There’s no better way to experience a vacation in Hawaii than by taking a sight-seeing excursion at the best Hawaii waterfalls. Whether you’re heading to the Big Island, Maui, or Oahu, make sure to take a hike or tour to visit Hawaii’s most gorgeous natural waterfalls.
Hawaii Waterfalls on the Big Island
Spending your Hawaii vacation on the Big Island? With white, black, and even green sand beaches, the Big Island offers thrilling adventures in the great outdoors. Thanks to the humidity and rain, waterfalls on the Big Island are some of the most popular spectacles to visit.
‘Akaka Falls
‘Akaka Falls is a favorite among tourists because of the low-risk trek and high-reward beauty. To get to the 422-foot-tall waterfall, you’ll take a pleasant 0.4-mile hike through a lush rainforest full of wild orchids and bamboo groves. Take the ‘Akaka Falls Loop Trail directly from the parking lot to get a glimpse of the gorge from multiple viewpoints.
If you decide to travel to ‘Akaka Falls, admission is $5 to park. Pedestrians only pay $1 per person for admission.
Umauma Falls
Located off the Umauma River, the Umauma Falls are three waterfalls within close proximity to each other and lies on private land, managed by the Umauma Experience. Access to the falls costs $12 per person, but visitors also get access to the Umauma Falls gardens. What’s more, guests can drive-up for easy viewing or enjoy ziplining, river swimming, or stroll through the beautiful gardens.
Where to Stay on the Big Island
After sight-seeing some of Hawaii’s best waterfalls on the Big Island, you’ll want a luxurious and comfortable resort to head back to. Hilton Grand Vacations has several resorts in Hawaii, including the Bay Club at Waikoloa Beach. Unwind at one of two swimming pools, check out the tennis courts, and take in the incredible views of Waiulua Bay. Browse Bay Club at Waikoloa Beach timeshares for sale to secure one or two-bedroom suites every year, complete with fully-equipped kitchens, as well as washers/dryers. We also have Bay Club at Waikoloa Beach vacation rentals available when you call our rental department at 1-800-334-1846.
Maui Hawaii Waterfalls
The Valley Isle is the second largest island of Hawaii with world-famous beaches, the sacred Iao Valley, and views of the incredible migrating humpback whales. Not to mention, the Haleakala sunrise and sunset makes Maui one of the best islands in the United States. Make sure to plan some sight-seeing of this Hawaii island’s waterfalls on your trip to Maui.
Upper Waikani Falls
Upper Waikani Falls, which everyone calls the Three Bears, stacks three falls side by side just off the Hana Highway. You can see the whole thing from the bridge. That is the version I would point you toward: find somewhere safe to pull over and look.
Getting down to the pool is a different animal. There is no marked parking (the usual spot sits about a tenth of a mile past the falls, on a road with no shoulder), and the way down starts with an awkward drop off the bridge before the footing improves. Landslides have left boulders and mud on the route.
The pool itself is swimmable, with decent footing at the edge, though it is studded with rocks and nobody should be jumping in. Bring swim gear if you have looked at that descent and decided you are up for it. Not before.
Makapipi Falls
Have a two-in-one tour of Hawaii’s waterfalls on Maui when you visit the Makapipi Falls, also located along the Hana Highway. The vantage point of Makapipi Falls is from above, where you’ll get a birds-eye view of the falls and pool below. Get a good glimpse from the bridge that goes over the Makapipi stream.
Lower Puohokamoa Falls
Lower Puohokamoa Falls sits below the highway near mile marker 10.8, and it comes with a complication the other stops do not. The trailhead has been posted with private property signs, and visitors have reported the trail fenced off. Who actually owns the land is unsettled (East Maui Irrigation and the State of Hawaii both come up), which means nobody can tell you with a straight face that walking down is fine.
So do not. The short walk in from the pull-off gives you a look at the cascade without the commitment, and the full descent is steep enough that guidebooks class it expert-only. If access visibly reopens, reconsider. Until then this one is a photo from the top.
Where to Stay in Maui
Hyatt Vacation Club at Ka’anapali Beach puts you at the oceanfront, which after a day chasing Hawaii waterfalls is roughly the correct reward.
There are three pools, which sounds like a lot until you are traveling with a four-year-old. One is a zero-entry lagoon with its own children’s area. Another is adults-only, for the parents who have earned it. Lahaina Provision Company handles the coffee and the grab-and-go on the lobby level, so nobody has to make a decision about breakfast.
If you have been thinking about vacation ownership, take a look at Hyatt Vacation Club at Ka’anapali Beach timeshare resales available at a fraction of the cost. Or, if you want to try the resort out before you buy, you can also check out Hyatt Vacation Club at Ka’anapali Beach vacation rentals.
Hawaii Waterfalls in Oahu
One of the most popular Hawaiian islands to visit, Oahu has a plethora of activities for the entire family. Besides experiencing the great outdoors with Hawaii waterfalls, Oahu also offers a great nightlife scene, shopping, and golfing. Marriott Vacation Club resorts in Hawaii include the best places to stay while you’re visiting Oahu. Get the best of both worlds, after visiting magnificent waterfalls, of course.
Waimea Falls
Take a trip out to the Waimea Valley to see the 45-foot Waimea Falls. Located in a botanical park, you’ll find attractions for all visitors as well as cultural activities. What’s more, the trail to Waimea Falls is paved, so families with little ones don’t need to stress about slippery conditions. Once you reach the falls, there’s a changing room, free life vests, and lifeguard on duty, making this one of the safest waterfalls to visit in Hawaii. Admission is not free, but is well worth it for a safe and fun experience!
Manoa Falls
Within close proximity to Waikiki, Manoa Falls is known for being one of the most popular sights in Oahu. A well-maintained path takes visitors 1.6 miles to see the 150-foot waterfall, so it’s very beginner-friendly and convenient. Be prepared for lots of crowds and foot-traffic, as this is truly a sight that should not be missed.
Where to Stay in Oahu
Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club is a favorite among Oahu tourists, and for good reason. Outstanding amenities and accommodations will make your vacation comfortable and relaxing. The resort itself is within a beautifully landscaped and gated community, just steps away from the Pacific Ocean. Lounge at one of three outdoor pools, or rejuvenate with a massage at the on-site spa. Marriott is considered one of the best vacation clubs to join and with good reason. Enjoy the flexibility of using points to experience Marriott’s top resorts. Browse Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club timeshare resales available now. Or, take a look at Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club vacation rentals.
Hawaii Vacation Rentals and Timeshares for Sale
When you’re planning your trip to see Hawaii waterfalls across every island, make sure to check out our Hawaii vacation rentals from top resorts for a great deal. Residence-style resorts offer spacious accommodations and incredible amenities. Or if you’re ready to make vacations to Hawaii a reality every year, you can browse Hawaii timeshares for sale at a fraction of the cost than buying directly from a developer. Take a look at Hawaii luxury resorts for inspiration.
