Of this list, youre not allowed to swim in both Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls, as it is both dangerous and illegal. Hiilawe Falls is one of the top Big Island waterfall hikes to do. from $85 + taxes & fees | Child $75. The Umauma Falls are a spectacular 3-tiered falls and one of the best waterfalls on the Big Island. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. These falls form also the access to a popular but risky local swimming spot called the boiling pots. There may be no better way to experience Hawaiian waterfalls than with a helicopter tour. Are you planning to travel to the Big Island of Hawaii? This is an activity in which you descend the rocks surrounding the waterfall with a harness and equipment ensuring your safety. Akaka Falls on the Big Island. There is a chance of injury or death if you decide to go swimming or wading in any waterfall. Simply put, waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii are some of the world's finest. The package can include waterfall rappelling, which is the best way to experience Kulaniapia. 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. Check out the latest prices and more details. It is one of the most idyllic and beautiful waterfalls in the world. Each island has some of the best waterfall swimming holes in Hawaii, so no matter where you are, youll find something amazing! Hawaii Horseback Riding Tour with Waterfall Swim at Umauma Falls The hike itself can be challenging and involves multiple stream crossings. Youll be treated to an entirely new and equally beautiful view of the waterfalls. You can also see these waterfalls as part of a zipline tour or an ATV and dip (swim) tour at the gardens. Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. Id be sure to go at least a few days after heavy rain to avoid flash flooding and a swollen stream. Rainbow Falls is not safe for swimming. Some of which are so beautiful that they inspired some of Hawaiis most popular songs. Its such a fun, Combine vibrant sapphire pools with some stellar spots for cliff jumping, and youve got one of Mauis local hangouts. Visit the Akaka Falls State Park and take the pleasant 0.4 mile paved foot path loop that takes you to viewing spots of both Akaka Falls (442 feet) and Kahuna Falls (100 feet). The Experiences Package allows you to water rappel. What are the best hikes on the Big Island? There are no lifeguards here, so please be extremely cautious. If you prefer places that are not busy, then you will love Peepee Falls. Our featured listings highlight those tours that combine exceptional waterfall experiences, professional guides, and more fun than you can imagine. Big Island Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Big Island Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. The content on this website may not be copied or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission. They are amazing natural wonders that should definitely be on your list of things to do while visiting this tropical paradise! Rainbow Falls (Hilo) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go - Tripadvisor The trail is surrounded by beautiful vegetation and singing birds, and the falls are absolutely worth the effort! Furthermore, flash floods and strong currents are a real danger there. However, they have started opening the grounds to the public for a $49 day pass. 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. Book any of these great Big Island waterfall tours today! Its a way to connect with nature and experience the waterfall closer than otherwise. Are there a lot of waterfall swimming holes in Hawaii? The hike is suitable for the whole family and takes half an hour if you take your time. Entry Fees:For Akaka Falls, entry is free for children under ten years old and $5 per adult. Get more stories delivered right to your email. These falls are not reachable without trespassing and access to them is restricted. With all that you can do at Kulaniapia Falls, it makes this waterfall a top-rated Hawaii waterfall on the Big Island. This is a great family-friendly waterfall as there are no strong currents or falling rocks around. Big Island is home to some of the tallest falls in the state. The couple run a healing retreat on Hawaii's Big Island - and Dorina has been swimming with dolphins throughout her pregnancy. Hawaii: Big Island, Big Fun | VAX VacationAccess Hi'ilawe Falls The beach! 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. It stretches over 120 feet high, although the tiers make it difficult to measure accurately. Just two weeks ago, the couple posted a YouTube video of the mum-to-be at 38-weeks pregnant interacting with dolphins in the sea. Please remember that all of these falls have different levels of water throughout the year. Here is our list of the top 9 waterfalls in Hawaii that wont disappoint! One of several waterfalls you hike to on a tour with Hawaii Forest and Trail. Download your copy of our Youll find the largest waterfall in Hawaii on the secluded island of Molokai. During the tour, youll travel along the coastline. Read more: in our guide to visiting the Rainbow falls. In addition, if weather and conditions permit, you may be able to swim, kayak or paddleboard under the waterfalls. Hi'ilawe Falls in the Waipio Valley. Most of the waterfalls are found near Hilo and northeastern, or Hamakua, coast. Rainbow Falls One of Hawaii's most stunning waterfalls, Rainbow Falls is named for the rainbows that can be seen in the mist. 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. Did we list it? as a very big person in the future I want to help people I want to give a gift to the. You can swim in this one! 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. Get your discounted Kohala Zip and Dip Tour. The most important is the water-born disease leptospirosis: dont go swimming if you have any abrasions, scrapes, blisters or other skin lesions. Map of Big Island Waterfalls Wrapping Up the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island 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. This isn't one that you can swim under though. Click the button below. If you are staying in Kona, meet up with a local driver who takes you to North Kohala. Here you will find a delightful selection of art galleries and gift stores as well as several cafes. Also, be sure to check out all the waterfalls in Hawaii on ourHawaii Waterfallspage. Please do not put these waterfalls on your to-do list. Even when the falls are dry, the lush landscape is incredible. I highly recommend checking out Viator for some of the best tours in Hawaii. Waimoku Falls is a 400 foot waterfall that you see pictured on the cover of many of Maui's guidebooks and is one of the tallest waterfalls on Maui. Mahalo! Enjoy this 8-hour adventure as you explore Kohala, the oldest of five volcanos that make up the Big Island. If youre debating on visiting Oahu or Maui, you can check out my other article on Oahu Vs Maui to learn more. Maunawili Falls The Oloupena Falls is the tallest waterfall in Hawaii, located on the tiny island of Molokai, stretching an immense 2,953 feet high. Bear right at the top of the hill onto the main street of Honomu town. This is a very difficult hike to complete in one day and is not recommended for beginners. With a 440-foot summit, this waterfall is wildly popular due to the easy 0.4-mile paved loop, which takes you to the viewing spots of both Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls. The path to Onomea Falls is stunning in itself. 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. The Hilton and Sheraton both have really neat waterfalls and its clean clear water. 2. Its a 422-foot natural waterfall. Most waterfalls in Hawaii have a great pool of water to swim in. Stunning Big Island Hawaii Waterfalls (2023) - Hawaii Travel Spot Now they have opened up their grounds to a limited amount of daily visitors. [more], 2006-2023 World Of Waterfalls, All Rights Reserved I am not sure how people did this as signs warn against it, and its illegal and can be dangerous. The area beyond that is private property, so be aware of where youre going! Guide To The Best Waterfalls You Can Swim In The Big Island This amazingly unique experience takes place on the beautiful landscapes near the Umauma stream, held on pristinely-kept private property. The Northern beach offers the best base location for those wanting to live by the sea in Sons of the Forest. It stretches hundreds of feet tall and is surrounded by greenery. You will need to stop at the visitor center to register before heading to the falls. This waterfall is smaller than the rainbow falls but also far less crowded. Akaka Falls is a spectacularly tall waterfall that hurls down an incredible 422 feet down a mountain face. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. Before you get to Akaka Falls, you can also visit Kahuna Falls inside the state park. So without further ado, here are the best of the Big Island Waterfalls that we've personally swam in or at least see ourselves swimming in PEEPEE FALLS (PE'EPE'E FALLS & BOILING POTS) A couple swimming in one of the pools of the Boiling Pots just downstream of Pe'epe'e Falls The on-site Inn organizes this tour which is led a team of expert canyoneering guides. Hiilawe Falls is often considered to be the tallest waterfall in Hawaii. 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? We decided to take a scenic drive while staying on the Hilo side to see some of these waterfalls. This waterfall is smaller than Rainbow falls, but also way less crowded. However, it is important to note that Umauma Falls is a private waterfall that can only be accessed through small group tours. As youre admiring the view of the Kohala Coast, youll also be privy to commentary about the history and culture of the area by the pilot. Log in, We are passionate waterfall lovers eager to share our experiences chasing waterfalls around the world! 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. This waterfall can only be accessed from the lookout, and swimming here is no longer allowed. You can start the hike to this waterfall from the Waipio Valley lookout. The most notable waterfalls on the Big Island that are free to visit are the Peepee Falls and the Rainbow 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. If youre looking for a little piece of paradise on the Big Island, just keep your eyes peeled and head to one of these gorgeous waterfalls. A helicopter tour of the waterfalls along the Kohala Coast. They are one of the best helicopter companies in Hawaii. Where to Find the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island, Hawaii However, the best views come when you climb under the bridge and follow a short jungle path to the base of the waterfall. While theyre all worth seeing, we must warn you that most of them do not have a swimming hole or pool available. Hanapueo and Umauma Falls. The Big Island Waterfalls page is where we narrow our focus of Hawaiian Waterfalls to the Big Island of Hawaii. This allows you to experience a birds-eye view of the waterfall! See the northern Kohala highlights with this 8-hour adventure and visit 7 stunning private waterfalls (and swim in one! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. A couple of travel dreamers who fell in love with Hawaii and want to share the beauty of the Islands! Beautiful Big Island Waterfall Hikes - Hawaii Travel with Kids It depends on which one you choose! Another popular way to observe the Umauma Falls is through a short 1.7 mile hike within the World Botanical Garden that most consider to be unchallenging. Onomea Falls is located along the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. Another, more expensive but more spectacular way to see waterfalls (and the volcano!) This is part of Hawaiis state park system. 4 Easy Big Island Waterfalls For Those Who Are Tired - Aloha With Love If you decide to swim, please take extra precautions as rivers are prone to flash flooding. I have seen people continue to do it anyway, but this is just asking for trouble. My personal favorites are Polulu Valley, The Puna Trail, and The hike to Makalawena Beach, to name a few. Visit the State Parks website for updated pricing. I also included a table of contents, so feel free to skip to the sections you are most interested in. Free cancellation: up to 24 hours before tour. 1. Its location allows the sun to hit the water at just the perfect angle. Get your discounted Waterfalls of Kohala Tour. From USD 218.85 (9) Big Island Waterfall Swim & Rainforest Hiking Tour & Nature Eco-Adventure . Hiilawe Falls is best seen at a distance, as public access to the base of the falls is not possible. Big Island of Hawaii Waterfalls and How To Visit Them Flash flooding in this area is common, so please proceed with caution. A 20-acre rainforest greenhouse, the area is filled with beautiful plant life and wild animals. Waianuenue Falls, Big Island James Walsh/Flickr 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. First, youll head to the Kohala Mountains where youll fly the coastline of Waipio Valley and Waimanu Valley. Sign up for a discounted Legends of the Waterfalls and Volcano Tour. At the writing of this post, the Umauma Falls are now accessible through the botanical gardens. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing, History (From $226.96) Hawaii Volcano Adventure Tour from Hilo (From $195.99) If youre an old soul, this Hilo Bay Waterfalls by Kayak tour was made for you. Majestic Waterfalls Tour A tour across the Hamakua Coast that stops at 'Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls and Richardson Beach Park. The waterfalls themselves might be short, but the picturesque pools are well worth the short hike. Star the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. The Big Island is filled with tourist attractions! Oahu is the lively center and most visited of all Hawaiian Islands. Due to its location, the sun hits the water at just the right angle to show off. 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. Head to Waimea Falls for the best, A short hike within the Puaa Kaa State Wayside will reward you with a relatively secluded and picturesque waterfall, cascading into the delightful pool below. The Kulaniapia waterfall is located on the grounds of the Inn at Kulaniapia and up until recently access to their waterfalls was restricted uniquely to their overnight guests. The water can be seen while hiking down the valley, and it should be visible to the left within around 7 minutes into the hike (depending on how fast you walk). Read THIS first! 5 out of 6 of our favorites are close to Hilo, and these falls are very easy to visit. Well, you are in luck. 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. This tour takes you on a journey through Hilo, stopping by at the Rainbow Falls, tidepools, and ocean beaches. This waterfall is created from a small stream and is a multiple-tier waterfall located inside the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden. And while you can certainly get to some of these places on your own, a great way to see the highlights is by booking aBig Island Tourwith The Volcano Van. Most of the waterfalls on the Big Island are fairly close to Hilo. 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. And if youre heading to Akaka Falls with kids, check out my guide HERE. Seeing waterfalls is a great way to save money while on your vacation to Hawaii. To be exact, you can find it along the Umauma River in Hakalau. However, to visit Onomea Falls, you need to go through the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden and pay an entrance fee. Check out the latest prices and more details. The Big Island of Hawaii offers so much for visitors with its lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes. 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. Compared to Rainbow Falls, Peepee Falls are less crowded and less known. With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. The Rainbow Falls are located in Hilo and are fed by the Wailuku River the same river that also feeds the Peepee Falls. The only waterfall you can swim at on the Big Island is the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls. Kohala Waterfalls Adventure (Kailua-Kona) - All You Need - Tripadvisor 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. The Kulaniapia Falls is a private 90-100 foot waterfall located at the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls. Zipline high above the forest floor, picnic on the rim of Pololu Valley & swim under a private waterfall fed by a cool mountain stream. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. If conditions are suitable you can use on-property SUP and kayak equipment to explore the waterfall. To make the process easier you can look directly into Kona jeep rental deals and reserve the one that meets your needs. 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. In a 30-minute call we help you set up the trip of your dreams. Swim, kayak, stand up paddleboard or just relax and enjoy the scenery with your friends and family. This is one of the most famous waterfalls on the Big Island. 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. Its 93 miles across and has all sorts of terrain and natural wonders. Kulaniapia Falls is once again located on private property, this time belonging to The Inn and usually reserved exclusively for residents there. Please do not be tempted to hike up if there are signs that say hiking is not allowed and its blocked off. The waterfall flows from a water source called the Onomea Stream. 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. Where are all the waterfalls in Hilo Hawaii? Join this tour to see waterfalls and the stunning Hilo scenery and learn about King Kamehameha the Great and his preference for the area. This is the perfect pre or post-hike pit stop for pineapples and fresh coconuts that you can't miss. This would allow you to see almost all of our favorite waterfalls and is recommended for people that really love waterfalls. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Located in the Waipio Valley, this waterfall is absolutely breathtaking. 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. Most of these waterfalls are located very close to each other, and it makes sense to see them in one day as it only takes a few minutes to get from one to the other. This is one of the best waterfalls to visit while on the Big Island, and I highly recommend staying here. Hiilawe Falls - Legendary Waterfall with Temporary Flow You can contact the State Division of Forestry and Wildlife at 808-974-4221. You dont want any surprises that could ruin your trip. 7 Best Big Island Hawaii Waterfalls (2023) - Hawaii Travel with Kids Take a comfortable ride through stunning countryside up to the hiking trailhead. This waterfall used to have a high volume of water in the stream, making swimming here dangerous. While youre enjoying these natural attractions, be sure to take lots of pictures! Hiilawe (the barely visible waterfall in the back of the valley) is one of the tallest waterfalls on the Big Island. 10 Amazing Kauai Waterfalls + Map (for swimming, hiking, families) While there are gorgeous waterfalls on Kauai, Oahu, and Maui, the Big Island has some of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii. If you have the time and are already visiting Rainbow Falls, add a short hike to continue your waterfall adventure. This is a 120ft waterfall on the Waiau Stream situated on the lower slopes of Mauna Kea not far from Hilo. . The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. . swimming in waterfalls - Island of Hawaii Forum - Tripadvisor If youd like to dabble in something slightly more adventurous, you can go ziplining or rappelling over the area. 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. If you only have time to see one of the waterfalls, we suggest seeing the incredible Akaka Falls. Check out the latest prices and more details. Amidst the countless natural attractions on the Big Island, Ive picked seven of the top waterfalls on the Big Island to check out! They offer a variety of tours to see the falls with ziplining being our favorite way to see the falls. Besides the abundant disease there are a lot of rock chunks that get eroded and transported by the stream So there are chunks in the waterfall normaly Sons of the Forest best base locations | Rock Paper Shotgun Of course, the most popular and simple strategy is to include a visit into your itinerary as you drive by one or two waterfalls. Which waterfall can you swim at on the Big Island? Big Island of Hawaii Waterfalls Simply put, waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii are some of the world's finest. Alternatively, you can zipline or rappel at the Umauma Falls. Sign up for our free monthly updates (more info) about everything that is new and happening in Hawaii. That means, you should take extra care to make sure you leave it as you saw it! Also, if you are visiting Oahu and want to know where the best waterfall hikes are on Oahu, Ive got you covered. 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. Directions: About 30 min north from Hilo airport, park on the mauka (mountain-side) of highway 19 just after the 16 mile marker. Located in Hilo, Hawaii in Wailuku River State Park, Rainbow Falls might be the most famous waterfall on the island.