Best Waterfalls in Hawaii

Out of all the Hawaiian Islands, the island of Hawaii is one of the all-time favorites for family vacations. There is so much for families to do on the Big Island, but one of the highlights is always venturing out to see the waterfalls. Some of the best waterfalls in Hawaii can be reached in a half hour or less. However, a few of these amazing waterfalls in Hawaii require hikes that last two hours each way. No matter the distance and the time, I assure you that every one of these waterfalls in Hawaii is worthy of a visit.

Best Waterfalls in Hawaii

Hi’ilawe Falls

Hi’ilawe Falls is a massive waterfall that is 1,450 feet high. This is one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. To reach this Hawaiian waterfall, you must hike for at least an hour. The good news is the hike is not that challenging, so your family should be able to complete it without any issues.

Kulaniapia Falls

This waterfall on the Big Island is actually located on private property. The only way you can see this waterfall is to either stay at the inn or have me book an experience package for you. One of those packages is waterfall rappelling. The best way to experience this stunning waterfall is to do a little rappelling. Other packages your family can choose from include stargazing, lava encounters, and lava tube exploration.

Onomea Falls

Your time at Onomea Falls will include a couple of side trips. To reach this waterfall in Hawaii, you must purchase a ticket to enter the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. The inside of the botanical garden is filled with beautiful plants and flowers. You can explore the gardens before and after your walk to the waterfall. You will want to remember your camera, too, especially when you reach Boulder Creek. This area is simply spectacular, and you won’t want to miss capturing it in pictures.

Nanue Falls

It will take you approximately two hours to hike to Nanue Falls. The trail is easy to navigate though, so you won’t need any special equipment. This is considered a hidden waterfall in Hawaii, even though it has been featured in numerous magazines. Normally, there aren’t too many people at this Hawaiian waterfall, so you may find your family all alone during your visit.

Rainbow Falls

Your family will discover Rainbow Falls inside Wailuku River State Park. This waterfall is only 80 feet high, but it offers a gorgeous rainbow at the bottom on sunny days. If you decide to visit this waterfall during your vacation on the Big Island, you may want to consider stopping at nearby Pe’epe’e Falls.

‘Akaka Falls

The ‘Akaka Falls are within the ‘Akaka Falls State Park on the Big Island of Hawaii. This natural waterfall is 422 feet high. The path to this waterfall is only a half mile long. Before you reach ‘Akaka Falls, you will stumble upon Kahuna Falls. Don’t get confused and think you have reached your final destination when you reach Kahuna Falls. While that waterfall is incredible, you won’t want to miss the beauty of ‘Akaka.

These are the best waterfalls in Hawaii. There are so many others we can add to your list when I am planning your vacation in Hawaii. So, if you are planning on visiting the Big Island, and your family loves waterfalls, make sure I know to add a few to your itinerary.

Are you ready to plan your next family vacation in Hawaii?

If you are ready, I would like to invite you to schedule a planning session with me by clicking here. When you click on this link, you are taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

And if you are not ready to plan your next family vacation right now, you can easily sign up for my newsletter here. This will ensure you continue to receive all the incredible travel information I share.