The famous triple-tiered Umauma Falls. with the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing snack break at the waterfalls where you can swim and paddleboard. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. You no longer need to book a tour with the Umauma Experience to get to the falls. Find the best prices here. There are however several safety tips to keep in mind while doing so on the Big Island: We share our favorite tips and images on Instagram, click here to go to our instagram account. Compared to Maui, Oahu, and Kauai, The Big Island of Hawaii has some of the most popular waterfalls in all of Hawaii. It stretches hundreds of feet tall and is surrounded by greenery. Also, be sure to check out all the waterfalls in Hawaii on ourHawaii Waterfallspage. And it is surrounded by immense boulders and greenery. I have seen other people recommend Peepee Falls as another great option. A couple of travel dreamers who fell in love with Hawaii and want to share the beauty of the Islands! The Hamakua Coast is beautiful and this half-day waterfall tour will stop at Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls, and Richardson Beach Park. As a paradise for active travelers it is rich in experiences that include nature, culinary discoveries, historic landmarks, shopping, nightlife and festivals. You can read the full story here. Youll never run out of things to do here. Book any of these great Big Island waterfall tours today! In a 30-minute call we help you set up the trip of your dreams. If you only have time to see one of the waterfalls, we suggest seeing the incredible Akaka Falls. You might hear that people go swimming here, but dont do it! Furthermore, flash floods and strong currents are a real danger there. If youre debating on visiting Oahu or Maui, you can check out my other article on Oahu Vs Maui to learn more. On Highway 19's bridge, most drivers will pass by these 2 neat waterfalls without realizing it! 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! Which one was your favorite? Wrapping Up the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island. Of this list, youre not allowed to swim in both Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls, as it is both dangerous and illegal. The most spectacular waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii Rainbow Falls Pe'epe'e Falls Wai'ale Falls 'Akaka Falls Onomea Falls Umauma Falls Kulaniapia Falls Hi'ilawe Falls Map of the Big Island waterfalls How to decide which Big Island waterfall to visit? Enjoy spectacular views of Mauna Kea and the Pacific Ocean, awesome photo spots, swim in a private pond and really experience off-road Hawaii. The most notable waterfalls on the Big Island that are free to visit are the Peepee Falls and the Rainbow falls. As youre admiring the view of the Kohala Coast, youll also be privy to commentary about the history and culture of the area by the pilot. . Its one of the tallest and most powerful waterfalls in Hawaii, although it gets a bit dry around March. I have seen people continue to do it anyway, but this is just asking for trouble. Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. Later you transfer to an off-road vehicle to get off the beaten path and take a small hike along the tunnels and aqueducts of an over 100 year old sugar plantation. Before we talk about the best waterfalls, lets discuss some FAQs you might have: Swimming is NOT allowed at Akaka Falls State Park. Be sure to pay at least a few of them a visit and create some unforgettable memories that youll treasure forever! What I mean by this is that it was once one of the tallest and mightiest waterfalls in all the islands of Hawai'i with its often quoted cumulative height of 1,450ft. Sign up for this discounted Majestic Waterfalls Tour. It takes about 60 to 90 minutes to hike to the waterfall. The trail is surrounded by beautiful vegetation and singing birds, and the falls are absolutely worth the effort! The best hikes on the Big Island of Hawaii are indeed a mixed bag. Why not go on one of our perfectly planned waterfall road trips with itineraries for both Oahu and Maui. Youre planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, and you want to visit some of the many beautiful waterfalls on this volcanic island. Youll experience 7 incredible Kohala waterfalls plus a picnic lunch. youll get to taste seasonal fruit and macadamia nuts, swim at private waterfalls, and enjoy local food for lunch. 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. The Akaka Falls and the Rainbow Falls are hands-down the most-visited waterfalls on the Big Island. From USD 221.99 (9) Umauma Falls Zipline Tour & Waterfall Swim Adventure . Big Island of Hawaii Waterfalls Simply put, waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii are some of the world's finest. Good to know: to access the falls you must purchase a $49 daypass to the grounds. [more], 2006-2023 World Of Waterfalls, All Rights Reserved You can also walk down from the upper parking lots and viewing decks. During the tour, youll travel along the coastline. Because these incredible destinations are fed waterfalls, it is important to issue a friendly warning about the risks associated with flash flooding, and leptospirosis bacteria found in many of Hawaiis natural pools. Get your discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. Be sure to bring extra clothing. Join this tour to see waterfalls and the stunning Hilo scenery and learn about King Kamehameha the Great and his preference for the area. Have you gone to any of the best waterfalls in Hawaii to swim? There are plenty of these tours you can take while on the Big Island. If you are visiting the rainbow falls and have the time and interest to see another set of waterfalls you should check out these falls. You can see all sorts of hidden waterfalls if you go kayaking, take a boat tour, or ride in a helicopter. 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. The beach! Sign up for a discounted Legends of the Waterfalls and Volcano Tour. Our featured listings highlight those tours that combine exceptional waterfall experiences, professional guides, and more fun than you can imagine. This is one of the most famous waterfalls on the Big Island. Check out the latest prices and more details. So, if youd rather sit back and enjoy a guided tour past some of our best waterfalls you could consider one of the following tours: This is a small-group adventure tour that lets you explore the beautiful and historic north Kohala forests and waterfalls. Get your discounted Waterfalls of Kohala Tour. At the writing of this post, the Umauma Falls are now accessible through the botanical gardens. Make sure your tour includes all of the waterfalls you want to see. Check out the latest prices and more details. Table of Contents hide 1 Rainbow Falls 2 Akaka Falls 3 Umauma Falls 4 Wai'ale Falls 5 PeePee Falls 6 Hi'ilawe Falls 7 Private Waterfalls 8 Why Are There So Many Waterfalls in Hawaii? The tour will stop at Rainbow Falls, Akaka Falls, and Richardson Beach Park. Here, youll zipline across the forest, have lunch in the Pololu Valley, and even swim in a Big Island waterfall. Big Island travel tips & recommendations , Explore Big Island Hotels & Resorts Search Now. While there arent really Kona waterfalls, you see tons of waterfalls in Hilo. Plus. The waterfall got its name from the rainbow that often forms at the base. Kulaniapia Falls is once again located on private property, this time belonging to The Inn and usually reserved exclusively for residents there. The Experiences Package allows you to water rappel. 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. Most of the waterfalls are found near Hilo and northeastern, or Hamakua, coast. 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. Sign up for this discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour. What youll see along the route will depend on what trail you choose, but each one is worth it! Narnia is the name given to a set of waterfalls in the Hilo Forest Reserve. Akaka and Kahuna Falls are part of the Akaka Falls State Park, located north of Hilo. Plus, youll keep an eye out for Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles and stop at Big Island Candies for the most famous Hawaiian candy on the Big Island. Check out the latest prices and more details. Download your copy of our Most waterfalls can be found on the slopes of the Mauna Kea volcano close to Hilo and on the Hamakua coast. When river safety conditions permit, you can also go swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding under the Kulaniapia Falls using on-site equipment. 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. The 422 ft tall Akaka falls are part of the Akaka falls state park, located just north of Hilo. Whether you are looking to Big Island waterfall tours or waterfalls you can swim in on the Big Island, this guide will give you everything you need to plan your next adventure. Alternatively, you could think of going for this scenic drive to see all the waterfalls close to Hilo in half a day. On the paved uphill Akaka Falls Loop Trail, you'll venture past these two beautiful waterfalls . To make the process easier you can look directly into Kona jeep rental deals and reserve the one that meets your needs. There may be no better way to experience Hawaiian waterfalls than with a helicopter tour. If you follow the path, youll see the beautiful Kahuna Falls along the way just before you see Akaka Falls. Get more stories delivered right to your email. 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. Take a comfortable ride through stunning countryside up to the hiking trailhead. Waianuenue Falls, Big Island James Walsh/Flickr My personal favorites are Polulu Valley, The Puna Trail, and The hike to Makalawena Beach, to name a few. Its no wonder that you might be having issues deciding where to go. Park your car after the bridge and walk back to the river to see the Waiale Falls: Just upstream from the Boiling Pots you can find another waterfall at the bridge over the Wailuku river in Hilo. I visited Rainbow Falls in September of 2021 and the trail to get to the top was closed. Kulaniapia Falls is a private waterfall located on the Waiau Stream, not far from Hilo. Soak in soaring sea cliffs, remote valleys, and even go for a swim under one of seven waterfalls. She was a professional hula dancer for 20 years and even wrote her college thesis on Hawaiian history. 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. The size of these waterfalls and their location in the lush and tropical rainforest makes them a popular and spectacular attraction to check out. Their list contains the following 13 waterfalls: The location of these waterfalls is marked on the map higher up this page, and you can read more about each fall separately in the list of 13 Big Island Waterfalls published on the World of Waterfalls website. 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. Hiilawe Falls (or Hi'ilawe Falls) was one of those waterfalls where it seemed it had a reputation that it can no longer live up to. Please do not be tempted to hike up if there are signs that say hiking is not allowed and its blocked off. Drive down yourself (only with 4WD), or get down to the valley floor as part of a horseback riding tour in the valley. Hiilawe Falls is best seen at a distance, as public access to the base of the falls is not possible. If conditions are suitable you can use on-property SUP and kayak equipment to explore the waterfall. Another great way to see these waterfalls is to take an organized tour. Swimming is not allowed here, so keep that in mind when you visit. If ATVing is a bit too adventurous for you, try this tranquil kayaking tour that starts in Hilo town and takes you past hidden waterfalls. 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. You can also book a stay at The Inn, a high-quality resort thats well worth the money. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. Most waterfalls in Hawaii have a great pool of water to swim in. The Majestic Waterfalls Tour is one of the best tours on this list. Standing at 422ft tall, this free-falling waterfall drops to the bottom of the gorge, creating an amazing panoramic view of the area. Step Into The World Of Narnia On This Forbidden Waterfall Hike In Hawaii, The Hike In Hawaii That Takes You To Not One, But TWO Insanely Beautiful Waterfalls, Hike Less Than A Mile To This Spectacular Waterfall Swimming Hole In Hawaii, Embark On An Epic 7.3-Mile Trail In Hawaii That Features Waterfalls And Jaw-Dropping Views, The 14 Tallest Waterfalls In Hawaii Will Drop Your Jaw, This Waterfall Swimming Hole In Hawaii Is So Hidden Youll Probably Have It All To Yourself, This Tiered Waterfall And Swimming Hole In Hawaii Must Be On Your Summer Bucket List, The Ultimate Bucket List For Anyone In Hawaii Who Loves Waterfall Hikes. However, you need to pay a fee to be able to access the viewing deck. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. If you visit when the sky is clear and the sun is out, youll be able to see a beautiful rainbow at the foot of the waterfall. Stretching 93 miles long, its nearly four times as big as Maui. The government or any private party does not manage Nanua Falls. Please do not put these waterfalls on your to-do list. It takes about 20-30 minutes to complete the loop. And be sure to keep your eyes out for sea turtles, which are known to hang out in this area! Akaka Falls. 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. This is an 8-hour zipline + waterfall swim tour that takes you to Kohala, the oldest volcano on the island, for an inspiring and exhilarating day. Lava from Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa meet near the base of Peepee Falls, about 2 miles downstream. Access costs $12 per person (walk-in fee, no pre-bookings required), which also buys you access to their garden. That means, you should take extra care to make sure you leave it as you saw it! Please do not put these waterfalls on your to-do list. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. These 7 Big Island waterfalls are truly spectacular and well worth checking out during your stay here! Read more about ourHawaii adventureshere. This is one of the best waterfalls to visit while on the Big Island, and I highly recommend staying here. Please keep in mind that the historic area located by the parking lot is not safe for swimming. Its one of the quietest and least touristy waterfalls on the island, so you can enjoy a chill day with your friends when you visit. Starting from the pickup points in Kona you are driven along the sweeping northern Kona coast past ancient lava flows up to the old Kohala Mule Station lookout with its sweeping views. Its such a fun, Combine vibrant sapphire pools with some stellar spots for cliff jumping, and youve got one of Mauis local hangouts. In any case, as you can see from the map above and the list below that . The Waipio Valley lookout trailhead is a very steep but short half-mile hike. One of the coolest ways to experience Kulaniapia Falls is by booking a spot in one of the Experience Packages available at the property. Located in the Waipio Valley, this waterfall is absolutely breathtaking. The hike is suitable for the whole family and takes half an hour if you take your time. If you already have accommodations, water rappelling can also be booked by the general public. Many people stop their journey at the lower waterfall. Swimming here is not recommended, even on days where it feels safe. Zipline high above the forest floor, picnic on the rim of Pololu Valley & swim under a private waterfall fed by a cool mountain stream. I also included a table of contents, so feel free to skip to the sections you are most interested in. Youll also pass by Boulder Creek on your way to the falls, which is a gorgeous sight to see. After some time, the streams flow lessened and it is now safe to swim here. The most popular way to observe the Umauma Falls is from a tranquil overlook accessible through the World Botanical Garden. Check out the latest prices and more details. Although Akaka Falls is the main event during the hike, the smaller Kahuna Falls is a must-see as well. The Rainbow Falls are the easiest waterfalls to see on the Big Island! Another popular way to observe the Umauma Falls is through a short 1.7 mile hike within the World Botanical Garden that most consider to be unchallenging. Where is the Blue Pool waterfall in Hawaii? Thank you! It will take you about two hours to hike to Nanue Falls, but the path isnt too hard to walk on so youll be fine. 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. If you are staying on the other side of the Big Island, be sure to plan these excursions into your vacation plans. Where are all the waterfalls in Hilo Hawaii? There are more than seven pools, and they arent sacred rumor has it that a local hotel owner coined the name in order to attract more visitors to his establishment. This waterfall is created from a small stream and is a multiple-tier waterfall located inside the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden. Be sure to do both if you have the time. The Rainbow Falls are located in Hilo and are fed by the Wailuku River the same river that also feeds the Peepee Falls. They are a series of small pools fed by the Wailuku River. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. Our most popular hotels on the Island of Hawaii Compared to Rainbow Falls, Peepee Falls are less crowded and less known. By far, Akaka Falls are my favorite waterfall to visit on the Big Island. 1: Maui Overview 2: Things to Do 3: Where to Stay 4: Popular Sights and Destinations 5: Road to Hana (Maui) 6: Maui Itinerary 7: Maui blog posts, The second-biggest island in the chain, much of Mauis appeal comes from its natural landscape and biodiversity, including its two massive volcanoes, whale watching and marine ecosystems, 1: Oahu Overview 2: Things to Do 3: Where to Stay 4: Popular Sights and Destinations 5: Oahu Beaches 6: Oahu Itinerary 7: Oahu blog posts. And if youre heading to Akaka Falls with kids, check out my guide HERE. Access to the falls is right off the road. Youll see places on the Big Island only accessible by air. Its a way to connect with nature and experience the waterfall closer than otherwise. Akaka Falls on the Big Island. The day pass includes access to amazing hiking trails, tropical gardens and a total of four waterfalls - with Kulaniapia Falls being our favorite. It takes less than an hour to hike leisurely and is only somewhat sloped uphill. It's a 1,450 feet tall waterfall, although most of it drops 1,201 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. What takes a waterfall from "beautiful" to "spectacular" is height- and Hawaii's falls undoubtedly have it! The Kulaniapia Falls are with a 120ft drop the tallest private waterfalls on the Big Island. 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!). Do you like waterfalls a LOT and are you also visiting another island in the Hawaiian island chain? Wading through these pools is not recommended. What Are The Must-Visit Waterfalls On Big Island? This waterfall used to have a high volume of water in the stream, making swimming here dangerous. Meet with a local driver and travel to North Kona to experience multiple zip-lines that stretch over beautiful landscapes, including waterfalls. Check out the latest prices and more details. You can get access to the falls either by purchasing a day pass (limited availability of 10 guests / day), or by joining their Rappel down the 120ft Kulaniapia Falls experience. Dont miss them because once you see them, youll never forget them! The water can be seen while hiking down the valley, and it should be visible to the left within around 7 minutes into the hike (depending on how fast you walk). One of the risks is that rocks occasionally get washed over the falls and can land on unsuspecting swimmers. Keep in mind that youll need to clear a full day of your itinerary for this. This is what the falls look like after a good rain upstream. Most waterfalls on the Hamakua coast are a 90-mile drive away. However, the best views come when you climb under the bridge and follow a short jungle path to the base of the waterfall. While you can access most of these on your own, you can also join Hawaii waterfall tours for a more personalized experience. There have been instances where people lost their lives here. The most important is the water-born disease leptospirosis: dont go swimming if you have any abrasions, scrapes, blisters or other skin lesions. The Oloupena Falls is the tallest waterfall in Hawaii, located on the tiny island of Molokai, stretching an immense 2,953 feet high. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. It is alleged to have a height of 1,450 feet. Akaka, Kahuna, Hiilawe, Rainbow, Umauma, Peepee, Kulaniapia, Onomeaand WaiilikahiFalls. Its approximately a 19-mile out and back hike that takes around 4 hours each way. Hiking to the waterfall is not possible as the trail crosses private property, but you can see the Hiilawe falls from many places within Waipio valley. The on-site Inn organizes this tour which is led a team of expert canyoneering guides. Check out the latest prices and more details. Onomea Falls is a stunning multi-tiered waterfall set amidst a beautiful botanical garden: the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. However, it is not totally uncommon to see that the waterfall is dry, which is a result of the Hamakua Ditch that diverts the flow of water. One other thing to note is that there are 13 streams you will have to cross before getting to the water. Location: North east side of Big Island. The cliffs were formed from the lava flow from Mauna Kea that once flowed down the mountainside. Compared to Oahu or Maui, the Big Island of Hawaii is massive! A full-day rainforest adventure for all ages. The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls is one of the only waterfalls I recommend swimming at while on the Big Island. Hiilawe Falls is often considered to be the tallest waterfall in Hawaii. Just make sure to leave this waterfall in Hawaii as clean as you found it. Get your discounted ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience. 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. Not only that, but this island is still expanding! You have to be a guest at the Inn to access the trail leading to the waterfall. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. There are different car rental companies in Kona, Hawaii that will set it up for you. The Wailuku River flows along the bottom of the gorge and downstream to Rainbow Falls. Marvel at the beauty and adventure that makes up Hawaii. However, they have started opening the grounds to the public for a $49 day pass. Check out the latest prices and more details. Of course, the most popular and simple strategy is to include a visit into your itinerary as you drive by one or two waterfalls. Yes, but all of them require some sort of entrance fee. The hike down is very easy and can take as little as 20 minutes. Are there a lot of waterfall swimming holes in Hawaii? Off the main street is the Mana's Aloha Fruit Stand. Aside from waterfalls, youll also be able to see red-hot lava flows, the Kohala Mule Station lookout, and more! The state park entry fees are $5/car or $1/pedestrian. Visit the Botanical Gardens website for updated pricing. You will need to pay an admission fee to see these falls. The tranquility and solitude youll feel there is truly unmatched. Are you as obsessed with Hawaiian waterfalls as we are? Along the way, youll see verdant vegetation and immense, ancient Banyan trees, overgrown by fig vines and moss. You can access this trail from the Waipio Valley lookout. Flash floods are also a risk, so stay out of the water if its raining (where you are or upstream). The falls are located in Waimanu Valley. The package can include waterfall rappelling, which is the best way to experience Kulaniapia. 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. 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. Swimming here can be dangerous and has proved lethal several times in the past. Visit the Akaka Falls State Park and take the pleasant 0.4 mile paved foot path loop that takes you to viewing spots of both Akaka Falls (442 feet) and Kahuna Falls (100 feet). Hawaii Waterfall Swim Adventure, Waipio Valley Lookout & Botanical Garden . Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. On an especially clear day, you'll be able to see Mauna Kea behind them. Nonetheless, its still a breathtaking sight to see. Absolutely! 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. In fact, there is a small parking lot near the falls, as well as a short but slippery path to visit the base. Address: 875 Akaka Falls Rd, Honomu, HI 96728, United States. The property offers helicopter, lava tube exploration, stargazing, and lava encounter tours as well. To be able to visit the waterfall, you can book a guest room at The Inn or book one of the Experience Packages available at the property. 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. Alternatively, you can zipline or rappel at the Umauma Falls. It will take you about an hour to reach the end of the path, which is lined with lush greenery and beautiful scenery. And while you can certainly get to some of these places on your own, a great way to see the highlights is by booking aBig Island Tourwith The Volcano Van. Hi'ilawe Falls is visible only within the valley or from the air, as the . 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. The gigantic waterfall stands out from the dry, rocky background of the red-walled canyon. This amazingly unique experience takes place on the beautiful landscapes near the Umauma stream, held on pristinely-kept private property. 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! All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. Its accessible through several different methods and gorgeous no matter how you see it. If you decide to swim, please remember to always swim with caution and be aware of the danger around you no matter where you are.