Definitely recommend! On this four-mile (roundtrip) journey, you'll see a huge banyan tree, a charming bamboo forest, a gorgeous grove of apple trees, and a 400-foot-tall waterfall. Punalau Falls is a gorgeous 100-foot waterfall often overlooked on the Road to Hana. You may want to continue a hike along the coastline to see the Hawaiian blue waters contrast with the lush green rainforest. Try a full-day Hana waterfalls and rainforest hike. It is accessible by land and is one of the most beautiful Maui Waterfalls not connected to the Road to Hana. While crowds gather along the roadway to snap photos, most dont make it down to the water to swim. However, the waterfall is found in an inaccessible area in the valley which is on the west side of the island, meaning that you would need to take a helicopter tour. This is one of the few stops on the road to Hana that is handicap accessible, making it a great place to spend some time if you or someone in your party has mobility issues. The hike itself is relatively easy, only 2 miles out and back. Its the second-largest waterfall and pool on the island! The waterfall is another rare one which you wont need to book a helicopter to go and see. 7 reviews 7 helpful votes Hana - waterfalls you can swim in 11 years ago Save We are heading up to Maui in september. Puaa Kaa Falls is one of the few waterfalls on Hana Highway that welcomes the public year-round. Theres also a wonderful surprise, theres a trail that heads towards the top of the Makahiku Falls and at the top of the waterfall, there is a protected pool. These waterfalls are also found along the Hana Highway and theyre open to the public. Purportedly the tallest waterfall on Maui, Honokohau Falls plunges for an impressive total of 1,100 feet! I have no specific travel goals if not just to travel because the journey is my destination. With so many to choose from, you can explore waterfalls for days. Makapipi Falls is the next one on this list which is easily accessible due to its location on the Road to Hana. You cant hike down to them as the trail is closed to the public. 3: Twin Falls (Maui) 4: Uluwehi Falls (Kauai) 5: Waimea Falls (Oahu) 6: Upper Waikani Falls (Maui) 7: Kulaniapia Falls (Big Island) 8: Waimano Falls (Oahu) 9: Waipoo Falls (Kauai) 10: Ginger Pool (Oahu) Even more waterfalls! Image by the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tommy Lundberg. There is East Maui Irrigation which is an infrastructure built around the bridge by the waterfall. Most of the hike is along a 4-wheel drive ditch access road. Owen and Aki/Flickr. You can visit in the morning to witness picture-perfect views of rainbow vistas extending over the falls. You also have the ability to drive through and see the sights. You bring: Bring a towel, sunscreen, camera, swimsuit under your clothes, cash if you wish to tip your guide. Be mindful not to block the road while looking at the falls! Access to the falls is immediate, and swimming is possible as well. I'm Claire, the founder of avenlylane.com & avenlylanetravel.com. With multiple spots to sit underneath the cascading water, this waterfall is the perfect pit stop to see something beautiful and cool down. Erica was an excellent tour guide throughout. On the trail, youll come across stream crossings. Check out the 5 best Maui Waterfall hike tours below! Star the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. ), 7 Days in Maui Itinerary for First-Time Visitors (2023 Update! Marketing & Website Design by Q4Launch. Get ready for a magical vacation! Check our availability and book your stay today! How to use this map: Above youll find a map of waterfalls on Maui. Its worth the extra effort, though! Lower Puohokamoa Falls Located 0.8 of a mile past Mile Marker 10 is Lower Puohokamoa Falls. Be sure to take all the necessary gear with you, such as hiking boots, sticks, and rubber gloves to support yourself. Address: Maui County, Hawaii, United States. PMI MauiRB 21609 ), Best Pearl Harbor Tours (Complete Guide to Visiting), 10 Attractions You Cant Miss In Las Vegas, 13 Amazing Places to Visit in Alberta, Canada, Top 10 Must do things in Vegas for First Timers, 15 Places You Cant Miss in Oahu (Hawaii). Description: Twin Falls is the first major waterfall along the Hna Highway, so naturally, it is one of the most-visited waterfall hikes on the entire island. 12 Jaw-Dropping Maui Waterfalls (+ Map to Find Them!) - Next is Hawaii The final stretch is a steep scramble up potentially slippery rocks. Head to the bridge for a birds eye view of the awe-inspiring falls and the blue pool underneath it. East Maui has the Haleakala Volcano and its well known for its beautiful sunrises above the clouds and its exciting bike rides down the slopes. But the trail overall isnt very long, but the Alelele Falls are beautiful and worthwhile to go and see. The 1,119 ft tall stunning waterfall is fed by the Honohokau Stream and plunges down in two tiers and makes a scene as if it flows from the clouds and disappears in the middle of picture-perfect, green mountains. There are too many gorgeous Maui waterfalls to pick just one! Most of the Maui's waterfalls are located on the northeast side of West Maui and East Maui's slopes and look outstanding during the wet season that runs from November through March. Wailua Falls, Puaa Kaa Falls, and Upper Waikani are all right off the road. A 15-minute hike on Kuloa Point Trail is all it takes to reach your destination! WAILUA FALLS 11. Afterward, come home to one of our luxurious properties and unwind! The hike is relatively easy, and youll see a beautiful waterfall in the lush surroundings and dip in the refreshing river water. The following 360 video (meaning that you can drag the video screen around in all directions) gives a good impression of the hike and the waterfall (at 5:10): Description: Reaching this falls requires following a rocky, often-muddy stream bed so it is not for beginners but the hike is short, about a mile to mile and a half roundtrip. Photo by Steve Wrzeszczynski (website). The northern and eastern parts of Maui are loaded with options, heavily concentrated along the infamous Road to Hna. Swimming is possible at many of them, and in most cases, access requires only a short walk or hike. 8 best hikes in Maui with waterfalls - Tripadvisor Located at the heart of Mauis Haleakala National Park, the Seven Sacred Pools are a series of waterfalls that are truly magical. A short, two-mile trail rated as moderate will get you to the natural attraction. It's considered the most photographed waterfall on Maui. All Rights Reserved. To get there, park at the paid lot at Wailele Farm. Interested? Meet your group at the departure point, then head towards Hana for a jungle adventure. You dont need a guide here, but if you havent done much hiking, getting a guide is recommended to visit the upper falls. Youll find swimming holes at some of the waterfalls where you can go in for a dip and swim. Charlene Trapp/Flickr. It could be for many reasons, but for safety and precaution- never jump in unless you know how deep it is and whats at the bottom. It is in the middle of an inaccessible valley, where no roads and trails are located. Located along the Oheo Gulch, the Seven Sacred Pools are misleading. Our guide was friendly and helpful in crossing the river that was higher than normal. Not only are the waterfalls a reward, but you can also jump into the swimming pools and dip in the refreshingly cool river water. Its a scenic waterfall as there is tropical foliage and bamboo forest around it, which makes for a picture-perfect destination and a must-see for the whole family- it will bring out the nature lover in yourself and the kids. When I say popular, I mean really popular as it is sometimes called the most photographed waterfall in Hawaii. Approximately a half-mile hike in, this waterfall is an impressive end-destination if you dont want to go the additional 1.5 miles to Waimoku Falls. In the evening, you can relax on the large lanai with a glass of iced tea, admire the gorgeous garden, or take a dip in the hot tub. HOME PRIVACY POLICY TERMS, Check out Twin Falls in the Complete Road to Hana Waterfalls Guide, Check out the Waterfall on Waikamoi Stream in the Complete Road to Hana Waterfalls Guide, Check out the Nahiku Pond & Nahiku Landing in the Complete Road to Hana Waterfalls Guide, Check out the Waterfall on Hahalawe Gulch in the Complete Road to Hana Waterfalls Guide, Read more about Chings Pond in the Complete Road to Hana Waterfalls Guide. This waterfall is in the West Maui Forest Reserve and is accessible along either the popular Waihee Ridge Trail or the lesser-known 13 Crossings Trail. 4 Best Road to Hana Waterfall Stops - YouTube This desert oasis is a city that most people already know a decent amount about. Youll need to park further up the road and then walk down. per adult. Especially if youre visiting Maui during the busy winter months. Overall a really fun and memorable experience for our family. Maui is also called the Magic Isle and Romantic Island.. Good to Know: This waterfall hike can get crowded mid-day, so get there early. It is located a few miles from Paia Town, and to get there, you need to park at and cross Wailele Farm, where a Hawaiian fruit stand serves as the starting point for a one-mile Maui waterfall hike leading to the breathtaking falls. 115 E Lipoa St. If youre uncomfortably bushwacking through the jungle to find a waterfall or trespassing on EMI property, I dont blame you! Its a lesser-known waterfall which is found along the Hana Highway. My husband and I have been to Maui a couple times and have written up more blog posts to help you plan your trip. Obey the signs and avoid swimming if you dont see any other swimmers in the water! She took us to some unique spots and had so much knowledge about the island. Its one of the best kid-friendly waterfall hikes Maui has to offer. more, 2006-2023 World Of Waterfalls, The beauty of the waterfalls on Maui is that planning a waterfall chasing itinerary is quite easy. Here are our best MAUI BLOG POSTS: Leleiwi Overlookin Haleakala National Park, 7 Epic Waterfalls on The Big Island (Hawaii), Hapuna Beach Park (White Sand Beach, Big Island, Hawaii! However, getting up to the waterfall should only take about 20 minutes. 7 Waterfalls in Maui That You Can Swim In - Avenly Lane Travel Our 16 and 10 year old sons loved the experience!! Sugar Water: Hawaiis Plantation Ditches by Carol Wilcox. Description: Wailua Falls is a classic waterfall along the Road to Hna, 80 feet in height and located right off the road a few miles south of Hna. We had 2 ATV riders and 2 horseback riders. You can dip in the pool, swim behind the waterfalls or enjoy a picnic lunch! Way too many to count and these are some of the best waterfalls Maui has to offer. After 7 years of living in Cancun, I have decided to leave my job and explore my beloved Mexico and the rest of this beautiful world, starting from South America, while sharing my travel stories and offering useful travel tips about traveling as a solo female traveler and digital nomad. Youre in the right place! PMI Maui 2023. It would be a fun experience for the family, even if you dont do the entire trail and just go far enough to have a distant view of the Makamakaole Falls. Once there, enjoy the waterfall! Planning to visit the best Maui waterfalls this year? Find any opening into the bamboo forest they all lead to the main trail. Flash flooding has happened, and the narrow gorge makes escaping unscathed unlikely. Have a great time exploring all that nature has to offer! The waterfall is a cascade that is 85 feet tall. 7 Waterfalls in Maui That You Can Swim In, 7 Best Waterfalls in Maui that you can swim in. If you have more time and are feeling adventurous, make your way up the left side of the falls and hike to some other hidden pools. Head through gulches, see waterfalls, and then take an oceanfront trail and ride along one of the best beaches in Maui. Many people can remain transfixed one one for hours at a time. Hitting all of them would be impressive! What is the best waterfall in Maui for families? Located at the end of a 2-mile hike, Kopiliula Falls is a stunning waterfall, well worth the extra effort to visit. Most of the waterfall hikes in Maui are free; you just need to be able to find the trailhead. Most of the hike is an elevated boardwalk, but youll want to wear sturdy shoes. Thats because there are more than 50 streams along the Road to Hana and each stream flows into waterfalls (both big and tiny.). 5. If you get cold quickly (like me), Id also recommend taking an extra layer to wear on the car ride since youll likely be wet. Located between mile marker 2 and 3, Twin Falls is the first easily accessible string of waterfalls and pools on the Road to Hana. Waimoku Falls This is a waterfall that's all about the buildup although the finale doesn't disappoint, either. The island of Maui is in the shape of a somewhat uneven dumbbell and most of the waterfalls can be found on the northeast side of the slopes of East Maui and West Maui. should be on your list! Privacy Policy | Sitemap | Hawai'i Land Acknowledgment. The 0.37-mile lightly trafficked out and back Puaa Kaa Falls Trail winds through lush greenery to get you to the waterfall up close. Don't park along the highway. If you are keen on discovering the full beauty of Hana, then Upper Waikani Falls should be on your Maui bucket list! Admission costs $20 and gives you access to 2 miles of beautiful nature trails. The water is clear and cool, incredibly so. Otherwise, its an easily accessible, reasonably quick jungle hike. The Beautiful Waterfall In Hawaii You Can Actually Swim In The falls is not visible from the road, so it tends to be a little under the radar. Even if you dont have time to stop, you can still see the waterfall from your car as you drive past but its definitely worth taking some extra time here. But be cautious, because after heavy rainfalls, the trail may become muddy, and the hike can become a challenge. Image credit: Thomas Jundt, source. Tip: Obey the signs and avoid swimming if you dont see any other swimmers in the water! Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA). The Upper Waikani Falls (also known as the Three Bears Falls) are immediately off the Hana Highway by mile marker 19. Its the second-largest waterfall and pool on the island! Even though the Maui waterfall may not astonish you with its power, its tremendous height and surrounding landscapes will definitely leave you in awe. The Ppwai Trail also leads to the 400-foot Waimoku Falls (see below), and the nearby Seven Sacred Pools feature a series of small falls, located in a beautiful natural gulch. While the hike requires balance, finding parking is one of the most complex parts! You should know a few things before heading out into the jungle, either on tour or on your own. This waterfall is tricky to find start at the Kopiliula stream bridge and park at a small, rocky embankment. Whether youre looking through this list for the top choice or considering visiting them all, this list is a great place to start planning your next Maui adventure! A short walk leads to two falls, both of which are surrounded by swimmable pools. All Rights Reserved Historical Tours. Half a mile past the 6-mile marker, youll find the Four Falls of Nailiili Haele. Upper Waikani Falls Don't want to have to do a ten mile hike but still want to enjoy swimming in a waterfall? Waimoku Falls Waimoku Falls is a 400-foot waterfall on the Pipiwai Trail. Puaa Kaa Falls, or Puaa Kaa Falls, which means rolling pig, is another waterfall on the Road to Hana located in the Puaa Kaa State Wayside Park, which is home to two waterfalls. Good to Know: This is a highly-trafficked stop at Puaa Kaa State Wayside Park, so those looking for solitude should keep on driving. Given its proximity to the roadway and ample parking it is popular. The upper Waikani Falls are a triple of large waterfalls amid rocks & lush vegetation. This one-bedroom, two-bathroom condo features modern amenities and is within walking distance of the beach. Best Time to See Waterfalls in Maui, HI 2023 - Rove.me Can you swim in Maui? 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 there early! In a 30-minute call we help you set up the trip of your dreams. It is nestled in the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park, and a 15-minute hike is all it takes to get to the falls! It is one of the biggest epicenters for avenlylanetravel 2022. Click the button below. The trail to the pools starts at the Kipahulu Visitors Center Parking lot (where the Pipiwai trailhead is also!). The other great thing about this trail is its history and its ecology- it became known due to an established cattle ranch that happened several years ago. The waterfall is fed by Makapipi Stream, which you will cross over while driving on the highway. Makamakaole Falls and Honokohau Falls are both awe-inspiring and located on the West side of Maui. Not only do you get hotel pick-up and drop-off, but youll also get to do part of the Hana Highway on the way to the trailhead. Most of Mauis waterfalls are located on the windwardside, along the Road to Hna. However, stunning close-up views are available either through taking an easy hike or locating additional parking spaces tenth of miles ahead. Although the roadside parking is typically full, few travelers make it past the fruit stand. You can stay on the bridge to enjoy these falls, or if youre feeling like a swim, you can trek down to the pools. These waterfalls, reachable by a combination of car and foot, are your best options on Maui: Description: Alelele Falls is a 50-foot cascading falls located on the backside of Haleakal, a little south of Kpahulu. Despite standing tall at 100 feet, Punalau Falls is quite hidden, as in it isnt visible from the road so not that many people notice it or know about it. It may be hard to believe the Twin Falls are located on private land, but its open to the public. That's because most of the island's waterfalls are found off the iconic Road to Hana. Dont let the fun stop at the jaw-dropping view, though. Make sure you note this to be respectful of the Hawaiian rules. This beautiful, multitiered waterfall and swimming pool is a bit off the beaten track and requires a quick 1/3-mile hike through Koolau Forest Reserve. is perfect for your next adventure. Read on to learn more and start planning your trip today! There are two falls, an upper and lower, and the upper falls has a pool that is perfect for an easy swim. One of the best things to do in Maui is to take this small-group tour and rappel Maui waterfalls and rainforest cliffs along the Road to Hana for the adventure of a lifetime. Kihei, HI 96753 Description: Also known as Three Bears, Upper Waikani is unique in that it features three side-by-side-by-side 70-foot waterfalls. Amidst unique flora, you will witness seven swimming holes connected by the Oheo waterfalls, which cascades from one to the other and eventually pour into the ocean. We had a great time! While spending 4 years completely bedridden and miserable from an unexpected illness I decided to begin writing about my past travel adventures and now the rest is history. Never rappelled before? What is the easiest waterfall to see in Maui? Upper Puohokamoa Falls resides on the island of Maui, Hawaii. If you want to see some stunning waterfalls in Hawaii, Maui is one of the best places to do that! I havent heard of anyone getting in trouble for going on EMI property, but it is a potential risk. Care needs to be taken when swimming at the pool, if it is flooded- dont swim. 20 Best Waterfalls in Maui, Hawaii, You Have to See - Destguides The falls are just two minutes from the road, so you can take a break from your road trip. Its a short but slippery scramble, only 15-20 minutes but not for beginners or families with small children because of the big, slippery rocks and lack of a maintained trail. Get ready for a magical vacation! This is one waterfall where you can cliff jump from various heights into the pool! The 5-mile roundtrip Waihee Ridge Trail passes a bamboo forest that will lead you to a natural oasis. The beautiful result is that this waterfall is one of the most popular on the Road to Hana, and even all of Maui. I have never looked back ever since. Located near mile marker 12 on the Road to Hana, Upper Puohokamoa Falls is a real gem worth a stop. Two short trails will get you to the base of the falls where you can see true paradise! Since you have to cross the stream, be prepared for mud and, as with all waterfall hikes, be aware of rain and flash flooding. We look forward to hosting you for your next Hawaiian vacation. 2016 - 2023 Boundless Roads |Privacy Policy|Disclosure Policy|Cookie Policy | Accessibility Statement The final breathtaking views of the falls, however, will be well worth the challenging hike! To combine beauty with relaxation, you can take a dip in the gorgeous pool below to completely unwind while taking in the areas surrounding beauty. Makamakaole Falls: A Maui Hawaii Hidden Gem - Simply Wander . Maui waterfalls + Ocean tour on Horseback, Rappel Maui waterfalls and rainforest cliffs, Hawaiian Islands most popular waterfalls, 17 Best Things to Do in Lahaina (+ Nearby Attractions! Maui Waterfalls FAQs Top 12 Best Waterfalls in Maui 1. Wailua Falls on Maui. Maybe there are some that are not too popular/crowded and more secluded? There are a multitude of Maui waterfalls you can swim in, and weve gathered information on three of the best. 10 Best Waterfall Hikes In Maui, Hawaii | Trip101 From the glitzy, cabana-lined shores of Wailea to the quiet, hidden coves of Hanaagainst the backdrop of rocky cliffs and rainforest, as well as some gems for swimming and snorkelingMaui's 120-mile coastline has something . 12 Best Waterfalls in Maui (Highest & Most Beautiful) The flow of water may vary a lot depending on the seasons rainfall. Yes! A quick half-mile walk will take you to the pools where you can swim, cliff jump, or enjoy the lush jungle foliage. This is definitely one of the best hikes in Maui with waterfalls! Also, this isnt a waterfall where you will want to cliff jump since the water isnt that deep. It can be seen from a distance, from an overlook along the Ppwai Trail. Upon arriving, youll find a fantastic swimming pool and a gorgeous waterfall. Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Maui Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Did we miss any of the best waterfalls in Maui? At the bridge near mile marker 25, peek over the edge on the ocean side to see the Makapipi Falls from a birds eye view! 1) Twin Falls Your first waterfall along the Road to Hana, Twin Falls has been seriously underrated by many guidebooks. Helicopter tours will offer your family and you a birds eye view of one of the most awe-inspiring views you have ever seen and one of the most picturesque places on Maui. Pua'a Ka'a Falls is one of the best waterfalls to swim under in Maui. The lower falls are easily accessible, with a wide, well-manicured path taking you to each of them. They were on private land and supposedly due to liability issues they are now closed to the public. Watch your step when going for a hike near the falls since there are volcanic boulders and partially submerged rocks all over the place. Waimoku Falls Waimoku Falls is my favorite of the waterfalls on Maui, and while this 400ft waterfall alone is a reason why, I also found the Pipiwai Trail (the route to get to this waterfall) to be every bit as interesting. This titan is the tallest waterfall on Maui, with two tiers that drop a total of 1,119 feet. ), How to Visit Iao Valley State Monument (a 2023 Update! Thanks! We want to swim in the waterfall rivers - is that possible? Once at the falls you will find one of the best places ever to swim up and under the actual waterfall. The largest waterfall cascades 70 feet into the Wailua Nui stream creating a plunge pool that you can swim in. Its said that this is the tallest waterfall found in Maui. The Complete Guide to Maui Waterfalls - Skyline To find it easily, download a copy of Google Maps to your phone and mark the stream before hitting the road. In the evening, you can relax on the large lanai with a glass of iced tea, admire the gorgeous garden, or take a dip in the hot tub. Which would give you and the kids the chance to enjoy the stunning views of Maui from atop. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of waterfalls I mention in this guide. To get into the park (and the falls) you will have to pay an admission fee that is $15. Faaaaaantastic! Kasey was great. This is another waterfall with ample parking and available bathrooms. Boundless Roads is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Compared to some of the others, Upper Hanawi Falls is even easier to access since there are parking spots ahead of and after the falls.