18 Best Maui Waterfalls You Must Visit in 2023

Planning to visit the best Maui waterfalls this year? You’re in the right place!

Maui is a gorgeous tropical island in the Hawaiian archipelago. Crystal-clear waters, soft white beaches, and lush jungle adventures all await! While there, you must check out at least a few awe-inspiring Maui waterfalls that mark the rugged mountains. 

Whether you’re interested in an intense hike through a bamboo forest, a quick stroll in a jungle, or want to see something off the beaten path, there’s a waterfall on this list for you! 

Read on to hear about the 18 must-visit waterfalls in Maui, Hawaii.

18 Must-Visit Waterfalls in Maui, Hawaii

Whether you’re looking through this list for the top choice or considering visiting them all, this list is a great place to start planning your next Maui adventure! 

Most (but not all!) of the waterfalls on this list are on the Road to Hana, a full-day excursion you should definitely prioritize. 

1. Twin Falls

Some of the most family-friendly waterfalls (yes, plural!) on this list are at Twin Falls. The lower falls are easily accessible, with a wide, well-manicured path taking you to each of them. 

The upper falls are arguably more impressive but require a trek through riverbeds and muddy trails. Not only are the waterfalls a reward, but you can also jump into the swimming pools and dip in the refreshingly cool river water.

You don’t need a guide here, but if you haven’t done much hiking, getting a guide is recommended to visit the upper falls.

If you go on your own, it’s $10 for a parking spot. Get there early! It fills up fast. 

2. Waimoku Falls

Waimoku Falls is the destination at the end of the Pipiwai Trail on the Road to Hana. Enter a beautiful bamboo forest, cross swinging bridges, and even see the 185-foot Makahiku Falls en route. 

A 4-mile round trip, this hike will take about 2.5 – 5 hours, depending on your skill level. Most of the hike is an elevated boardwalk, but you’ll want to wear sturdy shoes. Parts of the trail can get muddy, and you’ll be scaling rocks. 

I did this hike for the first time a few years ago and was blown away! The bamboo forest is magical, and the waterfall at the end is awe-inspiring. 

You need a Haleakala National Park Pass to complete this trail, but it’s worth the extra cost! 

3. Pua’a Ka’a Falls

Pua’a Ka’a Falls is part of a Maui State Park along the beautiful road to Hana. Several small scenic waterfalls and swimming pools are scattered across the park. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to get out and use the restrooms!

One set of falls is right by the road, and the others are just a short walk away, making these waterfalls easy and convenient to see. You can dip in the pool, swim behind the waterfalls or enjoy a picnic lunch! 

This is one of the few stops on the road to Hana that is handicap accessible, making it a great place to spend some time if you or someone in your party has mobility issues. 

Pro Tip: Bring bug spray! The mosquitoes can be brutal. 

4. Seven Sacred Pools of Oheo

Located along the Oheo Gulch, the Seven Sacred Pools are misleading. With over 20 swimmable pools, two hikes, and a camping spot, Seven Sacred Pools is a must-do for any adventurous traveler. 

This is definitely one of the best hikes in Maui with waterfalls!

These pools are part of the Haleakala National Park, meaning you’ll need a national park pass. The $30 entrance fee will also grant you access to the summit if you go within the next 3 days. 

The trail to the pools starts at the Kipahulu Visitors Center Parking lot (where the Pipiwai trailhead is also!). A quick half-mile walk will take you to the pools where you can swim, cliff jump, or enjoy the lush jungle foliage. 

5. Punalau Falls

Punalau Falls is a gorgeous 100-foot waterfall often overlooked on the Road to Hana. The trailhead is unsigned and sits adjacent to a single parking spot. 

It’s approximately a quarter mile east of mile marker 13. You’ll head into the jungle to a stream bed, where you’ll then walk upstream. These falls are difficult to reach, with no actual trail to follow.

However, getting up to the waterfall should only take about 20 minutes. If you’re lucky, you’ll have it all to yourself!

Important Note: Don’t do this hike if it is raining, has rained recently, or is raining up the mountain. Flash flooding has happened, and the narrow gorge makes escaping unscathed unlikely.  

6. Honokohau Falls

Purportedly the tallest waterfall on Maui, Honokohau Falls plunges for an impressive total of 1,100 feet!

Located in an inaccessible valley on the West side of Maui, you cannot hike to see it. Instead, you’ll need to book a helicopter tour!

These falls were featured in one of the Jurassic Park movies and are named after the Honokohau stream that starts at the summit of Pu’u Kukui. That summit receives some of the highest levels of rainfall in the world!

Even though various helicopter tour companies offer excursions to see this waterfall, book it early! Especially if you’re visiting Maui during the busy winter months.

7. Waikamoi Falls

Next on the list is Waikamoi Falls. Right past the mile 10 marker on the Road to Hana, you’ll see a singular parking spot before the one-lane bridge. The trail is on the right when facing upstream on the bridge. 

A quick 50-yard walk takes you to the emerald-green pool’s base. Feeling adventurous? Follow the stream bed up to a second, more impressive waterfall. 

With multiple spots to sit underneath the cascading water, this waterfall is the perfect pit stop to see something beautiful and cool down.

If the stream is raging, it’s best not to go to the second waterfall. Otherwise, it’s an easily accessible, reasonably quick jungle hike. 

8. Alelele Falls

Allele Falls is an impressive 50-foot waterfall that’s only a short hike away. Take a quick, 15-minute trek through the Kipahulu region of Haleakala National Park to see this beauty!

Located between mile markers 38 and 39, the trailhead is next to the Alelele Stream. To find it easily, download a copy of Google Maps to your phone and mark the stream before hitting the road. 

Once there, you’ll enter the trail to the right of the bridge and head up. About 3/4 of the way through, you must cross the stream, so wear shoes that can get wet!

9. Waikani Falls

One of the most famous waterfalls in the Hawaiian islands, Waikani Falls, is visible right off the road! Like most on this list, they’re seen along the road to Hana, just beyond mile marker 19. 

While you can soak up the views from the bridge without leaving your car, it’s worth trying to get parking to get a closer view of the falls. There’s parking available past the bridge, and the trailhead begins below. 

The hike to the swimming pool starts out pretty steep but then levels off, so you can cruise once you get past the initial push! 

The falls are photogenic, and you’ll find the surrounding area full of lush plants and gorgeous foliage. 

Be mindful not to block the road while looking at the falls! Even though the Road to Hana is a tourist destination, many people commute on this road daily. Pull over to let locals pass and find somewhere to pull over before taking pictures.

10. Hanawi Falls

Hanawi Falls is one of the most picturesque waterfalls on the Road to Hana. This natural wonder is located right after mile marker 45.

While it’s only about 30 feet high, it cascades down multiple points. At the bottom of the falls, you’ll find a pleasant swimming hole for an icy cold dip. 

You can stay on the bridge to enjoy these falls, or if you’re feeling like a swim, you can trek down to the pools. If you remain on the bridge, be mindful of vehicles passing behind you, and don’t block traffic!

Flash floods are especially common in this part of Maui due to the significant yearly rainfall.

 11. Wailua Falls

Once you’ve stopped at Hanawi Falls, continue on to mile marker #45 to see the incredible Wailua Falls Maui! Cascading 80 feet down a jungle wall, it’s a magical stop. 

The best part? There are even ample parking and local vendors. 

Stop, take some time to soak in the views, walk down to the plunge pool for a quick swim, and then get some snacks to fuel the rest of your drive!

Even if you don’t have time to stop, you can still see the waterfall from your car as you drive past— but it’s definitely worth taking some extra time here. 

12. Kopiliula Falls

Located at the end of a 2-mile hike, Kopiliula Falls is a stunning waterfall, well worth the extra effort to visit. 

This waterfall is tricky to find— start at the Kopiliula stream bridge and park at a small, rocky embankment. Climb down to the stream, and find a lightly used trail just beyond the bushes on the left side of the creek.

Halfway through, you’ll come across a large pool of water. You must swim through that pool to get to the final waterfall. 

While parts of the trail get steep, there should be ropes to help you get up and down safely. Once there, enjoy the waterfall! Chances are, you’ll have it all to yourself!

Pro Tip: Make sure to leave any sensitive items in the car or pack a dry bag to bring with you!

13. Makapipi Falls

How often do you get to see a waterfall from directly above? For a unique viewpoint of Makapipi Falls, you don’t have to do anything other than find a parking spot (a special kind of challenge on the road to Hana) and walk over.

At the bridge near mile marker 25, peek over the edge on the ocean side to see the Makapipi Falls from a bird’s eye view! 

Be careful not to lean too far over the bridge— fatal falls have occurred here. Hold tight to the railing and watch the water shoot out of a lava-rock chute and into a plunge pool.

During the dry season, this waterfall dries up quickly. 

14. Makamaka’ole Falls

The reward at the end of the hike, known as 13 crossings, Makamaka’ole Falls is a cute waterfall with a fun swimming pool at the bottom. 

Located in the West Maui mountains past Wailuku town, it’s one of the few waterfalls featured not on the Road to Hana. 

The hike itself is relatively easy, only 2 miles out and back. Still, it requires a good amount of balance as you cross the stream multiple times and clamber over rocks. 

I’ve visited these falls several times and enjoy the jungle atmosphere and quick dip at the end. The pool is small but deep enough to submerge fully. 

If you’re feeling extra adventurous (and have more arm strength than I do), climb up the rope dangling over the falls for additional views!

15. Makahiku Falls

Makahiku Falls is an impressive 185-foot tall fall close to the Pipiwai trailhead’s beginning. 

Approximately a half-mile hike in, this waterfall is an impressive end-destination if you don’t want to go the additional 1.5 miles to Waimoku Falls. 

While you won’t be next to the waterfall and definitely won’t be able to swim in it, you’ll still be close enough to hear the thundering water, see the spray in the air, and be in awe.

It’s stunning! 

16. Puohokamoa Falls

Located along the road to Hana, the upper and lower falls of Puohokamoa can be seen from two separate vantage points. 

Upper Puohokamao can be seen from the Garden of Eden. This conservatory and botanical gardens are open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Admission costs $20 and gives you access to 2 miles of beautiful nature trails. 

You also have the ability to drive through and see the sights. You’ll get a bird’s eye view of the 30-foot falls from the garden!

The lower falls of Puohokamoa can be seen from a lookout point along the highway. These falls are an impressive 200-foot height! 

You can’t hike down to them as the trail is closed to the public. The lookout point is 0.8 miles past mile marker 10 and is worth a stop!

 17. Nemo Falls

This beautiful, multitiered waterfall and swimming pool is a bit off the beaten track and requires a quick 1/3-mile hike through Ko’olau Forest Reserve.

Most of the hike is along a 4-wheel drive ditch access road. You will need to cross a narrow utility footbridge as well. 

Please note that the access road and footbridge are most likely owned by East Maui Irrigation (EMI) and could be considered trespassing. 

I haven’t heard of anyone getting in trouble for going on EMI property, but it is a potential risk. 

The final stretch is a steep scramble up potentially slippery rocks. It’s worth the extra effort, though! Upon arriving, you’ll find a fantastic swimming pool and a gorgeous waterfall.

Don’t risk visiting this waterfall if there’s any chance of flash flooding. 

18. Four Falls of Na’ili’ili Haele

Half a mile past the 6-mile marker, you’ll find the Four Falls of Na’ili’ili Haele. Also known as “bamboo forest,” this trail is entirely on EMI property but incredibly fun. 

While the hike requires balance, finding parking is one of the most complex parts! While driving, you’ll see the thick bamboo forest to your right. You’ll need to park further up the road and then walk down.

Find any opening into the bamboo forest— they all lead to the main trail. You must cross an EMI ditch, but the trail follows the stream to the first of the four falls. 

The first two waterfalls are pretty easy to get to, but then after that, you’ll need to climb up a ladder/rope section and follow the stream bed up the mountain. 

When you come to a big swimming area, you’ll need to set your stuff down and swim upriver to get to the last two waterfalls!  Don’t let the cold water stop you– this is seriously so fun and one of my favorite hikes on Maui. 

Maui Waterfalls Map

5 Best Maui Waterfall Hike Tours

If you’re uncomfortably bushwacking through the jungle to find a waterfall or trespassing on EMI property, I don’t blame you! 

With so many great hiking tours on the island, you don’t have to worry about spending an extra hour trying to figure out where the trailhead starts. Check out the 5 best Maui Waterfall hike tours below!

🏆 Epic Waterfall Adventure – Best of Maui

5.0 ⭐️ 145 Reviews

This epic waterfall adventure is a half-day tour with several waterfalls and cliff jumping for the adventurous! 

Meet your group at the departure point, then head towards Hana for a jungle adventure.

With a mild-moderate hike lasting 3.5 hours, you’ll see a bamboo forest, try exotic fruits, go swimming, and take excellent photos and videos. Make sure to ask your guide about Hawaiian culture and customs!

 The quintessential Maui experience; it doesn’t get much better than this. With a maximum tour group size of 15, your guide will cater your tour according to your preferences and abilities.

Our guide was friendly and helpful in crossing the river that was higher than normal. The hike was challenging but getting to the waterfalls made it all worth it. Overall a really fun and memorable experience for our family.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Cassi_M, Jun 2023

🏆 Small-Group Waterfall and Rainforest Hiking Adventure in Maui

5.0 ⭐️ 910 Reviews

This small group waterfall and rainforest hiking adventure in Maui is a great way to experience the rainforest. 

Not only do you get hotel pick-up and drop-off, but you’ll also get to do part of the Hana Highway on the way to the trailhead. 

Your naturalist guide will be able to answer your questions about the local fauna, and a delicious lunch and snacks are included.

The hike is relatively easy, and you’ll see a beautiful waterfall in the lush surroundings and dip in the refreshing river water. Only 8 people are allowed on this tour, and it’s approximately 5 hours long.  

Erica was an excellent tour guide throughout. Very informative and kept everyone engaged. I’m glad Hike Maui has their own porta potties, makes the experience that much more enjoyable.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Johanna_P, Jun 2023

🏆 Rappel Maui Waterfalls and Rainforest Cliffs

5.0 ⭐️ 295 Reviews

One of the best things to do in Maui is to take this small-group tour and rappel Maui waterfalls and rainforest cliffs along the Road to Hana for the adventure of a lifetime. Never rappelled before? Don’t let that stop you! 

This is the perfect place to learn how, as your guides will start you off small and then scale up to a 30-foot waterfall.

Even if the waterfall is flooded, you’ll still get to rappel down jungle cliffs in a private rainforest canyon. 

I’ve seen many pictures from this tour; you can bet it’s on my Maui bucket list!

We had a great time! Shauna and Naomi made the day even more fun! Our 16 and 10 year old sons loved the experience!!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Amy_C, Jun 2023

🏆 West Maui Mountain Waterfall and Ocean Tour via Horseback

5.0 ⭐️ 530 Reviews

For the ultimate adventure, check out this horseback riding adventure in Maui! Get matched to a horse based on your riding abilities, and then ride into the West Maui Mountains. 

Head through gulches, see waterfalls, and then take an oceanfront trail and ride along one of the best beaches in Maui. 

Not only will your guide provide you with complimentary drinks, but they’ll also give you insight into the culture and landscape you’re riding through.

Finish the tour with a visit to a local petting zoo and see mini horses, sheep, and rabbits. Even inexperienced riders are welcome! 

Please note that there is a weight limit of 215 lbs, and you have to be accurate when signing up for the tour. 

We had 2 ATV riders and 2 horseback riders. Both groups had a TON of fun! Both of my daughters (one in each group) called this the highlight of their vacation! It was definitely the highlight of mine! The guides were terrific and took wonderful pictures for us. Definitely recommend!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Dana_M, Jun 2023

🏆 VIP Private Road to Hana Tour with Pick Up

5.0 ⭐️ 260 Reviews

Want to do the whole road to Hana without any of the driving? This is definitely the tour for you! A full-day trip, this tour includes visiting Hana, Hamoa Beach, and a stop at Waimoku Falls. 

Don’t worry— you’ll be doing more than just that! See Paia, a cute hippy town on the North Shore, the falls at Twin Falls, the Ke’anae Arboretum, lava tubes, the red sand beach, the black sand beach of Wai’anapanapa, and so much more. 

Hana has so much to explore and delight in! This tour is the perfect opportunity to soak up the best stops and spend the day enjoying the scenery instead of stressing about the drive. 

Kasey was great. She took us to some unique spots and had so much knowledge about the island. We would highly recommend this tour.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Karen_W, Jun 2023

Tips for Visiting Waterfalls in Maui

Visiting a waterfall while you’re in Maui is a must-do! You should know a few things before heading out into the jungle, either on tour or on your own.

✔️ Most importantly, it’s best not to hike to any falls if it’s raining up the mountain or has been the last few days. The water might be impressive, but the chance of flash flooding is high.

✔️ It is common to hear about hikers needing to be rescued via helicopter. Don’t let that be you!

✔️ I recommend bringing the following items: Swimsuit, towel, water bottle, water shoes (or sandals that you can carry!), and clothes you don’t mind getting muddy in. Insect repellant is also a great idea!

✔️ If you have a dry bag, many of these waterfall hikes are a perfect time to use it.  

✔️ If you get cold quickly (like me), I’d also recommend taking an extra layer to wear on the car ride since you’ll likely be wet. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls in Maui, Hawaii

Check out these faqs about waterfalls in Maui, Hawaii.

Final Thoughts: Maui Waterfalls

Maui has loads of impressive and magical waterfalls. A trip to this tropical island would only be complete with at least one waterfall visit. Hitting all of them would be impressive! 

Rappel down a waterfall, hike into a remote, hidden waterfall, or see the gorgeous Maui scenery from a helicopter– Maui is the place for adventure. 

I would definitely recommend Waimoku Falls at the end of the Pipiwai trail and Hanawi Falls, but you can’t go wrong with any of the waterfalls on this list. 

Which waterfall are you going to check out first?