Top 5 Waterfalls on the Big Island (Hawai’i)
Aloha!
The Big Island of Hawaii, also called Hawai’i, is the largest island among the Hawaiian islands. The Big Island offers so much to its visitors, from stunning beaches and magical sunsets to lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes. It has some of the most popular and top-rated waterfalls in all of Hawaii and visiting one of these natural wonders needs to be on your list of things to do when visiting.
The combination of the rain and the range of elevation caused by the volcanoes on the island gives the island a large number of beautiful waterfalls. There are more lush waterfalls on the Big Island than you can reasonably visit during your stay. Keep reading to see our guide to the top Five Big Island waterfalls so you can get the most out of your Hawaii visit!
The Top 5 Big Island Waterfalls:
Kulaniapia Falls
‘Akaka Falls
Rainbow Falls (Waiānuenue)
Pe’epe’e Falls
Umauma Falls
Kulaniapia Falls is a Big Island waterfall located on the lower slopes of Mauna Kea on the grounds of the Inn at Kulaniapia, in Hilo, Hawaii. This secluded waterfall is over 120 feet tall, which is 40 feet taller than Rainbow Falls. Kulaniapia Falls is one of the only waterfalls on the Big Island that you can swim in (when river safety conditions permit). Visit this off-the-grid retreat for an awe-inspiring adventure such as swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, and even rappeling down one of Hawaii’s best waterfalls using on-site equipment and help from a team of experts.
To see this unique waterfall, make an advance reservation with Kulaniapia Falls for Day Pass to get access to the private property, or book a room to stay overnight. You won’t have to worry about crowds as you explore the state of Hawaii’s largest privately accessible waterfall. Enjoy views of the gorgeous natural falls, trek through miles of stunning trails, and explore the lush bamboo gardens.
Kulaniapia Falls is so much more than just a waterfall! It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience and has several Hawaii activities that are sure to make your trip unforgettable. With all that you can do at Kulaniapia Falls, it makes this waterfall a top-rated Hawaii waterfall on the Big Island.
2. ‘Akaka Falls
‘Akaka Falls is located just north of Hilo and are a gem of the Big Island’s waterfalls. The admission fee to view the 422 ft tall falls is $5.00 per car or $1.00 per person for pedestrians. The hike is easily accessible by a 0.4-mile hike through the lush rainforest. This hike only takes 30 minutes and the trail is super easy to find.
‘Akaka Falls is a highlight of the ‘Akaka Falls state park and are a must-see if you’re visiting Hawai’i. If you’re looking for an easily accessible view of a waterfall with a stunning hike, ‘Akaka Falls is the best option for your trip.
3. Rainbow Falls (Waiānuenue)
Rainbow Falls is the most accessible waterfalls to see in Hawai’i and are conveniently located within Hilo. To get the full, immersive experience, visit the waterfalls in the morning for the best possibility of seeing rainbows in the mist created by the falls.
Rainbow Falls is a broad waterfall in the Wailuku river and are one of the best Big Island waterfalls. The waterfalls fall over a lava cave that ancient legends say is home to the ancient Hawaiian goddess of the moon, Hina. Waiānuenue, the Hawaiian word for these falls, means “rainbow [seen in] water.” Rainbows are caused by the refraction of light in the water droplets created from the falls.
Visit Rainbow Falls for the easiest accessible waterfall on Big Island and for the chance to see beautiful rainbows.
4. Pe’epe’e Falls
Pe’epe’e Falls is also located within the city of Hilo, only about 1.5 miles upstream from the Rainbow Falls. Pe’epe’e Falls is on the Wailuku river at the end of Wailuku drive and are smaller than the Rainbow Falls but a lot less crowded.
These unique Big Island waterfalls are also the entrance to a popular local swimming spot called the “boiling pots.” The boiling pots are a series of smaller cascades that fill with bubbles, which gives the impression of boiling water.
Although Pe’epe’e Falls is lesser known than Rainbow Falls, it’s a beautiful secluded spot to check out if you’re looking for a less crowded area. When visiting Pe’epe’e Falls, you’ll also get the chance to see the natural phenomenon of boiling pots.
5. Umauma Falls
Umauma Falls is a captivating three-tiered waterfall located 16 miles north of Hilo on the Hamakua coast. These Big Island waterfalls are only accessible through the Umauma Experience because they are located on private land. Access costs are $12 per person, allowing you access to their tropical garden, visitor center, and tranquil pools.
The Umauma Experience also offers a variety of activities such as ATV rides and ziplining. The three-tiered Umauma Falls are a must-see when visiting the Big Island.
Find yourself Immersed in the Hawaii Experiences at the Top Big Island Waterfalls
The Big Island of Hawaii is home to some of the most beautiful and top-rated waterfalls on the planet. With so many amazing options to choose from, the five top-rated waterfalls on the big island are listed above to ensure you have a unique experience and a great time. Many of these top waterfalls also have activities such as water-repelling, kayaking, hiking, sightseeing, and more. If you love waterfalls and want the experience and private stay next to one, you can stay right next to a top-rated waterfall in Hawaii at the off-grid, peaceful, Kulaniapia Falls.
Make your experience in Hawaii the best by taking the time to visit these top-rated waterfalls on the Big Island to create your own Hawaii waterfall adventure.
Mahalo!
The Big Island Hawaii Waterfall Facts
The Big Island has some of the top-rated waterfalls in all of Hawaii
Kulaniapia Falls is a unique, off-the-grid waterfall experience with unique overnight accommodations, a lush tropical farm with tours and cooking classes, and local private chefs offering incredible dinners overlooking the falls.
Find yourself immersed in Hawaii’s beauty at the easily accessible’ Akaka Falls.
If you visit Rainbow Falls in the morning, you have a higher chance of spotting rainbows in the midst of the falls
Adventure to the boiling pots at Pe’epe for an awe-inspiring adventure!
Visit Umaumau falls to view the unique three-tiered waterfall.