17 Best Waterfalls in Maui
Do you love waterfalls? We do too! That’s why we created this blog post to share with you the best waterfalls in Maui. You can find some of the most beautiful and majestic falls on the island, so let us help you plan your next trip to Hawaii by giving you a list of all the fantastic places that will leave you in awe.
Whether it’s just one waterfall or a few dozen, we want to make sure that when you visit Maui, these are some of the first ones on your list.
So sit back and relax as we take you through our favorite spots for finding those perfect picturesque scenes that everyone loves!
Before we begin, let’s discuss a few important things. Feel feel to use the table of contents to skip to the sections you are most interested in.
Map of Maui’s best waterfalls:
Click here for the downloadable map!
Maui Waterfalls: Thing to Note
Watch out for flash floods. Do not swim during or after heavy rain. Flash flooding is a very common occurrence in Maui. Always check the weather before hiking to these waterfalls, as flash floods can lead to dangerous conditions and even death on some of the higher trails.
Follow all posted warning signs. Falling rocks are common around waterfalls, so stick to the trails and never climb on wet rocks. The trails will always be the safest route.
Be mindful of the tide. Always check the tides before planning your hike to a waterfall. Some waterfalls can be dangerous if not approached with caution during low tide.
Take your time. While it can be fun to visit many waterfalls in a single day, we always suggest taking the time that you need to enjoy yourself. This is vacation, after all!
Carry everything out that you carry in. This is just good practice for keeping Hawaii clean and beautiful. Discarded trash can easily wash into streams and hurt local wildlife.
Lastly, don’t forget an adventure buddy! Anytime you’re going to any bodies of water, it’s safe to practice to go with someone in case of emergency.
Maui Waterfall Safety Tips
Leptospirosis infection: Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that humans get from contact with water contaminated with the urine of infected animals.
It can cause severe, even fatal, infections in people who get it. Leptospirosis is more likely to spread during heavy rains, flooding, and certain seasons when rats are breeding.
Always keep your head above water to protect against leptospirosis as well as a host of other infections. The bacteria that cause leptospirosis can be found in water, mud, or anywhere where rats live or urinate.
In Hawaii, leptospirosis is often spread from exposure to freshwater streams and rivers. In general, avoid getting water in your mouth when swimming, wading, or bathing in freshwater streams or rivers. To learn more about Leptospirosis you can visit the Hawaii Health Department website or the CDC.
Now that we’ve discussed a few important things let’s dive into the spectacular waterfalls of Maui.
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In no particular order, here are the best waterfalls in Maui:
Twin Falls
The famous Twin Falls are located near Haiku, and many people consider the falls to be one of the best stops on the Road to Hana. Part of the reason these falls are so popular is because of their close proximity to Paia town and their ease of accessibility.
The falls feature three waterfalls; the first waterfall is about a two-minute walk. To get to the second waterfall, you will need to walk for about 15 minutes, and the third waterfall is about a 40-minute walk.
Be sure to wear proper hiking shoes for Hawaii when visiting these falls, especially if you plan on seeing all three waterfalls. There are a few places you’ll want to explore that may be muddy and wet.
Note: Swimming is allowed at the falls, but watch out for signs warning of flash flooding. I have read multiple reviews stating that the Upper Falls gets shut down after heavy rainfall due to flash flooding.
Waimoku Falls
Located on the Pipiwai Trail, the Waimoku Falls are a 400ft waterfall and one of Maui’s tallest waterfalls.
The falls are part of the Haleakala National Park. The hike is beautiful and it takes you through some thick bamboo forests. To get to the spectacular waterfall, you will need to hike about 3.8 miles.
The park charges a $30 parking fee per vehicle, which is valid for three days and can also be used at the Haleakala Summit.
The Waimoku Falls are definitely worth checking out and are one of my favorite waterfalls in the world! They are spectacular, and the hike and sights you see along the way are sensational. If you are in Hawaii with your loved one, be sure to come here as it’s one of the most romantic things to do while Hawaii.
Note: The trail gets muddy after rainfall, so be sure to wear proper hiking shoes before heading out on this hike.
Makahiku Falls
The Makahiku Falls are another one of Maui’s best waterfalls. They are located on the Pipiwai Trail and the hike to get to the waterfall is about 0.5 miles. The waterfall is a whopping 184 feet tall, and it’s located next to the Seven Sacred Pools.
The hike is very easy and only takes about 20 minutes, making it one of the most convenient waterfalls to visit. If you are in Maui for your babymoon, this can be a great quick stop to view amazing waterfalls.
Note: If you continue on the Pipiwaii Trail for about 1.5 miles, the trail will lead you to Waimoku Falls.
Waikamoi Falls
The Waikamoi Falls are a beautiful waterfall off of the Hana Highway that features a swimming hole.
This waterfall is one of my favorite waterfalls in Maui because it’s easily accessible through a short walk with no strenuous activities involved.
There are two waterfalls, and the first one is located a few minutes from where you park. The second waterfall is bigger than the first, so make sure you don’t turn back before getting there!
Definitely bring proper hiking shoes for this one as it can get very muddy and slippery. Also, I like these falls because they are less crowded than some of the popular ones on this list.
Lastly, these waterfalls are very prone to severe flash floods. Multiple people have already lost their lives in 2021 along this very stream. Look at the mountain for dark clouds, as this could indicate rain is generating a flood that can rapidly approach. Have an exit strategy and stay vigilant.
Pools of Oheo
The Pools of Oheo, also known as the Seven Sacred Pools, are located on the Road to Hana.
There are two routes to get to these pools; you can either take the Pipiwai Trail or the Oheo Gulch Trail. The second route is much shorter than the first.
Note: Swimming is no longer allowed, but the views are spectacular and worth the short hike.
Punalau Falls
Located on the Road to Hana, Punalau Falls are another hidden gem in Maui and one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the island.
If you want a secluded waterfall with few to no people around, then this one is for you. It requires a half-mile hike to get there, but you will be rewarded with spectacular views.
Be sure to wear proper hiking shoes while visiting these falls because the hike can get extremely muddy and slippery after rainfall.
Note: Swimming is allowed at these falls, however, always watch out for flash flooding.
Hanawi Falls
Located on the Hana Highway, Hanawi Falls are a great quick stop situated right of the road. The scenery is simply stunning and worth the visit.
Hanawi Falls has a 30ft waterfall and a long pool of water at the bottom you can swim in to cool off after viewing the magnificent scenery.
Note: It tends to get busy here, so try to get here early if possible.
Honokohau Falls
Located in the remote area of the West Maui mountains, the Honokohau Falls are a spectacular 1,100 feet waterfall. These falls are known to be one of Maui’s tallest waterfalls.
This site has two waterfalls; one small and the other large. A helicopter tour is the best way to see this waterfall.
Note: The Honokohau Falls were featured in the movie Jurassic Park. If you are a fan, I highly recommend seeing them!
Nahiku Falls and Nahiku Landing
The Nahiku Ponds and Landing are located near Hana town.
Swimming is allowed in the pond, and there is also a rope swing you can use to jump in the water.
I have read multiple reviews of people saying that the waterfall has dried up, so check weather conditions if you want to see this beautiful waterfall.
I still think it’s worth a visit as the pond is beautiful, and the gorgeous views of Nahiku Landing are worth it.
Upper Waikani Falls
These falls are located near the town of Hana and are a quick and great stop. The hike to the waterfall is about 0.2 miles, and it features a swimming hole right next to the upper falls.
Wailua Falls
The Wailua Falls are a quick and easy stop on the Hana Highway. The falls are very popular, which unfortunately means parking can be hectic.
These falls are about 80 feet tall and a popular spot for taking photos.
Note: There is a swimming hole right next to the waterfall.
Kopiliula Falls
The Kopiliula Falls are Maui’s secret waterfall that deserves a lot more credit than they currently get.
Located along the Kopiliula Stream, which is on the Hana Highway, the trail to get to the waterfalls is rated as moderate and about 2 miles upstream.
Makapipi Falls
Located on the Hana Highway, the Makapipi Falls is a beautiful waterfall in Maui.
This site is a nice and quick stop as the waterfall can be seen from the road. Be sure to park your car first before stopping to take photos.
Makamakaole Falls
Located in Wailuku, Maui, The Makamakaole Falls are less crowded and feature three gorgeous waterfalls.
You will have to cross the stream multiple times to get to the waterfall, so be sure to wear proper hiking shoes. The hike should take about 1 hour 30 minutes total.
Nemo Falls
Located in the Ko’olau Forest Reserve, the Nemo Falls feature multi-tiered falls and a gorgeous swimming pool. These falls are a hidden gem and definitely underrated.
Allele Falls
The Alelele Falls are part of the Haleakala National Park.
These falls are not as crowded as some of the other ones mentioned in this post. The hike to the falls is short, at about 0.3 miles.
Puaa Kaa Falls
The Puaa Kaa Falls are located near the town of Hana. This set of waterfalls features three main waterfalls, and they are surrounded by greenery and solitude.
This is a short 0.4-mile hike to see the waterfalls and is one of Maui’s most convenient waterfall hikes.
So there you have it, the top waterfalls in Maui. Before you go, let’s answer some FAQs you might have.
Maui Waterfalls Frequently Asked Questions
Is swimming allowed in Maui waterfalls?
It depends on the waterfall. You can swim at Twin Falls, Waikamoi Falls, Punalau Falls, Nahiku Falls, Waikani Falls, and Wailua Falls.
As always, please be sure to practice caution and watch out for flash floods. If you decide to swim, do so at your own risk.
Watch out for signs that say no swimming allowed. If you see these signs, it’s for a good reason. Do not attempt to swim.
Where is the secret waterfall in Maui?
Oftentimes when people talk about the secret waterfall on Maui, they are most likely referring to the Waimoku Falls on the Pipiwai Trail.
What waterfalls in Maui can easily be accessed?
Twin Falls, Waikani Falls, Wailua Falls, Honokohau Falls, Makapipi Falls, and Pools of Oheo are easily accessible.
How many waterfalls can I expect to see on the road to Hana?
There are a lot of waterfalls on the Road to Hana (and over 45 streams). The number of waterfalls you will see will depend on the amount of time you have to explore.
What is the best waterfall on Maui?
This is a tough question to answer as Maui has a lot of beautiful waterfalls. If I had to pick one, I would choose the famous Waimoku Falls.
Are there waterfalls in Maui not on the Road to Hana?
The majority of the waterfalls worth visiting in Maui are located on the Road to Hana.
Additional Things to Bring While Chasing Waterfalls in Maui
Note: Maui is a subtropical place, so you want to be sure that you are prepared. Here are a few things you can bring to ensure a fun day hiking around the falls.
Repellent: Bring bug repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other pests that might visit you on your hikes. You don’t want them ruining any of the fun!
Reef safe Sunscreen: Depending on the waterfall (hike), there might be sun exposure. Make sure you bring some reef-safe sunscreen with you or a snorkeling shirt.
Water: This is a no-brainer but don’t forget your water. Chasing waterfalls in Maui will make you thirsty, especially if it’s super hot out! I usually bring a water bottle with me and fill it up before leaving the hotel.
Proper hiking shoes for Hawaii: some of these waterfalls will require water shoes, trail shoes, or hiking boots. Be sure to check out the above article to learn more about the best of these types of shoes for hiking in Hawaii.
A towel: If you are planning on swimming in one of Maui’s waterfalls, be sure to bring a towel so you can dry off after.
A change of clothes: Trust me, you will want to have something dry to put on after you visit waterfalls. Sometimes waterfalls can be very cold, so bring a change of clothes just in case! This is especially important if you are doing the Road to Hana. Nothing is worse than driving in wet clothes.
Snacks: Depending on how long the hike is, you might need some extra energy. Be sure to pack some snacks or even a picnic lunch!
The Wrap Up: The Best Waterfalls in Maui
There you have it: the 17 best waterfalls in Maui to visit—and what could be easier than picking a waterfall from this list?!
Maui is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. They range from short and sweet, like Makahiku and Wailua Falls, to long and serene, like Waimoku Falls. No matter what type you prefer, there’s sure to be one that captures your heart.
When you are visiting Maui’s waterfalls, make sure that you are being safe at all times. Watch your step, check the weather for possible flash flooding, and be mindful of any wildlife in the area.
Mahalo for reading our post. Until next time, aloha and happy waterfall chasing in Maui!
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