On an undiscovered path, Oahu is home to emerald-green accessible waterfalls, scenic trails with singing birds, and lush canopy forests. Oahu, Hawaii is known for its spectacular beaches and surfing spots. However, the island also has a few secrets. Imagine: you are taking a relaxing stroll in a warm tropical forest, breathing in the clean air when suddenly, from a distance, the sound of water catches your attention. Oahu waterfall hikes cater to the various needs of nature lovers, whether it is a gentle walk or a strenuous trek, all of which help hikers reconnect with the island’s unspoiled wilderness. And if that’s not enough, Oahu has some swimmable waterfalls that are a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, where swimming is a big possibility.
Unleash the sense of adventure still hidden inside you and take a picturesque nature hike showcasing the grandeur of the island while uncovering the hidden waterfalls in Oahu. If you want to take some time out to escape the stunning beaches, be sure to enjoy the lush rainforest and its picturesque waterfalls.
Just 15 minutes from the bustle of Waikiki, Manoa Falls is one of the island’s most visited and beloved waterfall hikes. The 1.6-mile round-trip trail climbs gently through a Jurassic Park-worthy rainforest (and literally so! Scenes from the movie were filmed here).
The trail can get slippery after rain, but the reward is a majestic 150-foot waterfall that plunges into a shallow pool, framed by moss-covered cliffs. While swimming isn’t recommended due to bacteria in the water, the atmosphere is serene and worth every step.
Local Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and experience the sounds of the forest at their most peaceful. And don’t forget mosquito repellent, the bugs can be relentless.
For those wanting a more secluded adventure, Lulumahu Falls is a fantastic pick. Although it’s not an official state trail, the route is well-trodden and beloved by locals. The 2-mile round-trip trek takes you through towering bamboo groves, across trickling streams, and up rocky paths that make the journey as exciting as the destination.
Eventually, you’ll arrive at a breathtaking 50-foot cascade tucked into the Koolau Mountains. It feels like you’ve stumbled into a secret jungle oasis. Just be aware that the trail sits on restricted land, so permits may be required depending on current regulations. You might want to check the current rules and regulations beforehand.
Local Tip: Wear shoes with a strong grip and prepare to get muddy. Slippery slopes and stream crossings are part of the fun, but can also be a challenge if unprepared.
Located on Oahu’s lush windward side, Maunawili Falls is a moderately challenging hike that rewards your efforts with a popular swimming hole beneath a cascading waterfall. The 3-mile round-trip journey winds through thick jungle, with plenty of muddy patches and uneven terrain along the way.
This trail feels like stepping into another world, birdsong echoes overhead, and vines and wildflowers line the path. The waterfall itself is inviting, with visitors often leaping into the pool from surrounding rocks. Just be cautious and check the water depth before jumping in; you don’t want to be on the wrong end of those rocks now, do you?
Local Tip: Trail conditions can change quickly, especially after rain. Bring water, wear good hiking shoes, and keep an eye on weather updates or possible trail closures.
The best swimmable waterfall in Oahu is Waimea Falls in Waimea Valley on the North Shore. Waimea Falls is unique in that it offers swimming as an activity around a waterfall. The warm pool cascading from a 45-foot waterfall is a great site for swimming. It is the only swimming waterfall in Oahu and lifeguards are always present ensuring safety for everyone who visits. The waterfall is accessible via a loop trail that is paved and stretches 1.7 miles. Based on personal preferences, shuttles can also be taken for $10 per person which saves travelers from walking. The experience is enhanced with vibrant ayopia blossoms, cacti, and cultural displays framing the volcano rock garden. Expect crowds particularly during the weekends. Also, note that due to security issues, swimming is forbidden during prolonged dry spells and severe rains. The valley is available for exploration at 20 us dollars for adults. Note the conditions and wear water shoes, specifically avoiding slippery rocks. Lifeguards are often on duty, and life jackets are available, making it one of the safer and waterfalls in Oahu for swimming. Waimea Valley also offers a range of guided tours and educational experiences, ideal for those curious about Hawaiian flora and traditions. It’s a great way to combine outdoor activity with cultural enrichment.
Local Tip: Admission is required to access the valley, so plan. Check their website for cultural events or hula performances, it’s a chance to blend nature with Hawaiian tradition.
Near Nuʻuanu, this 1-mile loop trail is a local favourite for quick hikes and cool-downs. The trail leads through a forested area to Jackass Ginger Pool, a small cascade feeding into a shallow swimming hole. It’s a casual, fun spot with a natural rock slide that draws families and thrill-seekers alike. The short distance makes this hike ideal for those short on time but still craving a bit of adventure.
Despite its rather peculiar name, the area is peaceful and surrounded by lush foliage, making it a great spot to recharge after exploring nearby attractions like the Pali Lookout.
Local Tip: It gets busy on weekends, so aim for an early weekday hike to avoid crowds. And yes, the rocks can be slick, so watch your step!
Tucked away on the North Shore near the town of Laie, this hike is for those seeking a more remote and less-travelled trail. The Laie Falls Trail is about 7 miles round-trip, making it one of the longer hikes on this list, but it offers a rewarding mix of ocean views, mountain ridgelines, and a serene waterfall at the turnaround point.
The trail begins behind Laie’s residential area and gradually climbs into the Koolau Mountains. Along the way, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the coastline and pass through groves of ironwood and strawberry guava trees. The waterfall itself may not be the tallest on the island, but it flows into a quiet, shaded pool that feels like a private jungle retreat, especially if you catch it on a weekday.
Because of the length and elevation gain, this trail is best suited for intermediate hikers or those with a good fitness level.
Local Tip: A permit from the Hawaii Reserves is required to access this trail, so plan ahead. Bring plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and start early to avoid hiking in the midday heat.
Ideal for anyone short on time, Likeke Falls is an easy yet scenic hike beneath the Pali Highway. For those desperate for a waterfall, Likeke Falls does not disappoint. Depending on your stamina, the trail can be accessed via the Pali Lookout or through a single, more direct pathway at the end of Nuuanu Pali Drive.
Surrounded by a forest pathway, the hike ranges from 1 to 1.5 miles in total distance. While the peaceful setting and moss-covered rocks may add to its charm, the waterfall does fall short of other, taller waterfalls on the list. At the end of the hike, travellers are met by a quaint two-tiered waterfall, which, is a welcome reward.
If you’re looking for a waterfall in Oahu that requires no hiking and where swimming isn’t a priority, the best option is Waipuhia Falls (also called “Upside-Down Falls”) in Nuuanu Valley. This seasonal hidden waterfall in Oahu can be viewed directly from Pali Highway after heavy rain (best during the wet season, November–March), with no walking or hiking needed. You can pull over at a safe roadside spot for a distant view of the cascade, which appears to flow upward due to strong winds. It’s not swimmable, and the trail to its base (0.6 miles) is overgrown and not recommended, so the highway view is the way to go. This makes it the only true no-hiking waterfall in Oahu. Visibility depends on rainfall, so check weather conditions. No entry fees apply, but ensure safe parking along the highway.
Waianuenue or “rainbow water,” known as Rainbow Falls, is a mystical 80-foot waterfall in Oahu, Hawaii’s Big Island, where sunlight creates precise mist over the falls, resulting in magnificent rainbows. It is only a five-minute drive from Hilo town, overlooking the possibility of free parking and effortless access to the main viewing area, a few short steps away. The Rainbow Water hike is short and ends at an elevated viewpoint, which is also shaded from the sun by the colossal banyan tree. Though the view is picturesque, the hike can be slippery at times. Time your visit during clear days between 9 am to 10 am for the optimal rainbow experience. Nearby natural wonders include the Peepee Falls and Boiling Pots. No entry fee and restrooms available, and spending just between 15 to 30 minutes, one can experience Waiki, which is a perfect blend of rich culture and untouched beauty.
Waimano Falls will offer an adventure like none other for experienced hikers and is not meant for the faint-hearted. The hike is about 1.5 to 2 miles and is packed with emerald wildlife, vibrant flowers, and beautiful botanicals. The path starts off easy but contains a steep 300-foot drop towards the waterfall. Hikers must be ready to confront slippery roots, mud, and rocks on the trail which makes the hike more challenging. Pedal strongly as you’ll face tougher parts like narrow paths combined with steep slopes. While the trek is difficult, the end reward of swimming in a refreshing fall during the rainy season is worth it. This hike is truly a one-of-a-kind rainforest experience.
On Oahu, a stunning island in Hawaii, waterfall hikes present an opportune moment to immerse yourself in nature while giving you the chance to reflect with some light exercise. Each step you take on the trail reveals to you the island’s untouched wilderness through the centuries old flora, the mist from the hidden waterfalls cooling down the tropical heat, and the sound of the local birds clarifying their songs.
Always remember the quote “aloha aina” which translates to loving and caring for the land. With this in mind, together with light steps and good attitude, you will discover the true hidden magic in Oahu that lies in the forested valleys.