Best Hikes Oahu – 12 Stunning Oahu Waterfall Hikes You Have to Try

Are you hoping to see some of Oahu’s most stunning waterfalls? Discover the top Oahu waterfall hikes for every level of hiker. To learn about the best waterfall hikes on Oahu, scroll down!

For your family vacation, you’re looking for the best Oahu waterfall hikes. Hawaii is the ideal vacation spot for families who enjoy being outside.

Hike through Oahu’s forest preserves with the family and take in the stunning tropical scenery. If your preparation is sound, you’ll find yourself at one of Oahu’s many stunning waterfalls.

In Oahu, there are a ton of fantastic hiking options. There are trailheads all over the island, including in Honolulu, Waikiki, the North Shore, and many other locations.

A variety of waterfall hikes are available. Hike through bamboo groves, pineapple groves, or along paths lined with tall grasses. There are also falls with serene lagoons, breathtaking cascades, and plunge pools.

I believe Oahu to be the best location for waterfall hikes. There are countless interesting hikes and waterfalls to find.

Your kids will remember a waterfall hike as the best part of your trip for years to come. For the best waterfall hikes in Oahu, keep reading!

FAQs about Oahu Waterfall Hikes

How much time does the hike to Manoa Falls take?

It might take an hour or two. It depends on your hiking speed and how crowded the trail is. Additionally, it depends on whether you’re taking kids hiking on Oahu. There may be mud on the trail occasionally after it has rained, which will slow you down.

Is the hike to Manoa Falls challenging?

In general, hikers don’t think it’s a challenging hike. However, there are some places where you might have to navigate over large rocks, tree roots, etc. This makes it even more crucial to hike in equipped properly. Be sure to wear sturdy footwear, such as hiking boots or sandals (not flip-flops!).

Does it cost money to hike to Manoa Falls?

The park is currently open to everyone. However, there is parking and the trailhead at the Lyon Arboretum. There is a small parking fee if you intend to park there.

How long is the hike to the Waimea Waterfall?

If you hike straight there, the 3.8-mile roundtrip to Waimea Falls takes 1–2 hours, but most people take longer. It is paved and largely flat (although there are some stairs). Along the way, you might want to stop and explore some historical sites and gardens.

Is swimming at Waimea Falls safe?

Absolutely! Even a lifeguard, restrooms, and life jackets are available.

Does it cost money to hike to Waimea Falls?

Yes. The hike and the cultural park have an entrance fee. The price is $20 for adults and $12 for kids. But if you purchase luau tickets for the on-site Toa Luau, you’ll get free access to Waimea Falls!

12 Stunning Oahu Waterfall Hikes You Have to Try

On Oahu, there are a ton of breathtaking waterfall hikes that are worth checking out while you’re there. Here are some of the items on our list.

1. Manoa Falls – Best Oahu Waterfall Hikes

Manoa Falls is regarded by visitors as one of the best waterfall hikes on Oahu. It is situated in Manoa Valley’s back area, not far from Waikiki.

In the center of Oahu, Manoa Valley is a part of a lush rainforest. The valley survives all year on heavy rainfall, which is necessary for the waterfall to occur. In fact, you’ll discover that the majority of the island’s waterfalls are located in rainforests.

The trailhead has a ton of parking spaces. Prior to leaving the parking lot, just remember to pay the fee. The waterfalls are accessible after an hour-long hike from there.

You’ll pass through a bamboo forest, enormous root trees, and a variety of unique tropical flowers along the trail. The path is fairly humid and has a few rocky areas, but it is manageable for children.

Being able to view the 150-foot waterfall up close is an amazing experience. Additionally, you can dazzle the kids by mentioning that you saw this waterfall in Jurassic Park! This helps explain why it’s one of the most well-liked waterfall hikes on Oahu.

2. Waimano Falls – Best Oahu Waterfall Hikes

The hike to Waimano Falls is yet another of Oahu’s top hikes. It ranks among Hawaii’s top hikes for beginners and families with young children, in my opinion.

Over time, it has gained a lot of popularity. With so many people coming to hike, you won’t be hiking alone.

You can access Waimano Falls from the Manana Trail. This moderately challenging trail is best suited for older kids or seasoned hikers. But the trip is worthwhile!

At Koma Mai Drive in Aiea, the Manana trailhead begins. It’s at the very end of the neighborhood. Just be considerate when parking so as not to obstruct any driveways.

The 2.9-mile roundtrip hike takes one to two hours to complete to get to the waterfall. The trail is fairly easy to follow at first, but it does become somewhat steep.

For this hike, I only ask that you wear the appropriate footwear and that you bring walking sticks.

Search for a sign that reads “Waimano Falls Spur” close to the trail’s end. Right here, turn. The waterfall will then be audible before it is visible.

You can either take the trail to the pool below or there is a scenic overlook where you can see the falls and the pool from above. Additionally, there are several pools here.

The Waimano Falls appear stunning from below, with moss-covered rocks extending all the way up. If you want to jump in, there is a rope swing and a fairly deep pool at the bottom.

I believe Waimano Falls to be Oahu’s best swimming waterfall.

3. Waimea Falls – Best Oahu Waterfall Hikes

Waimea Valley is home to Waimea Falls, also referred to as Waihi Waterfall. For more than 700 years, the valley has been a significant location for spiritual practice on the island.

In order to access the trail, you must first enter Waimea Valley Park. Admission is paid by each individual. Additionally, the cost of the tickets varies based on your age or whether you are a student.

Less than two miles are necessary to travel to the falls. Make an effort to allot at least two hours, or more if you want to stop along the way. The route is picturesque and features lovely trees, exotic plants, and even some peacocks that are residents of the botanical garden!

With wide, paved pathways, the hike to the falls is straightforward. The path can be a little steep in some places, making it difficult for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

The waterfall is 45 feet tall on its own. It spills over a rocky retaining wall and into a pool below. On Oahu’s North Shore, it’s unquestionably one of the best waterfall hikes.

Waimea Falls also has a swimming pool! Throughout the day, lifeguards are on duty. Just be cautious when using the rock stairs because moss can make them slick.

Even though the water is chilly, it’s great to swim in it to cool off before you go home. After your hike, stick around and take in the luau. It’s among the best luaus on Oahu’s North Shore.

4. Maunawili Falls – Best Oahu Waterfall Hikes

A popular Oahu destination, Maunawili Falls is located close to Kailua. It’s the ideal location for thrill-seeking hikers to get a rush!

In a residential area, Kelewina Street provides access to the falls. You can cautiously park in the area and proceed through a gate.

This nearly three-mile waterfall hike primarily follows a stream. The well-traveled dirt road should only require a few hours to go out and back. Along the path are stairs, roots from trees, and it can get muddy.

It’s an easy to moderate hike, provided you pay attention to your surroundings. Along the way, take a stroll in the shade through an apple tree grove. Additionally, the stream crosses the path a few times.

Even though Maunawili Falls is only 20 feet tall, it is still stunning. Additionally, you can jump in three different places along the path above the falls.

One of the best waterfall hikes on Oahu is at Maunawii Falls. Save this one for your family and for yourself!

5. Likeke Falls – Best Oahu Waterfall Hikes

possibly here Old Pali Highway Falls is another name for Likeke Falls. Along the Pali Highway, below Pali Lookout, is this captivating two-tiered waterfall.

Even though it’s probably one of the simpler waterfalls to reach, you still need to have a plan of action. Actually, there are two ways to hike to the waterfall.

I don’t advise taking the first route because it is not secure. You might be advised to hike down from the Pali Lookout off Old Pali Highway by other hikers and locals.

With falling rocks and dense brush, it’s very challenging and takes almost two hours. In fact, due to its danger, this path has recently been blocked off.

Keep to the actual Likeke Falls Trail; it’s much simpler and takes much less time. The distance is less than a mile, and it takes 25 to 30 minutes to reach the waterfall.

The trailhead is located at the base of Ko’olau Golf Club. You can either drive around and find free parking nearby or park there for a fee.

The Pali and Ko’olau Mountains can be seen from a scenic overlook on this pleasant hike through a tropical jungle. The direction is also indicated by arrows on the trees.

You’re in for a treat when you arrive at the falls. The view is breathtaking, and on both sides are moss-covered rock walls. Just remember not to attempt to climb them because they are slick!

If you want to take a quick hike to see an amazing Hawaii waterfall, this is one of the best hikes in Oahu.

6. Laie Falls – Best Oahu Waterfall Hikes

For those who love the outdoors and adventure, this is among the best hikes on Oahu.

Laie Falls’ trail is challenging and almost 8 miles long. There are restaurants and food trucks close to the trailhead. I advise refueling and giving this hike at least 5 hours.

You must obtain a free permit from the Hawaii Reserves in order to access the trail. One is available from their offices located inside the Laie Shopping Center or online.

The hike itself is an adventure. Tall pines, bamboo groves, strawberry guava trees, and exposed ridges can all be found here.

The trail is fairly secluded and quiet because it is on private property. If you dislike crowds, this hike is fantastic for you!

You eventually reach the 15-foot waterfall that divides into two parts. Swim to cool off or hike up the trail to locate areas where you can jump in.

7. Koloa Gulch – Best Oahu Waterfall Hikes

Since the Koloa Gulch trail is lengthy, hikers must conserve their energy. The trail’s start is at an exposed ridge in the Koolau Range on North Shore, and it runs for 8 miles.

Another hike to a waterfall on Oahu is on private property. Therefore, all you’ll need to do is obtain the free permit I mentioned earlier.

The trail is extremely difficult, but the peaceful waterfall at the end makes it well worth the effort! Only experienced hikers should attempt this trail.

The entire day will be needed. Be sure to pack plenty of water and trail snacks. In this case, the trail’s difficulty is more important than the waterfall itself. It’s also better for older children.

Be careful if you don’t like rock scrambling through the Koloa Stream because that is part of the trail. Along the way, you’ll pass by native plants, fruit trees, lagoons, and tiny waterfalls.

At the very end, there is a fork. There is a pool and a small waterfall to the left. A mile-long hike to the stunning 100-foot waterfall is to the right.

8. Kaipapau Falls – Best Oahu Waterfall Hikes

A trail of 8 miles leads to the Kaipapau Falls. Although it’s rated as moderate, the Koloa Gulch trail can be trickier!

This is due to the fact that you must traverse the same stream about 40 times by rock scrambling. If it rains, it can also get pretty muddy.

However, this trail leads you past outdated, abandoned bunkers and through a lovely, lush forest.

You and the kids will be in awe of the magnificent 90-foot waterfall once you’ve managed to cross the stream.

As long as there are experienced hikers in the group, it’s a fantastic hike to take the family on. Additionally, confirm that your children are old enough to handle rock hopping and are independent.

9. Kapena Falls – Best Oahu Waterfall Hikes

Consider returning to Honolulu to see Kapena Falls for a change of scenery. Only a third of a mile long, this out-and-back trail is regarded as being simple.

The short 10-minute hike leads to a lagoon and a small waterfall. It’s ideal that you have young kids who can’t go on long hikes.

A lot between a church and cemetery is where you can park. Just remember to arrive early in the day because the cemetery closes at 4 PM.

From there, the trail is densely forested, and the forest of banyan trees is beautiful. And don’t forget to look at the petroglyphs you pass along the way!

Search for them in a little cage. They depict men and dogs while narrating the Kaupe legend. The local creature known as Kaupe is said to reside there.

You should remember that the Kapena Falls are a sacred location while you’re there because of this.

Jumping into and cooling off in the pool beneath the waterfall is a great way to stay cool. It’s one of Honolulu’s best waterfalls for a short hike.

10. Waipuhia Falls – Best Oahu Waterfall Hikes

With a distance of just 0.6 miles, Waipuhia Falls is among Oahu’s shortest waterfall hikes. The short trail only takes a few minutes to complete.

Start at the Pali Lookout’s parking lot. This is another hike for which you’ll need to obtain a free permit from the Hawaii Reserves because the trail and falls are on private property.

Because you have to walk up a paved road, the trail is easier than most, but it can also become muddy. Additionally, bear in mind that the best time to hike this trail is when it has recently received significant rain.

This is because, barring a significant downpour, the waterfall will be dry. You’re in for a treat, though, if you have that.

Waipuhia Falls are located off the Pali Highway. You can see why it’s called Upside-Down Falls if you visit on a windy day after a significant downpour.

The wind makes it seem as though the water is defying gravity by flowing upward rather than downward. It can genuinely resemble an upside-down waterfall!

11. Jackass Ginger Pool – Best Oahu Waterfall Hikes

The Jackass Ginger Pool access route is known as the Judd Trail. Though slightly longer and more tedious than the Manoa Falls trail, it is just as thrilling.

There are offshoots along the mile-long Judd Trail that you are free to take. You can find the trailhead in a bamboo forest if you simply park on the side of Nuuanu Pali Drive.

The trail is difficult because it is littered with rocks, roots, and branches, and it is also well-worn. But it’s a lovely stroll, particularly if you enjoy plants! Pine trees, monstera plants, a bamboo forest, and banyan trees are all present.

There are “natural water slides” made of rocks at the pool that you can use to enter the water. A swinging rope that you can jump off of leads to a small waterfall as well.

It takes about 90 minutes to hike the trail. In addition, some time was spent at the Jackass Ginger Pool!

12. Lulumahu Falls – Best Oahu Waterfall Hikes

Lulumahu Falls is a wonderful Oahu waterfall hike. You can hike it in about 60 minutes, and it’s right next to the Pali Highway.

The fact that Lulumahu Falls is technically on government-owned, private land makes it challenging to hike there. Fortunately, all you need to do is pay a small fee to buy a permit online. The Department of Forestry and Wildlife is involved with this one.

Finding the trail’s beginning can be challenging, but once you do, you’re in for an adventure! For adventurous hikers, it’s one of Oahu’s coolest hiking trails.

The trailhead is located at the junction of Nuuanu Pali Drive and Pali Highway. There is a parking area nearby. When parking, make sure you have a second copy of your permit on the dashboard of your car in addition to the one you are carrying with you.

The trail is 1.6 miles long in one direction. Although it’s moderate, parents carrying young children should find it manageable. Simply stay to the right at the entrance unless a steep climb is in store for you.

Visit historic ruins, a reservoir, and ascend stone steps! You must hike through a dense forest before you can arrive at a stunning, 50-foot cascading waterfall.

You can take a quick dip in the pool or simply relax and take in the tranquility here.

Wrap-Up for the Best Oahu Waterfall Hikes

Here are some of Oahu’s top waterfalls that you should visit for yourself! You can go on a quick, simple hike or a day hike on a strenuous trail. With a waterfall at the end, it’s worthwhile!

Whatever Oahu waterfall hike you choose, remember to follow the guidelines and show consideration for others. Get permits, respect sacred spaces, and pay attention to no trespassing signs.

Additionally, watch out for signs warning that swimming is not recommended in the water.

Additionally, safeguard your family and yourself. Don’t forget to bring food and water and to dress appropriately. With a little planning, you can enjoy yourself.

Topic: Best Hikes Oahu – 12 Stunning Oahu Waterfall Hikes You Have to Try

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By: Travel Pixy