Hawaii’s waterfalls range from powerful valley falls to soft cascades hidden in the rainforest, each one showing a different side of the islands. In this guide to the Top 10 Waterfalls in Hawaii, we’ve gathered the ones that truly stand out, not just for their beauty, but for their uniqueness, accessibility, and that special “wow-factor” you can’t forget.

How We Chose the Top 10 Waterfalls in Hawaii

We set clear criteria so you know exactly why each waterfall earned its spot:

• Visual impact: That “stop in your tracks” beauty.
• Accessibility: How easily can you get there — by car, short hike, or scenic lookout?
• Uniqueness: Geology, setting, and special features that set it apart.
• Bonus appeal: Can you swim nearby, see a rainbow at certain times, or view it from a famous scenic route?

Some waterfalls require effort to reach, others you can admire from your car window — but all are worth the trip.

1. ʻAkaka Falls – Big Island

The crown jewel of Hawaii’s waterfalls, ʻAkaka Falls plunges 442 feet into a lush gorge surrounded by tropical flora so rich it feels like the Garden of Eden. Located in ʻAkaka Falls State Park, this beauty is reached by a short, paved loop trail lined with giant ferns, bamboo groves, and the sound of rushing water.

2. Waimoku Falls – Maui

Found at the end of the famed Pīpīwai Trail in Haleakalā National Park’s Kīpahulu District, Waimoku Falls is a 400-foot vertical drop cascading down a sheer lava wall. The 4-mile round-trip hike takes you past banyan trees, a towering bamboo forest, and smaller cascades — all leading up to the grand finale.

3. Hiʻilawe Falls – Big Island

Located deep in Waipiʻo Valley, Hiʻilawe Falls is one of Hawaii’s tallest at over 1,400 feet. While access inside the valley is limited to 4WD or tours, even viewing it from the valley floor is awe-inspiring, with sheer green walls and taro fields framing the scene.

4. Manawaiopuna Falls (Jurassic Falls) – Kauaʻi

A cinematic star from Jurassic Park, Manawaiopuna Falls thunders 400 feet into the Hanapēpē Valley. It’s privately owned, so you can only see it on a helicopter tour — but that just adds to the magic. The aerial view, with mist rising from the base, is unforgettable.

5. Rainbow Falls – Big Island

Easy to access in Hilo, Rainbow Falls drops 80 feet over a lava cave said to be the home of the Hawaiian goddess Hina. Visit on a sunny morning and you may see the namesake rainbow in the mist.

6. Wailua Falls – Kauaʻi

These twin cascades near Līhuʻe are postcard-perfect. Wailua Falls is visible right from the roadside lookout, plunging 80 feet (sometimes more, depending on rainfall) into a jade pool below. Arrive early to catch the morning light.

7. ʻOpaekaʻa Falls – Kauaʻi

Set in Wailua River State Park, ʻOpaekaʻa Falls is a wide, multi-tiered cascade visible from a scenic roadside overlook. The surrounding greenery and the ease of access make it a must-stop when exploring east Kauaʻi.

8. Peʻepeʻe Falls – Big Island

Just upstream from Rainbow Falls, Peʻepeʻe Falls feeds the Boiling Pots — a series of lava rock pools connected by underground flows. The rugged setting and unique formations make it worth a stop, especially after rainfall.

9. Lulumahu Falls – Oʻahu

Hidden in the lush Nuʻuanu Valley, Lulumahu Falls is a slender, elegant cascade about 50 feet tall, reached by an unofficial trail that passes bamboo, old stone structures, and stream crossings. It’s a bit of an adventure — muddy, scenic, and rewarding.

10. Waipoʻo Falls – Kauaʻi

Tumbling 800 feet down the red cliffs of Waimea Canyon, Waipoʻo Falls can be seen from multiple canyon lookouts. The best perspective is from the Puʻu Ka Pele lookout, where the white ribbon of water contrasts beautifully with the canyon’s rust-colored walls.

Honorable Mentions

These waterfalls didn’t make the main list due to limited access or other criteria, but they’re still incredible:

• Sacred Falls (Oʻahu): Closed to hikers since 1999, viewable only by air.
• Papalaʻau Falls (Molokaʻi): One of the tallest in the world at over 1,200 feet, accessible only by helicopter.
• Hanakapiai Falls (Kauaʻi): A dramatic 300-foot cascade deep on the Kalalau Trail.
• Hanawi Falls (Maui): A series of roadside waterfalls along the Hāna Highway.

Closing Thoughts

The Top 10 Waterfalls in Hawaii aren’t just about the height or volume of water — they’re about the settings that make them unforgettable. Whether you’re chasing roadside photo ops or hiking through bamboo forests to a hidden plunge, each one has its own personality and story.

If you’re planning a Hawaii trip, we’d love to help make these sights part of your journey. Our all-inclusive Hawaii vacation packages can pair your perfect island base with the chance to see these natural wonders — without the stress of planning. Contact us to get started.