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. On the Hamakua coast: 'Akaka falls, Kolekole falls, Umauma falls, Onomea falls, Nanue falls, Hanapueo falls + lower Umauma falls. First trip to the Big Island? Hiilawe Falls is one of the top Big Island waterfall hikes to do. Akaka Falls is located within the Akaka Falls State Park, roughly 3.6 miles south of Honomu on the Hilo Coast. If you are short on time, we recommend that you limit yourself to the more spectacular Akaka and Rainbow waterfalls. 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. Also, be sure to check out all the waterfalls in Hawaii on ourHawaii Waterfallspage. Log in, We are passionate waterfall lovers eager to share our experiences chasing waterfalls around the world! 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. Furthermore, flash floods and strong currents are a real danger there. Get your discounted Waterfalls of Kohala Tour. It will take you about an hour to reach the end of the path, which is lined with lush greenery and beautiful scenery. And be sure to keep your eyes out for sea turtles, which are known to hang out in this area! For those with a daring spirit, the Deleuze ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience tour is for you. You can access the waterfall for free and its one of the best Big Island hikes. as a very big person in the future I want to help people I want to give a gift to the. Where are the best waterfalls to swim in Hawaii? Its approximately a 19-mile out and back hike that takes around 4 hours each way. The waterfall is named for the beautiful rainbow that forms at the waterfalls base. Read more about ourHawaii adventureshere. The couple run a healing retreat on Hawaii's Big Island - and Dorina has been swimming with dolphins throughout her pregnancy. Plus it has numerous attractions, from volcanic rock formations to beautiful waterfalls. However, the best views come when you climb under the bridge and follow a short jungle path to the base of the waterfall. Starting from the pickup points in Kona you are driven along the sweeping northern Kona coast past ancient lava flows up to the old Kohala Mule Station lookout with its sweeping views. Join this tour to see waterfalls and the stunning Hilo scenery and learn about King Kamehameha the Great and his preference for the area. Rainbow Falls, located along the length of the Waikuku River and well-known for its beauty and accessibility, is one of the most popular waterfalls on the Big Island. Akaka Falls. As a paradise for active travelers it is rich in experiences that include nature, culinary discoveries, historic landmarks, shopping, nightlife and festivals. Although this tour doesnt take you to any of the immensely popular waterfalls on the Big Island, youll be treated to a view of seven obscure and uncrowded Kohala waterfalls, where youll be allowed to swim and picnic. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. Soak in soaring sea cliffs, remote valleys, and even go for a swim under one of seven waterfalls. The Kulaniapia Falls are with a 120ft drop the tallest private waterfalls on the Big Island. Stretching 93 miles long, its nearly four times as big as Maui. You can access this trail from the Waipio Valley lookout. Akaka Falls are extremely accessible, as the trail to the waterfall stretches only 0.4 miles long. The waterfall got its name from the rainbow that often forms at the base. The volume of the rainbow falls (or Waianuenue) changes on a daily basis. The Hilton and Sheraton both have really neat waterfalls and its clean clear water. This, Upper Waikani Falls, Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA, Perhaps one of Oahus most stunning hidden waterfalls, this trek through the mud is never uphill for too long and offers the opportunity to jump in a beautiful waterfall at the end. 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. Turn inland (mauka) between mile markers 14 and 13 onto Honomu Road. Compared to Oahu or Maui, the Big Island of Hawaii is massive! The largest waterfall in Hawaii is Oloupena Falls, located in Molokai. From USD 218.85 (9) Big Island Waterfall Swim & Rainforest Hiking Tour & Nature Eco-Adventure . This half-day tour takes you to the three most famous Big Island waterfalls: 'Akaka Falls, Hi'ilawe Falls and Rainbow Falls. If you are in the Kona area, I highly recommend Paradise Helicopters. 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. However, it is important to note that Umauma Falls is a private waterfall that can only be accessed through small group tours. This place is good for viewing and taking photos. See below for the sign that was there when I went. This picture shows the Hiilawe falls on an almost dry day. All Rights Reserved If you are staying on the other side of the Big Island, be sure to plan these excursions into your vacation plans. Come join the Big Island's only horseback ride that offers swimming at a waterfall! Youll be able to get up close and personal with this body of water and have the most memorable time in Hawaii. 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. Access costs $12 per person (walk-in fee, no pre-bookings required), which also buys you access to their garden. If you plan to camp here, please make sure you obtain the proper permits, as they are required. Free cancellation: up to 24 hours before tour. Book any of these great Big Island waterfall tours today! 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. Thankfully they didnt, as there appeared to be rocks under the shallow water at the bottom of the falls. I work as a factory electrician. This waterfall is smaller than the rainbow falls but also far less crowded. 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. They are very safe and you will have amazing views. Not only that, but this island is still expanding! Another great way to visit all of these falls is through a helicopter tour. Hiilawe Falls is a great waterfall to visit and is one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. Be sure to pay at least a few of them a visit and create some unforgettable memories that youll treasure forever! There are much safer spots to swim - a.k.a. Akaka Falls are about 422 feet tall, but are only viewable from the viewing platform. This waterfall used to have a high volume of water in the stream, making swimming here dangerous. 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. 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. The most important is the water-born disease leptospirosis: dont go swimming if you have any abrasions, scrapes, blisters or other skin lesions. The waterfall is located inside Waipio Valley and is about 1,450 feet tall. The Big Island, however, also has breathtaking waterfalls. The hike is beautiful, surrounded by bamboo groves and delicate wild orchids. What are the best hikes on the Big Island? 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. Read more: in our guide to visiting the Rainbow falls. Hawaii Waterfall Swim Adventure, Waipio Valley Lookout & Botanical Garden . Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. Although the Hawaiian archipelago has a multitude of famous waterfalls, especially on Oahu, Maui, and Kauai. Its the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago and has some of the most popular waterfalls in all of Hawaii! The waterfall is split into two waterfalls that fall into a pool below. Located in Hilo, Hawaii in Wailuku River State Park, Rainbow Falls might be the most famous waterfall on the island. Love Hawaii? 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. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of waterfalls we mention in this guide. In general, yes, but there are several risks associated with swimming under waterfalls in the state of Hawaii that you should be aware of. One other thing to note is that there are 13 streams you will have to cross before getting to the water. The waterfall, however, is worth the effort it takes to access it. Nanua Falls is a series of waterfalls on the Hamakua Coast, about 18 miles north of Hilo. 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! Waipoo Falls. You can now drive on a concrete road right to the falls and tropical garden. Location: North east side of Big Island. 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. Located in the Cummins Falls State Park in Jackson County, Tennessee, the Cummins Falls is 75 feet high and is the eighth largest waterfall in Tennessee by volume. Zipline high above the forest floor, picnic on the rim of Pololu Valley & swim under a private waterfall fed by a cool mountain stream. There are plenty of these tours you can take while on the Big Island. After some time, the streams flow lessened and it is now safe to swim here. Each one of these is worth visiting at least once in my opinion. There have been instances where people lost their lives here. ), make small hikes, and admire the sweeping views and scenic coastlines and rugged valleys. Youll need to pay an entrance fee to enter the area. Rainbow Falls are beautiful and can be viewed from a relatively close location, making them that much more enjoyable. The hike to the waterfall takes either 5 or 15 minutes, depending on which route you decide to take. It takes about 20-30 minutes to complete the loop. Maunawili Falls All Rights Reserved. While there arent really Kona waterfalls, you see tons of waterfalls in Hilo. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu. Narnia is the name given to a set of waterfalls in the Hilo Forest Reserve. The beach! Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. Big Island Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Big Island Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. We decided to take a scenic drive while staying on the Hilo side to see some of these waterfalls. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. Its 93 miles across and has all sorts of terrain and natural wonders. The property also offers lava encounter tours and lava tube tours as well if you are interested. Table of Contents hide 1 Rainbow Falls 2 Akaka Falls 3 Umauma Falls 4 Wai'ale Falls 5 PeePee Falls 6 Hi'ilawe Falls 7 Private Waterfalls 8 Why Are There So Many Waterfalls in Hawaii? True to its name, this island is so big that it's said to be able to fit all the rest of the Hawaiian Islands. Plus. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. It is a privately owned so you need to go with a tour group but well worth it! Hiilawe Falls is located on the Big Island. Wading through these pools is not recommended. Hi'ilawe Falls is a magnificent waterfall located in Waipio Valley on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island. This multi tiered, Oheo Gulch, OheO Gulch, Hawaii 96713, USA. 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. Which waterfall can you swim at on the Big Island? Rainbow Falls One of Hawaii's most stunning waterfalls, Rainbow Falls is named for the rainbows that can be seen in the mist. Check out the latest prices and more details. Hiilawe (the barely visible waterfall in the back of the valley) is one of the tallest waterfalls on the Big Island. The waterfalls of Hawaii on the Big Island are absolutely stunning. Well, you are in luck. More waterfalls can be found at the northern Hamakua coast seaside cliffs and the valleys of the Kohala coast. The dark blue/purple waterfalls are more difficult to see and smaller waterfalls. There are so many beautiful waterfalls to check out during your visit to the Big Island. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! 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. 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! With all that you can do at Kulaniapia Falls, it makes this waterfall a top-rated Hawaii waterfall on the Big Island. 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. Sign up for this discounted Majestic Waterfalls Tour. Youll be treated to an entirely new and equally beautiful view of the waterfalls. Id be sure to go at least a few days after heavy rain to avoid flash flooding and a swollen stream. Yes, but all of them require some sort of entrance fee. Hawaii's Big Island is home to some of the islands' most accessible waterfalls, and here are five of the most popular. The hike is suitable for the whole family and takes half an hour if you take your time. You can swim in this one! You can see all sorts of hidden waterfalls if you go kayaking, take a boat tour, or ride in a helicopter. 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. 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). While you can access most of these on your own, you can also join Hawaii waterfall tours for a more personalized experience. This is the perfect pre or post-hike pit stop for pineapples and fresh coconuts that you can't miss. Swimming here is not recommended, even on days where it feels safe. Read more: in our guide to visiting the Akaka falls. With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. I have included a downloadable map of these waterfalls at the bottom of this post to help with your planning and navigation. Onomea Falls is a stunning multi-tiered waterfall set amidst a beautiful botanical garden: the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. Be sure to do both if you have the time. One of the coolest ways to experience Kulaniapia Falls is by booking a spot in one of the Experience Packages available at the property. Looking for a car rental in Kona, Big island. It stretches hundreds of feet tall and is surrounded by greenery. For a beautiful view and unforgettable experience, sign up for a discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. It aims to take you on an unforgettable journey through the Hamakua Coast. The hike itself can be challenging and involves multiple stream crossings. Located along the Umauma River in Hakalau, Umauma Falls is a series of three, short cascading waterfalls. They are all unique in their own ways. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. By far, Akaka Falls are my favorite waterfall to visit on the Big Island. This isn't one that you can swim under though. The majority of waterfalls on the Big Island can be seen on your own. If you only have time to see one of the waterfalls, we suggest seeing the incredible Akaka Falls. Download your copy of our Please do not put these waterfalls on your to-do list. If you're looking for the best Big Island waterfall adventures, then look no further. Whats the Honolulu Sister Cities Program? Papalaua Falls in Molokai is an unbelievably impressive waterfall, and unsurprising that's it on Molokai as this island is home to some of the tallest waterfalls in the entire world. Other than water rappelling, the Experiences Package offers a multitude of other activities. When people talk about swimming at Peepee Falls, they are probably referring to the boiling pots located by the lookout point. 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. Map of Big Island Waterfalls Wrapping Up the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island Unfortunately, the strength of the falls is often dependent on rainfall - so here's to hoping you catch it on a good day. Most of these places do not have a lifeguard on duty, making you solely responsible for your safety. The Falls has recently been named in the top ten best swimming holes in America by the magazine Travel + Leisure. It is simply breathtaking. You will need to pay an admission fee to see these falls. So no one is taking care of it and ensuring the area remains clean. 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. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. Peepee Falls form a rather risky, but popular local swimming hole known as boiling pots. However, swimming here has proved to be lethal and should be avoided. 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. Did we list it? A helicopter tour of the waterfalls along the Kohala Coast. They are one of the best helicopter companies in Hawaii. The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls is one of the only waterfalls I recommend swimming at while on the Big Island. Swimming Holes on the Big Island of Hawaii. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Having traveled to Hawaii MORE THAN 40 TIMES, Marcie is a self-proclaimed Hawaii travel expert! The Waipio Valley lookout trailhead is a very steep but short half-mile hike. On the list of Big Island of Hawaii waterfalls below, we've included the height of the falls, a ranking, have noted if it's a seasonal waterfall, and have added any additionalinformation as necessary. This picturesque spot can be found past mile marker 16 on the Hana Highway, below the bridge that crosses Palauhulu Stream. Enjoy spectacular views of Mauna Kea and the Pacific Ocean, awesome photo spots, swim in a private pond and really experience off-road Hawaii. Copyright 2019-2023 Hawaii Travel With Kids/Marcie In Mommyland, Top 7 Big Island Hawaii Waterfalls You Should Visit, Privacy Policy for Hawaii Travel with Kids, Courtyard by Marriotts King Kamehameha Beach Hotel.