The only waterfall you can swim at on the Big Island is the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls. 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. 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. If you follow the path, youll see the beautiful Kahuna Falls along the way just before you see Akaka Falls. Whats the Honolulu Sister Cities Program? 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. 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. 2. To make the process easier you can look directly into Kona jeep rental deals and reserve the one that meets your needs. 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! 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. Entry to the state park will cost $5 . While you can access most of these on your own, you can also join Hawaii waterfall tours for a more personalized experience. Whether you want to soar over the falls or dive right in and swim them, we have the tour for you. Visitors will have to pay an entrance fee for the botanical garden, but once inside, the paved stroll to the waterfall is quick, and features a changing room, available life jackets and lifeguards on duty. Take your first right onto Akaka Falls Road and continue for 3.75 miles until you reach the parking lot. The falls are located in the rainforest. Be sure to pay at least a few of them a visit and create some unforgettable memories that youll treasure forever! The Wailuku River flows along the bottom of the gorge and downstream to Rainbow Falls. And this rainfall provides lots of opportunities to appreciate the island's falls. The waterfalls themselves might be short, but the picturesque pools are well worth the short hike. Akaka Falls is located inside the Akaka Falls State Park in Hawaii. The tranquility and solitude youll feel there is truly unmatched. 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! The Big Island, however, also has breathtaking waterfalls. youll get to taste seasonal fruit and macadamia nuts, swim at private waterfalls, and enjoy local food for lunch. Sign up for this discounted Majestic Waterfalls Tour. Content on this site is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical, health, or safety advice. How to use this map: Above youll find a map of waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii. As you travel, youll be privy to the views of obscure but beautiful hidden waterfalls, coasts, and beaches. You can view all three of them from an overlook that you can access via a private botanical garden. You dont want any surprises that could ruin your trip. We are independently owned so content written by us merely reflect our own opinions. I highly discourage doing this hike during the rainy season. Although smaller, the Kahuna Falls is similarly beautiful. For those with a daring spirit, the Deleuze ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience tour is for you. I also included a table of contents, so feel free to skip to the sections you are most interested in. From USD 130.62. Address: 875 Akaka Falls Rd, Honomu, HI 96728, United States. The 422 ft. tall Akaka falls are a pleasant stop on your way to or from Hilo. The dark blue/purple waterfalls are more difficult to see and smaller waterfalls. ), make small hikes, and admire the sweeping views and scenic coastlines and rugged valleys. Alternatively, you can zipline or rappel at the Umauma Falls. 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. P?palaua Falls, Hawaii 96748, USA 6. While there arent really Kona waterfalls, you see tons of waterfalls in Hilo. Check out the latest prices and more details. Check out the latest prices and details! The waterfall flows from a water source called the Onomea Stream. Id be sure to go at least a few days after heavy rain to avoid flash flooding and a swollen stream. 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. Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. Their list contains the following waterfalls: In Hilo: Rainbow falls, Pe'epe'e falls, Wai'ale falls, Kulaniapia falls. While there are gorgeous waterfalls on Kauai, Oahu, and Maui, the Big Island has some of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii. The 422 ft tall Akaka falls are part of the Akaka falls state park, located just north of Hilo. I would plan 10 hours out of your day if you are thinking about doing the hike. Big Island waterfall tours Legends of the Waterfalls & Volcano Full-Day Tour Each one of these is worth visiting at least once in my opinion. Sign up for a discounted Legends of the Waterfalls and Volcano Tour. This waterfall is smaller than the rainbow falls but also far less crowded. There are so many beautiful waterfalls to check out during your visit to the Big Island. Nanue Falls is located on the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. Wading through these pools is not recommended. Its not a difficult hike to get to the foot of the waterfall, so you wont need any special gear to visit this beautiful waterfall. Big Island of Hawaii Waterfalls Simply put, waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii are some of the world's finest. The Northern beach is one of the potential crash sites in Sons of the Forest, and it's also one of the best base locations. See the northern Kohala highlights with this 8-hour adventure and visit 7 stunning private waterfalls (and swim in one! Kayak & Swim in the Umauma River. This is why we list the tallest, most popular, and most easily accessible waterfalls on the Big Island: to make sure you spend your waterfall-time as efficient as possible. The volume of the rainbow falls (or Waianuenue) changes on a daily basis. And it is surrounded by immense boulders and greenery. Our featured listings highlight those tours that combine exceptional waterfall experiences, professional guides, and more fun than you can imagine. You can visit their website at the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls for additional details. You will need to stop at the visitor center to register before heading to the falls. Even when the falls are dry, the lush landscape is incredible. You can also book a stay at The Inn, a high-quality resort thats well worth the money. It is simply breathtaking. There is a chance of injury or death if you decide to go swimming or wading in any waterfall. While theyre all worth seeing, we must warn you that most of them do not have a swimming hole or pool available. Which one was your favorite? 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. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. A picnic lunch and hotel transport are included for a hassle-free experience. Find the best prices here. This waterfall is created from a small stream and is a multiple-tier waterfall located inside the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden. 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. Click here to see all our recommended waterfall tours on our website. Of course, the most popular and simple strategy is to include a visit into your itinerary as you drive by one or two waterfalls. Another, more expensive but more spectacular way to see waterfalls (and the volcano!) If youre considering visiting Akaka Falls, check out my full guide HERE. 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. There are several ways people choose to see the waterfalls. What takes a waterfall from "beautiful" to "spectacular" is height- and Hawaii's falls undoubtedly have it! 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. . However, the best views come when you climb under the bridge and follow a short jungle path to the base of the waterfall. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Get your discounted Waterfalls of Kohala Tour. Zipline high above the forest floor, picnic on the rim of Pololu Valley & swim under a private waterfall fed by a cool mountain stream. It takes less than an hour to hike leisurely and is only somewhat sloped uphill. Please dont take the risk there are many places more suitable for swimming in Hilo (the beach!). They offer a variety of tours to see the falls with ziplining being our favorite way to see the falls. What is the best way to visit all these waterfalls? Located within the Hilo city limits, Wainuenue (Rainbow Falls) is very easy to visit. The famous triple-tiered Umauma Falls. Hanapueo and Umauma Falls. Visit the State Parks website for updated pricing. The property offers helicopter, lava tube exploration, stargazing, and lava encounter tours as well. If youre debating on visiting Oahu or Maui, you can check out my other article on Oahu Vs Maui to learn more. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. 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. Check out the latest prices and more details. 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. You may have a luxury problem though: there are more waterfalls on the Big Island than you can reasonable visit during your stay! Hours: Daily, 8:30AM - 6:00PM. Rappelling at the Kulaniapia Falls. Family friendly zipline tour + private waterfall swim. Dont miss them because once you see them, youll never forget them! This broad waterfall in the Wailuku river is conveniently located within Hilo town. Hello, my name is Abduvaliev diyorbek. The hike itself can be challenging and involves multiple stream crossings. Enjoy spectacular views of Mauna Kea and the Pacific Ocean, awesome photo spots, swim in a private pond and really experience off-road Hawaii. I have seen people continue to do it anyway, but this is just asking for trouble. There is no swimming allowed here; you can only view the falls from a safe distance. Big Island is home to some of the tallest falls in the state. She was a professional hula dancer for 20 years and even wrote her college thesis on Hawaiian history. 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. Narnia is the name given to a set of waterfalls in the Hilo Forest Reserve. from $85 + taxes & fees | Child $75. Akaka Falls are about 422 feet tall, but are only viewable from the viewing platform. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! This air tour hits up the 7 Kohala waterfalls from the Kona airport. The trail is surrounded by beautiful vegetation and singing birds, and the falls are absolutely worth the effort! While there are gorgeous waterfalls on Kauai, Oahu, and Maui, the Big Island has some of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii. Youll be able to get up close and personal with this body of water and have the most memorable time in Hawaii. Waiilikahi Falls are yet another gem on the Big Island, but it takes a lot to hike to the falls. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. The gigantic waterfall stands out from the dry, rocky background of the red-walled canyon. Hiilawe Falls is a great waterfall to visit and is one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. 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. Check out the latest prices and more details. This isn't one that you can swim under though. It is also possible to rappel down along the Kulaniapia Falls. One of the coolest ways to experience Kulaniapia Falls is by booking a spot in one of the Experience Packages available at the property. It aims to take you on an unforgettable journey through the Hamakua Coast. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Most of the waterfalls on the Big Island are fairly close to Hilo. Onomea Falls is a stunning multi-tiered waterfall set amidst a beautiful botanical garden: the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. Upper Waikani Falls Joe Parks/Flickr Also known as Three Bears falls, Waikani is approximately 70 feet tall, and visible from the Hana Highway. Youll start off driving up the Kona coastline pas lava flows and check out sweeping views from the old Kohala Mule Station lookout. This picture shows the Hiilawe falls on an almost dry day. The tropical gardens have a wonderful overlook that allows you to get a great view of Umauma Falls. Confirming what your tour includes will ensure that you wont miss out on any of the waterfalls. Its a 100-foot waterfall that youll pass by on your way to Akaka if you follow the footpath. First, youll head to the Kohala Mountains where youll fly the coastline of Waipio Valley and Waimanu Valley. 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. Thats not to say that the Big Island has the best waterfalls I think all the islands have something great to offer when it comes to these fascinating feats of nature. See below for the sign that was there when I went. Another stop on Mauis Road to Hana, Puaa Kaa translates to rolling pig in Hawaiian. I am not sure how people did this as signs warn against it, and its illegal and can be dangerous. These include stargazing and helicopter tours and is absolutely worth the time and money. Interested? You can also book one of their events to have access to their waterfall. However, you need to pay a fee to be able to access the viewing deck. If conditions are suitable you can use on-property SUP and kayak equipment to explore the waterfall. Swim, kayak, stand up paddleboard or just relax and enjoy the scenery with your friends and family. Facebook Pinterest Twitter Instagram Subscribe to our Newsletter. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. 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. They also offer ATV tours, waterfall rappelling and horseback riding tours to the falls as well. Read more about ourHawaii adventureshere. Located only 1.5 miles upstream from Rainbow Falls, Peepee Falls is another beautiful spot. This Upper Waikani Falls, Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA 2. Are you as obsessed with Hawaiian waterfalls as we are? Hiilawe Falls is often considered to be the tallest waterfall in Hawaii. Each hike has its charm, and all offer beautiful views of different parts of the island. Read more about the Rainbow Falls on our website. Deluxe Big Island ATV Tour & Waterfall Swim at Umauma Falls . With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. Not really. Swimming Holes on the Big Island of Hawaii. Get your discounted Kohala Tour from Kona Tour. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. 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. If you think you've located a Big Island waterfall we've omitted, please contact us, and we'll make sure it's added. Stretching 93 miles long, its nearly four times as big as Maui. You can access this trail from the Waipio Valley lookout. In fact, there is a small parking lot near the falls, as well as a short but slippery path to visit the base. No experience necessary! You can also walk down from the upper parking lots and viewing decks. 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. Its the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago and has some of the most popular waterfalls in all of Hawaii! I visited Rainbow Falls in September of 2021 and the trail to get to the top was closed. As a paradise for active travelers it is rich in experiences that include nature, culinary discoveries, historic landmarks, shopping, nightlife and festivals. Read more about waterfall safety. Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls. The Onomea Falls is located within the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, This s private property owned by Dan Lutkenhouse, first opened in 1984. Thank you! Looking for a car rental in Kona, Big island. Plan to hike on slippery rocks, uphill slogs, tree roots, mud, and unmaintained trails. The water conceals long lava ridges, so its easy to be pulled in and trapped. The Waipio Valley lookout trailhead is a very steep but short half-mile hike. However, you need to pay a fee to access the private viewing deck. The package can include waterfall rappelling, which is the best way to experience Kulaniapia. This is a very difficult hike to complete in one day and is not recommended for beginners. 1. There is only one way to get here, and thats by hiking along the coastal trail. Wrapping Up the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island. If you plan to camp here, please make sure you obtain the proper permits, as they are required. When river safety conditions permit, you can also go swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding under the Kulaniapia Falls using on-site equipment. Hawaii Waterfall Swim Adventure, Waipio Valley Lookout & Botanical Garden . Now they have opened up their grounds to a limited amount of daily visitors. Kulaniapia Falls is a private waterfall located on the Waiau Stream, not far from Hilo. There are much safer spots to swim - a.k.a. The visit is well worth your time, even just to enjoy the tranquility of this Hawaiian rainforest. Along the way, youll see verdant vegetation and immense, ancient Banyan trees, overgrown by fig vines and moss. The state park is located along the northeastern Hilo Coast, west of Honom. If youre lucky, you may be able to see honu (green sea turtle) and even dolphins! This is one of the best waterfalls to visit while on the Big Island, and I highly recommend staying here. Its location allows the sun to hit the water at just the perfect angle. On the Hamakua coast: 'Akaka falls, Kolekole falls, Umauma falls, Onomea falls, Nanue falls, Hanapueo falls + lower Umauma falls. The waterfall, however, is worth the effort it takes to access it. If you're visiting the Big Island of Hawaii soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Big Island Visitor Guides. It stretches hundreds of feet tall and is surrounded by greenery. You can contact the State Division of Forestry and Wildlife at 808-974-4221. One of several waterfalls you hike to on a tour with Hawaii Forest and Trail.