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It's not easy to put together a Top 10 Best Hawaii Waterfalls List because it's completely subjective and limited to each person's experience with the falls being named. This list is based on our own personal experiences. We tried to balance numerous factors such as accessibility, allure, scenery, and longevity. And with a state that has arguably the most waterfalls in the US, we struggled mightily to pick just 10. So without further adieu, here they are in reverse order...Click here to share your favorite waterfalls in Hawaii with visitors to this page!
10. HANAKAPIAI FALLS Even if you're not up for the epic Kalalau Trail backpack along the famous Na Pali Coast of Kauai, you can still dayhike to this towering waterfall in the Hanakapiai Valley (a side valley of the Na Pali Coast). Surrounded by fluted cliffs and a lush jungle, this waterfall adds to the scenic allure of arguably the most scenic coastline in all the Hawaiian Islands.
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9. POOLS OF OHEO These beloved pools were one of the primary reasons why active conservation and protection efforts were made by landowners and influential politicians who for once put the needs of the common people before their own self interests. Now as part of the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park, countless tourists make the long and carsick-inducing Hana Highway drive to swim in these pools and bask in one of the most scenic spots in all of Hawaii.
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8. MOAULA FALLS The more accessible of two prominent waterfalls in the legendary Halawa Valley of Molokai, it's a great place to swim, learn about Hawaiian culture, and appreciate its surroundings. When viewed from the air, more tiers of this 250ft waterfall (possibly 700ft of total drop) come into view. A trip to the most Hawaiian of the Hawaiian islands wouldn't be complete without a visit to this gem of Mo'o's domain.
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7. RAINBOW FALLS This 80ft postcard waterfall is also one of the easiest ones to visit. Situated near Hilo on the Big Island, the cove in which the waterfall plunges is surrounded by lush tropical flora. Since it flows on the state's longest river (Wailuku River), it's a rare Hawaiian year-round waterfall and makes our top 10 list.
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6. SACRED FALLS This 1100ft waterfall is easily O'ahu's most spectacular waterfall. Unfortunately, its access is closed indefinitely due to a fatal landslide that took place on Mother's Day in 1999. However, it is possible to still see the falls if you're willing to fork out some serious dough to go on a helicopter ride. And while it may be difficult to shell out that kind of money just for this waterfall, its scenic allure sure makes it very hard to turn down.
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5. UMAUMA FALLS This private multi-tiered waterfall is the centerpiece of the World Tropical Botanical Garden on the Big Island of Hawaii. Surrounded by exotic imported flora and consisting of an unforgettable series of scenic drops, it is also arguably one of the most scenic (if not the most scenic) waterfalls on the island.
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4. WAILUA FALLS (KAUAI) Not to be confused with the Wailua Falls on Maui, this double-barreled waterfall is on the island of Kauai, and is easily one of the most scenic in the state. Perhaps this 80ft waterfall was made famous by its appearance on the opening sequence to the old television show "Fantasy Island." In any case, don't miss this easily-accessible must-see waterfall if you happen to be visiting the Garden Isle.
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3. PAPALAUA FALLS This remote 1200ft waterfall on the north shore of Molokai is one of the state's tallest. It is often confused with the ephemeral Kahiwa Falls perhaps because of bad information given by helicopter pilots or bad information given by the topographic maps. Whatever the case is the with nomenclature, those fortunate to see this waterfall will definitely not forget it, and thus it easily makes our top 10 list of Best Hawaii Waterfalls.
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2. AKAKA FALLS This 420ft waterfall is definitely the Big Island's best waterfall and certainly one of the best in the state. Given the fact that it flows year round, it's easily accessible, and it's so reminiscent of the type of waterfalls found in inaccessible gulches and valleys, this waterfall is certainly up there in our top 10 list of Best Hawaii Waterfalls. Make sure not to miss this one!
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1. WAIMOKU FALLS Situated at the end of arguably Hawaii's best hiking trail (The Pipiwai Trail), this 400ft waterfall is the ultimate reward after going passing by several waterfalls as well as a bamboo forest along the way. For such a tall waterfall, it's amazing that this one also flows year round and that you can get right up to its base. Indeed, it's a tribute to the fact that it sits in the protected lands of the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park for all to enjoy. Add it all up and this waterfall just nudges into the top spot of our list.
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