Megan Shute for Only In Your State on beautiful Hawaiʻian waterfalls. Included in her list is Akaka Falls which is on the itinerary of our Wild & Scenic Volcano Tour. Let our excellent guides educate you on the culture of the Big Island while you sit back and relax in luxury.
From towering cascades you can only witness via helicopter tour, to short waterfalls that cascade into small pools you can swim in, the waterfalls you’ll find across the Hawaiʻian Islands are truly remarkable. And whether you’re enjoying an intense, eight-mile day hike or pulling into a parking lot on the side of the highway, these 9 gorgeous secret waterfalls near me in Hawaiʻi are positively magical and should be added to your Hawaiʻi outdoors bucket list at once. They deserve a good view the next time you’re in the area!
1. Sacred Falls, Oahu
While this impressive waterfall has been closed to the public for more than ten years due to a dangerous and geologically unstable canyon, it is still visible by air tour. It’s worth seeing by air, but we understand why they made sure Sacred Falls in Oahu is closed to the public
.2. Akaka Falls, Big Island
Cascading 442 feet down a lush cliff face, this waterfall is wildly popular due to the easy, paved trail down to the falls. We think this hike is hands down one of the best waterfall hikes in Hawaiʻi, especially as it’s easy enough for a beginner hiker to explore. It’s a great one to do with the whole family!
3. Waimoku Falls, Maui
This fall may be extremely difficult to get to – we’re talking a three to five-hour hike – but the view is totally worth it to see Maui’s largest waterfall. We recommend this waterfall hike in Maui if you want to get close, but skip the strenuous hike. We love it’s ease and accessibility, including the boardwalks.
4. Hanakapiai Falls, Kauai
Situated on the Na Pali Coast of Kauai, this beautiful waterfall is accessible by a strenuous day hike – and can be done without a permit. The Na Pali Coast is absolutely breathtaking, and every hiker’s dream hike. It’s hard to see these sights without getting out and hiking in, but this hiking trail with waterfalls in Kauai is a must-see if you’re able to do it.
5. Papalaua Falls, Molokai
Within a cluster of seven waterfalls on the island of Molokai is Papalaua, falling at least 1,200-feet from the top of the Kawai Nui Stream. Papalaua Falls in Molokai is an unbelievably impressive waterfall, and unsurprising that’s it on Molokai as this island is home to some of the tallest waterfalls in the entire world.
6. Waianuenue Falls, Big Island
A short trail from the parking lot offers views from the waterfall’s summit, and if you visit on a sunny morning, you might experience how the falls got its name – waianuenue means rainbow in Hawaiʻian. Waianuenue Falls in Hawaiʻi is located within Wailuku River State Park, an absolute dream to visit. Make sure to visit in the morning to see the waterfalls it frequently creates in the early morning sunshine.
7. Wailua Falls, Kauai
Though this waterfall boasts a modest 80-foot peak, it features a unique two-stream plunge, and visitors can drive right up to the top of the falls. Wailua Falls in Kauai is frequently referred to as the “Niagara Falls in Hawaiʻi,” and it’s so surprise why. This double tiered beauty is the perfect example of Kauai’s lush beauty.
8. Waipoo Falls, Kauai
Located in the heart of the Waimea Canyon, this 700-foot waterfall only flows during the rainy season, but I still think it’s too gorgeous to pass up. Waipoo Falls in Kauai is located in the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” and well worth the visit if you’re in the area. It’s hard to pass up seeing such breathtaking natural beauty in person!
9. Ko’olau Mountain Range, Oahu
While these falls may not be overly documented, and only appear when it is raining heavily, it is quite a pleasant surprise to see these gorgeous falls on your drive across H-3. The Ko’olau Mountain Range on Oahu is a wonderful sight during a heavy downpour. It’s almost worth taking a drive after the rainstorm to see these impressive falls come out.
