waterfalls on the big island you can swim in

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. Get your discounted Kohala Tour from Kona Tour. If that is the case you should definitely have a look at our lists of waterfalls for the other islands: The light blue waterfalls marked on the map below represent our favorites that are described in more detail below. By far, Akaka Falls are my favorite waterfall to visit on the Big Island. One of the risks is that rocks occasionally get washed over the falls and can land on unsuspecting swimmers. Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. This waterfall can only be accessed from the lookout, and swimming here is no longer allowed. Our most popular hotels on the Island of Hawaii Another popular way to observe the Umauma Falls is through a short 1.7 mile hike within the World Botanical Garden that most consider to be unchallenging. Unfortunately, the strength of the falls is often dependent on rainfall - so here's to hoping you catch it on a good day. 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. This isn't one that you can swim under though. This full-day tour will also introduce you to delicious Hawaiian cuisine in the Pololu Valley and even allow you to swim in a waterfall! This allows you to experience a birds-eye view of the waterfall! There is no swimming allowed here; you can only view the falls from a safe distance. It stretches over 120 feet high, although the tiers make it difficult to measure accurately. Stunning Big Island Hawaii Waterfalls Worth a Stop, planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, Courtyard by Marriotts King Kamehameha Beach Hotel, Check out the latest prices and more details, discounted Kohala Waterfalls Adventure Tour, Legends of the Waterfalls and Volcano Tour, budget-friendly things to do on the Big Island. Be sure to bring extra clothing. They can be difficult to spot, so it may be worthwhile bringing a pair of binoculars if you really want to get a good look. The on-site Inn organizes this tour which is led a team of expert canyoneering guides. They also offer ATV tours, waterfall rappelling and horseback riding tours to the falls as well. There are different car rental companies in Kona, Hawaii that will set it up for you. I visited Rainbow Falls in September of 2021 and the trail to get to the top was closed. Rainbow Falls are beautiful and can be viewed from a relatively close location, making them that much more enjoyable. You can follow an uphill path towards the waterfall, which is about half a mile long. You can access this trail from the Waipio Valley lookout. The waterfall got its name from the rainbow that often forms at the base. Enjoy spectacular views of Mauna Kea and the Pacific Ocean, awesome photo spots, swim in a private pond and really experience off-road Hawaii. Be sure to do both if you have the time. 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? If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. Soak in soaring sea cliffs, remote valleys, and even go for a swim under one of seven waterfalls. Its location allows the sun to hit the water at just the perfect angle. Directions: About 30 min north from Hilo airport, park on the mauka (mountain-side) of highway 19 just after the 16 mile marker. Hi'ilawe Falls in the Waipio Valley. The Falls has recently been named in the top ten best swimming holes in America by the magazine Travel + Leisure. If youre staying in Hilo and enjoy learning about history, you might get a kick out of this Legends of the Waterfalls tour where youll learn why Hilo was one of the favorite places for Kamehameha the Great. Its accessible through several different methods and gorgeous no matter how you see it. So no one is taking care of it and ensuring the area remains clean. Read more about waterfall safety. This waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls across all of the Islands, standing at its maximum height at 1,450 feet. Not only that, but this island is still expanding! Located only 1.5 miles upstream from Rainbow Falls, Peepee Falls is another beautiful spot. 5 out of 6 of our favorites are close to Hilo, and these falls are very easy to visit. The hike is suitable for the whole family and takes half an hour if you take your time. You can also book a stay at The Inn, a high-quality resort thats well worth the money. You can start the hike to this waterfall from the Waipio Valley lookout. An aerial view of Kulaniapia Falls. The visit is well worth your time, even just to enjoy the tranquility of this Hawaiian rainforest. While Kahuna Falls are also located in this state park, you can hear them more than you can see them. Swimming Holes on the Big Island of Hawaii. Their list contains the following waterfalls: In Hilo: Rainbow falls, Pe'epe'e falls, Wai'ale falls, Kulaniapia falls. Interested? For the adventurous, go off-roading on the Big Islands Hamakua Coast in a Honda ATV or a Side x Side UTV. 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. I highly recommend checking out Viator for some of the best tours in Hawaii. Hiilawe Falls is often considered to be the tallest waterfall in Hawaii. You can read the full story here. There are other adventurous activities that you can enjoy here too. Unfortunately, swimming is not allowed at Rainbow Falls, and there are signs warning about the danger of swimming. They are very safe and you will have amazing views. Although smaller, the Kahuna Falls is similarly beautiful. The Majestic Waterfalls Tour is one of the best tours on this list. The enormous waterfall cascades down a steep lava rock wall into a boulder-strewn pool. This multi tiered, Oheo Gulch, OheO Gulch, Hawaii 96713, USA. There are plenty of these tours you can take while on the Big Island. This gorgeous waterfall stretches 442 feet high and descends into a beautiful gorge eroded over time by water, which now lays dozens of feet below ground level. You can get access to the falls either by purchasing a day pass (limited availability of 10 guests / day), or by joining their Rappel down the 120ft Kulaniapia Falls experience. Get our brand-new trip planning series delivered directly to your inbox - for FREE (more info). Find the best prices here. Access costs $12 per person (walk-in fee, no pre-bookings required), which also buys you access to their garden. While there arent really Kona waterfalls, you see tons of waterfalls in Hilo. Later you transfer to an off-road vehicle to get off the beaten path and take a small hike along the tunnels and aqueducts of an over 100 year old sugar plantation. 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. As youre admiring the view of the Kohala Coast, youll also be privy to commentary about the history and culture of the area by the pilot. Now you know some of the best waterfalls Big Island has to offer. It's a 1,450 feet tall waterfall, although most of it drops 1,201 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. Plus. Sign up for our free monthly updates (more info) about everything that is new and happening in Hawaii. 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. To be able to visit the waterfall, you can book a guest room at The Inn or book one of the Experience Packages available at the property. But dont worry, this is a very easy hike to do and the trail is paved and well maintained. 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! Waipoo Falls. Compared to many other Hawaiian Islands, the Big Island is huge. Plan to hike on slippery rocks, uphill slogs, tree roots, mud, and unmaintained trails. While theyre all worth seeing, we must warn you that most of them do not have a swimming hole or pool available. Cooling lava flows created columns, which connect a series of cascading waterfalls and pools that appear to be bubbling. You can find many waterfalls on the north and east side of the Big Island thanks to lots of rain and a large gradient in elevation (volcanoes!). Its the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago and has some of the most popular waterfalls in all of Hawaii! Hiilawe Falls is visible only within the valley or from the air, as the Waipio Valley is very steep. All Rights Reserved. Located up the Wailua River, you will need to either rent kayaks or book a guided tour to reach the trailhead. If you only have time to see one of the waterfalls, we suggest seeing the incredible Akaka Falls. 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. And be sure to keep your eyes out for sea turtles, which are known to hang out in this area! Where are the best waterfalls to swim in Hawaii? If you're visiting the Big Island of Hawaii soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Big Island Visitor Guides. Do you like waterfalls a LOT and are you also visiting another island in the Hawaiian island chain? This is awesome for those not renting a car. Mahalo! Swimming here can be dangerous and has proved lethal several times in the past. Alternatively, you can zipline or rappel at the Umauma Falls. This might cost more, but its well worth it. The beach! Also, be sure to check out all the waterfalls in Hawaii on ourHawaii Waterfallspage. While transporting logs over to build the base might be a nuisance, the beach offers a wealth of advantages that . The waterfall flows from a water source called the Onomea Stream. Big Island of Hawaii Waterfalls Simply put, waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii are some of the world's finest. However, it is important to note that Umauma Falls is a private waterfall that can only be accessed through small group tours. The area beyond that is private property, so be aware of where youre going! Oloupena Falls is an impressive 2,953-foot Hawaiian waterfall. Are you planning to travel to the Big Island of Hawaii? Now they have opened up their grounds to a limited amount of daily visitors. Spend a few hours relaxing luxuriating in a private area of the Umauma River. This one has amazing views of the Kohala Coast while listening to fascinating commentary from the pilot. Several are featured in popular Hawaiian songs. Both falls are located on a family-friendly hiking loop (.4 miles) that takes about 30-45 minutes to see both waterfalls. The farmers markets are a little-known gem allowing visitors to meet locals, shop for arts and crafts and enjoy edible treasures. Amidst the countless natural attractions on the Big Island, Ive picked seven of the top waterfalls on the Big Island to check out! The state park is located along the northeastern Hilo Coast, west of Honom. From USD 130.62. Hi'ilawe Falls Hanapueo and Umauma Falls. It is also possible to rappel down along the Kulaniapia Falls. 9 Hawaii Big Island Waterfalls Rainbow Falls 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. This 80-ft. waterfall on the Wailuku river is the site of a Hawaiian legend that involves the demigod Maui, his mother the Goddess Hina, the Volcano Goddess Pele, and a giant Mo'o or lizard monster up to no good. For a beautiful view and unforgettable experience, sign up for a discounted Magical Waterfall Tour. Stretching 93 miles long, its nearly four times as big as Maui. The majority of waterfalls on the Big Island can be seen on your own. Hawaii Waterfall Swim Adventure, Waipio Valley Lookout & Botanical Garden . Rainbow Falls is not safe for swimming. This air tour hits up the 7 Kohala waterfalls from the Kona airport. At the writing of this post, the Umauma Falls are now accessible through the botanical gardens. If waterfalls are your thing you most likely wont be happy to see only the biggest six. This is also close to where most of the black sand beaches on the Big Island are located. I have included a downloadable map of these waterfalls at the bottom of this post to help with your planning and navigation. The best hikes on the Big Island of Hawaii are indeed a mixed bag. Sugar Water: Hawaiis Plantation Ditches by Carol Wilcox. Narnia is the name given to a set of waterfalls in the Hilo Forest Reserve. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. See below for the sign that was there when I went. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. 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. Akaka Falls is located within the Akaka Falls State Park, roughly 3.6 miles south of Honomu on the Hilo Coast. It takes less than an hour to hike leisurely and is only somewhat sloped uphill. 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. The Magical Waterfall Tour is an airborne tour that takes you on a visit to the coastline of Waipio Valley and Waimanu Valley. Together with only a limited number of guests each day, this daypass gives you access to the waterfalls and to their 42-acre property, where you can enjoy miles of trails, incredible views of 4 waterfalls, bamboo gardens. A delicious catered lunch is provided in our secluded pavilion. Seeing waterfalls is a great way to save money while on your vacation to Hawaii. Sign up for this discounted Majestic Waterfalls Tour. Check out the latest prices and details! Umauma Falls is located on the Big Island in Hawaii. Sign up for this discounted Waipio Valley and Waterfalls Adventure. Nanue Falls is located on the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. Her next trip to Hawaii is never too far away! There are no lifeguards here, so please be extremely cautious. 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. If conditions are suitable you can use on-property SUP and kayak equipment to explore the waterfall. Please keep in mind that the historic area located by the parking lot is not safe for swimming. When river safety conditions permit, you can also go swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding under the Kulaniapia Falls using on-site equipment. This is part of Hawaiis state park system. Subscribe to receive 5 emails in 5 days: Call us for advice! If you are looking for an adventure or just want to relax on your vacation, these seven waterfalls will not disappoint. Turn inland (mauka) between mile markers 14 and 13 onto Honomu Road. The Umauma Falls are a spectacular 3-tiered falls and one of the best waterfalls on the Big Island. Check out the latest prices and more details. It is comprised of three short waterfalls that are located close to each otherthe water actually cascades down this series of waterfalls from the river. Check out the latest prices and more details. It is located in the Pelekunu Preserve on the windward side of Molokai. On Highway 19's bridge, most drivers will pass by these 2 neat waterfalls without realizing it! Onomea Falls is located along the Hamakua Coast in Hawaii. All Rights Reserved This has some of the best waterfalls on Maui. Check out the latest prices and more details. Also known as Three Bears falls, Waikani is approximately 70 feet tall, and visible from the Hana Highway. If you are staying in Kona, meet up with a local driver who takes you to North Kohala. Approximately 16 miles north of Hilo, on the Umauma River, lies one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Hawaii: Umauma Falls. Located in Hilo, Hawaii in Wailuku River State Park, Rainbow Falls might be the most famous waterfall on the island. A tour across the Hamakua Coast that stops at Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls and Richardson Beach Park. The view is spectacular and the tame and paved nature hike was enjoyable too. 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. If youre considering visiting Akaka Falls, check out my full guide HERE. You have to be a guest at the Inn to access the trail leading to the waterfall. If you're looking for the best Big Island waterfall adventures, then look no further. A picnic lunch and hotel transport are included for a hassle-free experience. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. The content on this website may not be copied or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission. 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. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. You no longer need to book a tour with the Umauma Experience to get to the falls. We enjoy nature, the ocean, mountains, adventure, and all things outdoors. This broad waterfall in the Wailuku river is conveniently located within Hilo town. Don't miss them because once you see them, you'll never forget them! However, it is not totally uncommon to see that the waterfall is dry, which is a result of the Hamakua Ditch that diverts the flow of water. Big Island is home to some of the tallest falls in the state. And this rainfall provides lots of opportunities to appreciate the island's falls. Standing at around 80 feet tall, this waterfall is a must-see year round on the Big Island. All the waterfalls listed below are spectacular in their own way, and when you visit them theyre sure to impress. Whats the Honolulu Sister Cities Program? It takes about 20-30 minutes to complete the loop. In fact, some still consider it a secret or hidden spot on the island even though it has been featured in several magazines and TV shows. Rainbow Falls One of Hawaii's most stunning waterfalls, Rainbow Falls is named for the rainbows that can be seen in the mist. It is located inside the private property and theres no other way to access it. This Upper Waikani Falls, Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA 2. Visit the State Parks website for updated pricing. The Big Island of Hawaii offers so much for visitors with its lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes. as a very big person in the future I want to help people I want to give a gift to the. All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. 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. On an especially clear day, you'll be able to see Mauna Kea behind them. While youre enjoying these natural attractions, be sure to take lots of pictures! This waterfall is created from a small stream and is a multiple-tier waterfall located inside the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden. 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. Download your copy of our Oahu is the lively center and most visited of all Hawaiian Islands. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman. Waterfalls of Kohala A helicopter tour of the waterfalls along the Kohala Coast. 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! If youre an old soul, this Hilo Bay Waterfalls by Kayak tour was made for you. Whether you want to soar over the falls or dive right in and swim them, we have the tour for you. Akaka Falls are about 422 feet tall, but are only viewable from the viewing platform. Drive down yourself (only with 4WD), or get down to the valley floor as part of a horseback riding tour in the valley. I am not sure how people did this as signs warn against it, and its illegal and can be dangerous. 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. More waterfalls can be found at the northern Hamakua coast seaside cliffs and the valleys of the Kohala coast. 2. [more], 2006-2023 World Of Waterfalls, All Rights Reserved Even when the falls are dry, the lush landscape is incredible. 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. In any case, as you can see from the map above and the list below that . They are a series of small pools fed by the Wailuku River. This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. 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. Read more: in our guide to visiting the Akaka falls. from $85 + taxes & fees | Child $75. It depends on which one you choose! 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. If youre debating on visiting Oahu or Maui, you can check out my other article on Oahu Vs Maui to learn more. It stretches hundreds of feet tall and is surrounded by greenery. Although Akaka Falls is the main event during the hike, the smaller Kahuna Falls is a must-see as well. While you can access most of these on your own, you can also join Hawaii waterfall tours for a more personalized experience. While there are gorgeous waterfalls on Kauai, Oahu, and Maui, the Big Island has some of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii. The volume of the rainbow falls (or Waianuenue) changes on a daily basis. Please dont take the risk there are many places more suitable for swimming in Hilo (the beach!). Waimoku Falls is a 400 foot waterfall that you see pictured on the cover of many of Maui's guidebooks and is one of the tallest waterfalls on Maui. Here you will find a delightful selection of art galleries and gift stores as well as several cafes. Check out the latest prices and details. A 20-acre rainforest greenhouse, the area is filled with beautiful plant life and wild animals. This waterfall used to have a high volume of water in the stream, making swimming here dangerous. This is the perfect pre or post-hike pit stop for pineapples and fresh coconuts that you can't miss. Double your adventure with the Kohala Zip and Dip and explore the enchanting lands of North Kohala. 1. However, they have started opening the grounds to the public for a $49 day pass. Compared to Maui, Oahu, and Kauai, The Big Island of Hawaii has some of the most popular waterfalls in all of Hawaii. Hiilawe Falls is a magnificent waterfall located in Waipio Valley on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island. The Big Island Waterfalls page is where we narrow our focus of Hawaiian Waterfalls to the Big Island of Hawaii. Thankfully they didnt, as there appeared to be rocks under the shallow water at the bottom of the falls.

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