Umauma Falls is located on the Big Island in Hawaii. Enjoy spectacular views of Mauna Kea and the Pacific Ocean, awesome photo spots, swim in a private pond and really experience off-road Hawaii. click here to go to our instagram account, ATV Tours on the Big Island (BIG list of all tour operators), BIG LIST of Kona Coffee Tours on the Big Island, Stand Up Paddle (SUP) boarding: Rentals, Classes and Tours. #1. Family friendly zipline tour + private waterfall swim. There are so many incredible waterfalls, making it hard to know where to start. Keep scrolling for the best waterfalls on the Big Island and discover why people love coming back again and again to this magical island destination. The admission fee to the park is $5.00 per car or $1 per person for pedestrians. You will need to pay an admission fee to see these falls. Visiting the Big Island of Hawaii is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and weve done all the work for you to help plan your trip. Are you traveling to the Big Island of Hawaii? The property offers helicopter, lava tube exploration, stargazing, and lava encounter tours as well. Youll find the largest waterfall in Hawaii on the secluded island of Molokai. If you are staying on the other side of the Big Island, be sure to plan these excursions into your vacation plans. This is one of the most famous waterfalls on the Big Island. If the idea of planning a self-guided waterfall trip causes you anxiety, or if you simply want to sit back and enjoy the view, you can always book one of these tours! 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. Nanue Falls is located on the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. In any case, as you can see from the map above and the list below that . Swim, kayak, stand up paddleboard or just relax and enjoy the scenery with your friends and family. The couple run a healing retreat on Hawaii's Big Island - and Dorina has been swimming with dolphins throughout her pregnancy. Hi'ilawe Falls This is why we list the tallest, most popular, and most easily accessible waterfalls on the Big Island: to make sure you spend your waterfall-time as efficient as possible. You can read the full story here. Where are the best waterfalls to swim in Hawaii? As you travel, youll stop at the famous Big Island Candies store, where youll be treated to some of the best candy on the Big Island! Narnia is the name given to a set of waterfalls in the Hilo Forest Reserve. We decided to take a scenic drive while staying on the Hilo side to see some of these waterfalls. 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 Hi'ilawe Falls Visit the State Parks website for updated pricing. Farmers Markets. There are no lifeguards here, so please be extremely cautious. The best hikes on the Big Island of Hawaii are indeed a mixed bag. Sign up for discounted Hilo Bay Kayaking Tickets. The waterfalls of Hawaii on the Big Island are absolutely stunning. The Hiilawe waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls of the state of Hawai. Hiking to the waterfall is not possible as the trail crosses private property, but you can see the Hiilawe falls from many places within Waipio valley. The state park entry fees are $5/car or $1/pedestrian. A couple of the best waterfalls near Hilo can be seen in Akaka Falls State Park, including Akaka Falls (422 feet) and Kahuna Falls (100 feet). This article covers seven of the Big Islands most beautiful waterfalls! Keep in mind that youll need to clear a full day of your itinerary for this. Entry Fees:For Akaka Falls, entry is free for children under ten years old and $5 per adult. In a 30-minute call we help you set up the trip of your dreams. This waterfall used to have a high volume of water in the stream, making swimming here dangerous. 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. 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. Alternatively, you can zipline or rappel at the Umauma Falls. Simply put, waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii are some of the world's finest. If you decide to swim, please take extra precautions as rivers are prone to flash flooding. This is part of Hawaiis state park system. Compared to many other Hawaiian Islands, the Big Island is huge. Hanapueo and Umauma Falls. The admission fee to view the 422 ft tall falls is $5.00 per car or $1.00 per person for pedestrians. Big Island is home to some of the tallest falls in the state. We've updated both travel guides with a lot of new great information for potential visitors (and those who've been a time or two as well). A 20-acre rainforest greenhouse, the area is filled with beautiful plant life and wild animals. Hiilawe Falls is one of the top Big Island waterfall hikes to do. The waterfalls are located less than half a mile from the parking lot. Marvel at the beauty and adventure that makes up Hawaii. You might hear that people go swimming here, but dont do it! Dont miss them because once you see them, youll never forget them! The enormous waterfall cascades down a steep lava rock wall into a boulder-strewn pool. Nanua Falls is a series of waterfalls on the Hamakua Coast, about 18 miles north of Hilo. These are gorgeous Hawaii Big Island waterfalls worth checking out. Swimming in tropical fresh water ( and I use the term loosely) is a product of Hollywood movies like blue Lagoon. Big Island waterfall tours Legends of the Waterfalls & Volcano Full-Day Tour Not only that, but this island is still expanding! This ziplining tour is the option for those who love a thrill. As a paradise for active travelers it is rich in experiences that include nature, culinary discoveries, historic landmarks, shopping, nightlife and festivals. The Falls has recently been named in the top ten best swimming holes in America by the magazine Travel + Leisure. Sign up for our free monthly updates (more info) about everything that is new and happening in Hawaii. I also included a table of contents, so feel free to skip to the sections you are most interested in. You no longer need to book a tour with the Umauma Experience to get to the falls. Hiilawe Falls is visible only within the valley or from the air, as the Waipio Valley is very steep. There are however several safety tips to keep in mind while doing so on the Big Island: We share our favorite tips and images on Instagram, click here to go to our instagram account. Flash floods are also a risk, so stay out of the water if its raining (where you are or upstream). This Upper Waikani Falls, Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA 2. If you are visiting the rainbow falls and have the time and interest to see another set of waterfalls you should check out these falls. Along the way, youll be privy to various wild orchids. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Check out the latest prices and more details. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls is one of the only waterfalls I recommend swimming at while on the Big Island. While visiting the Wailuku River State Park, you can also stop by the Peepee Falls. It is a privately owned so you need to go with a tour group but well worth it! The Hilton and Sheraton both have really neat waterfalls and its clean clear water. Compared to Rainbow Falls, Peepee Falls are less crowded and less known. The dark blue/purple waterfalls are more difficult to see and smaller waterfalls. This multi tiered, Oheo Gulch, OheO Gulch, Hawaii 96713, USA. The trailhead is easy to find just off the parking lot. There is no swimming allowed here; you can only view the falls from a safe distance. The website World of waterfalls is an excellent resource to find out more about the smaller waterfalls on the island. 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. During the tour, youll travel along the coastline. I have seen people continue to do it anyway, but this is just asking for trouble. It takes about 60 to 90 minutes to hike to the waterfall. The Hamakua Coast is beautiful and this half-day waterfall tour will stop at Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls, and Richardson Beach Park. You can start the hike to this waterfall from the Waipio Valley lookout. What takes a waterfall from "beautiful" to "spectacular" is height- and Hawaii's falls undoubtedly have it! WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW. 5 out of 6 of our favorites are close to Hilo, and these falls are very easy to visit. No experience necessary! 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. There is a chance of injury or death if you decide to go swimming or wading in any waterfall. 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. 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. There are tons of gorgeous waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii. While there are gorgeous waterfalls on Kauai, Oahu, and Maui, the Big Island has some of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii. Standing at around 80 feet tall, this waterfall is a must-see year round on the Big Island. Make sure your tour includes all of the waterfalls you want to see. Its the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago and has some of the most popular waterfalls in all of Hawaii! 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. It will take you about two hours to hike to Nanue Falls, but the path isnt too hard to walk on so youll be fine. Due to its location, the sun hits the water at just the right angle to show off. 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. On the bright side, they did not jump off the falls as they planned to. Umauma Falls is a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation. It aims to take you on an unforgettable journey through the Hamakua Coast. The visit is well worth your time, even just to enjoy the tranquility of this Hawaiian rainforest. Have you gone to any of the best waterfalls in Hawaii to swim? Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. with the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing snack break at the waterfalls where you can swim and paddleboard. . 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. Each one of these is worth visiting at least once in my opinion. You can now drive on a concrete road right to the falls and tropical garden. You can swim in this one! Located in Hilo, Hawaii in Wailuku River State Park, Rainbow Falls might be the most famous waterfall on the island. But make sure to read up on the waterfall you visit, because sometimes certain areas in the Hawaiian islands are prone to flooding, and can be dangerous to swim in after a heavy rainfall. Hiilawe (the barely visible waterfall in the back of the valley) is one of the tallest waterfalls on the Big Island. The falls are located in Waimanu Valley. Another great way to visit all of these falls is through a helicopter tour. 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. Please do not put these waterfalls on your to-do list. 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). You dont want any surprises that could ruin your trip. Subscribe to receive 5 emails in 5 days: Call us for advice! Flash flooding in this area is common, so please proceed with caution. Other than water rappelling, the Experiences Package offers a multitude of other activities. 9 Hawaii Big Island Waterfalls Rainbow Falls Peepee Falls on the Big Island. Spend a few hours relaxing luxuriating in a private area of the Umauma River. 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. 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. The water conceals long lava ridges, so its easy to be pulled in and trapped. They also offer ATV tours, waterfall rappelling and horseback riding tours to the falls as well. It is advised that you check weather reports and ocean conditions before heading out for the day, never swim in these pools when you have open wounds and to always watch your step. 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. It is comprised of three short waterfalls that are located close to each otherthe water actually cascades down this series of waterfalls from the river. 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. If you already have accommodations, water rappelling can also be booked by the general public. Check out the latest prices and more details. First, youll head to the Kohala Mountains where youll fly the coastline of Waipio Valley and Waimanu Valley. The content on this website may not be copied or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission. 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. Deluxe Big Island ATV Tour & Waterfall Swim at Umauma Falls . 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. Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. Most waterfalls on the Hamakua coast are a 90-mile drive away. The waterfall flows from a water source called the Onomea Stream. Check out the latest prices and more details. Approximately 16 miles north of Hilo, on the Umauma River, lies one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Hawaii: Umauma Falls. This picturesque spot can be found past mile marker 16 on the Hana Highway, below the bridge that crosses Palauhulu Stream. If you only have time to see one of the waterfalls, we suggest seeing the incredible Akaka Falls. Youll start off driving up the Kona coastline pas lava flows and check out sweeping views from the old Kohala Mule Station lookout. It is located about 1.6 miles (5-minute drive) from Rainbow Falls and is also part of the Wailuku River. Enjoy! Whether you want to soar over the falls or dive right in and swim them, we have the tour for you. Please remember that all of these falls have different levels of water throughout the year. The package can include waterfall rappelling, which is the best way to experience Kulaniapia. Hawaii's Big Island is home to some of the islands' most accessible waterfalls, and here are five of the most popular. 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 size of these waterfalls and their location in the lush and tropical rainforest makes them a popular and spectacular attraction to check out. If you're looking for the best Big Island waterfall adventures, then look no further. How to use this map: Above youll find a map of waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii. Hi'ilawe Falls in the Waipio Valley. It is located in the Pelekunu Preserve on the windward side of Molokai. 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! Its a way to connect with nature and experience the waterfall closer than otherwise. It will take you about an hour to reach the end of the path, which is lined with lush greenery and beautiful scenery. Youll need to pay an entrance fee to enter the area. This one has amazing views of the Kohala Coast while listening to fascinating commentary from the pilot. Here, youll zipline across the forest, have lunch in the Pololu Valley, and even swim in a Big Island waterfall. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. Please keep in mind that the historic area located by the parking lot is not safe for swimming. There have been instances where people lost their lives here. This waterfall is smaller than the rainbow falls but also far less crowded. The lush landscape alone is enough to warrant a hike here. It stretches over 120 feet high, although the tiers make it difficult to measure accurately. This has some of the best waterfalls on Maui. The falls are located in the rainforest. You can access this trail from the Waipio Valley lookout. Big Island travel tips & recommendations , Explore Big Island Hotels & Resorts Search Now. This is the perfect pre or post-hike pit stop for pineapples and fresh coconuts that you can't miss. The path to Onomea Falls is stunning in itself. Its one of the quietest and least touristy waterfalls on the island, so you can enjoy a chill day with your friends when you visit. Hello, my name is Abduvaliev diyorbek. Some of which are so beautiful that they inspired some of Hawaiis most popular songs. The waterfall got its name from the rainbow that often forms at the base. No, swimming at Akaka Falls is no longer allowed. Its no wonder that you might be having issues deciding where to go. Read more about ourHawaii adventureshere. 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. Its a 422-foot natural waterfall. 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. The Kulaniapia Falls are with a 120ft drop the tallest private waterfalls on the Big Island. We like to get up and close to any waterfall we see, and know the same is true for many of our readers. You will need to stop at the visitor center to register before heading to the falls. So keep an eye out for honu (green sea turtles) and admire the coast! 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. Take a full-day waterfall adventure tour of the Big Islands Kohala Coast. 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. These falls are not reachable without trespassing and access to them is restricted. Visit the Botanical Gardens website for updated pricing. 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. A helicopter tour of the waterfalls along the Kohala Coast. Hiilawe Falls is best seen at a distance, as public access to the base of the falls is not possible. Although the Hawaiian archipelago has a multitude of famous waterfalls, especially on Oahu, Maui, and Kauai. P?palaua Falls, Hawaii 96748, USA 6. One of several waterfalls you hike to on a tour with Hawaii Forest and Trail. 1. The Waipio Valley lookout trailhead is a very steep but short half-mile hike. The waterfall is split into two waterfalls that fall into a pool below. The 422 ft. tall Akaka falls are a pleasant stop on your way to or from Hilo. You can view all three of them from an overlook that you can access via a private botanical garden.