11 Top Big Island Waterfalls To Visit In Hawaii

The Big Island, also known as Hawaii Island, has a diverse landscape with several active volcanoes. Its deep, creviced valleys, coupled with an abundance of rainfall, make for spectacular waterfalls.

On the leeward side, Kona attracts visitors for its sunshine, beaches, and water activities. One of its popular tours allowed us to night snorkel with manta rays.

The windward or eastern side of the island is the rainy side and averages almost 150 inches of liquid sunshine annually. That moisture generates the most impressive Big Island waterfalls we’ve ever seen.

Without a rental car, local operators offer waterfall tours, sometimes combined with other activities. Although it’s hard to compete with Kilauea, Hawaii’s star tourist attraction, these majestic cascades are worthy of a visit.

Kaluahine Falls

• Location: Waipio Valley

Kaluahine Falls might be considered a hidden gem in Waipio Valley. This waterfall isn’t always visible; it shows up only after heavy rainfall. The falls have a height of about 100 feet, creating a striking view as they flow into the ocean.

There are two main ways to catch a glimpse of Kaluahine Falls. Firstly, on a boat trip in North Hawaii. These trips often include snorkeling or diving and provide a distant but breathtaking view of the falls. 

Alternatively, reach the falls by hiking. Start at Waipio Black Sand Beach and head east. The hike involves climbing over coastal boulders and takes roughly 30 minutes. Both routes offer unique perspectives of this elusive waterfall.

Unfortunately, the falls lack consistent visibility. But many argue that this rarity adds an extra layer of allure to its beauty. Also, be prepared for no cell coverage in the area.

Rainbow Falls

• Location: Rainbow Drive, off Wainuenue Avenue in Hilo

Rainbow Falls Hawaii is the most visited waterfall on the Big Island due to its accessibility, large parking lot, and requiring no admission fee. Positioned close to Hilo port, it’s commonly included on port excursions for passengers on a Hawaiian cruise.

We recoomend visiting early in the morning for the best angle of the sun. It increases the chance of seeing a beautiful rainbow in the mist of this 80-foot watercourse. The locals call it Waiānuenue, which means “rainbow water.”

View the falls from a platform – no hiking required. Located on the Wailuku River, this popular tourist destination is just one of many waterfalls along this waterway.

During times of heavy rain, the width of the waterfall increases. So, at times, the water rages as a noisy, muddy torrent flowing into the pool below.

Swirling around, the force of the water has created a lava cave behind the falls. Legend says that the Hawaiian goddess Hina, Maui’s mother, resides in the cave behind the falls.

From the viewing area, we climbed a series of stairs alongside the rainforest allowing us to get above Rainbow Falls. Here, we could see a different aspect of the beautiful falls.

Pe’epe’e Falls And The Boiling Pots

• Location: Wainuenue Avenue, one mile north of Rainbow Falls in Hilo

Further up the Wailuku River from Rainbow Falls is Pe’epe’e Falls (or Peepee Falls), which offers a rugged waterfall experience. Pe’epe’e Falls is not as accessible, and the viewpoint overlooks the Boiling Pots, a series of hollowed-out lava pools below the falls.

Since this waterfall is in the Hilo area, it makes sense to visit both cascades. Not as impressive as Rainbow Falls, the 60-foot cascade is still picturesque, surrounded by dense rainforest with plenty of tropical flowers. 

The Boiling Pots are just downstream. Lava columns divide the river into several pools. It’s very intriguing to see the Boiling Pots and how water’s power has carved out circular shapes in the lava. 

Since the trails are slippery, forego the flip-flops and wear proper footwear to access the viewpoint.

This area is hazardous during heavy rainfall as raging water “boils” in the pools, giving it its name. Stay away from swimming here, as flash floods can happen at any time, making the river treacherous.

Hi’ilawe Falls

• Location: Waipio Road to Waipi’o Valley

Hi’ilawe Falls is one of Hawaii’s most majestic waterfalls in the Waipio Valley. With a drop of over 1,400 feet, it’s among the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. The waterfall is part of a private property.

Few visit Hi’ilawe Falls due to its remoteness in the Waipio Valley. Reaching Hi’ilawe is challenging but rewarding. Most visitors take a 4WD vehicle to navigate the narrow and steep Waipio Valley Road. 

Hiking is possible, but strenuous. A horseback excursion is another option. The journey offers breathtaking views of the valley, taro fields, and cliffs.

Since the roads and areas near Hi’ilawe Falls are private, please respect the locals and their land and only visit with permission.

The waterfall is a significant cultural site, featured in Hawaiian legends and chants. The area surrounding Hi’ilawe is sacred, so respectful behavior is essential. 

Wai’ale Falls

• Location: Wainuenue Avenue, north of Rainbow Falls and Pe’epe’e Falls

Hawaii Island has many waterfalls, but most are on private land or hard to reach. Still, hidden gems exist. Wai‘ale Falls sits upriver from Rainbow Falls, Pe‘epe‘e Falls, and the Boiling Pots.

Wai‘ale Falls has two cascades. The lower, manmade scenic falls are viewable from the road. The upper falls lie farther upriver. A short trail on the north side leads there, but it’s unmaintained and muddy after rain.

Umauma Falls

• Location: Old Mamalahoa Hwy

About 16 miles north of Hilo, Umauma Falls features three cascades on the Umauma River. It’s arguably the prettiest falls on the Big Island. Part of the Umauma Experience park, admission includes gardens, a rainforest walk, and a children’s maze.

It’s easy to reach with plenty of parking and short paths to viewpoints where all three tiers are visible. Adventurers can zipline, cross a suspension bridge, or explore a lava tube. For a relaxed visit, enjoy the gardens or swim in the river.

Onomea Falls

• Location: Inside the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, 27-717 Mamalahoa Hwy | Open: Daily 9 am to 5 pm

The Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden spans 40 acres and showcases over 2,000 species of plants. A key attraction is Onomea Falls, located within the garden. You can reach Onomea Falls via the garden’s network of walking trails. Signage and maps guide you to this natural beauty. 

Unlike other falls on the island, Onomea Falls is easily accessible and requires no rigorous hiking. However, there’s an entrance fee. The garden itself is a non-profit organization. It aims to educate people about tropical plants and their conservation. The nominal entry fee helps support these efforts. 

It’s open year-round, but visiting in the morning offers the best light for photos. While seeing the waterfall is the primary reason to go, exploring the gardens provides a peaceful, educational experience.

Nanaue Falls

• Location: Nanue Stream, 18 miles north of Hilo

Nanue Falls is one of the Big Island’s off-the-beaten-path gems. The trail starts at the Nanue Stream Bridge with the name “Nanue” marked into the concrete. We suggest suitable hiking footwear or non-slip water shoes to navigate the slippery rocks and rock scrambling.

Mosquito repellent is a must. To reach the falls, prepare for 20 minutes of rock scrambling. Do not attempt to see this waterfall after heavy rain due to flash flooding.

While the scenic falls offer a rewarding view, don’t expect cell coverage. The falls are less crowded than other tourist spots, providing a more secluded experience. Swimming is allowed; however, the temperature is rather frigid!

Akaka Falls

• Location: 875 Akaka Falls Road | Open: Daily 8:30 am to 5 pm

Of all the waterfalls on the Big Island, Akaka Falls will provide you with an unforgettable experience located further from Hilo town. It’s a 25-minute drive to reach Akaka Falls State Park.

A word of warning: the park has a tiny parking lot, and there are limited spots to park outside the lot. The State Park charges USD 5 per person to access the 0.4-mile looping trail – a genuine bargain!

From the parking lot and Akaka Falls State Park sign, you can get a teaser view of one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the island. However, the best view is up-close.

It’s an easy hike to access the scenic overlook. Visitors can complete a 30-minute loop or walk a shorter distance, doing an out-and-out option. Due to stairs, the path is not wheelchair accessible.

While visitors arrive to see the cascade, the short hike is like walking through botanical gardens. The bamboo groves, wild orchids, and lush rainforest add to the experience.

The tranquil, paved pathway is sheltered in many places by dense vegetation, providing a welcoming natural umbrella from the hot sun. On rainy days, the lush rainforest also acts as a personal umbrella to shield you from the raindrops.

Reaching the viewing platform, thundering Akaka Falls is a glorious sight, falling 442 feet into a deep gorge, which is barely viewable. Facing east, the best time for viewing is early morning because, after midday, the waterfall hides in the shadows.

Kulaniapia Falls

• Location: 100 Kulaniapia Drive | Open: Daily 10 am to 3 pm

Kulaniapia Falls, a private waterfall near Hilo, offers an exclusive experience. Unlike public falls, it sits on private land, so booking a tour through the Kulaniapia Foundation is required.

Tours run from 10 am to 3 pm and are limited to small groups, ensuring a quiet, respectful visit. Guides share insights on local ecology and culture.

The 120-foot waterfall plunges into a calm pond, creating a stunning scene. Whether you love waterfalls or just want a peaceful outing, Kulaniapia Falls ranks among the Big Island’s best.

Kahuna Falls

• Location: 875 Akaka Falls Road | Open: Daily 8:30 am to 5 pm

A visit to Akaka Falls, includes not one but two waterfalls. Shielded by the rainforest, Kahuna Falls is often overlooked by its more famous neighbor, Akaka Falls.

We suggest taking the right path on the looping trail, to access a small viewpoint 800 feet into the hike. Due to the rapidly growing vegetation in the area, Kahuna Falls is less visible.

In fact, some visitors miss it altogether. Even without a clear view of this 300-foot waterfall, it’s still an extra treat to see along with Akaka Falls.

Big Island Waterfalls Conclusion

Chasing waterfalls on the Big Island is unforgettable. From easy strolls to Akaka and Rainbow Falls to rugged treks like Nanue or Kaluahine, each offers beauty, adventure, and stunning photo ops.

Remote spots may lack cell service, but that’s part of the magic. And if you’re hooked, hop to another Hawaiian island—your next cascade awaits.