A trip to Hawaii can only be considered complete by visiting one of its many outstanding waterfalls in Maui and Kauai. Most of the best waterfall hikes in Maui are easily accessible, unlike Kauai, where most of the island is under-developed, and you need to take a helicopter ride or something to see the best waterfalls. 
Hawaii offers many breathtaking natural assets, and the waterfalls in Maui are among the most impressive.

Here are the best waterfall hikes in Maui to enjoy, along with a map showing where to locate them.

List of 10 Best Waterfall Hikes in Maui in 2024

1. Waimoku Falls

Imagine driving along the road to Hana and experiencing the most beautiful scenery ever. You’ll experience a majestic banyan tree, a bamboo forest, and an exquisite grove of apple trees. In the middle of this natural wonderland lies the pièce de résistance: the Waimoku Falls, a breathtaking 400-foot waterfall cascading down a sheer cliff, one of the Best Waterfall Hikes in Maui. 
Remember to keep your camera handy, as you’ll see countless photo opportunities along the way that you won’t want to miss capturing.

• Location: The Pipiwai trailhead is at Mile Marker #42 on the Hana Highway in Haleakala National Park, Kipahulu District
• Address: Hawaii 96713, United States
• Official Website: http://www.nps.gov/hale/planyourvisit/kipahulu.htm
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

2. Twin Falls

As you set out on your journey along the road to Hana, the first stop for waterfalls is Twin Falls. Just after leaving Kahului, you will pass through Paia, one of the best waterfall hikes in Maui. But there’s more to these falls that meets the eye! To reach them, you’ll through a working farm, Wailele Farm, which graciously offers free access to visitors and even provides port-a-potties at the trailhead. Along the way, you’ll be greeted by beautiful wild hibiscus flowers, adding splashes of colour to the jungle trail.
While many visitors only make it to the first set of falls, which are easily accessible with a 10-minute walk, there’s a hidden gem waiting if you continue on the hike for a little over 1 1⁄2 miles roundtrip.

• Location: Mile Marker #2 on Hana Highway
• Address: 6300 Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, United States
• Phone No: +18084631275
• Timings: Monday-Sunday from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Official Website: https://www.twinfallsmaui.net/location/
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

 3. Waikamoi Falls (Mile 10 Falls)

Many visitors pass by Waikamoi Falls without realizing the charm they are out on! The first waterfall is conveniently located just steps away from the road, splashing into a beautiful, crystal-clear pool. But it’s the second-largest waterfall that truly steals the spotlight and one of the best waterfall hikes in Maui if you’re keen to put in a little extra effort to reach it. 

• Location: Near Mile Marker #10 on the Hana Highway
• Address: HI-360, Haiku, HI 96708, United States
• Official Website: Waikamoi Nature Trailhead
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

4. Punalau Falls

Punalau Falls is a hidden gem off the Hana Highway, often missed because it’s not visible from the road. It is also one of the best waterfall hikes in Maui. It makes it one of Maui’s hidden waterfalls. The walk to this stunning 100-foot waterfall takes about 15 minutes, with no official trail. 
Be prepared for some slippery rocks if you go upstream, especially depending on the water levels. It’s a great hike for kids due to its short distance, but reconsider if it’s rained recently and the stream is flowing heavily. Everyone in the family should wear non-slip shoes for safety.

• Location: About ¼ mile after Mile Marker #13 on Hana Highway
• Address: 593 HI-360, Haiku, HI 96708, United States
• Get Directions: Map on Tripadvisor

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5. Honokohau Falls

Honokohau Falls, Maui’s tallest waterfall at 1,119 feet, falls in two tiers, creating a breathtaking sight, and is one of the best waterfall hikes in Maui. Located in a remote valley in West Maui, is the only way to reach it is by helicopter.

Viewed from above, it is just an unforgettable glimpse of the natural wonder and its lush green surroundings. Don’t miss the opportunity to see this Hollywood star up close; Honokohau Falls appeared in Jurassic Park and lived up to the hype!

• Location: Deep in the West Maui mountains
• Address: Hawaii 96793, United States
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

6. Upper Waikani Falls (Three Bears Waterfalls)

Upper Waikanae Falls, also known as the Three Bears, mesmerises travellers with its breathtaking beauty, visible directly from the Hana Highway, and is one of the best waterfall hikes in Maui. Three large waterfalls side by side create a wonderful sight, with an attractive pool at the bottom. The challenge is in getting down to the pool, as going down from the bridge can be intimidating. Once you get over that initial hurdle, everything else becomes easier. Enjoy swimming and taking photos in this exceptionally picturesque spot!

• Location: A little past Mile Marker #19 on Hana Highway
• Address: Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, United States
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

7. Kopiliula Falls (Kopihula Falls)

Kopiluliu Falls, a hidden gem on the popular road to Hana, offers solitude and peace and is one of the best waterfall hikes in Maui. The short one-mile hike to reach the falls involves climbing over rocks and possibly traversing muddy terrain.

Once there, enjoy the tranquil surroundings and possibly take a refreshing dip in the clear pool at the base of the falls. Since it’s not widely known and not everyone is up for rock-hopping, chances are you’ll have the whole place to yourself.

• Location: After the 21-mile mark on the Hana Highway
• Address: Hawaii 96790, United States
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

8. Hanawi Falls

Hanawi Falls, located along the Hana Highway, is Maui’s most photographed waterfall and one of the best waterfall trips in Maui. The Upper Falls drop 30 feet high, while the Lower Falls drop an impressive 200 feet. It’s worth noting that many people miss seeing Lower Hanawi Falls because access is only possible through private land in the village of Nahiku, where former Beatle George Harrison had a home.

• Location: Just past Mile Marker #24 on the Hana Highway
• Address: Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, United States
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

9. Makapipi Falls

If you have yet to see a waterfall from above, then this is the place. Makapipi Falls, along the Hana Highway in Maui, offers a special opportunity and is one of the Best Waterfall Hikes in Maui. It’s a waterfall where you can stand at the top and look down as the water cascades into a beautiful pool below. To get this unique view, park your car at the small pull-out just after the Makapipi Bridge and walk back onto the bridge.

• Location: Just past Mile Marker #25 on Hana Highway
• Address: Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, United States
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

10. Pua’a Ka’a Falls

If you are looking for a quick and best waterfall hike in Maui with a chance to take a dip, then this is the place. Check out Pua Ka’a Falls. There are two falls: one closer to the parking lot, smaller but more crowded, with a paved path leading to it and the other one is larger, requires a bit more walking on a dirt path but also has a swimming pool.

If you go through the Hana Drive, stop by Pua’a Ka’a State Wayside Park for restrooms and maybe a picnic at the covered tables.

• Location: Just past Mile Marker #26 on the Road to Hana
• Address: Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, United States
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

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Conclusion

There are incredible waterfall hikes in Maui, Hawaii, for all nature lovers. From the unique vantage point of Makapipi Falls to the easily accessible Pua Ka’a Falls. There is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you prefer a quick dip in a small pool or a longer trek to a larger waterfall, Maui’s landscape promises unforgettable experiences amidst its lush beauty and caters to everyone’s needs.

So, grab your gear, lace up your boots, and explore the breathtaking best waterfall Hikes in Maui for an adventure you won’t forget.

FAQs on Best Waterfall Hikes in Maui