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. Youll never run out of things to do here. 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. Rainbow Falls One of Hawaii's most stunning waterfalls, Rainbow Falls is named for the rainbows that can be seen in the mist. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. This picture shows the Hiilawe falls on an almost dry day. The state park is located along the northeastern Hilo Coast, west of Honom. Weve rounded up our top picks for some of the most beautiful spots for waterfalls on the Big Island. The best part? If you are short on time, we recommend that you limit yourself to the more spectacular Akaka and Rainbow waterfalls. Due to its relative obscurity, especially compared to the rest of the waterfalls on this list, going to this waterfall and relaxing in the area may seem like a scene out of a movie. You can read the full story here. It is located inside the private property and theres no other way to access it. Kulania Falls is nearby and just as beautiful. Please keep in mind that the historic area located by the parking lot is not safe for swimming. One of several waterfalls you hike to on a tour with Hawaii Forest and Trail. If you dont want to search out the waterfalls on your own, this might be the right tour for you. If youre staying in Hilo and enjoy learning about history, you might get a kick out of this Legends of the Waterfalls tour where youll learn why Hilo was one of the favorite places for Kamehameha the Great. Access costs $12 per person (walk-in fee, no pre-bookings required), which also buys you access to their garden. 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. Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. This, Located within Waimea Valley is this charming waterfall, perfect for a family swim. If you follow the path, youll see the beautiful Kahuna Falls along the way just before you see Akaka Falls. Address: 875 Akaka Falls Rd, Honomu, HI 96728, United States. The Hamakua Coast is beautiful and this half-day waterfall tour will stop at Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls, and Richardson Beach Park. Commonly, especially if you visit in the early morning, the positioning of the Rainbow Falls sends a rainbow arching from its base into the water. Interested? Its the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago and has some of the most popular waterfalls in all of Hawaii! Keep in mind that youll need to clear a full day of your itinerary for this. 6 Favorite waterfalls Akaka falls (inside state park, small entrance fee required) Rainbow falls (free to visit) Umauma falls (on private grounds, entrance fee required) Kulaniapia Falls (on private grounds, entrance fee required) Peepee Falls (+ 1 extra, free to visit) Hiilawe falls (viewable from public road) 7 other waterfalls Bear right at the top of the hill onto the main street of Honomu town. Each hike has its charm, and all offer beautiful views of different parts of the island. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. Onomea Falls is a stunning multi-tiered waterfall set amidst a beautiful botanical garden: the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. Plus it has numerous attractions, from volcanic rock formations to beautiful waterfalls. While theyre all worth seeing, we must warn you that most of them do not have a swimming hole or pool available. And if youre heading to Akaka Falls with kids, check out my guide HERE. You can now drive on a concrete road right to the falls and tropical garden. To be exact, you can visit Hiilawe Falls by going to the Waipio Valley at the Kohala Coast in Hawaii. It stretches over 120 feet high, although the tiers make it difficult to measure accurately. Located in the Waipio Valley, this waterfall is absolutely breathtaking. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. If you are looking for a bit more of an adventure, more waterfalls can be found in the valleys of the Kohala coast, as well as on the northern Hamakua coast. 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. Akaka Falls is located inside the Akaka Falls State Park in Hawaii. The Rainbow Falls are located in Hilo and are fed by the Wailuku River the same river that also feeds the Peepee Falls. Even when the falls are dry, the lush landscape is incredible. HOME PRIVACY POLICY TERMS. There may be no better way to experience Hawaiian waterfalls than with a helicopter tour. Come join the Big Island's only horseback ride that offers swimming at a waterfall! She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu. The Onomea Falls is located within the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, This s private property owned by Dan Lutkenhouse, first opened in 1984. . These are gorgeous Hawaii Big Island waterfalls worth checking out. The path to Onomea Falls is stunning in itself. This is a very difficult hike to complete in one day and is not recommended for beginners. 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. Which Hawaiian island has the best waterfall hikes? Peepee Falls 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. They are one of the best helicopter companies in Hawaii. Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Big Island Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? 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. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. Akaka Falls is located within the Akaka Falls State Park, roughly 3.6 miles south of Honomu on the Hilo Coast. 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. Big Island travel tips & recommendations , Explore Big Island Hotels & Resorts Search Now. 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. 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? Night Swim with Manta Rays. They are a series of small pools fed by the Wailuku River. Both waterfalls are beautiful Big Island attractions. 2. Hello, my name is Abduvaliev diyorbek. Hawaii's Big Island is home to some of the islands' most accessible waterfalls, and here are five of the most popular. If you're looking for the best Big Island waterfall adventures, then look no further. 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. 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. Be sure to do both if you have the time. Although Akaka Falls is the main event during the hike, the smaller Kahuna Falls is a must-see as well. Location: North east side of Big Island. Youll also pass by Boulder Creek on your way to the falls, which is a gorgeous sight to see. Youll see places on the Big Island only accessible by air. 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. The waterfall is located inside Waipio Valley and is about 1,450 feet tall. 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. In any case, as you can see from the map above and the list below that . If youre an old soul, this Hilo Bay Waterfalls by Kayak tour was made for you. The waterfalls are located less than half a mile from the parking lot. If youre lucky, you may be able to see honu (green sea turtle) and even dolphins! Please do not put these waterfalls on your to-do list. All Rights Reserved Although it is dwarfed in size by its beautiful neighbors, the Peepee Falls and the Ayaka Falls, its unique feature that inspired its namesake makes it worth a visit. Download and/or view the map of all 9 waterfalls here. The hike itself can be challenging and involves multiple stream crossings. Amidst the countless natural attractions on the Big Island, Ive picked seven of the top waterfalls on the Big Island to check out! First, youll head to the Kohala Mountains where youll fly the coastline of Waipio Valley and Waimanu Valley. Most waterfalls in Hawaii have a great pool of water to swim in. Nanua Falls is a series of waterfalls on the Hamakua Coast, about 18 miles north of Hilo. The best hikes on the Big Island of Hawaii are indeed a mixed bag. The lush landscape alone is enough to warrant a hike here. The volume of the rainbow falls (or Waianuenue) changes on a daily basis. With all that you can do at Kulaniapia Falls, it makes this waterfall a top-rated Hawaii waterfall on the Big Island. This amazingly unique experience takes place on the beautiful landscapes near the Umauma stream, held on pristinely-kept private property. 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. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. These 7 Big Island waterfalls are truly spectacular and well worth checking out during your stay here! Sign up for this discounted Majestic Waterfalls Tour. Here are a few top picks that are worth checking out! Join this tour to see waterfalls and the stunning Hilo scenery and learn about King Kamehameha the Great and his preference for the area. 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!). Seeing waterfalls is a great way to save money while on your vacation to Hawaii. This would allow you to see almost all of our favorite waterfalls and is recommended for people that really love waterfalls. Akaka Falls on the Big Island. However, you need to pay a fee to access the private viewing deck. 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. While there arent really Kona waterfalls, you see tons of waterfalls in Hilo. Hiilawe Falls is located on the Big Island. She was a professional hula dancer for 20 years and even wrote her college thesis on Hawaiian history. The Best Hiking Shoes for Hawaii in 2021(The Ultimate buying Guide), The 5 Best Reef Safe Sunscreens for Hawaii. While some are hidden behind long and strenuous hikes, many waterfalls on the big island and other islands are visible from the road or after an easy hike. The on-site Inn organizes this tour which is led a team of expert canyoneering guides. Are you as obsessed with Hawaiian waterfalls as we are? If you are staying on the other side of the Big Island, be sure to plan these excursions into your vacation plans. This is awesome for those not renting a car. The Umauma Falls are a spectacular 3-tiered falls and one of the best waterfalls on the Big Island. Each island has some of the best waterfall swimming holes in Hawaii, so no matter where you are, youll find something amazing! The farmers markets are a little-known gem allowing visitors to meet locals, shop for arts and crafts and enjoy edible treasures. 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. This waterfall is smaller than Rainbow falls, but also way less crowded. Not really. Do you like waterfalls a LOT and are you also visiting another island in the Hawaiian island chain? Along the way, youll see verdant vegetation and immense, ancient Banyan trees, overgrown by fig vines and moss. Looking for a car rental in Kona, 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. This is also close to where most of the black sand beaches on the Big Island are located. Aside from waterfalls, youll also be able to see red-hot lava flows, the Kohala Mule Station lookout, and more! Well, you are in luck. If you only have time to see one of the waterfalls, we suggest seeing the incredible Akaka Falls. Farmers Markets. The Northern beach offers the best base location for those wanting to live by the sea in Sons of the Forest. Sign up for our free monthly updates (more info) about everything that is new and happening in Hawaii. The hike down is very easy and can take as little as 20 minutes. An aerial view of Kulaniapia Falls. However, it is important to note that Umauma Falls is a private waterfall that can only be accessed through small group tours. This waterfall used to have a high volume of water in the stream, making swimming here dangerous. 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. From USD 221.99 (9) Umauma Falls Zipline Tour & Waterfall Swim Adventure . Map of Big Island Waterfalls Wrapping Up the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island Peepee Falls are another great waterfall that you can visit. Visit the State Parks website for updated pricing. Absolutely! If you prefer places that are not busy, then you will love Peepee Falls. 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. Rainbow Falls is not safe for swimming. This place is good for viewing and taking photos. Umauma Falls is located on the Big Island in Hawaii. This adds ~1 hour/waterfall to your itinerary will be the best option for the large majority of visitors. While Kahuna Falls are also located in this state park, you can hear them more than you can see them. Have you gone to any of the best waterfalls in Hawaii to swim? These are just a few of the many, many tours that can be booked to see the beautiful waterfalls on the Big Island. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. the State Parks website for updated pricing. What youll see along the route will depend on what trail you choose, but each one is worth it! It is located about 1.6 miles (5-minute drive) from Rainbow Falls and is also part of the Wailuku River. Access to the overview for the waterfalls lies on private land which is being managed by the Umauma Experience. Access to the falls is right off the road. Located in Hilo, Hawaii in Wailuku River State Park, Rainbow Falls might be the most famous waterfall on the island. 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! These falls are not reachable without trespassing and access to them is restricted. However, the waterfall tends to be dry in early spring, around March. Also known as Three Bears falls, Waikani is approximately 70 feet tall, and visible from the Hana Highway. If you are not interested in these tours, you can pay $12 per person to visit the beautiful botanical gardens. The good news is, while youre inside the botanical garden, youll be able to see the beautiful flora and fauna species that are native to Hawaii. The beach! Together with only a limited number of guests each day, this daypass gives you access to the waterfalls and to their 42-acre property, where you can enjoy miles of trails, incredible views of 4 waterfalls, bamboo gardens. So keep an eye out for honu (green sea turtles) and admire the coast! Another great way to see these waterfalls is to take an organized tour. 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. 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. Get our brand-new trip planning series delivered directly to your inbox - for FREE (more info). Sign up for this discounted Majestic Waterfalls Tour. 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. 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. It will take you about an hour to reach the end of the path, which is lined with lush greenery and beautiful scenery. Big Island waterfall tours Legends of the Waterfalls & Volcano Full-Day Tour Onomea Falls is located along the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. Waiilikahi Falls are yet another gem on the Big Island, but it takes a lot to hike to the falls. In addition, if weather and conditions permit, you may be able to swim, kayak or paddleboard under the waterfalls. The Akaka Falls and the Rainbow Falls are hands-down the most-visited waterfalls on the Big Island. You will need to pay an admission fee to see these falls. 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. Good to know: The river feeding Hiilawe is used for irrigation purposes. Before we talk about the best waterfalls, lets discuss some FAQs you might have: Swimming is NOT allowed at Akaka Falls State Park. Youll start off driving up the Kona coastline pas lava flows and check out sweeping views from the old Kohala Mule Station lookout. From USD 130.62. The waterfall is split into two waterfalls that fall into a pool below. 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. The trailhead is easy to find just off the parking lot. One of the greatest, Makapipi Falls, Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA, Located off Pali Highway is this extraordinary waterfall hike complete with a trek through a bamboo forest, views of a stunning field and reservoir, the beauty of the Hawaiian jungle, and of course the jaw-dropping, 50-foot Lulumahu Falls. Hiilawe Falls is a magnificent waterfall located in Waipio Valley on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island. The size of these waterfalls and their location in the lush and tropical rainforest makes them a popular and spectacular attraction to check out. Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden Youll experience 7 incredible Kohala waterfalls plus a picnic lunch. You can follow an uphill path towards the waterfall, which is about half a mile long. Compared to Rainbow Falls, Peepee Falls are less crowded and less known. Plan to hike on slippery rocks, uphill slogs, tree roots, mud, and unmaintained trails. Deluxe Big Island ATV Tour & Waterfall Swim at Umauma Falls . Each one of these is worth visiting at least once in my opinion. The most popular way to observe the Umauma Falls is from a tranquil overlook accessible through the World Botanical Garden. 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. Some of which are so beautiful that they inspired some of Hawaiis most popular songs. Majestic Waterfalls Tour A tour across the Hamakua Coast that stops at 'Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls and Richardson Beach Park. 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 is a great waterfall to visit and is one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. 1: Kauai Overview 2: Things to Do 3: Where to Stay 4: Popular Sights and Destinations 5: The Npali Coast 6: Kauai Itinerary 7: Kauai blog posts. Be sure to bring extra clothing. 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! You can contact the State Division of Forestry and Wildlife at 808-974-4221. Subscribe to receive 5 emails in 5 days: Call us for advice! While transporting logs over to build the base might be a nuisance, the beach offers a wealth of advantages that . Hours: Daily, 8:30AM - 6:00PM. Located along the Umauma River in Hakalau, Umauma Falls is a series of three, short cascading waterfalls. It aims to take you on an unforgettable journey through the Hamakua Coast. Thankfully they didnt, as there appeared to be rocks under the shallow water at the bottom of the falls. Read more about waterfall safety. Zipline high above the forest floor, picnic on the rim of Pololu Valley & swim under a private waterfall fed by a cool mountain stream. Sign up for this discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour. 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. First trip to the Big Island? This has some of the best waterfalls on Maui. 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. I have seen people continue to do it anyway, but this is just asking for trouble. The admission fee to the park is $5.00 per car or $1 per person for pedestrians. Swimming is not allowed here, so keep that in mind when you visit. The falls are located in Waimanu Valley. 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. Plus. Where are the best waterfalls to swim in Hawaii? Our most popular hotels on the Island of Hawaii 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. We like to get up and close to any waterfall we see, and know the same is true for many of our readers. This waterfall is smaller than the rainbow falls but also far less crowded. There are different, The private property is currently managed by the. Not only that, but this island is still expanding! The height and sheer beauty of its surroundings make Akaka Falls one of the most visited waterfalls on Big Island, but it will take a bit of effort to see them. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Please dont take the risk there are many places more suitable for swimming in Hilo (the beach!). If you already have accommodations, water rappelling can also be booked by the general public. Youll get to play in the ocean, explore a tidepool, and see Rainbow Falls. Find the best prices here. Check out the latest prices and more details. #1. Waterfall tours are among our favorites because of the amount of nature they allow you to experience in a relatively short amount of time and because they often feature a visit to a private waterfall that permits you to actually swim under a waterfall.