7 Stunning Hawaiian Falls You Have to See in Person

Hawaiian falls are some of the most beautiful on earth, be it multi-tiered or twin falls. These waterfalls are nestled within Hawaii’s lush jungles and make for a fun day trip no matter which island you’re on. Waterfall chasing is just one of the top things you have to do in Hawaii! From the Big Island to Kauai, here are some of the most spectacular Hawaiian falls.

1. Waimea Falls, Oahu

Waimea Falls is within Waimea Valley, a beautiful nature park in Oahu. Getting there only requires a leisurely one-mile hike, and the gorgeous views make it one of the best hikes in Oahu. For the very young and elderly, there is also a shuttle service that takes visitors to the falls, making it one of the most accessible Hawaiian falls. When you get there, take a dip in the water and enjoy the surroundings. There are also many other activities you can do within the park, such as a history walk, botanical tour and traditional Hawaiian games!

3. Wailua Falls, Kauai

Not to be confused with the one in Maui, this Wailua Falls in Kauai cascades into two streams. In ancient times, Hawaiians used the 83-foot drop as a test of bravery and rite of passage into adulthood! You can either admire the view from the road, about three miles up Maalo Road, or take a downhill hike to the base. Take note that although the hike is just about 1/3 of a mile each way, the steep slope can be extremely slippery at times!

4. Olo’upena Falls, Molokai

Olo’upena Falls is the tallest waterfall in the United States and it is truly spectacular. A tiered razor-thin stream flowing along Haloku cliffs, it is notoriously inaccessible due to the numerous sets of mountains that surround it. Want to see the beautiful Hawaiian falls for yourself? You can do so by air or sea. Guided cruises and aerial excursions provide you with a breathtaking view of Olo’upena!

5. Waialeale Waterfalls, Kauai

Also known as the ‘Wall of Tears’, this waterfall cascades down the magnificence that is Mount Waialeale, the second tallest peak on Kauai. At an elevation of 5,148 feet (1,569m) it is also one of the wettest places on earth. The best way to access the falls is with a helicopter tour. It is possible to hike, but the journey is extremely treacherous and best left to very skilled hikers. Another option for avid hikers is to take the 8-mile Alakai Swamp Trail in Koke‘e State Park, where you will see views of the mountain about midway through your hike.

6. Uluwehi Falls, Kauai

Getting to Uluwehi Falls is an adventure of itself, as you can only get there by hiking and kayaking. Since it is in sacred land, the best way to visit would be to join a kayaking tour where experienced local guides will provide all the gear as well as a tour experience. It starts with a 45-minute scenic paddle from the mouth of Wailua River before a hike to get to Uluwehi Falls. Along the way, you’ll even come across historic ruins of past civilizations!

7. Sacred Falls, Oahu

Easily one of the most spectacular waterfalls there is in Hawaii, this 1100-foot waterfall is within a closed state park in Hauʻula. The hike is extremely dangerous due to a narrow gorge and unstable cliffs, and a rockfall in 1999 led to its closure. However, 20-something years later, hikers continue to trespass into the park. Anyone caught hiking the trail is subject to significant fines and punishment! We definitely do not encourage any trespassing, and there is a completely safe and legal way to see the waterfall, even if it does cost a lot more. Take the trip of a lifetime with a helicopter ride that takes you flying above Sacred Falls!