waterfalls on the big island you can swim in
Are you as obsessed with Hawaiian waterfalls as we are? Not only that, but this island is still expanding! If you are staying on the other side of the Big Island, be sure to plan these excursions into your vacation plans. And be sure to keep your eyes out for sea turtles, which are known to hang out in this area! Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. The Big Island, however, also has breathtaking waterfalls. Its no wonder that you might be having issues deciding where to go. Thank you! Soak in soaring sea cliffs, remote valleys, and even go for a swim under one of seven waterfalls. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. We grouped this one group of Hawaii Big Island waterfalls together as they both are located in Akaka Falls State Park. Enjoy! This tour takes you on a journey through Hilo, stopping by at the Rainbow Falls, tidepools, and ocean beaches. Absolutely! The Peepee Falls are located about 1.5 miles upstream the rainbow falls, at the Wailuku river on the end of Wailuku drive. Their list contains the following 13 waterfalls: The location of these waterfalls is marked on the map higher up this page, and you can read more about each fall separately in the list of 13 Big Island Waterfalls published on the World of Waterfalls website. Most of the waterfalls on the Big Island are fairly close to Hilo. One of the most unique tours on this list, the Waterfalls of Kohala tour takes you on a helicopter journey that allows you a unique birds-eye view of some of the prettiest waterfalls on the Big Island. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. Akaka Falls are about 422 feet tall, but are only viewable from the viewing platform. The waterfall is split into two waterfalls that fall into a pool below. The famous triple-tiered Umauma Falls. Youll get to play in the ocean, explore a tidepool, and see Rainbow Falls. Unfortunately, swimming is not allowed at Rainbow Falls, and there are signs warning about the danger of swimming. Akaka Falls are extremely accessible, as the trail to the waterfall stretches only 0.4 miles long. This is why we list the tallest, most popular, and most easily accessible waterfalls on the Big Island: to make sure you spend your waterfall-time as efficient as possible. This adds ~1 hour/waterfall to your itinerary will be the best option for the large majority of visitors. Simply put, waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii are some of the world's finest. Compared to Maui, Oahu, and Kauai, The Big Island of Hawaii has some of the most popular waterfalls in all of Hawaii. Big Island of Hawaii Waterfalls Simply put, waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii are some of the world's finest. Waterfall tours are among our favorites because of the amount of nature they allow you to experience in a relatively short amount of time and because they often feature a visit to a private waterfall that permits you to actually swim under a waterfall. Located within the Hilo city limits, Wainuenue (Rainbow Falls) is very easy to visit. These falls form also the access to a popular but risky local swimming spot called the boiling pots. 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. Drive down yourself (only with 4WD), or get down to the valley floor as part of a horseback riding tour in the valley. Get in touch with us! Get your discounted ATV Waterfall and Swim Experience. If you decide to swim, please take extra precautions as rivers are prone to flash flooding. Furthermore, flash floods and strong currents are a real danger there. This waterfall is created from a small stream and is a multiple-tier waterfall located inside the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden. 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. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of waterfalls we mention in this guide. Its one of the tallest and most powerful waterfalls in Hawaii, although it gets a bit dry around March. Maunawili Falls Check out the latest prices and more details. 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. This picturesque spot can be found past mile marker 16 on the Hana Highway, below the bridge that crosses Palauhulu Stream. It is simply breathtaking. From USD 218.85 (9) Big Island Waterfall Swim & Rainforest Hiking Tour & Nature Eco-Adventure . Compared to Rainbow Falls, Peepee Falls are less crowded and less known. Hiilawe (the barely visible waterfall in the back of the valley) is one of the tallest waterfalls on the Big Island. Some of which are so beautiful that they inspired some of Hawaiis most popular songs. It depends on which one you choose! Enjoy! A tour across the Hamakua Coast that stops at Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls and Richardson Beach Park. Sugar Water: Hawaiis Plantation Ditches by Carol Wilcox. One of the coolest ways to experience Kulaniapia Falls is by booking a spot in one of the Experience Packages available at the property. Akaka Falls is located inside the Akaka Falls State Park in Hawaii. It takes about 20-30 minutes to complete the loop. The Rainbow Falls are the easiest waterfalls to see on the Big Island! Good to know: The river feeding Hiilawe is used for irrigation purposes. Sign up for this discounted Majestic Waterfalls Tour. As an Amazon Associate, thistraveldream.com earns from qualifying purchases. 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! Its 93 miles across and has all sorts of terrain and natural wonders. Well, you are in luck. Besides the abundant disease there are a lot of rock chunks that get eroded and transported by the stream So there are chunks in the waterfall normaly Hiking to the waterfall is not possible as the trail crosses private property, but you can see the Hiilawe falls from many places within Waipio valley. Step Into The World Of Narnia On This Forbidden Waterfall Hike In Hawaii, The Hike In Hawaii That Takes You To Not One, But TWO Insanely Beautiful Waterfalls, Hike Less Than A Mile To This Spectacular Waterfall Swimming Hole In Hawaii, Embark On An Epic 7.3-Mile Trail In Hawaii That Features Waterfalls And Jaw-Dropping Views, The 14 Tallest Waterfalls In Hawaii Will Drop Your Jaw, This Waterfall Swimming Hole In Hawaii Is So Hidden Youll Probably Have It All To Yourself, This Tiered Waterfall And Swimming Hole In Hawaii Must Be On Your Summer Bucket List, The Ultimate Bucket List For Anyone In Hawaii Who Loves Waterfall Hikes. Its a 1,450 feet tall waterfall, although most of it drops 1,201 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. Good to know: to access the falls you must purchase a $49 daypass to the grounds. The pots are called boiling pots because, during heavy rain, the flow of water increases and the pots appear to be boiling. The best part? Upper Waikani Falls Joe Parks/Flickr Also known as Three Bears falls, Waikani is approximately 70 feet tall, and visible from the Hana Highway. Entry Fees:For Akaka Falls, entry is free for children under ten years old and $5 per adult. 2. 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! Do you like waterfalls a LOT and are you also visiting another island in the Hawaiian island chain? So no one is taking care of it and ensuring the area remains clean. Interested? In general, yes, but there are several risks associated with swimming under waterfalls in the state of Hawaii that you should be aware of. 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. Looking for a car rental in Kona, Big island. Let us know in the comments below! Marvel at the beauty and adventure that makes up Hawaii. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW. You can contact the State Division of Forestry and Wildlife at 808-974-4221. You can view all three of them from an overlook that you can access via a private botanical garden. The cliffs were formed from the lava flow from Mauna Kea that once flowed down the mountainside. more, 2006-2023 World Of Waterfalls, At the writing of this post, the Umauma Falls are now accessible through the botanical gardens. Rappelling at the Kulaniapia Falls. What I mean by this is that it was once one of the tallest and mightiest waterfalls in all the islands of Hawai'i with its often quoted cumulative height of 1,450ft. The area beyond that is private property, so be aware of where youre going! The tropical gardens have a wonderful overlook that allows you to get a great view of Umauma Falls. While I was there I witnessed two people hike to the top, even though it clearly said not to do so. Check out the latest prices and more details. 1: Kauai Overview 2: Things to Do 3: Where to Stay 4: Popular Sights and Destinations 5: The Npali Coast 6: Kauai Itinerary 7: Kauai blog posts. And, youll pass it on the way to Akaka Falls. The admission fee to the park is $5.00 per car or $1 per person for pedestrians. Umauma Falls is located on the Big Island in Hawaii. The tranquility and solitude youll feel there is truly unmatched. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. Overview . Get our brand-new trip planning series delivered directly to your inbox - for FREE (more info). You can visit their website at the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls for additional details. There have been instances where people lost their lives here. Majestic Waterfalls Tour A tour across the Hamakua Coast that stops at 'Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls and Richardson Beach Park. These 7 Big Island waterfalls are truly spectacular and well worth checking out during your stay here! The visit is well worth your time, even just to enjoy the tranquility of this Hawaiian rainforest. The state park entry fees are $5/car or $1/pedestrian. Click here to see all our recommended waterfall tours on our website. Lava from Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa meet near the base of Peepee Falls, about 2 miles downstream. Don't miss them because once you see them, you'll never forget them! She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu. A 20-acre rainforest greenhouse, the area is filled with beautiful plant life and wild animals. The Rainbow Falls are located in Hilo and are fed by the Wailuku River the same river that also feeds the Peepee Falls. This broad waterfall in the Wailuku river is conveniently located within Hilo town. Sign up for this discounted Legends of the Waterfalls & Volcano Tour. If youre an old soul, this Hilo Bay Waterfalls by Kayak tour was made for you. Looking for a car rental in Kona, Big island? What Are The Must-Visit Waterfalls On Big Island? The Kulaniapia Falls is a private 90-100 foot waterfall located at the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls. Yes, but all of them require some sort of entrance fee. Are you traveling to the Big Island of Hawaii? The package can include waterfall rappelling, which is the best way to experience Kulaniapia. Read more about waterfall safety. This waterfall used to have a high volume of water in the stream, making swimming here dangerous. If you only have time to see one of the waterfalls, we suggest seeing the incredible Akaka Falls. Its not a difficult hike to get to the foot of the waterfall, so you wont need any special gear to visit this beautiful waterfall. Waiilikahi Falls are yet another gem on the Big Island, but it takes a lot to hike to the falls. Did we list it? I highly encourage taking a helicopter tour through the Kohala Coast if you want to see these waterfalls, unless you are a very experienced hiker looking for some adventure. Hello, my name is Abduvaliev diyorbek. Flash floods are also a risk, so stay out of the water if its raining (where you are or upstream). Hiilawe Falls is located on the Big Island. 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. Click the button below. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. Peepee Falls on the Big Island. This one has amazing views of the Kohala Coast while listening to fascinating commentary from the pilot. This isn't one that you can swim under though. You will need to stop at the visitor center to register before heading to the falls. Please dont take the risk there are many places more suitable for swimming in Hilo (the beach!). Youll start off driving up the Kona coastline pas lava flows and check out sweeping views from the old Kohala Mule Station lookout. Check out the latest prices and details. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. The beach! Rainbow Falls, or Wainuenue, is located inside the Wailuku River State Park in Hilo, Hawaii. The volume of the rainbow falls (or Waianuenue) changes on a daily basis. And this rainfall provides lots of opportunities to appreciate the island's falls. Enjoy this 8-hour adventure as you explore Kohala, the oldest of five volcanos that make up the Big Island. If you are looking for an adventure or just want to relax on your vacation, these seven waterfalls will not disappoint. 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. Double your adventure with the Kohala Zip and Dip and explore the enchanting lands of North Kohala. Access to the overview for the waterfalls lies on private land which is being managed by the Umauma Experience. Furthermore, flash floods and strong currents are a real danger there. 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. A couple of the best waterfalls near Hilo can be seen in Akaka Falls State Park, including Akaka Falls (422 feet) and Kahuna Falls (100 feet). The waterfall got its name from the rainbow that often forms at the base. There may be no better way to experience Hawaiian waterfalls than with a helicopter tour. Confirming what your tour includes will ensure that you wont miss out on any of the waterfalls. This is a great family-friendly waterfall as there are no strong currents or falling rocks around. Youll never run out of things to do here. Love Hawaii? Its a 100-foot waterfall that youll pass by on your way to Akaka if you follow the footpath. There is no swimming allowed here; you can only view the falls from a safe distance. Subscribe to receive 5 emails in 5 days: Call us for advice! Which Cities Have Nonstop Flights to Hawaii. Akaka, Kahuna, Hiilawe, Rainbow, Umauma, Peepee, Kulaniapia, Onomeaand WaiilikahiFalls. Spend a few hours relaxing luxuriating in a private area of the Umauma River. This, Located within Waimea Valley is this charming waterfall, perfect for a family swim. This is the perfect pre or post-hike pit stop for pineapples and fresh coconuts that you can't miss. Youll be able to get up close and personal with this body of water and have the most memorable time in Hawaii. Check out the latest prices and more details. Before you get to Akaka Falls, you can also visit Kahuna Falls inside the state park. Hi'ilawe Falls is a magnificent waterfall located in Waipio Valley on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island. If you are looking for a bit more of an adventure, more waterfalls can be found in the valleys of the Kohala coast, as well as on the northern Hamakua coast. Youll need to pay an entrance fee to enter the area. Rainbow Falls is not safe for swimming. Sign up for this discounted Majestic Waterfalls Tour. Access to the falls is right off the road. On the paved uphill Akaka Falls Loop Trail, you'll venture past these two beautiful waterfalls . Check out the latest prices and more details. Take your first right onto Akaka Falls Road and continue for 3.75 miles until you reach the parking lot. There are so many beautiful waterfalls to check out during your visit to the Big Island. with the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing snack break at the waterfalls where you can swim and paddleboard. Standing at around 80 feet tall, this waterfall is a must-see year round on the Big Island. 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. Get your discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. The Experiences Package allows you to water rappel. This is a great way to see some of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. Here at Only In Hawaii, weve talked about waterfalls, and weve talked about swimming holes, but now were combining the two and giving you our exclusive list of 13 of the best waterfalls in Hawaii to swim in across all of the islands from spots found only from hiking through the deep jungle of Oahus windward coast, to various scenic spots visible from Mauis breathtaking Hana Highway. You can also walk down from the upper parking lots and viewing decks. 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. 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. There are many tours available if you would rather visit with a guide. The on-site Inn organizes this tour which is led a team of expert canyoneering guides. If you're looking for the best Big Island waterfall adventures, then look no further. What is the best way to visit all these waterfalls? Deluxe Big Island ATV Tour & Waterfall Swim at Umauma Falls . If you are visiting the rainbow falls and have the time and interest to see another set of waterfalls you should check out these falls. Description: Considered one of the best family waterfall hikes on the island, the 800-foot Waipoo Falls can be approached via the Waipoo Falls Trail at Waimea Canyon. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. The hike itself can be challenging and involves multiple stream crossings. So keep an eye out for honu (green sea turtles) and admire the coast! At the bottom of the valley, take a left and walk for roughly 5-10 minutes to see the falls. Thankfully they didnt, as there appeared to be rocks under the shallow water at the bottom of the falls. The best time to visit the rainbow falls is in the early morning because this is when you have the most chance to see rainbows in the spray of the waterfall. Wading through these pools is not recommended. It stretches hundreds of feet tall and is surrounded by greenery. While you can access most of these on your own, you can also join Hawaii waterfall tours for a more personalized experience. Photos of Kulania attached . It will take you about an hour to reach the end of the path, which is lined with lush greenery and beautiful scenery. Location: North east side of Big Island. Address: 875 Akaka Falls Rd, Honomu, HI 96728, United States. Hiilawe Falls (or Hi'ilawe Falls) was one of those waterfalls where it seemed it had a reputation that it can no longer live up to. The property offers helicopter, lava tube exploration, stargazing, and lava encounter tours as well. Which Hawaiian island has the best waterfall hikes? The hike takes you past 7 waterfalls with as grand finale a cooling dip in the final one! Get your discounted Kohala Tour from Kona Tour. . A couple of travel dreamers who fell in love with Hawaii and want to share the beauty of the Islands! The Kulaniapia Falls for example require a day pass, and others are on private property and only reachable as part of a tour. Kulania Falls is nearby and just as beautiful. And if youre heading to Akaka Falls with kids, check out my guide HERE. These are gorgeous Hawaii Big Island waterfalls worth checking out. Youll be treated to an entirely new and equally beautiful view of the waterfalls. click here to go to our instagram account, ATV Tours on the Big Island (BIG list of all tour operators), BIG LIST of Kona Coffee Tours on the Big Island, Stand Up Paddle (SUP) boarding: Rentals, Classes and Tours. Cooling lava flows created columns, which connect a series of cascading waterfalls and pools that appear to be bubbling. From USD 130.62. I work as a factory electrician. Here are a few top picks that are worth checking out! If ATVing is a bit too adventurous for you, try this tranquil kayaking tour that starts in Hilo town and takes you past hidden waterfalls. Its one of the quietest and least touristy waterfalls on the island, so you can enjoy a chill day with your friends when you visit. Most of the waterfalls are found near Hilo and northeastern, or Hamakua, coast. Of this list, youre not allowed to swim in both Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls, as it is both dangerous and illegal. Directions: About 30 min north from Hilo airport, park on the mauka (mountain-side) of highway 19 just after the 16 mile marker. Ultimate Guide to the Polynesian Cultural Center with Kids, Traditional Hawaiian Food: 24 Classic Dishes of Hawaiian Cuisine. This picture shows the Hiilawe falls on an almost dry day. Image credit: Mark. 1. This is an 8-hour zipline + waterfall swim tour that takes you to Kohala, the oldest volcano on the island, for an inspiring and exhilarating day. Each hike has its charm, and all offer beautiful views of different parts of the island. They also offer ATV tours, waterfall rappelling and horseback riding tours to the falls as well. My personal favorites are Polulu Valley, The Puna Trail, and The hike to Makalawena Beach, to name a few. One of the, As you are driving on Hana Highway from the north, the first notable attraction you will discover is these twin waterfalls, also known as Hololawa Falls. The lush landscape alone is enough to warrant a hike here. The Wailuku River flows along the bottom of the gorge and downstream to Rainbow Falls. The Onomea Falls is located within the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, This s private property owned by Dan Lutkenhouse, first opened in 1984. Youll be able to see 3 of the most famous Big Island waterfalls (Akaka Falls, Hiilawe Falls, and Rainbow Falls) on a half-day tour. Umauma Falls Although the Hawaiian archipelago has a multitude of famous waterfalls, especially on Oahu, Maui, and Kauai. We love this easy, Twin Falls Maui Waterfall, 6300 Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA, Located within Haleakala National Park near the Pipiwai Trailhead, these beautiful stream-fed pools are also known as the seven sacred pools. On the bright side, they did not jump off the falls as they planned to. Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing, History (From $226.96) Hawaii Volcano Adventure Tour from Hilo (From $195.99) You can also see these waterfalls as part of a zipline tour or an ATV and dip (swim) tour at the gardens. Plus. This is for kids at least 5 years old who can comfortably stay in a kayak.