Discover The 10 Must-See Waterfalls in Hawaii (With Photos)

Want to see some of Hawaii’s most beautiful waterfalls? Then go ahead and plan a trip to the Big Island. Although there are waterfalls on all of the Hawaiian islands, none are as easily accessible as the ones on the Big Island. However, there are so many amazing waterfalls that deciding where to begin is tough. Fortunately, we have compiled a list of the top waterfalls in Hawaii that you won’t want to miss!

Take a look at our list of the top 10 waterfalls in Hawaii that won’t disappoint!

1. Hi’ilawe Falls

The Hi’ilawe Falls are located on Hawaii’s Big Island. To be more specific, you may view Hi’ilawe Falls by traveling to the Waipio Valley on Hawaii’s Kohala Coast. This natural waterfall plunges 1,201 feet into a 1,450-foot-deep gorge. This is one of Hawaii’s highest and most powerful waterfalls; however, it can become a little dry around March. Even so, it is an impressive sight to see.

2. Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls lies within the Wailuku River State Park near Hilo, Hawaii. It is also known as Wainuenue. There are many waterfalls on the Big Island but this is one of the best-known. This waterfall is named after the rainbows that often bloom at its base. Because of its location, the sun hits the water at precisely the right angle to create these beautiful waterfalls. 

3. ʻAkaka Falls

The 442-foot-tall ‘Akaka Falls is located just north of Hilo in the ‘Akaka Falls State Park. You can reach the waterfall after walking 0.4 miles through a gorgeous rainforest filled with wild orchids, bamboo groves, and hanging ferns. You can do the hike as a family and it should only take you about thirty minutes. From the parking lot, you can directly access the trailhead.

4. Peʻepeʻe Falls

The Peʻepeʻe Falls (pronounced Peh-eh Peh-eh Falls) is about 1.5 miles upstream from the Rainbow Falls, on the Wailuku River at the end of Wailuku Drive. Despite being smaller than Rainbow Falls, this waterfall in Hawaii is far less crowded. While visiting Rainbow Falls, stop by Peʻepeʻe Falls if you have time and want to see another series of waterfalls.

5. Umauma Falls

Umauma Falls can be found in Hakalau, namely along the Umauma River. The waterfall consists of three small waterfalls that are close together. The water then cascades down these three waterfalls from the river. All three can be seen from an overlook within a private botanical garden. However, there is a fee for entry into the observation deck. Visitors can also zipline or rappel down the Umauma Falls.

6. Kulaniapia Falls

On the lower slopes of Mauna Kea, on the Waiau Stream in Hilo, is this 120-foot waterfall. Kulaniapia’s waterfalls were previously off-limits to those who weren’t inn guests owing to their location on inn grounds. The inn has now opened the grounds to a limited number of visitors per day. With a day pass, you are allowed to visit the waterfalls, along with their 42-acre property, where you can stroll miles of paths and enjoy views of four waterfalls.

7. Nanue Falls

The Nanue Falls is located on Hawaii’s Hamakua Coast. There’s not much tourism at this waterfall in Hawaii, so you may spend a relaxing day with your friends there. Despite the numerous articles and television broadcasts about it, some consider it still a secret or hidden place on the island. You’ll have to walk two hours to get to Nanue Falls, but the terrain isn’t too difficult.

8. Onomea Falls

Hawaii’s Hamakua Coast is home to Onomea Falls. You can reach it within 30 minutes and it is very accessible. Onomea Falls, however, can only be seen after entering the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden and paying an admission fee. You cannot access it by any other means since it is on private land. Fortunately, you’ll get a chance to see beautiful Hawaiian wildlife and flowers in the botanical garden.

9. Wai’ilikahi Falls

It is not easy to get to Wai’ilikahi Falls on the Big Island. It is difficult to complete this hike in one day and, it is not recommended for inexperienced hikers. After reaching the top of the ridge, you’ll need to hike for another eight miles through gorges and across hills to reach Waimanu Valley. Unless you are an experienced hiker looking for adventure, you are better off taking a helicopter trip around the Kohala Coast to view these waterfalls in Hawaii.

10. Kohala Waterfalls 

A well-known tour company on the Big Island, Hawaii Forest & Trail, offers hidden waterfall tours in Northern Kohala. Kohala North is known for its pristine natural beauty, ancient sugar plantation history, and Hawaiian folklore. On the Kohala Waterfalls Adventure trip, you’ll see private waterfalls, picturesque beaches, rough valleys, and quiet streams. This is a well-worth trip to see some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Hawaii.