Founder of HawaiiGuide & certified travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.
Waterfalls of the Hawaiian Islands
The Hawaiian Islands boast some of the most breathtaking waterfalls on Earth. These natural wonders, tucked within lush rainforests and cascading down rugged cliffs, showcase the islands’ unique landscape. From the towering falls of Maui to the hidden gems of Kauai, each waterfall offers its own distinct beauty.
Visitors can experience them through hiking trails, scenic lookouts, or even helicopter tours. The sound of rushing water, surrounded by tropical greenery, creates a peaceful atmosphere, drawing travelers from around the world to witness Hawaii’s extraordinary natural charm.
Below we've included links to several of the best waterfalls on the islands, most of which you can actually see without a tour or helicopter (all falls visible from the air only are noted).
On the list of falls below, we've included the height of the falls when possible, noted if it's a seasonal falls (dry in summer), and included any additional access information as necessary. If you discover a falls we've mistakenly left off this list, kindly contact us and we'll make sure it's added.
We've also broken the falls down individually by island if you'd prefer to view them that way:
Big Island Waterfalls
Big Island is home to some of the most picturesque waterfalls in all of Hawaii. Whether you choose to explore the falls along the Heavenly Hamakua Coast or head to the lovely Kohala region, you'll soon have a favorite fall of your own. Check out some of the most-visited Big Island waterfalls here.
FREE DOWNLOAD
2025 Hawaii Guidesheets!
Includes the top must-see & do attractions, best times to visit, where to stay briefing, airport detail, a monthly weather summary, and where to find the most noteworthy local ono 'grindz' (best eats) on each respective Hawaiian Island.
Onomea Falls on the Big Island
Featured Big Island Waterfall Tours and Adventures
Whether you’re looking to hike the falls and take a dip in the refreshing waters, soar over the falls with a bird’s-eye view, or sit back, relax, and take in the sights in comfort, the Big Island has the perfect waterfall adventure for you. From Akaka Falls to Umauma Falls and everything in between, these Big Island waterfall adventures are sure to please.
Maui Waterfalls
Not only are Maui's waterfalls exceptionally stunning, they are also some of the most easily-accessible in Hawaii. Get more information on some of the most-visited Maui waterfalls here.
Wailua Falls on Maui
Featured Maui Waterfall Tours and Adventures
Ride in luxury along the famed Road to Hana and spot breathtaking falls at every twist and turn, hike the rainforest and explore the cascading waters on a half-day adventure, or explore the falls, valleys, and even Haleakala on a spectacular helicopter tour. These Maui Waterfall Tours are simply unforgettable.
Kauai Waterfalls
Call us biased, but we think some of the world's best waterfalls can be found on Kauai. Whether you're looking to access them via an epic hike, a scenic overlook, or even an exciting helicopter tour, we know you'll love the variety of Kauai falls- each more beautiful than the last.
Wailua Falls on Kauai
Featured Kauai Waterfall Tours and Adventures
Kauai’s breathtaking waterfalls are not to be missed, and these waterfall tours are a definite must-do. Zipline waterfall country on an epic Kauai adventure or hike some of the world’s best and most famous waterfalls (immortalized on the silver screen many times over). And no trip to Kauai would be complete without a helicopter tour of the mesmerizing NaPali Coast and its amazing falls. Book your adventure today
Oahu Waterfalls
Waimea Falls on Oahu
Hawaii Waterfall Hiking Gear
Hiking Hawaii’s waterfalls is something we’ve done many times and simply love. That said, to really enjoy the falls you need great gear to keep you safe and comfortable from head to toe. Be sure to pick up anything you may need before your trip, so you won’t waste a minute of your precious vacation time.
