What youll see along the route will depend on what trail you choose, but each one is worth it! The Kulaniapia Falls are with a 120ft drop the tallest private waterfalls on the Big Island. Sign up for this discounted Waipio Valley and Waterfalls Adventure. As you travel, youll stop at the famous Big Island Candies store, where youll be treated to some of the best candy on the Big Island! It is simply breathtaking. 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. This remote, Makaleha Trailhead, 7290 Kahuna Rd, Kapa?a, HI 96746, USA, Makapipi Falls is visible from the Road to Hana, and is unique in that the waterfall plummets into a striking blue pool. Its approximately a 19-mile out and back hike that takes around 4 hours each way. Keep in mind that youll need to clear a full day of your itinerary for this. Akaka Falls are extremely accessible, as the trail to the waterfall stretches only 0.4 miles long. The Big Island, however, also has breathtaking waterfalls. Good to know: to access the falls you must purchase a $49 daypass to the grounds. Hiilawe Falls is a magnificent waterfall located in Waipio Valley on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island. Get your discounted Hilo Bay Kayaking Tickets. Visiting the Big Island of Hawaii is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and weve done all the work for you to help plan your trip. I visited Rainbow Falls in September of 2021 and the trail to get to the top was closed. Let us know in the comments below! The Big Island of Hawaii offers so much for visitors with its lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes. Unfortunately, the strength of the falls is often dependent on rainfall - so here's to hoping you catch it on a good day. There are so many incredible waterfalls, making it hard to know where to start. The best part? It is located in the Pelekunu Preserve on the windward side of Molokai. from $85 + taxes & fees | Child $75. Along the way, youll see verdant vegetation and immense, ancient Banyan trees, overgrown by fig vines and moss. more, 2006-2023 World Of Waterfalls, Compared to many other Hawaiian Islands, the Big Island is huge. There is no swimming allowed here; you can only view the falls from a safe distance.
Swimming & Kayak Tours in Hawaii's Umauma River It is located about 1.6 miles (5-minute drive) from Rainbow Falls and is also part of the Wailuku River. Another great way to visit all of these falls is through a helicopter tour. Please dont take the risk there are many places more suitable for swimming in Hilo (the beach!). Youll get to play in the ocean, explore a tidepool, and see Rainbow Falls.
Where to Find the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island, Hawaii This multi tiered, Oheo Gulch, OheO Gulch, Hawaii 96713, USA. Ultimate Guide to the Polynesian Cultural Center with Kids, Traditional Hawaiian Food: 24 Classic Dishes of Hawaiian Cuisine. Entry to the state park will cost $5 . There is only one way to get here, and thats by hiking along the coastal trail. Check out the latest prices and more details. Map of Big Island Waterfalls Wrapping Up the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. The waterfall is split into two waterfalls that fall into a pool below. The closest waterfalls in the Kohala district (about 50 miles) require a tour to visit.
Akaka Falls State Park Information, Photos & More - Hawaii Guide The only waterfall you can swim at on the Big Island is the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls. While there are gorgeous waterfalls on Kauai, Oahu, and Maui, the Big Island has some of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii. Please do not be tempted to hike up if there are signs that say hiking is not allowed and its blocked off. No experience necessary! Most waterfalls in Hawaii have a great pool of water to swim in. Photos of Kulania attached .
Can you swim in any waterfalls on the Big Island? Youll need to pay an entrance fee to enter the area. Their list contains the following waterfalls: In Hilo: Rainbow falls, Pe'epe'e falls, Wai'ale falls, Kulaniapia falls. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. The height and sheer beauty of its surroundings make Akaka Falls one of the most visited waterfalls on Big Island, but it will take a bit of effort to see them. Sign up for this discounted Legends of the Waterfalls & Volcano Tour. Hanapueo and Umauma Falls. 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. Alternatively, you can zipline or rappel at the Umauma Falls. 1. Make sure your tour includes all of the waterfalls you want to see. The farmers markets are a little-known gem allowing visitors to meet locals, shop for arts and crafts and enjoy edible treasures. When river safety conditions permit, you can also go swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding under the Kulaniapia Falls using on-site equipment. Which one was your favorite? Zipline high above the forest floor, picnic on the rim of Pololu Valley & swim under a private waterfall fed by a cool mountain stream. 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! If you only have time to see one of the waterfalls, we suggest seeing the incredible Akaka Falls. The area beyond that is private property, so be aware of where youre going! 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 Falls has recently been named in the top ten best swimming holes in America by the magazine Travel + Leisure.
Big Island of Hawaii Waterfalls and How To Visit Them The waterfalls themselves might be short, but the picturesque pools are well worth the short hike. While there are gorgeous waterfalls on Kauai, Oahu, and Maui, the Big Island has some of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii. Umauma Falls The most notable waterfalls on the Big Island that are free to visit are the Peepee Falls and the Rainbow falls. Big Island Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Big Island Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. The falls used to only be open to those staying at the hotel located on the grounds. Enjoy spectacular views of Mauna Kea and the Pacific Ocean, awesome photo spots, swim in a private pond and really experience off-road Hawaii. Check out the latest prices and details! If youre thinking of driving a 44 vehicle down, Id be careful and ensure that it has enough horsepower and gas to make it back up. This 80-ft. waterfall on the Wailuku river is the site of a Hawaiian legend that involves the demigod Maui, his mother the Goddess Hina, the Volcano Goddess Pele, and a giant Mo'o or lizard monster up to no good. Weve rounded up our top picks for some of the most beautiful spots for waterfalls on the Big Island. This state park is home to two amazing waterfalls, one of which plunges 422 feet into a stream-eroded gorge below. There are many tours available if you would rather visit with a guide. Are you traveling to the Big Island of Hawaii? Akaka, Kahuna, Hiilawe, Rainbow, Umauma, Peepee, Kulaniapia, Onomeaand WaiilikahiFalls. The volume of the rainbow falls (or Waianuenue) changes on a daily basis. Each one of these is worth visiting at least once in my opinion. There are different car rental companies in Kona, Hawaii that will set it up for you. 2. As an Amazon Associate, thistraveldream.com earns from qualifying purchases. I also included a table of contents, so feel free to skip to the sections you are most interested in. On an especially clear day, you'll be able to see Mauna Kea behind them. The dark blue/purple waterfalls are more difficult to see and smaller waterfalls. On the bright side, they did not jump off the falls as they planned to. Come join the Big Island's only horseback ride that offers swimming at a waterfall! Be sure to do both if you have the time. Oloupena Falls is an impressive 2,953-foot Hawaiian waterfall. The cliffs were formed from the lava flow from Mauna Kea that once flowed down the mountainside. Click the button below. Sign up for a discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour. Youll also pass by Boulder Creek on your way to the falls, which is a gorgeous sight to see. Whether you want to soar over the falls or dive right in and swim them, we have the tour for you. Read more: in our guide to visiting the Rainbow falls. Turn inland (mauka) between mile markers 14 and 13 onto Honomu Road. Be sure to bring extra clothing. There are no lifeguards here, so please be extremely cautious. Rainbow Falls, or Wainuenue, is located inside the Wailuku River State Park in Hilo, Hawaii. More waterfalls can be found at the northern Hamakua coast seaside cliffs and the valleys of the Kohala coast. 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. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. From USD 221.99 (9) Umauma Falls Zipline Tour & Waterfall Swim Adventure . After some time, the streams flow lessened and it is now safe to swim here. If youre looking for a little piece of paradise on the Big Island, just keep your eyes peeled and head to one of these gorgeous waterfalls. Note: There is an admission fee to the state park, $5.00 per car or $1 per person if you are walking. For a beautiful view and unforgettable experience, sign up for a discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. Most of these places do not have a lifeguard on duty, making you solely responsible for your safety. Check out the latest prices and more details. Soak in soaring sea cliffs, remote valleys, and even go for a swim under one of seven waterfalls. Its only 80-foot-tall but its still a beautiful natural feature with gushing water all year-round and a large pool below. One of the, As you are driving on Hana Highway from the north, the first notable attraction you will discover is these twin waterfalls, also known as Hololawa Falls. 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 During the tour, youll travel along the coastline. This allows you to experience a birds-eye view of the waterfall!
The Top 9 Waterfalls to Visit on the Big Island of Hawaii Love Hawaii? 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. If you're looking for the best Big Island waterfall adventures, then look no further. The Peepee Falls are located about 1.5 miles upstream the rainbow falls, at the Wailuku river on the end of Wailuku drive. And be sure to keep your eyes out for sea turtles, which are known to hang out in this area! This one has amazing views of the Kohala Coast while listening to fascinating commentary from the pilot. The Experiences Package allows you to water rappel.
Stunning Big Island Hawaii Waterfalls (2023) - Hawaii Travel Spot Check out the latest prices and more details. 'Akaka Falls 'Akaka Falls is located just north of Hilo and are a gem of the Big Island's waterfalls. Get your discounted Kohala Zip and Dip Tour. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! Get your discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. It stretches over 120 feet high, although the tiers make it difficult to measure accurately. This waterfall used to have a high volume of water in the stream, making swimming here dangerous. What are the best hikes on the Big Island? To make the process easier you can look directly into Kona jeep rental deals and reserve the one that meets your needs. Rappelling at the Kulaniapia Falls. Many people stop their journey at the lower waterfall. It is comprised of three short waterfalls that are located close to each otherthe water actually cascades down this series of waterfalls from the river. A picnic lunch and hotel transport are included for a hassle-free experience. Have you gone to any of the best waterfalls in Hawaii to swim? What is the best way to visit all these waterfalls? I am not sure how people did this as signs warn against it, and its illegal and can be dangerous. This is the perfect pre or post-hike pit stop for pineapples and fresh coconuts that you can't miss. Good to know: The river feeding Hiilawe is used for irrigation purposes. The Big Island is filled with tourist attractions! The day pass includes access to amazing hiking trails, tropical gardens and a total of four waterfalls - with Kulaniapia Falls being our favorite. First, youll head to the Kohala Mountains where youll fly the coastline of Waipio Valley and Waimanu Valley. Located in the Waipio Valley, this waterfall is absolutely breathtaking. If youre an old soul, this Hilo Bay Waterfalls by Kayak tour was made for you. Then, you have to complete the 45-minute hike through the muddy jungle to reach the falls. 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. This tour takes you on a journey through Hilo, stopping by at the Rainbow Falls, tidepools, and ocean beaches. Majestic Waterfalls Tour A tour across the Hamakua Coast that stops at 'Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls and Richardson Beach Park. Hiilawe Falls is visible only within the valley or from the air, as the Waipio Valley is very steep. Read more about ourHawaii adventureshere. 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. Please keep in mind that the falls are not accessible to the general public. 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. The content on this website may not be copied or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission. Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden 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. Just two weeks ago, the couple posted a YouTube video of the mum-to-be at 38-weeks pregnant interacting with dolphins in the sea. Big Island of Hawaii Waterfalls Simply put, waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii are some of the world's finest. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. Umauma Falls is a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation. You have to be a guest at the Inn to access the trail leading to the waterfall. Read THIS first!
4 Easy Big Island Waterfalls For Those Who Are Tired - Aloha With Love This place is good for viewing and taking photos. There have been instances where people lost their lives here. This ziplining tour is the option for those who love a thrill.
The 5 Best Waterfalls on Hawaii's Big Island 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. We are independently owned so content written by us merely reflect our own opinions. Standing at 422ft tall, this free-falling waterfall drops to the bottom of the gorge, creating an amazing panoramic view of the area. You can also book one of their events to have access to their waterfall. The state park is located along the northeastern Hilo Coast, west of Honom. Due to its relative obscurity, especially compared to the rest of the waterfalls on this list, going to this waterfall and relaxing in the area may seem like a scene out of a movie. One of the coolest ways to experience Kulaniapia Falls is by booking a spot in one of the Experience Packages available at the property. The Umauma falls are three waterfalls in close proximity to the Umauma River, 16 miles north of Hilo on the Hamakua coast. A couple of travel dreamers who fell in love with Hawaii and want to share the beauty of the Islands! This might cost more, but its well worth it. Its a way to connect with nature and experience the waterfall closer than otherwise. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. Looking for a car rental in Kona, Big island? Before we talk about the best waterfalls, lets discuss some FAQs you might have: Swimming is NOT allowed at Akaka Falls State Park. 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!). If you dont want to search out the waterfalls on your own, this might be the right tour for you. Along the way, youll be privy to various wild orchids. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW. Hiilawe (the barely visible waterfall in the back of the valley) is one of the tallest waterfalls on the Big Island. You can swim in this one! Well, you are in luck.
Big Island, Hawaii Rivers and Waterfalls - Umauma Experience You will need to stop at the visitor center to register before heading to the falls. If youd like to dabble in something slightly more adventurous, you can go ziplining or rappelling over the area. Hiilawe Falls is often considered to be the tallest waterfall in Hawaii. Whats the Honolulu Sister Cities Program? The 422 ft tall Akaka falls are part of the Akaka falls state park, located just north of Hilo. It aims to take you on an unforgettable journey through the Hamakua 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 All Rights Reserved. I have seen people continue to do it anyway, but this is just asking for trouble. Youll find the largest waterfall in Hawaii on the secluded island of Molokai. Thats not to say that the Big Island has the best waterfalls I think all the islands have something great to offer when it comes to these fascinating feats of nature. If you want to see the base of the falls, you must rent a car with four-wheel drive - and even then, the grade is so steep that it can be dangerous. 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. 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. Although smaller, the Kahuna Falls is similarly beautiful. Located in Hilo, Hawaii in Wailuku River State Park, Rainbow Falls might be the most famous waterfall on the island. The beach! Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Sign up for this discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour. One of the most unique tours on this list, the Waterfalls of Kohala tour takes you on a helicopter journey that allows you a unique birds-eye view of some of the prettiest waterfalls on the Big Island. To be exact, you can visit Hiilawe Falls by going to the Waipio Valley at the Kohala Coast in Hawaii. Both falls are located on a family-friendly hiking loop (.4 miles) that takes about 30-45 minutes to see both waterfalls. 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. I highly discourage doing this hike during the rainy season. And if youre heading to Akaka Falls with kids, check out my guide HERE. Its an impressive 1,450-foot natural waterfall with a main drop of 1,201 feet. The admission fee to the park is $5.00 per car or $1 per person for pedestrians. This 8-hour tour takes you from Kona to the oldest volcano on the Big Island for an inspiring and exhilarating day. The most popular way to observe the Umauma Falls is from a tranquil overlook accessible through the World Botanical Garden. Big Island is home to some of the tallest falls in the state. Marvel at the beauty and adventure that makes up Hawaii. The Umauma Falls are a spectacular 3-tiered falls and one of the best waterfalls on the Big Island. Also, be sure to check out all the waterfalls in Hawaii on ourHawaii Waterfallspage. This is a great family-friendly waterfall as there are no strong currents or falling rocks around. Kayak & Swim in the Umauma River. with the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing snack break at the waterfalls where you can swim and paddleboard. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. This would allow you to see almost all of our favorite waterfalls and is recommended for people that really love waterfalls. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. Here at Only In Hawaii, weve talked about waterfalls, and weve talked about swimming holes, but now were combining the two and giving you our exclusive list of 13 of the best waterfalls in Hawaii to swim in across all of the islands from spots found only from hiking through the deep jungle of Oahus windward coast, to various scenic spots visible from Mauis breathtaking Hana Highway. Papalaua Falls in Molokai is an unbelievably impressive waterfall, and unsurprising that's it on Molokai as this island is home to some of the tallest waterfalls in the entire world. 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. Mahalo! They offer a variety of tours to see the falls with ziplining being our favorite way to see the falls.