Akaka Falls
Akaka Falls is a 442-foot waterfall in Akaka Falls State Park, reached by a short paved rainforest loop trail with stairs, gorge views and Kahuna Falls along the way.
Big Island Waterfall Guide
Big Island Waterfalls
The Big Island's waterfalls tell the story of its wet eastern side, where rivers cut through lava rock, rainforests fill deep gulches and water drops hundreds of feet toward the ocean. This guide includes the island's most popular waterfalls, lesser-known cascades and waterfalls viewed from scenic overlooks.
Waterfall directory
Big Island Waterfalls
Browse Big Island waterfalls, including roadside viewpoints, lush valley cascades and scenic natural areas worth visiting.
Hi'ilawe Falls
Hi'ilawe Falls is a towering Waipi'o Valley waterfall on Hawaii Island, known for its high drop, changing flow, cliff setting and restricted valley access.
Nanue Falls
Nanue Falls is a Hamakua Coast waterfall series along Nanue Stream, with a roadside bridge view, lush stream scenery and hazardous upstream terrain.
Onomea Falls
Onomea Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall inside Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, reached by garden paths through rainforest plants, stream views and Onomea Bay scenery.
Pe'epe'e Falls and Boiling Pots
Pe'epe'e Falls and Boiling Pots are Wailuku River lookouts in Hilo, where an upstream waterfall, lava-rock pools and fast-changing river flow are viewed from above.
Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is an 80-foot waterfall in Hilo's Wailuku River State Park, with easy lookout access, morning mist rainbows and a lava cave connected with Hina.
Umauma Falls
Umauma Falls is a three-tiered Hamakua Coast waterfall near Hakalau, viewed through Umauma Experience with gardens, lookout areas and adventure tours nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best waterfalls to visit on the Big Island?
Popular Big Island waterfalls include Akaka Falls, Rainbow Falls, Pe'epe'e Falls and Boiling Pots, Umauma Falls, Onomea Falls, Nanue Falls and Hi'ilawe Falls.
Which Big Island waterfall is easiest to visit?
Rainbow Falls in Hilo is one of the easiest Big Island waterfalls to visit because it has quick roadside lookout access and nearby parking.
Which Big Island waterfall has a rainforest loop trail?
Akaka Falls is reached by a short paved loop trail through lush rainforest in Akaka Falls State Park north of Hilo.
Where can visitors see waterfalls near Hilo?
Rainbow Falls, Pe'epe'e Falls and Boiling Pots are in the Hilo area, while Akaka Falls, Onomea Falls, Nanue Falls and Umauma Falls are north of Hilo along the Hamakua Coast.
Can visitors swim at Big Island waterfalls?
Swimming is not recommended at many waterfall areas because of flash floods, slippery rocks, strong currents and restricted access. Use official lookouts and follow posted signs.