Waterfall Hikes on Maui: 11 Most Stunning Falls on the Island

The island of Maui is rich with jaw-dropping waterfalls! Make sure to experience the best waterfall adventures on your next visit.

If you’re traveling to Maui, you probably have a list of activities you want to conquer. Among them, no doubt, is visiting Maui waterfalls. Luckily, Maui has plenty of waterfalls, ranging from those that are easy to access to off-the-beaten-path gems. Come along as we journey through the best of the best waterfalls on Maui.

11 of the Best Waterfall Hikes and Waterfall Adventures on Maui

1. Waimoku Falls

At the height of 400 feet, Waimoku Falls is a powerful sight you won’t soon forget. As one of the tallest waterfalls on Maui, millions of people hike the 2-mile-long Pipiwai Trail for unobstructed views of Waimoku Falls in all its glory.

The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit at any time! Just don’t forget to wear good-quality hiking shoes, as the path can sometimes be slippery and muddy.

2. Twin Falls

As the first waterfall that you will see on the Road to Hana, Twin Falls is easily one of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii Maui. If you’re not doing a Road to Hana tour, you can get to Twin Falls by driving for 15 to 20 minutes past Paia town. Around mile marker #2, you will see a bridge with a dirt parking lot beside it. From there, park your vehicle and start your adventure to the magnificent side-by-side falls on foot!

3. Wailua Falls

Most waterfall tours Maui include visiting Wailua Falls, one of the most beautiful Hana waterfalls you will ever see. Of all the falls in Maui, Wailua Falls is arguably the most recognized because of its appearance in various movies and TV series, such as in the long-running television show “Fantasy Island.”

If you’re wondering how tall is Wailua Falls, you are not wrong in thinking that it is pretty tall. Wailua Falls is approximately 85 feet high and drops into a pool over 30 feet. This gorgeous double-barreled drop falls never ceases to amaze, hence the motivation of many to brave the moderately challenging yet considerably short hike (21 minutes one way).

4. Honokohau Falls Maui

Many would agree that Honokohau falls, Maui, is the most famous waterfall in Maui. After all, it has two titles under its belt–Honokohau Falls is the biggest waterfall in Maui and is one of the tallest waterfalls in Maui to boot. In fact, Honokohau Falls is the tallest waterfall on Maui, with a towering height of over 1,000 feet.

A Honokohau Falls hike is impossible because it is located in a valley inaccessible by road or trail. You can, however, book a Maui helicopter tour to witness the breathtaking views of the great Honokohau Falls from above. We recommend the following Maui Island helicopter tours:

• Waterfalls of West Maui and Molokai Helicopter Tour
• Complete Island Maui Helicopter Tour
• Maui Hana Sky-Trek Half-Day Tour
• Maverick Maui Helicopter Tours

5. Lower Puohokamoa Falls

Upper Puokohamoa Falls used to be a favorite stop on the Road to Hana because it was one of the most accessible waterfalls on the island. In contrast, Lower Puohokamoa Falls is one of the most underrated waterfalls on Maui.

As these stunning waterfalls can’t be seen from the road, many people drive past this Road to Hana hidden gem. However, this 200-foot-high waterfall is not one to miss! This tall, cascading waterfall makes the short hike worth it, plus the place isn’t as crowded as the other Hana waterfalls. If you’re planning a Road to Hana Adventure, ask your local tour guide to add this to your stops!

6. Oheo Gulch Pools

At the end of the Road to Hana, you’ll find Oheo Gulch, also known as the scared pools—a stunning Maui scene if there ever was one! Several falls come together, creating a cascading oasis of water that is swimmable, hence its other nickname, “7 waterfalls Maui”. In fact, the tiered falls create natural waterslides and lagoons. As a result, it’s like a natural water park! These waterfalls are also easy to access and is one of the easiest waterfall hikes, with only a short hike required.

7. Upper Waikani Falls

Looking for a unique waterfall in Maui? These multi-tiered waterfalls in the heart of a lush rainforest make for an unforgettable waterfall hike. Also known as the “Three Bears Maui” due to each fall having a differing size, it’s a postcard-perfect Road to Hana attraction. And the good news is that getting there is a beginner hike!

You can stand under the waterfalls of the Three Bears Falls or explore some of its swimming holes. Ultimately, the hike to Upper Waikani Falls isn’t just for the view. It’s also for a refreshing swim!

8. Makamaka’ole Falls

Some of the best Maui Waterfalls are located in the West Maui mountains. However, that location makes those waterfalls challenging to access. Makamakaole Falls Maui is one of the only West Maui waterfalls accessible by land.

With that in mind, it’s a unique experience for any traveler. The fact that it boasts two waterfalls, one is 270-foot-tall while the other is 60 feet high, doesn’t hurt either! To view the higher falls, hike about one mile up the Waihe’e Ridge Trail.

9. Makahiku Falls

There are many natural attractions to explore in Haleakala National Park, all of them breathtaking to behold. If you decide to traverse the Pipiwai Trail, you will hike through an enchanting bamboo forest, an enormous Banyan tree, and several waterfalls, including the majestic Makahiku Falls.

This 185-foot horsetail waterfall in Haleakala National Park is a bucket list waterfall hike for many. The strong current and the falls on blast make for a stunning photo, but it’s also a relaxing and refreshing way to enjoy the Park when conditions are calm.

10. Punalau Falls

As one of the lesser-known Hawaii waterfalls Maui, Punalau Falls is a hidden gem. The 100-foot falls is surrounded by a lush canyon, creating a picturesque setting. In addition, the waterfalls, which require a 15-minute uphill hike to access, is an ideal waterfall for visitors searching for a secluded spot away from the crowds.

11. Alelele Falls

Looking for a beautiful waterfall hike but don’t want to exert too much effort in hiking? Reaching Alelele Falls is an easy peasy 0.3-mile out-and-back trail near Hana Highway.

This short hike will reward you with refreshing views of the 50-foot-high Alelele Falls, with a calm pool to swim in. You can complete the hike for 20-30 minutes, then stay much longer to enjoy the tranquil vibe.

Experience the Ultimate Maui Waterfall Adventure

Going on a waterfall hike is one of the top things to do in Maui! The views are always rewarding, and the hike itself provides a peaceful and refreshing experience.

If you dream of visiting some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Maui, we recommend booking the Road to Hana Adventure or a Hana Ultimate Tour. Traveling with a local guide will give you insider access to the best routes and best times to visit these falls!