Waimano Falls: Everything You Need to Know About the Hike + Waterfall -

Have you ever wanted to hike to Waimano Falls?

If so, then this blog post is for you! We’ll tell you everything about the trail, how to get there, and what to expect.

Plus, we’ll give you some tips for making your trip as enjoyable as possible.

Waimano Falls is one of the most popular waterfall hikes on Oahu. It’s an intermediate hike, but it’s also beautiful and rewarding. It’s also one of the best places to cliff jump on Oahu (if the conditions are right for it).

The trail leads to a stunning waterfall that cascades into a pool at its base. There are also rope swings that can add to the fun. If the conditions allow, you can swim in the pool or relax by it and enjoy the views.

Cody at Waimano Falls taking photos Infront of the waterfall and pool.

Read on and find out everything you need to know about hiking to Waimano Falls!

Disclaimer: Hiking can be a dangerous activity. Please assess your own mental and physical health before attempting this hike. Content on this site is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical, health, or safety advice.

Waimano Falls Trail Information

Difficulty: Intermediate

Distance: 2.9 miles (round trip)

Elevation Gain: 810 ft

Route Type: Out & back

How Long Does it Take: About 2 hours round trip

Highlights of the Trail: Waimano Falls, pool, rope swings

How to Get to Waimano Falls

Waimano Falls is located in Pearl City, Oahu. The best way to get there is by car.

From Waikiki, take the I-H-1-W
Continue on I-H-1-W, then take the I-H-201 W and I-H-1 W to Moanalua Road in Waimalu.
Take exit 10 from I-H-1 W, then turn right onto Moanalua Rd
Turn right onto Waimano Home Rd
Turn left onto Komo Mai Dr and take this road all the way to the end

Waimano Falls Map

Parking at Waimano Falls

Parking is located in a residential neighborhood. Depending on when you get there, you may have to park a ways away from the trailhead.

Car parked on the street before the start of the Waimano Falls hike

Be sure to respect the residents and follow proper parking protocols. Do not block driveways or mailboxes, and try not to be too loud.

We got here around 3:00 PM, and there was a lot of parking close to the start of the trail.

Hiking the Trail to Waimano Falls

The start of the trail is located at the cul-de-sac. See the below photo.

Cody standing in front of the green gate entrance to start the Waimano Falls hike

The green gate will most likely be closed, but don’t let it discourage you from hiking. You can use the sides to get past the gate. It is only there to block vehicles from entering.

The green gate at the start of the Waimano Falls hike

The Start of the Trail

The first part of the trail starts flat and is shaded in some parts.

Then you get to a section that’s not covered, so make sure to add sunscreen and a hat to your Hawaii packing list.

I usually wear a rashguard instead of sunscreen the majority of the time.

Cody hiking through the unshaded section of Waimano Falls hike

This section is flat and nicely paved, which was a great way to warm up for the hike.

Once you get past this open area, the rest of the trail is pretty covered. You are basically hiking into a beautiful forest with spectacular views.

Me hiking through the shaded section of Waimano Falls Trail

You will then start hiking through the roots section of the trail.

Be sure to follow the trail markers to stay on track.

Once you get to this point (see below picture), follow the Waimano Waterfall sign to the right. This is where it officially becomes Waimano Falls Trail.

The Middle Section of the Trail

The middle section of the trail is more challenging than the first part. I am not sure if this is a good thing, but some people might agree that it is easier hiking down to the falls than coming up on the way back.

You are pretty much descending the entire time here. It might get a little challenging coming back up as this is an out and back trail, meaning that you have to climb back up to get back to your car.

Me sitting down taking a break while hiking the steep part of the Waimano Falls Trail

Also, it’s very important to note that this trail can get extremely muddy if hiked after heavy rainfall.

This is a little conflicting because many people hike here to see the waterfall. For the waterfall to be flowing, it requires recent heavy rainfall, but then again, the trail is challenging if it is extremely muddy and slippery.

With that being said, be careful hiking down—especially after heavy rainfall.

You will also start to see some sections with ropes to help you descend.

Me hiking through another steep section of the trail — This part was a little steeper than it looks, and slippery as well.

Me hiking some more steep sections of the Waimano Falls Trail

Me holding on to a rope as I hike down the trail — This section will most definately be muddy and slippery after rainfall

Don’t be afraid to use the ropes if they are in good condition.

Test the ropes first before using them, and never trust them entirely by putting your entire weight on them.

Trust me, you do not want to be the person holding on to that rope when it fails for the time.

The Last Part of the Trail

The trail will continue to get steeper, but it’s not anywhere near as some of the more challenging hikes in Oahu—such as the Olomana Trail and Koko Head. In our opinion, the Kuliouou Ridge Trail was more difficult than Waimano Falls.

The Waimano Falls hike is very doable. Just pace yourself and take as many breaks as you need.

This part of the trail has more sections with ropes and some rocky and rooty areas. Again, be careful and you will be okay.