Be awed by the majestic beauty of nature with our list of waterfalls to include in your Maui itinerary. Every one of these Maui waterfalls is unique and offers a set of activities to enjoy.
So, read on and find out how you can best enjoy your time in Maui!
1. Twin Falls
A favourite spot with families with little kids, Twin Falls deserves the topmost place in every Maui itinerary. Twin Falls is so called because of the two falls that cascade down into the natural pool side by side over an open cave.
Twin Falls is also part of the Road to Hana scenic drive. Mongooses and chameleons are some of the wildlife you’ll see.
Location: Wailele Farm, Ho’olawa Valley
Good for: Swimming, hiking (it’s an easy hike), taking pictures, spotting wildlife
2. Kopiliula Falls
Located off the Road to Hana route, Kopiliula Falls is not a well-known waterfall, so you’ll have the waterfall all to yourself. The hike is a little steep and can get muddy and slippery, so you need good hiking shoes or sandals. If you want to stay dry, take the route on the left through the bushes, and the hike will end with a rope climb, which is great for adventurers.
You will also encounter some birds during your hike – look out for Laysan Albatross and Yellow-billed Tropicbird.
Check the weather report before heading out to Kopiliula Falls.
Location: Hana Hwy, Haiku, North-western Maui
Good for: Hiking, swimming, viewing wildlife
3. Wailua Waterfall
Another off-the-beaten-path waterfall, Wailua Waterfall is easily accessible and an excellent spot for those who don’t want a difficult hike. The waterfall is the makeup of two streams that drop 80 feet, but the distance can vary according to the amount of rainfall.
The fall can be seen from the roadside, so don’t bring your hiking shoes. If you visit in the morning, you’ll be treated to a sight of a rainbow enveloping the fall as the sunlight comes together with the mist.
Also, keep an eye out for Ringneck Pheasant and Hawaiian Pueo Owl.
Location: North of Līhuʻe, the south end of the Wailua River
Good for: Scenery, pictures, swimming
Pro Tip: Steer clear of the spot where the streams clash with the pool
4. Punalau Falls
Located deep in a thick forest, Punalau Falls cannot be seen from the road and, therefore, is easy to miss. The fall is said to be a hundred metres and can be accessed via the Punalau Stream. The route is strewn with rocks and volcanic boulders, so be careful and get yourself good hiking shoes before heading here. Most people skip this hike, which is great if you want to be away from the crowds.
You’ll also come across a few wildlife species, including Hawaiian Monk Seal and Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles.
Location: Hana highway, North-eastern Maui
Good for: Hiking, pictures, scenery,
5. Waimoku Falls
Part of Haleakala National Park, Waimoku Falls, is 400 feet tall and can be accessed by Pipiwai Trail, which is a round trip of four miles. This is one of the tallest waterfalls in Maui and is known for its beautiful scenery, lush foliage, banyan trees, and bamboo trees that you will glimpse along the way.
Water is too shallow for swimming, and also the fall brings down rocks and debris with it, so don’t stand under the cascading stream.
Some of the animals you are likely to see are Nene Goose and bats.
Location: Haleakalā National Park, East Maui
Good for: Hiking, scenery
6. The Kings Gardens
The Kings Gardens private waterfall and hike is one of the must-do things in Maui. You will be guided on a path speckled with verdant foliage and gorgeous scenery.
The hike is also called the “waterfall and chocolate tour”, as you will be shown how to make chocolate the Hawaiian way; you will also get the chance to sample some yummy chocolate!
Keep in mind that the tour is a little pricey, and you will have to tip almost everyone you meet.
Location: Hana Highway, Haiku
Good for: Scenery, hiking, photography, food tasting, insights into Hawaiian culture
7. Upper Waikani Falls
Tucked away in lush tropical vegetation, Upper Waikani Falls refer to three waterfalls, also called the Three Bears Falls. This is an excellent place for swimmers and photographers, and it’s an easy walk to the falls.
You can take pictures right off the road if you don’t feel like contending with the drop-off leading to the waterfall. But if you do, you might see the Hawaiʻi ʻAmakihior or Scarlet Honeycreeper.
Location: Hana Highway, Haiku
Good for: Scenery, photography, hiking, swimming
8. Seven Sacred Pools
Found within Haleakala National Park, Seven Sacred Pools are among the most stunning natural formations in all of Hawaii.
The trail is laid alongside a beautiful gulch through a bamboo forest, which will take about 15 minutes to complete. There are about 20 pools formed by the Palikea stream; all are excellent for swimming.
Location: Haleakala National Park
Good for: Hiking, walking, scenery, swimming, photography
9. Makahiku Falls
Another gorgeous natural attraction found in Haleakala National Park, Makahiku Falls, sits by the Pipiwai Trail. This is one of the many attractions you’ll discover on your way to Waimoku Falls. From the falls, there’s a secret path to a pool where you can enjoy a refreshing dip.
The waterfall is hugged by the thick tropical foliage of Haleakala National Park, and the surroundings are home to Japanese Bush-Warbler and Hawaiian Petrel.
Location: Haleakalā National Park
Good for: Hiking, swimming, bird watching, photography, scenery
10. Honokohau Falls
The tallest waterfall in Maui, Honokohau Falls (1100 feet) is located in West Maui valley while also inaccessible by foot. However, there are helicopter tours that will take you to this formidable yet mesmerising natural beauty that was featured in Jurassic Park.
Some helicopter tours don’t offer what they promise at first, so negotiate everything, ask questions, and be clear about what you are going to get for your money.
Location: West Maui
Good for: Scenery