These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. From USD 221.99 (9) Umauma Falls Zipline Tour & Waterfall Swim Adventure . Kohala Waterfalls & Hiking Adventure | Big Island Tours & Activities Hiilawe Falls is one of the top Big Island waterfall hikes to do. No experience necessary! Youll get to play in the ocean, explore a tidepool, and see Rainbow Falls. Compared to Rainbow Falls, Peepee Falls are less crowded and less known. Nanue Falls is located on the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. If youre lucky, you may be able to see honu (green sea turtle) and even dolphins! Enjoy this 8-hour adventure as you explore Kohala, the oldest of five volcanos that make up the Big Island. The hike is suitable for the whole family and takes half an hour if you take your time. It stretches hundreds of feet tall and is surrounded by greenery. Visit the State Parks website for updated pricing. Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. The size of these waterfalls and their location in the lush and tropical rainforest makes them a popular and spectacular attraction to check out. 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. Great for first-time visitors. One other thing to note is that there are 13 streams you will have to cross before getting to the water. Its location allows the sun to hit the water at just the perfect angle. If you are staying on the other side of the Big Island, be sure to plan these excursions into your vacation plans. with the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing snack break at the waterfalls where you can swim and paddleboard. This is a 120ft waterfall on the Waiau Stream situated on the lower slopes of Mauna Kea not far from Hilo. While you can access most of these on your own, you can also join Hawaii waterfall tours for a more personalized experience. This allows you to experience a birds-eye view of the waterfall! Hawaii Waterfall Swim Adventure, Waipio Valley Lookout & Botanical Garden . All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. You can also walk down from the upper parking lots and viewing decks. Sign up for a discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour. And, youll pass it on the way to Akaka Falls. Love Hawaii? 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 view is spectacular and the tame and paved nature hike was enjoyable too. You may have a luxury problem though: there are more waterfalls on the Big Island than you can reasonable visit during your stay! swimming in waterfalls - Island of Hawaii Forum - Tripadvisor Stunning Big Island Hawaii Waterfalls Worth a Stop, planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, Courtyard by Marriotts King Kamehameha Beach Hotel, Check out the latest prices and more details, discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour, Legends of the Waterfalls and Volcano Tour, budget-friendly things to do on the Big Island. If you think you've located a Big Island waterfall we've omitted, please contact us, and we'll make sure it's added. 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. Bear right at the top of the hill onto the main street of Honomu town. Mahalo! One of the, Pua'a Ka'a Falls, Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA, This secluded swimming spot is a phenomenal reward after a hike that should not be braved unless you are an experienced hiker. While transporting logs over to build the base might be a nuisance, the beach offers a wealth of advantages that . Click here to see all our recommended waterfall tours on our website. 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. Check out the latest prices and more details. Read more about ourHawaii adventureshere. This Upper Waikani Falls, Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA 2. Deluxe Big Island ATV Tour & Waterfall Swim at Umauma Falls . Located only 1.5 miles upstream from Rainbow Falls, Peepee Falls is another beautiful spot. This waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls across all of the Islands, standing at its maximum height at 1,450 feet. Swimming here can be dangerous and has proved lethal several times in the past. One of the most unique tours on this list, the Waterfalls of Kohala tour takes you on a helicopter journey that allows you a unique birds-eye view of some of the prettiest waterfalls on the Big Island. The hike to the Rainbow Falls is immensely short, and although reaching the top of the falls may seem intimidating, its both simple and worth the effort. Another, more expensive but more spectacular way to see waterfalls (and the volcano!) This is one of the best waterfalls to visit while on the Big Island, and I highly recommend staying here. Most waterfalls can be found on the slopes of the Mauna Kea volcano close to Hilo and on the Hamakua coast. If you are short on time, we recommend that you limit yourself to the more spectacular Akaka and Rainbow waterfalls. Hiilawe Falls is visible only within the valley or from the air, as the Waipio Valley is very steep. Overview . Check out the latest prices and more details. Which one was your favorite? In general, yes, but there are several risks associated with swimming under waterfalls in the state of Hawaii that you should be aware of. The state park is located along the northeastern Hilo Coast, west of Honom. I have seen other people recommend Peepee Falls as another great option. The property also offers lava encounter tours and lava tube tours as well if you are interested. 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. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. One of the coolest ways to experience Kulaniapia Falls is by booking a spot in one of the Experience Packages available at the property. Alternatively, you can zipline or rappel at the Umauma Falls. Get in touch with us! Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing, History (From $226.96) Hawaii Volcano Adventure Tour from Hilo (From $195.99) 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. Ultimate Guide to the Polynesian Cultural Center with Kids, Traditional Hawaiian Food: 24 Classic Dishes of Hawaiian Cuisine. This waterfall is created from a small stream and is a multiple-tier waterfall located inside the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden. 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. Furthermore, flash floods and strong currents are a real danger there. I have included a downloadable map of these waterfalls at the bottom of this post to help with your planning and navigation. All Rights Reserved Check out the latest prices and more details. 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. Get your discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. Soak in soaring sea cliffs, remote valleys, and even go for a swim under one of seven waterfalls. As a paradise for active travelers it is rich in experiences that include nature, culinary discoveries, historic landmarks, shopping, nightlife and festivals. 12 Most Beautiful Big Island Waterfalls (+ How to Visit!) - Next is Hawaii Whats the Honolulu Sister Cities Program? . Check out the latest prices and details here! 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. Family friendly zipline tour + private waterfall swim. Guide To The Best Waterfalls You Can Swim In The Big Island Take a comfortable ride through stunning countryside up to the hiking trailhead. We are independently owned so content written by us merely reflect our own opinions. Sign up for this discounted Majestic Waterfalls Tour. The Kulaniapia Falls is a private 90-100 foot waterfall located at the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls. Another great way to visit all of these falls is through a helicopter tour. The only waterfall you can swim at on the Big Island is the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. There are other adventurous activities that you can enjoy here too. Hanapueo and Umauma Falls. Read more about waterfall safety. As an Amazon Associate, thistraveldream.com earns from qualifying purchases. From USD 130.62. These 7 Big Island waterfalls are truly spectacular and well worth checking out during your stay here! Which Cities Have Nonstop Flights to Hawaii. 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. 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. There are no lifeguards here, so please be extremely cautious. It is located in the Pelekunu Preserve on the windward side of Molokai. It is simply breathtaking. Marvel at the beauty and adventure that makes up Hawaii. They are amazing natural wonders that should definitely be on your list of things to do while visiting this tropical paradise! The waterfalls themselves might be short, but the picturesque pools are well worth the short hike. 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. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. 1. Download your copy of our Each hike has its charm, and all offer beautiful views of different parts of the island. Nonetheless, its still a breathtaking sight to see. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. These are just a few of the many, many tours that can be booked to see the beautiful waterfalls on the Big Island. 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. You can start the hike to this waterfall from the Waipio Valley lookout. Facebook Pinterest Twitter Instagram Subscribe to our Newsletter. Then, there are waterfalls where the access is rather ambiguous (to my knowledge), and these include Hi'ilawe Falls, Nanue Falls, and the so-called Narnia Waterfalls (which are actually a convergence of three named waterfalls). Rainbow Falls (Hilo) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go - Tripadvisor This tour takes you on a journey through Hilo, stopping by at the Rainbow Falls, tidepools, and ocean beaches. The farmers markets are a little-known gem allowing visitors to meet locals, shop for arts and crafts and enjoy edible treasures. Regardless, they are still worth the visit if you love nature and gorgeous views. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Check out the latest prices and more details. Now you know some of the best waterfalls Big Island has to offer. Check out the latest prices and details. The falls are located in the rainforest. And it is surrounded by immense boulders and greenery. They are one of the best helicopter companies in Hawaii. Farmers Markets. [more], 2006-2023 World Of Waterfalls, All Rights Reserved Guests will witness mantas up close as they grace the waters and feed on plankton. 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. Akaka Falls. Take your first right onto Akaka Falls Road and continue for 3.75 miles until you reach the parking lot. 6 Favorite Waterfalls on the Big Island: Descriptions + Map Peepee Falls on the Big Island. The Peepee Falls are located about 1.5 miles upstream the rainbow falls, at the Wailuku river on the end of Wailuku drive. These falls are not reachable without trespassing and access to them is restricted. The package can include waterfall rappelling, which is the best way to experience Kulaniapia. Check out the latest prices and details! 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. The Hiilawe waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls of the state of Hawai. Are you traveling to the Big Island of Hawaii? 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. Sign up for this discounted Waipio Valley and Waterfalls Adventure. Its such a fun, Combine vibrant sapphire pools with some stellar spots for cliff jumping, and youve got one of Mauis local hangouts. 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. as a very big person in the future I want to help people I want to give a gift to the. Flash flooding in this area is common, so please proceed with caution. What are the best hikes on the Big Island? 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. With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. Here, youll zipline across the forest, have lunch in the Pololu Valley, and even swim in a Big Island waterfall. Kulaniapia Falls is a private waterfall located on the Waiau Stream, not far from Hilo. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Rappel down 120 feet past Hawaiis largest privately accessible waterfall supervised by expert canyoneering guides. This full-day tour will also introduce you to delicious Hawaiian cuisine in the Pololu Valley and even allow you to swim in a waterfall! While Kahuna Falls are also located in this state park, you can hear them more than you can see them. Youll experience 7 incredible Kohala waterfalls plus a picnic lunch. 'Akaka Falls 'Akaka Falls is located just north of Hilo and are a gem of the Big Island's waterfalls. To be exact, you can visit Hiilawe Falls by going to the Waipio Valley at the Kohala Coast in Hawaii. This waterfall used to have a high volume of water in the stream, making swimming here dangerous. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. Hiilawe Falls is best seen at a distance, as public access to the base of the falls is not possible. This is for kids at least 5 years old who can comfortably stay in a kayak. The hike is beautiful, surrounded by bamboo groves and delicate wild orchids. 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. Youll need to pay an entrance fee to enter the area. She was a professional hula dancer for 20 years and even wrote her college thesis on Hawaiian history. For a beautiful view and unforgettable experience, sign up for a discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. Onomea Falls is a stunning multi-tiered waterfall set amidst a beautiful botanical garden: the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. Swimming Holes on the Big Island of Hawaii. 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. Youll be treated to an entirely new and equally beautiful view of the waterfalls. Its a way to connect with nature and experience the waterfall closer than otherwise. However, the best views come when you climb under the bridge and follow a short jungle path to the base of the waterfall. Narnia is the name given to a set of waterfalls in the Hilo Forest Reserve. We love this easy, Twin Falls Maui Waterfall, 6300 Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA, Located within Haleakala National Park near the Pipiwai Trailhead, these beautiful stream-fed pools are also known as the seven sacred pools. 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. Good to know: to access the falls you must purchase a $49 daypass to the grounds. #1. Natural swimming pool with crystal clear water on the island Lava from Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa meet near the base of Peepee Falls, about 2 miles downstream. I visited Rainbow Falls in September of 2021 and the trail to get to the top was closed. These 7 Big Island waterfalls are truly spectacular and well worth checking out during your stay here! The Top 9 Waterfalls to Visit on the Big Island of Hawaii The admission fee to the park is $5.00 per car or $1 per person for pedestrians. The volume of the rainbow falls (or Waianuenue) changes on a daily basis. Other than water rappelling, the Experiences Package offers a multitude of other activities. Big Island is home to some of the tallest falls in the state. Be sure not the trespass onto the private land that surrounds the waterfall. Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Big Island Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. In fact, there is a small parking lot near the falls, as well as a short but slippery path to visit the base. And be sure to keep your eyes out for sea turtles, which are known to hang out in this area! Waipoo Falls. 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! There are tons of gorgeous waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii. The Best Hiking Shoes for Hawaii in 2021(The Ultimate buying Guide), The 5 Best Reef Safe Sunscreens for Hawaii. One of the risks is that rocks occasionally get washed over the falls and can land on unsuspecting swimmers. It is also possible to rappel down along the Kulaniapia Falls. These are gorgeous Hawaii Big Island waterfalls worth checking out. Map of Big Island Waterfalls Wrapping Up the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island Oahu is the lively center and most visited of all Hawaiian Islands. Get your discounted Waterfalls of Kohala Tour. And these are just the most popular waterfalls on Big Island. These falls are more difficult to visit and include the last of our favorites that can only be seen from a distance: the Hiilawe falls. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu. If you prefer places that are not busy, then you will love Peepee Falls. Kulaniapia Falls is once again located on private property, this time belonging to The Inn and usually reserved exclusively for residents there. Top Must-See Waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii Hi'ilawe Falls is visible only within the valley or from the air, as the . The content on this website may not be copied or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission. Hi'ilawe Falls Rainbow Falls are beautiful and can be viewed from a relatively close location, making them that much more enjoyable. They are all unique in their own ways. . 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 Akaka Falls and the Rainbow Falls are hands-down the most-visited waterfalls on the Big Island. Plus it has numerous attractions, from volcanic rock formations to beautiful waterfalls. Kohala Waterfalls Hike & Swim Eco Tour - HawaiiActivities.com Waterfalls of Kohala A helicopter tour of the waterfalls along the Kohala Coast. As you tour, youll be able to enjoy amazing photo spots and unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean, waterfalls, and the Mauna Kea. 8x Waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii for 2023 - Travel 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. The Complete Guide to Big Island Waterfalls - bigisland.org If you plan to camp here, please make sure you obtain the proper permits, as they are required. These falls form also the access to a popular but risky local swimming spot called the boiling pots. Image credit: Mark. Located along the Umauma River in Hakalau, Umauma Falls is a series of three, short cascading waterfalls. While there are gorgeous waterfalls on Kauai, Oahu, and Maui, the Big Island has some of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii. From USD 218.85 (9) Big Island Waterfall Swim & Rainforest Hiking Tour & Nature Eco-Adventure . Get your discounted Waterfalls of Kohala Tour. This adds ~1 hour/waterfall to your itinerary will be the best option for the large majority of visitors. This might cost more, but its well worth it. This is the perfect pre or post-hike pit stop for pineapples and fresh coconuts that you can't miss. Good to know: The river feeding Hiilawe is used for irrigation purposes. Stretching 93 miles long, its nearly four times as big as Maui. Location: North east side of Big Island. This waterfall is smaller than Rainbow falls, but also way less crowded. For those with a daring spirit, the Deleuze ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience tour is for you. Make sure your tour includes all of the waterfalls you want to see. Nanua Falls is a series of waterfalls on the Hamakua Coast, about 18 miles north of Hilo. The most notable waterfalls on the Big Island that are free to visit are the Peepee Falls and the Rainbow falls. from $85 + taxes & fees | Child $75. 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. 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? It stretches over 120 feet high, although the tiers make it difficult to measure accurately. After some time, the streams flow lessened and it is now safe to swim here. You can also book one of their events to have access to their waterfall. Another stop on Mauis Road to Hana, Puaa Kaa translates to rolling pig in Hawaiian. More waterfalls can be found at the northern Hamakua coast seaside cliffs and the valleys of the Kohala coast. One of several waterfalls you hike to on a tour with Hawaii Forest and Trail. Youll never run out of things to do here. This half-day tour takes you to the three most famous Big Island waterfalls: 'Akaka Falls, Hi'ilawe Falls and Rainbow Falls. Address: 875 Akaka Falls Rd, Honomu, HI 96728, United States. 9 Of The Best Waterfalls In Hawaii According to Locals - OnlyInYourState If waterfalls are your thing you most likely wont be happy to see only the biggest six. Our featured listings highlight those tours that combine exceptional waterfall experiences, professional guides, and more fun than you can imagine. 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.