Discover the Best Waterfalls on Oahu! If you’re seeking natural beauty and adventure, Oahu’s waterfalls are a must-see.
From easily accessible cascades like Manoa Falls and Waimea Falls to the serene Waianae Falls tucked away on the island’s west side, this guide will take you on a journey to the most stunning waterfalls the island has to offer.
Get ready to explore lush rainforests, dip into refreshing pools, and experience the awe-inspiring sights that Oahu’s waterfalls have in store for you!
Best Waterfalls on Oahu
1. Manoa Falls
Manoa Falls is a stunning 150-foot waterfall surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.
The hike to the waterfall is relatively easy and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours round trip.
Along the way, you’ll walk through a bamboo forest and enjoy the sights and sounds of the rainforest.
The pool at the base of the falls is picturesque, but swimming is usually not recommended due to the risk of falling rocks.
Location
Manoa Falls is located in the Manoa Valley, just outside of Honolulu.
How to get there
The trailhead for Manoa Falls is at the end of Manoa Road.
You can either take a taxi or drive to the trailhead. There’s also a public bus option (#5 or #6) from Waikiki that will get you close to the entrance.
2. Waimea Falls
The waterfall is about 45 feet tall and cascades into a large pool, offering visitors the opportunity to swim and cool off in its refreshing waters.
The botanical garden surrounding the falls provides a serene atmosphere for a leisurely stroll, and there are cultural activities and hula performances held throughout the day.
Location
Waimea Falls is situated within the Waimea Valley, a botanical garden and historical site on the North Shore of Oahu.
How to get there
You can drive to Waimea Valley or take a bus from Honolulu to Haleiwa and then transfer to the #55 bus that stops at Waimea Valley.
3. Lulumahu Falls
Lulumahu Falls is a less crowded and more secluded waterfall, making it a peaceful oasis away from the typical tourist spots.
The trail leads you through a beautiful bamboo forest and past ancient Hawaiian rock walls.
The waterfall itself is about 50 feet tall and cascades into a serene pool, offering a great spot for relaxation and photographs.
Location
Lulumahu Falls is tucked away in a lush forest in the Nu’uanu Valley, northeast of Honolulu.
How to get there
Accessing Lulumahu Falls requires a bit of a hike and can be tricky due to the lack of marked trails.
It’s best to join a guided tour or get specific directions from locals or hiking communities to find the hidden path.
4. Waimano Falls
Waimano Falls is a series of cascading waterfalls that drop into a cool pool, providing a refreshing spot to take a dip after the hike.
The hike to the falls takes around 2 to 2.5 hours round trip and offers beautiful views of the valley and lush landscapes along the way.
Location
Waimano Falls is located in Waimano Valley, which is situated in the Pearl City area, west of Honolulu.
How to get there
To reach Waimano Falls, you’ll need to hike the Waimano Ridge Trail. The trailhead is at the end of Komo Mai Drive. The hike can be a bit muddy and slippery, so wear appropriate footwear.
5. Maunawili Falls
Maunawili Falls is a 20-foot waterfall nestled in a dense rainforest.
The hike to the falls is approximately 2.5 miles round trip and can take about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.
The trail is shaded, making it a pleasant hike even on a sunny day.
The pool at the base of the falls is great for swimming and provides a nice spot for a relaxing picnic.
Location
Maunawili Falls is located in the Maunawili Valley, which is on the windward (eastern) side of Oahu.
How to get there
The trailhead for Maunawili Falls is at the end of Maunawili Road.
You can either take a taxi or drive to the trailhead.
As with other waterfall hikes, it’s a good idea to wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be muddy and slippery.
6. Waiakeakua Falls
Waiakeakua Falls is a relatively unknown and secluded waterfall due to its challenging location.
The hike to the falls involves navigating through steep terrain and possibly crossing private land.
If you’re an experienced hiker and take the proper precautions, you may find the solitude and natural beauty of Waiakeakua Falls to be a rewarding experience.
Location
Waiakeakua Falls is situated in a remote and challenging-to-reach area in the Pali Notches region of the Koolau Mountains.
How to get there
Accessing Waiakeakua Falls is difficult and potentially dangerous, requiring hiking skills and knowledge of the area.
It’s essential to check for local conditions and consider seeking guidance from experienced hikers or hiking groups if you wish to attempt this journey.
7. Waianae Falls
Waianae Falls is a stunning 50-foot waterfall that cascades into a deep pool, offering a serene and refreshing setting.
The hike to the falls takes you through a beautiful valley with impressive views of the surrounding mountains and lush vegetation.
It’s a moderately difficult hike, but the reward of the picturesque waterfall and swimming opportunities make it worth the effort.
Location
Waianae Falls is situated on the west side of Oahu, near the town of Waianae.
How to get there
The trailhead to Waianae Falls is located off the Waianae Valley Road.
It’s recommended to join a guided tour or seek advice from locals or hiking groups, as the trail can be challenging to navigate on your own.
Best Waterfalls in Oahu FAQ
What is the most beautiful waterfall in Oahu?
The most beautiful waterfalls in Oahu are Manoa Falls, Waimea Falls, and Waianae Falls.
Is Mānoa Falls or Waimea Falls better?
Depends on what you prefer. Mānoa Falls has an easy rainforest hike, while Waimea Falls has a botanical garden and swimming.
What is the prettiest waterfall in Hawaii?
The prettiest waterfalls in Hawaii are Wailua Falls (Kauai), Akaka Falls (Big Island), and Hanakapiai Falls (Kauai).
What are the easily accessible waterfalls on Oahu?
The easily accessible waterfalls on Oahu are Manoa Falls, Waimea Falls, and Waimano Falls.
Is Manoa Falls worth it?
Yes, Manoa Falls is worth it.
Manoa Falls is popular due to its easy hike and beautiful setting.
Is Waimea Waterfall worth it?
Yes, Waimea Waterfall is worth it.
Many visitors enjoy the botanical garden, cultural activities, and swimming opportunities.
Why can’t you swim in Mānoa Falls?
You can’t swim in Manoa Falls because it’s unsafe due to slippery rocks and falling hazards.
How difficult is the hike at Waimea Falls?
The hike is relatively easy, suitable for most ages, and takes about 30-45 minutes.
Best Waterfalls on Oahu Summary
Oahu’s waterfalls offer a diverse range of natural wonders waiting to be explored.
Whether you’re looking for an easy hike to admire the beauty of Manoa Falls or want to immerse yourself in the cultural activities and swimming opportunities at Waimea Falls, there’s a waterfall adventure for everyone.
For a more secluded experience, Waianae Falls awaits with its picturesque setting on the island’s west side.
Each waterfall on this list showcases the breathtaking landscapes and captivating beauty that Oahu has to offer.
So, put on your hiking shoes, pack your swimsuit, and get ready to create unforgettable memories amidst the splendor of Oahu’s best waterfalls.
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