Our featured listings highlight those tours that combine exceptional waterfall experiences, professional guides, and more fun than you can imagine. Download your copy of our Check out the latest prices and more details. Deluxe Big Island ATV Tour & Waterfall Swim at Umauma Falls . To get to the waterfalls you need to make a pleasant and short 0.4-mile hike through the lush rainforest filled with wild orchids, bamboo groves and draping ferns. 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. Access costs $12 per person (walk-in fee, no pre-bookings required), which also buys you access to their garden. The day pass includes access to amazing hiking trails, tropical gardens and a total of four waterfalls - with Kulaniapia Falls being our favorite. Read more about the Rainbow Falls on our website. They are one of the best helicopter companies in Hawaii. While youre enjoying these natural attractions, be sure to take lots of pictures! Ultimate Guide to the Polynesian Cultural Center with Kids, Traditional Hawaiian Food: 24 Classic Dishes of Hawaiian Cuisine. Read THIS first! Each one of these is worth visiting at least once in my opinion. This is a full-day trip from Kona. The Peepee Falls are located about 1.5 miles upstream the rainbow falls, at the Wailuku river on the end of Wailuku drive. Some of which are so beautiful that they inspired some of Hawaiis most popular songs. Along the way, youll be privy to various wild orchids. The Best Hiking Shoes for Hawaii in 2021(The Ultimate buying Guide), The 5 Best Reef Safe Sunscreens for Hawaii. In fact, there is a small parking lot near the falls, as well as a short but slippery path to visit the base. Lava from Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa meet near the base of Peepee Falls, about 2 miles downstream. Youll start off driving up the Kona coastline pas lava flows and check out sweeping views from the old Kohala Mule Station lookout. Overview . Turn inland (mauka) between mile markers 14 and 13 onto Honomu Road. The waterfall is named for the beautiful rainbow that forms at the waterfalls base. This might cost more, but its well worth it. Weve rounded up our top picks for some of the most beautiful spots for waterfalls on the Big Island. Peepee Falls on the Big Island. The area beyond that is private property, so be aware of where youre going! Compared to Maui, Oahu, and Kauai, The Big Island of Hawaii has some of the most popular waterfalls in all of Hawaii. Dont miss them because once you see them, youll never forget them! 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. 9 Hawaii Big Island Waterfalls Rainbow Falls Vrouw wil bevallen in oceaan met dolfijnen als vroedvrouw, ondanks Rainbow Falls are beautiful and can be viewed from a relatively close location, making them that much more enjoyable. Akaka Falls is located inside the Akaka Falls State Park in Hawaii. Yes, but all of them require some sort of entrance fee. Seeing waterfalls is a great way to save money while on your vacation to Hawaii. These 7 Big Island waterfalls are truly spectacular and well worth checking out during your stay here! These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. As we all know, a trip to Hawaii can be expensive and doing free or cheap activities is how most of us can afford to travel. This would allow you to see almost all of our favorite waterfalls and is recommended for people that really love waterfalls. Guests will witness mantas up close as they grace the waters and feed on plankton. Akaka Falls is a spectacularly tall waterfall that hurls down an incredible 422 feet down a mountain face. While Kahuna Falls are also located in this state park, you can hear them more than you can see them. On the list of Big Island of Hawaii waterfalls below, we've included the height of the falls, a ranking, have noted if it's a seasonal waterfall, and have added any additionalinformation as necessary. A Guide To The Best Waterfalls In The Big Island Of Hawaii Its such a fun, Combine vibrant sapphire pools with some stellar spots for cliff jumping, and youve got one of Mauis local hangouts. Be sure not the trespass onto the private land that surrounds the waterfall. If waterfalls are your thing you most likely wont be happy to see only the biggest six. The waterfalls are located less than half a mile from the parking lot. As an Amazon Associate, thistraveldream.com earns from qualifying purchases. The best hikes on the Big Island of Hawaii are indeed a mixed bag. Read more: in our guide to visiting the Akaka falls. While visiting the Wailuku River State Park, you can also stop by the Peepee Falls. However, you need to pay a fee to be able to access the viewing deck. They are amazing natural wonders that should definitely be on your list of things to do while visiting this tropical paradise! This can cause the falls to be (almost) dry even during the wet season. The Rainbow Falls are located in Hilo and are fed by the Wailuku River the same river that also feeds the Peepee Falls. Directions: About 30 min north from Hilo airport, park on the mauka (mountain-side) of highway 19 just after the 16 mile marker. Most waterfalls can be found on the slopes of the Mauna Kea volcano close to Hilo and on the Hamakua coast. I would plan 10 hours out of your day if you are thinking about doing the hike. The package can include waterfall rappelling, which is the best way to experience Kulaniapia. HOME PRIVACY POLICY TERMS. Hiilawe Falls is best seen at a distance, as public access to the base of the falls is not possible. All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. You no longer need to book a tour with the Umauma Experience to get to the falls. Why not go on one of our perfectly planned waterfall road trips with itineraries for both Oahu and Maui. These are just a few of the many, many tours that can be booked to see the beautiful waterfalls on the Big Island. Copyright 2019-2023 Hawaii Travel With Kids/Marcie In Mommyland, Top 7 Big Island Hawaii Waterfalls You Should Visit, Privacy Policy for Hawaii Travel with Kids, Courtyard by Marriotts King Kamehameha Beach Hotel. Get prepared to go off the beaten road (literally) and be stained with mud as you go off-road in a Honda ATV or a Side x Side ATV! The hike to the waterfall takes either 5 or 15 minutes, depending on which route you decide to take. On the paved uphill Akaka Falls Loop Trail, you'll venture past these two beautiful waterfalls . The Kulaniapia Falls for example require a day pass, and others are on private property and only reachable as part of a tour. 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. Sons of the Forest best base locations | Rock Paper Shotgun Amidst the countless natural attractions on the Big Island, Ive picked seven of the top waterfalls on the Big Island to check out! 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. Hi'ilawe Falls is visible only within the valley or from the air, as the . Umauma Falls They offer a variety of tours to see the falls with ziplining being our favorite way to see the falls. This waterfall can only be accessed from the lookout, and swimming here is no longer allowed. Find the best prices here. 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. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu. 1. This is part of Hawaiis state park system. There is only one way to get here, and thats by hiking along the coastal trail. 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). Not only that, but this island is still expanding! Check out the latest prices and details! However, if you continue hiking along the trail in the area and do some stream scrambling, youll be able to see more of natures beauty. There are different car rental companies in Kona, Hawaii that will set it up for you. Although smaller, the Kahuna Falls is similarly beautiful. This broad waterfall in the Wailuku river is conveniently located within Hilo town. This waterfall is smaller than the rainbow falls but also far less crowded. Rainbow Falls (Hilo) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go - Tripadvisor The view is spectacular and the tame and paved nature hike was enjoyable too. Sign up for this discounted ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience. 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. To make the process easier you can look directly into Kona jeep rental deals and reserve the one that meets your needs. Kohala Waterfalls Small Group Adventure Tour 183 By Hawaii Forest and Trail Adventure Tours 6+ hours See the highlights of Kohala in a day on this small-group adventure tour. Another, more expensive but more spectacular way to see waterfalls (and the volcano!) Before we talk about the best waterfalls, lets discuss some FAQs you might have: Swimming is NOT allowed at Akaka Falls State Park. This multi tiered, Oheo Gulch, OheO Gulch, Hawaii 96713, USA. . 6 Captivating Hawaii Big Island Waterfalls | Insider Families Zipline high above the forest floor, picnic on the rim of Pololu Valley & swim under a private waterfall fed by a cool mountain stream. Below we've included links to several of the best waterfalls on the Big Island, most of which you can see without ahelicopter(all falls visible from the air only are noted). The volume of the rainbow falls (or Waianuenue) changes on a daily basis. 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. The farmers markets are a little-known gem allowing visitors to meet locals, shop for arts and crafts and enjoy edible treasures. The private property is currently managed by the Umauma Experience. Rainbow Falls, located along the length of the Waikuku River and well-known for its beauty and accessibility, is one of the most popular waterfalls on the Big Island. Read more: in our guide to visiting the Rainbow falls. The falls are located in the rainforest. This waterfall is smaller than Rainbow falls, but also way less crowded. Please do not put these waterfalls on your to-do list. Most of the waterfalls on the Big Island are fairly close to Hilo. This is the perfect pre or post-hike pit stop for pineapples and fresh coconuts that you can't miss. 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. the State Parks website for updated pricing. Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls. I have seen people continue to do it anyway, but this is just asking for trouble. 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. 5 out of 6 of our favorites are close to Hilo, and these falls are very easy to visit. #1. 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. 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. The government or any private party does not manage Nanua Falls. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Swimming here can be dangerous and has proved lethal several times in the past. Hawaii's Big Island is home to some of the islands' most accessible waterfalls, and here are five of the most popular. If youre considering visiting Akaka Falls, check out my full guide HERE. 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. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! Most waterfalls on the Hamakua coast are a 90-mile drive away. as a very big person in the future I want to help people I want to give a gift to the. Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. Bear right at the top of the hill onto the main street of Honomu town. For those with a daring spirit, the Deleuze ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience tour is for you. Another great way to see these waterfalls is to take an organized tour. See below for the sign that was there when I went. Youll be treated to an entirely new and equally beautiful view of the waterfalls. If you plan to camp here, please make sure you obtain the proper permits, as they are required. Located along the Umauma River in Hakalau, Umauma Falls is a series of three, short cascading waterfalls. There are plenty of these tours you can take while on the Big Island. This air tour hits up the 7 Kohala waterfalls from the Kona airport. 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. 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 There are other adventurous activities that you can enjoy here too. Check out the latest prices and more details. The hike down is very easy and can take as little as 20 minutes. Sign up for this discounted Majestic Waterfalls Tour. The Complete Guide to Big Island Waterfalls - bigisland.org Most of these places do not have a lifeguard on duty, making you solely responsible for your safety. The state park entry fees are $5/car or $1/pedestrian. This tour is unique in that it focuses almost entirely on the history and culture of Hawaii. If you have the time and are already visiting Rainbow Falls, add a short hike to continue your waterfall adventure. Log in, We are passionate waterfall lovers eager to share our experiences chasing waterfalls around the world! Umauma Falls is a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation. The Top 9 Waterfalls to Visit on the Big Island of Hawaii While there arent really Kona waterfalls, you see tons of waterfalls in Hilo. You can contact the State Division of Forestry and Wildlife at 808-974-4221. She was a professional hula dancer for 20 years and even wrote her college thesis on Hawaiian history. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. Both waterfalls are beautiful Big Island attractions. Big Island, Hawaii Rivers and Waterfalls - Umauma Experience 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. Furthermore, flash floods and strong currents are a real danger there. 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 ziplining tour is the option for those who love a thrill. Top Waterfalls To Visit & See | Big Island Hawaii Beautiful Big Island Waterfall Hikes - Hawaii Travel with Kids Id be sure to go at least a few days after heavy rain to avoid flash flooding and a swollen stream. The 5 Best Waterfalls on Hawaii's Big Island However, the best views come when you climb under the bridge and follow a short jungle path to the base of the waterfall. If youd like to dabble in something slightly more adventurous, you can go ziplining or rappelling over the area. Unfortunately, the strength of the falls is often dependent on rainfall - so here's to hoping you catch it on a good day. Be sure to bring extra clothing. Swim, kayak, stand up paddleboard or just relax and enjoy the scenery with your friends and family. from $85 + taxes & fees | Child $75. ), make small hikes, and admire the sweeping views and scenic coastlines and rugged valleys. This 8-hour tour takes you from Kona to the oldest volcano on the Big Island for an inspiring and exhilarating day. Read more about ourHawaii adventureshere. Kulaniapia Falls is once again located on private property, this time belonging to The Inn and usually reserved exclusively for residents there. The Big Island, however, also has breathtaking waterfalls. They are a series of small pools fed by the Wailuku River. It takes about 20-30 minutes to complete the loop. Her next trip to Hawaii is never too far away! But make sure to read up on the waterfall you visit, because sometimes certain areas in the Hawaiian islands are prone to flooding, and can be dangerous to swim in after a heavy rainfall. Standing at 2,954 feet tall, this waterfall is spectacular. Mahalo! 7 Best Hawaii Waterfalls to Visit | Hawaii Travel with Kids (2023) With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. They are all unique in their own ways. Guide To The Best Waterfalls You Can Swim In The Big Island All Rights Reserved. And it is surrounded by immense boulders and greenery. 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! Hiilawe Falls - Legendary Waterfall with Temporary Flow The hike is beautiful, surrounded by bamboo groves and delicate wild orchids. Content on this site is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical, health, or safety advice. Rappelling at the Kulaniapia Falls. Oahu is the lively center and most visited of all Hawaiian Islands. So keep an eye out for honu (green sea turtles) and admire the coast! One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Hawaii is Onomea Falls. Youll need to pay an entrance fee to enter the area. I highly recommend checking out Viator for some of the best tours in Hawaii. Just make sure to leave this waterfall in Hawaii as clean as you found it. Hiilawe Falls is located on the Big Island. 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. Take your first right onto Akaka Falls Road and continue for 3.75 miles until you reach the parking lot. 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. Make sure your tour includes all of the waterfalls you want to see. Island Experiences | Hilton Waikoloa Village Hawaii Resort There have been instances where people lost their lives here. 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? More waterfalls can be found at the northern Hamakua coast seaside cliffs and the valleys of the Kohala coast. 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. When people talk about swimming at Peepee Falls, they are probably referring to the boiling pots located by the lookout point. A delicious catered lunch is provided in our secluded pavilion. This is what the falls look like after a good rain upstream. 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. Akaka, Kahuna, Hiilawe, Rainbow, Umauma, Peepee, Kulaniapia, Onomeaand WaiilikahiFalls. The most notable waterfalls on the Big Island that are free to visit are the Peepee Falls and the Rainbow falls. While I was there I witnessed two people hike to the top, even though it clearly said not to do so. This, Located within Waimea Valley is this charming waterfall, perfect for a family swim. This adds ~1 hour/waterfall to your itinerary will be the best option for the large majority of visitors. We enjoy nature, the ocean, mountains, adventure, and all things outdoors. You can visit their website at the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls for additional details. Big Island of Hawaii Waterfalls and How To Visit Them User-submitted Waterfall Write-up of the Month, and the latest news and updates both within the website as well as around the wonderful world of waterfalls. The largest waterfall in Hawaii is Oloupena Falls, located in Molokai. Approximately 16 miles north of Hilo, on the Umauma River, lies one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Hawaii: Umauma Falls. What youll see along the route will depend on what trail you choose, but each one is worth it! From USD 130.62. Flash floods are also a risk, so stay out of the water if its raining (where you are or upstream). Most of the waterfalls are found near Hilo and northeastern, or Hamakua, coast. 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. Double your adventure with the Kohala Zip and Dip and explore the enchanting lands of North Kohala. Its hard not to love this, Lulumahu Falls, 4459 HI-61, Honolulu, HI 96817, USA, Wailua Falls flows from Honolewa Stream, and is visible from the highway. The falls are located in Waimanu Valley. Check out the latest prices and more details. You may have a luxury problem though: there are more waterfalls on the Big Island than you can reasonable visit during your stay! Always a classic, this, Located just a mile upstream of Rainbow Falls on the Wailua River, Peepee Falls feeds a series of several pools known as the boiling pots. Alternatively, you can zipline or rappel at the Umauma Falls. Akaka Falls is located within the Akaka Falls State Park, roughly 3.6 miles south of Honomu on the Hilo Coast. [more], 2006-2023 World Of Waterfalls, All Rights Reserved 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? Wrapping Up the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island. The falls used to only be open to those staying at the hotel located on the grounds. One of the risks is that rocks occasionally get washed over the falls and can land on unsuspecting swimmers. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. Youll see places on the Big Island only accessible by air. The Akaka Falls and the Rainbow Falls are hands-down the most-visited waterfalls on the Big Island. Great for first-time visitors. Hiilawe Falls is visible only within the valley or from the air, as the Waipio Valley is very steep. Kayak & Swim in the Umauma River. Check out the latest prices and more details. However, they have started opening the grounds to the public for a $49 day pass. It is also possible to rappel down along the Kulaniapia Falls. The beach! 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. I have included a downloadable map of these waterfalls at the bottom of this post to help with your planning and navigation. 6 Must-Visit Waterfalls On Big Island Top Picks From Locals The trailhead is easy to find just off the parking lot. Sign up for this discounted Legends of the Waterfalls & Volcano Tour. Enjoy spectacular views of Mauna Kea and the Pacific Ocean, awesome photo spots, swim in a private pond and really experience off-road Hawaii. Nanue Falls is located on the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. 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? In any case, as you can see from the map above and the list below that . Spend a few hours relaxing luxuriating in a private area of the Umauma River. Interested? Check out the latest prices and details! You can start the hike to this waterfall from the Waipio Valley lookout. This has some of the best waterfalls on Maui. Peepee Falls are another great waterfall that you can visit. Its no wonder that you might be having issues deciding where to go. Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Big Island Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Here is our list of the top 9 waterfalls in Hawaii that wont disappoint! 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. Book any of these great Big Island waterfall tours today! Hiilawe Falls is a magnificent waterfall located in Waipio Valley on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island. It will take you about an hour to reach the end of the path, which is lined with lush greenery and beautiful scenery. Plus it has numerous attractions, from volcanic rock formations to beautiful waterfalls.