
If you're planning on doing a helicopter tour, zip-lining, hiking, horseback riding, or any other adventure tours, a provider such as World Nomads is going to protect you and your loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to visit Big Island of Hawaii is April to May, and August to October. November and December is usually the wettest time of the year that also carries into January – March. Summer is also a nice time to visit but it is also the busiest and most expensive.
Waterfalls depending on water of course and so the strongest flows come after rainfall. However, since you might not have too much control over that, the best time of the day to see waterfalls is in the morning because some have a high chance of seeing rainbows from the spray and also parking and the crowds are the smallest.
Whale season on Big Island is in the winter months between January and March where you'll have a good chance to see humpback whales that migrate from Alaska.
This depends on the waterfall. For many of the waterfalls that you can drive to, hiking down to the base of the waterfall to swim in is not condoned but you will see that some people will disregard the signs. In most cases, this is to preserve the environment and also in case of flash-flooding. For private waterfalls and ones that you're taken to by a guide, many of those you can swim in.
Starting July 8, 2021, pre-travel testing and quarantine requirements will be eliminated for domestic travelers who have been fully vaccinated in the United States (2 weeks beyond their final vaccine shot). At this point, restaurants will be able to get to 75% capacity although social distancing will remain and masks indoors required. When the state reaches 70% vaccination rate, all restrictions will be terminated. Travelers to Hawaii will need to upload your CDC issued vaccination record card to the state’s Safe Travels Program website and have that card with them upon arrival in Hawaii. For everyone else, there is a 10-day quarantine for in-bound visitors to all Hawaiian Islands unless you have proof of a negative COVID-19 test (state-approved trusted testing partner) taken 72 hours prior to departure to bypass this including travellers from Canada, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and French Polynesia. For Canada, the lab used must be approved by Air Canada or WestJet. If you fail to produce this, you'll need to do a 10-day quarantine. The AlohaSafe Alert app is optional on the Big Island. The most up to date information can be found here.
There's something truly magical about the Big Island waterfalls. It's not only the majesty of the type of cascades you can see, the lush and verdant mountains and jungles that surround it, but it's also the height that they drop from as well.
Whether you explore on your own or join one of the epic tours available, you're bound to be impressed.
What you should read next
Featured image via Flickr by smoovey
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