Although Hawaiʻi is known for its beautiful beaches all around the island, it’s hard to ignore the amazing waterfalls too! There are many waterfalls, big and small, located on the island. You won’t find any on the west or south side of the island (Kona and Ka’u) but many can be found on the East and North side ( Hilo, Hamakua, and Kohala). Some waterfalls are private access or illegal to go to, so here are some waterfalls that you are able to visit.
1. Akaka Falls State Park
2. Rainbow Falls
3. Waiʻale Falls
This waterfall is located on the same street as Rainbow Falls and if you keep going up Waiānuenue Ave you will actually find more waterfalls such as Peʻepeʻe Falls & Boiling Pots. Wai’ale Falls is more hidden than the other two since itʻs towards the end of Waiānuenue Ave. It is also safe to swim in the large pool below and there is a trail you can follow to get to the swimming spot. On the right side if looking at the waterfall you will see gravel on the side of the road where you can park. You will see a trail that you can follow that will take you to the bank where you can put your things down and get ready to swim. Enjoy swimming in the cold and refreshing water provided by nature. But to be safe I recommend not going on rainy days or days after heavy storms since the waters can rise and become unsafe.
4. Hiʻilawe (in Waipio Valley)
Hiʻilawe is one of the harder waterfalls to access, but it is also surrounded by so many beautiful sights that visiting is always worth it. It is located in Waipiʻo Valley and can only be accessed by locals, but the lookout is available to visitors. You will need a four-wheel drive car in order to go down the valley, and I recommend spending the whole day there since you can also drive to Waipiʻo Black Sand Beach and spend time there. You can see the 1,450-foot-high Hiʻilawe Falls from afar but if you would like to get closer you can drive and then do a short hike for a better view.
5. Onomea Falls (by 6 tons bridge)
If you are looking for another waterfall to swim at, Onomea is another great one to visit. This waterfall is located in South Hilo, using Old Mamalahoa Highway. It is a little harder to find on maps with other locations also called Onomea, but the specific place to swim in is at the six-ton bridge, which people like to jump off and go for a swim. There are also a lot of features around the area, like Onomea Bay Trails and Onomea Bay Lookouts. This waterfall is harder to show on maps since there are other locations named Onomea so I was able to pinpoint the location to make it easier. Have fun and be safe with all the adventures!
I hope you are able to have fun at these waterfalls and enjoy more of Hawaiʻi islandʻs natural beauty. Hawaiʻi has much to offer, from mountains like Mauna Kea to the beaches all around the island and now uncovering the more hidden parts of the island such as the waterfalls shows just how special Hawaiʻi is. Each waterfall listed has its own unique features with many other sights to see along the way. There are still many more waterfalls all over and I hope you keep exploring to find the rest. For safety concerns, please be aware of flash flood warnings and rainy days, as these can make waterfalls dangerous to visit. Don’t forget to aloha ʻāina if you intend to go to any waterfalls but also anywhere on the island. Go pack your car and start uncovering more of Hawaiʻi Island because there is a never-ending list of sights to see!
Written by: Maluhia Nahuina
