10 best waterfalls Oahu [ Nature travel guide 2024]

I really like the natural beauty of waterfalls while traveling . Firstly this is free, and second it most likely requires a little bit of effort ( as some of them are out of the beaten path ) . No matter if it’s a short hike, or a longer trekking , walking among the lush vegetation and the dense forest and ending up swimming at the end is totally gold !

On top. of that , as a semi athlete , I really love the cold water, which cools you down first , then stimulates your blood circulation and muscle recovery .

Give the waterfalls of Oahu a try !

Exploring the beauty of Oahu’s green trails and chasing waterfalls was an unforgettable experience. Uchisar is surely one of the most captivating and extraordinary places on the island; this area is ideal for numerous waterfall hikes, filled with surprises.

This is one of the many treks that I did, and it was a perfect location to visit on a hot summer day. The majestic Manoa Falls are located in a tropical rainforest. The road to the falls was almost as spectacular as the falls themselves; the path wound through a green tunnel with the colours of the highlands all around. For such grand expectation, rushing water sloshed within the cave and amplified the closer I got to it.

Still, all the waterfall hikes I took in Oahu are special and diverse in their beauty, making it difficult for me to choose my favorite one. The climb up the trail to the beautiful waterfall was adventurous, and as we jumped off the waterfall, splashing into the pool filled me with joy. The hikes I did for the Oahu waterfalls are undoubtedly for the real people of nature, and I look forward to returning for more.

10 Best Waterfall Hikes Oahu

Maunawili Falls Trail

Maunawili Falls Trail was one of the most interesting trials that can take place in Oahu. This hike through the jungle is one of the more extensively used paths, providing a glimpse of plants that are endemic to the region and large trees that offer a natural cover on the track. On the way, I met another beautiful feature of the trail: the Likeke Falls, a small waterfall that gives the trail a wonderful natural view.

After not even a long hike, I was able to see Maunawili Falls, which is nestled deep within the forest. Water descends in the form of a waterfall and forms a pool where water flows with a lot of force. This is a perfect spot to have a bath. Birds trill to announce the rising sun, and the songs made me feel like I was far removed from the busy world.

On my way back, I walked through the forest, moving through the thickets and enjoying breathtaking views. I am fortunate to have had such an amazing hiking trip.

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Kaau Crater Hike

The Kaau Crater Hike was a highly memorable and exciting adventure that gave me an Oahu nature feel. The Hike’s beginning was in Pearl City, with a parking space. The best part was that the trail was easy to spot. As I followed the regularly trodden path of loose, red earth, tree canopies of rich green foliage and flourishing plants loomed overhead as a tribute to Oahu.

The Hike took me through thick forest to Laie Falls, a tiny yet crowded waterfall barely hidden in jungle cover. The calm was suitable for taking a break, observing, and appreciating the surrounding environment. Further on my path, I came across Waihi Falls, a great place to take photographs, not to mention the rope swing, which made the journey a little more exciting.

The most exciting activity of the journey was arriving at the Kaau Crater, which is actually a kind of miracle. Everyone can enjoy the magnificent view of the surrounding area. The trade winds blew lightly against me, and I gazed lost in wonder at the great sight. This trek is definitely not to be missed by any visitor to the Hawaiian Islands, as this tour provides the best of thrills and nature.

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Likeke Falls Hike

While on the Likeke Falls Hike, the beauty of Oahu’s natural environment offers a unique experience like a challenge. The trail began on a paved road; however, it only took a short trip of approximately thirty minutes to get to the end of the trail, which was surrounded by greenery. While hiking, the trade winds were felt, and I saw that it was a great place to be because the atmosphere was cool.

The hike took me to Likeke Falls, a waterfall I found so fascinating, given that its environment lacks many human activities. The noise of the water falling on the rocks was quite pleasant; therefore, it was a very good place to sit and enjoy peace and tranquillity. Still, the trail, which was a bit rough in some parts, was aimed to be conquered and still contributed to the oldol’s adventurous spirit.

This activity could be attributed to the chance to cliff jump into a pool formed below the waterfall during the hike, offering an extra variance that made the hike even more exciting. The Likeke Falls Hike is one of the Hawaiian island’s wonderful attractions. It must be revealed as the best option for those eager to see amazing nature and enjoy active recreation.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/kgrjidrKJcp5yXrH7

Laie Falls Trail

Starting my journey on the Laie Falls trail was exciting and kept me amazed, as it provided the best view of Oahu’s rainforest. The trail, while somewhat maintained in certain parts, was generally quite dusty and provided spectacular views over the Ko’olau Range and the surroundings.

He described challenges they face when hiking, such as tackling tree roots and slippery ground, which are slopes usually slippery during the rainy season. Nevertheless, the exertion involved in all that effort was worth it every time I got to the base of the falls.

Having hiked for nearly 2 hours, Gauthier and his friends stumbled on a 150-foot waterfall, which flowed majestically to form a pool at the base. However, some miles into the trail, I couldn’t pass an opportunity to bathe in the cool water.

The last activity that impressed me greatly was the chance to jump into the pool from the cliff, which made hiking much more fun. However, this activity should be done carefully and flexibly if one has very young children.

All in all, the Laie Falls Trail could be an exciting trail for those people and a great trip for those who like more moderately challenging rainforest trails in Oahu.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/fV8xMkP6LyQLSAnw5

Alapena Pool and Kapena Falls Trail

Having hiked the Alapena Pool and Kapena Falls Trail, I know that it was a trip I will cherish for the rest of my life. Trailing along the camping paths amid the stir of the tropical woodlands, the magnificence of creation itself swept me off my feet. The trail took me to Kapena Falls, a natural waterfall measuring 150 feet, which I found very awesome.

Because the climb is still one of the simplest to undertake, maneuvering the pathway requires a professional hiker. The hike is approximately 1-2 hours, depending on the individual’s fitness level, though every step returns the effort.

After climbing for some time, I got to a calm water pool at the bottom of the cascade and could not resist swimming in the cool water. With the life jacket on, I was as safe as a swimmer, and the feeling of the adrenaline rush only added to the natural grandeur of the scene.

Overall, the Alpena Pool and Kapena Falls Trail were among the best hikes in Oahu, providing the test and years of adventure and beauty.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/UPuj8hNbbxKCjVVA8

Waipuhia Falls

I really enjoyed hiking to the Waipuhia Falls, where I was able to experience the beauty of a tropical rainforest in Oahu directly. This little-known, almost magical place is a discovery in the middle of the forest; it allows you to discover emblematic sights of the island.

The path to the falls was covered with trees, so everything was still and silent around me; it was very beautiful nature. As I strode through the forest trail, I heard the gurgling of the water increasing in volume, preparing me for the pleasant scenery that was to come.

This made me feel privileged when I got to Waipuhia Falls, where I saw one of the most magnificent scenes Mother Nature has to offer. The waterfall was not a big one, but it was beautiful, composed of a few waves falling into a large basin at the bottom. It was ideal for a place where one could just sit down and enjoy the good atmosphere created by nature.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/5fgZueySGQ5rwtud8

All in all, the hike to Waipuhia Falls was one of my most enjoyable hikes in Oahu. It was challenging throughout and riding through the tropical rainforest on hired bicycles and seeing the beautiful waterfall at the end of the trip made it thrilling.

Lulumahu Falls

My tour to Lulumahu Falls was memorable, bringing me closer to appreciating the beauty of nature blessed with magnificent values hidden in Oahu. This relatively unknown hike to a waterfall in Pearl City, just outside Honolulu, that leads to the Pali outlook is nothing short of perfect.

The trip to Lulumahu Falls was a relaxing one, and much of the trail was spent with scenic views. The trail was long, and in some parts, we had to cross through some muddy areas, slippery for the little ones, but it was fun and scenic, passing through the greens and crossing small streams.

The noise of the water as we got closer to the falls increased our expectations and anticipation of what we would find. On reaching the site, a small but charming waterfall was impressively set amidst a calm environment. Rope swings were provided to add a little twist to the picturesque venue in the area.

In general, the Lulumahu Falls hike was really good. It contained some adventurous moments but was also very relaxed, which makes it one of the best hiking areas in Oahu. The feeling of being surrounded only by beautiful nature with the wonderful sight of the waterfall in front of me made this journey very special.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/476Ucx5UdbJW7e5eA

Waimano Falls

When I began exploring Waimano Falls, I was awed by the beauty of the island of Oahu, Hawaii. Approved for safe passage, the heralded trail, famous for its difficult topography and stunning beauty, was an adventure worth undertaking.

Visiting Waimano Falls involved going to the Waimea Falls Trail as an initial step and then heading a distance along a small stream, the Waimea Stream, accompanied by thick growth of trees. The steep climb was fun because getting to the summit was an adventure. The tree roots made the adventure even more interesting because each step could differ from the previous one.

The closer you get to the falls, the louder the noise of water falling, which lets you know you are nearly there. When we finally arrived, I nestled my eyes to behold a great waterfall and a tiny pool of water beneath it, urging me to swim. The cliff jumping, though seeming crazy, was thrilling, and it created a form of achievement.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/VWCjXTTNNyCyiEhG8

Waimea Fall

It will never be forgotten, specifically when we hiked to Waimea Falls. We enjoyed the wonderful scene and explored the natural fresco of Oahu. This moderate one-and-a-half-hour hike takes hikers up the Manana Trail, which is ideal for amateur hikers owing to the varied incline and terrain updates and the beautiful views they experience.

The excitement of reaching the 150 ft waterfall became more tangible as we hiked through the green and damp terrain of the Koolau Mountains. We followed the sound of gushing water with peach-coloured flowers leading us, and upon reaching the waterfall, we saw the stunning beauty of Waimea Falls. To take a closer look at the beauty of the falls, we waded into the crystal clear water that is a perfect pool at the bottom of the beautiful waterfalls, and thus, it was a good reward after the hike.

Although the weather was unpredictable, and Ikeda and I had to rush to avoid the flash floods, the scenery around Waimea Falls made the journey worth it. If one wants a rather easy hike and encounters great waterfalls, the Waimea Falls are among the best homemade hikes in the Oahu region.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/DSBDgCC7um6P7KF7A

Manoa Falls

Going hiking in Manoa Falls was an excellent adventure that gave me divine experience on the natural side of life in Oahu. Fortunately, the trail could easily be followed as it was well established, making it easier for any hiker, starting from a novice. I was strolling through the beautiful tropical rainforest of Manoa Valley, where, most of the time, I felt like a part of the movie itself because around me, there were only native trees and bushes, and the thickets of the forest reinforced an already magical mood.

Upon arriving at the end track, I was amazed by the sight of Manoa Falls, a stunning waterfall that is the essence of the island’s stunning nature. The return trip was a short drive from the North Shore of Oahu and was one of the most lovely things students got to do on the island. This is why the area seemed mostly uninhabited and provided a sense of calm and serenity as a hiking location, and I felt energized after the trip.

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Conclusion

Trekking for waterfalls in Oahu is one of those exhilarating and mesmerizing travel experiences that one may never want to forget. Every trail was different. Some were provocative to take Maxona Falls, others powerful to see the view of Kaau Crater. The Likeke Falls Hike has been an opportunity for a quiet escape; however, the Alapena Pool and Kapena Falls Trail offer trails through waterfalls and beautiful clear water pools.

The first experience with Waipuhia Falls was exceptional because it was a hidden gem, and the second one, the Lulumahu Falls Hike, was equally satisfactory since it showed the untouched side of Oahu. The Waimano Falls, although slightly strenuous, was a great value, and the Waimea Falls Hike, though not very difficult, offered breathtaking views. All of them let us explore the magnificent beauty of Oahu, and that gives every single trip its purpose and meaning.

The panoramic view of Likeke Falls, a gentle and relaxing hike to joke, and then there are the daring extreme sports enthusiasts who go to Kaau Crater for the ultimate thrill; the waterfall hikes for Oahu are indeed a steal. Here are hikes for the trailblazers, the families, the dogs, and those who just want to take an amazing swim while being surrounded by the awe of Oahu.

Approved by copyleaks

WHO AM I ?

Hello !

I am Eric, a French Australian citizen based between Australia, Asia and Bali and I love to travel and experience the world. I generally like outdoor activities, wellness, great food and venues , party and real local adventures ! I am a Yoga practitioner and fitness lover

I created this blog because I love to travel and I want to share my experiences with others. I’ve been traveling since I was a child, and I’ve been to over 50 countries. I’ve seen some amazing things and met some amazing people, and I want to help others experience the same things.

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