This is a full-day trip from Kona. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. The Akaka Falls and the Rainbow Falls are hands-down the most-visited waterfalls on the Big Island. Plus it has numerous attractions, from volcanic rock formations to beautiful waterfalls. Another great way to see these waterfalls is to take an organized tour. What takes a waterfall from "beautiful" to "spectacular" is height- and Hawaii's falls undoubtedly have it! Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. Seeing waterfalls is a great way to save money while on your vacation to Hawaii. . Big Island waterfall tours Legends of the Waterfalls & Volcano Full-Day Tour Check out the latest prices and more details. The waterfall is split into two waterfalls that fall into a pool below. Download and/or view the map of all 9 waterfalls here. At the bottom of the valley, take a left and walk for roughly 5-10 minutes to see the falls. This Upper Waikani Falls, Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA 2. Id be sure to go at least a few days after heavy rain to avoid flash flooding and a swollen stream. The Magical Waterfall Tour is an airborne tour that takes you on a visit to the coastline of Waipio Valley and Waimanu Valley. This one has amazing views of the Kohala Coast while listening to fascinating commentary from the pilot. It is alleged to have a height of 1,450 feet. Akaka Falls are extremely accessible, as the trail to the waterfall stretches only 0.4 miles long. Check out the latest prices and more details. You can read the full story here. Sign up for this discounted ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience. Youll find the largest waterfall in Hawaii on the secluded island of Molokai. . In fact, some still consider it a secret or hidden spot on the island even though it has been featured in several magazines and TV shows. While there are gorgeous waterfalls on Kauai, Oahu, and Maui, the Big Island has some of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii. You can contact the State Division of Forestry and Wildlife at 808-974-4221. A tour across the Hamakua Coast that stops at Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls and Richardson Beach Park. This can cause the falls to be (almost) dry even during the wet season. If you are looking for an adventure or just want to relax on your vacation, these seven waterfalls will not disappoint. The visit is well worth your time, even just to enjoy the tranquility of this Hawaiian rainforest. Great for first-time visitors. These 7 Big Island waterfalls are truly spectacular and well worth checking out during your stay here! What are the best hikes on the Big Island? Whats the Honolulu Sister Cities Program? This is an activity in which you descend the rocks surrounding the waterfall with a harness and equipment ensuring your safety. Please do not put these waterfalls on your to-do list. Standing at 2,954 feet tall, this waterfall is spectacular. The falls are located in Waimanu Valley. Image credit: Mark. If youre staying in Hilo and enjoy learning about history, you might get a kick out of this Legends of the Waterfalls tour where youll learn why Hilo was one of the favorite places for Kamehameha the Great. It stretches over 120 feet high, although the tiers make it difficult to measure accurately. First, youll head to the Kohala Mountains where youll fly the coastline of Waipio Valley and Waimanu Valley. 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. Located only 1.5 miles upstream from Rainbow Falls, Peepee Falls is another beautiful spot. Be sure to pay at least a few of them a visit and create some unforgettable memories that youll treasure forever! If you are staying on the other side of the Big Island, be sure to plan these excursions into your vacation plans. Check out the latest prices and details. Youll see places on the Big Island only accessible by air. I have seen people continue to do it anyway, but this is just asking for trouble. 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. The best part? 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. Their list contains the following waterfalls: In Hilo: Rainbow falls, Pe'epe'e falls, Wai'ale falls, Kulaniapia falls. Each one of these is worth visiting at least once in my opinion. A couple of the best waterfalls near Hilo can be seen in Akaka Falls State Park, including Akaka Falls (422 feet) and Kahuna Falls (100 feet). The hike itself can be challenging and involves multiple stream crossings. 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. 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!). Located up the Wailua River, you will need to either rent kayaks or book a guided tour to reach the trailhead. 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. Take a comfortable ride through stunning countryside up to the hiking trailhead. However, Id always watch for signs near waterfalls and follow their instructions if they indicated not to swim. While you can access most of these on your own, you can also join Hawaii waterfall tours for a more personalized experience. The state park entry fees are $5/car or $1/pedestrian. 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 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. Marvel at the beauty and adventure that makes up Hawaii. There are tons of gorgeous waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii. Hi'ilawe Falls in the Waipio Valley. These include stargazing and helicopter tours and is absolutely worth the time and money. No experience necessary! Join this tour to see waterfalls and the stunning Hilo scenery and learn about King Kamehameha the Great and his preference for the area. Facebook Pinterest Twitter Instagram Subscribe to our Newsletter. Where are all the waterfalls in Hilo Hawaii? Absolutely! Starting in Hilo town, this tour takes you on a slow-paced kayaking trip through the waters of Hilo Bay, where youll learn about some of the culture and history of the area. 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). The day pass includes access to amazing hiking trails, tropical gardens and a total of four waterfalls - with Kulaniapia Falls being our favorite. Sign up for this discounted Majestic Waterfalls Tour. Visit the State Parks website for updated pricing. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Its no wonder that you might be having issues deciding where to go. Swimming here can be dangerous and has proved lethal several times in the past. 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. More waterfalls can be found at the northern Hamakua coast seaside cliffs and the valleys of the Kohala coast. The lush green northeastern coast- the Hilo and Hamakua Coast regions- is home to lovely tropical gardens nourished by the abundant rainfall the area receives. 6 Favorite waterfalls Akaka falls (inside state park, small entrance fee required) Rainbow falls (free to visit) Umauma falls (on private grounds, entrance fee required) Kulaniapia Falls (on private grounds, entrance fee required) Peepee Falls (+ 1 extra, free to visit) Hiilawe falls (viewable from public road) 7 other waterfalls Hiilawe Falls is one of the best Big Island waterfall hikes. I would plan 10 hours out of your day if you are thinking about doing the hike. Aside from waterfalls, youll also be able to see red-hot lava flows, the Kohala Mule Station lookout, and more! Alternatively, you can zipline or rappel at the Umauma Falls. Some of which are so beautiful that they inspired some of Hawaiis most popular songs. To be exact, you can find it along the Umauma River in Hakalau. You have to be a guest at the Inn to access the trail leading to the waterfall. Rainbow Falls One of Hawaii's most stunning waterfalls, Rainbow Falls is named for the rainbows that can be seen in the mist. Hello, my name is Abduvaliev diyorbek. An aerial view of Kulaniapia Falls. They are amazing natural wonders that should definitely be on your list of things to do while visiting this tropical paradise! If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. Top 9 Waterfalls on The Big Island Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls Hi'ilawe Falls Rainbow Falls Pe'epe'e Falls Umauma Falls Kulaniapia Falls Onomea Falls Wai'ilikahi Falls What is the best way to visit all these waterfalls? The closest waterfalls in the Kohala district (about 50 miles) require a tour to visit. Each has its own unique beauty that will leave you in awe from start to finish! the State Parks website for updated pricing. You can follow an uphill path towards the waterfall, which is about half a mile long. 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! Check out the latest prices and more details. This is also close to where most of the black sand beaches on the Big Island are located. Do you like waterfalls a LOT and are you also visiting another island in the Hawaiian island chain? 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. Zip with up to 65 miles per hour on 9 long lines, over 14 rushing waterfalls, suspension bridges, and treetops of the lush Hamakua coast rainforest. youll get to taste seasonal fruit and macadamia nuts, swim at private waterfalls, and enjoy local food for lunch. Get your discounted Hilo Bay Kayaking Tickets. The 422 ft. tall Akaka falls are a pleasant stop on your way to or from Hilo. You can also walk down from the upper parking lots and viewing decks. Check out the latest prices and more details. The hike takes you past 7 waterfalls with as grand finale a cooling dip in the final one! Please remember that all of these falls have different levels of water throughout the year. Many people stop their journey at the lower waterfall. While visiting the Wailuku River State Park, you can also stop by the Peepee Falls. This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. One of the coolest ways to experience Kulaniapia Falls is by booking a spot in one of the Experience Packages available at the property. Whether you want to soar over the falls or dive right in and swim them, we have the tour for you. There is no swimming allowed here; you can only view the falls from a safe distance. Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. Here are a few top picks that are worth checking out! Hiilawe Falls is visible only within the valley or from the air, as the Waipio Valley is very steep. There are different, The private property is currently managed by the. Which waterfall can you swim at on the Big Island? They offer a variety of tours to see the falls with ziplining being our favorite way to see the falls. You no longer need to book a tour with the Umauma Experience to get to the falls. This is the perfect pre or post-hike pit stop for pineapples and fresh coconuts that you can't miss. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. The total height of the falls is about 1,450 feet (442m), with a highest direct drop of 1,201 feet (366m)! A 20-acre rainforest greenhouse, the area is filled with beautiful plant life and wild animals. Take your first right onto Akaka Falls Road and continue for 3.75 miles until you reach the parking lot. Keep scrolling for the best waterfalls on the Big Island and discover why people love coming back again and again to this magical island destination. A picnic lunch and hotel transport are included for a hassle-free experience. Its 93 miles across and has all sorts of terrain and natural wonders. Swimming here is not recommended, even on days where it feels safe. 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. Waimoku Falls is a 400 foot waterfall that you see pictured on the cover of many of Maui's guidebooks and is one of the tallest waterfalls on Maui. She was a professional hula dancer for 20 years and even wrote her college thesis on Hawaiian history. Read more: in our guide to visiting the Rainbow falls. This air tour hits up the 7 Kohala waterfalls from the Kona airport. There are no lifeguards here, so please be extremely cautious. Spend a few hours relaxing luxuriating in a private area of the Umauma River. There are so many incredible waterfalls, making it hard to know where to start. If the idea of planning a self-guided waterfall trip causes you anxiety, or if you simply want to sit back and enjoy the view, you can always book one of these tours! The Peepee Falls are located about 1.5 miles upstream the rainbow falls, at the Wailuku river on the end of Wailuku drive. Most waterfalls on the Hamakua coast are a 90-mile drive away. Both falls are located on a family-friendly hiking loop (.4 miles) that takes about 30-45 minutes to see both waterfalls. The farmers markets are a little-known gem allowing visitors to meet locals, shop for arts and crafts and enjoy edible treasures. Now they have opened up their grounds to a limited amount of daily visitors. While youre enjoying these natural attractions, be sure to take lots of pictures! Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. Compared to Oahu or Maui, the Big Island of Hawaii is massive! Hiilawe (the barely visible waterfall in the back of the valley) is one of the tallest waterfalls on the Big Island. Its accessible through several different methods and gorgeous no matter how you see it. Due to its location, the sun hits the water at just the right angle to show off. One other thing to note is that there are 13 streams you will have to cross before getting to the water. The three-tier fall has a combined height of 300 feet, but it doesn't seem very high when you look at it from the viewing bridge. During the tour, youll travel along the coastline. One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Hawaii is Onomea Falls. Have you gone to any of the best waterfalls in Hawaii to swim? Its secluded and quiet, and staying here really forces you to slow down and enjoy many of the natural beauties that Hawaii has to offer. Located along the Umauma River in Hakalau, Umauma Falls is a series of three, short cascading waterfalls. Alternatively, you could think of going for this scenic drive to see all the waterfalls close to Hilo in half a day. Enjoy this 8-hour adventure as you explore Kohala, the oldest of five volcanos that make up the Big Island. Compared to many other Hawaiian Islands, the Big Island is huge. The waterfalls of Hawaii on the Big Island are absolutely stunning. On an especially clear day, you'll be able to see Mauna Kea behind them. This is for kids at least 5 years old who can comfortably stay in a kayak. 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. Guests will witness mantas up close as they grace the waters and feed on plankton. Narnia is the name given to a set of waterfalls in the Hilo Forest Reserve. Get your discounted Kohala Zip and Dip Tour. You may have a luxury problem though: there are more waterfalls on the Big Island than you can reasonable visit during your stay! It is located about 1.6 miles (5-minute drive) from Rainbow Falls and is also part of the Wailuku River. For more information on waterfalls in Maui, You can check out this post on the best 15 stops on the Road to Hana. While I was there I witnessed two people hike to the top, even though it clearly said not to do so. Whether youd like to hike or bike along tranquil trails, visit scenic overlooks, snorkel, or just relax on the shore of a sunny beach, the Big Island wont disappoint. Yes, but all of them require some sort of entrance fee. Helicopter tours are often one of the trip-highlights that people remember for a long time and worth considering if you are willing to spend the money. After some time, the streams flow lessened and it is now safe to swim here. The 422 ft tall Akaka falls are part of the Akaka falls state park, located just north of Hilo. 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. The hike is beautiful, surrounded by bamboo groves and delicate wild orchids. Get in touch with us! Here are some tours you can check out: This half-day tour takes you to the three most famous Big Island waterfalls: Akaka Falls, Hiilawe Falls and Rainbow Falls. One of the, Often referred to as Secret Falls, this beautiful waterfall will require substantial work to reach but we think its totally worth it. 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! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. These falls are more difficult to visit and include the last of our favorites that can only be seen from a distance: the Hiilawe falls. Check out the latest prices and more details. However, to visit Onomea Falls, you need to go through the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden and pay an entrance fee. Its the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago and has some of the most popular waterfalls in all of Hawaii! 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. from the air is as part of a helicopter 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. Hawaii's Big Island is home to some of the islands' most accessible waterfalls, and here are five of the most popular. If you decide to swim, please take extra precautions as rivers are prone to flash flooding. Youll never run out of things to do here. The dark blue/purple waterfalls are more difficult to see and smaller waterfalls. Waianuenue Falls, Big Island James Walsh/Flickr Youll experience 7 incredible Kohala waterfalls plus a picnic lunch. Description: Considered one of the best family waterfall hikes on the island, the 800-foot Waipoo Falls can be approached via the Waipoo Falls Trail at Waimea Canyon. There are much safer spots to swim - a.k.a. The best time to visit the rainbow falls is in the early morning because this is when you have the most chance to see rainbows in the spray of the waterfall. Its a 1,450 feet tall waterfall, although most of it drops 1,201 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. This tour takes you on a journey through Hilo, stopping by at the Rainbow Falls, tidepools, and ocean beaches. It is one of the most idyllic and beautiful waterfalls in the world. There have been instances where people lost their lives here. This broad waterfall in the Wailuku river is conveniently located within Hilo town. Most waterfalls in Hawaii have a great pool of water to swim in. Hanapueo and Umauma Falls. The Best Hiking Shoes for Hawaii in 2021(The Ultimate buying Guide), The 5 Best Reef Safe Sunscreens for Hawaii. Hi'ilawe Falls It is also possible to rappel down along the Kulaniapia Falls. So keep an eye out for honu (green sea turtles) and admire the coast! The Northern beach offers the best base location for those wanting to live by the sea in Sons of the Forest. In fact, there is a small parking lot near the falls, as well as a short but slippery path to visit the base. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. 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. Check out the latest prices and more details. 9 Hawaii Big Island Waterfalls Rainbow Falls If youd like to dabble in something slightly more adventurous, you can go ziplining or rappelling over the area. The Kulaniapia Falls for example require a day pass, and others are on private property and only reachable as part of a tour.