Puohokamoa Falls

Puohokamoa Falls includes upper and lower Road to Hana waterfalls near mile markers 10 and 11, with closed trails, rainforest views and viewpoint-only access.

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Puohokamoa Falls

Upper & Lower Puohokamoa Falls, Maui

Upper Puohokamoa Falls is a small waterfall that is about 30 feet (9 m) high. It used to be a popular stop on the Road to Hana, drawing crowds. But since it is located on private property, it was closed to the public. However, you can get a bird's eye view of it from the nearby Garden of Eden (which is a paid attraction that is located a half mile (0.8 km) past mile marker 10).

Lower Puohokamoa Falls is further off and not many people know it's here because of its hidden location below the Hana Highway. It is a much larger waterfall, roughly 200 feet (60 m), but the trail is very steep and dangerous and closed to the public as well. However, there is a lookout point about 0.8 miles (1.3 km) after mile marker 10 (when driving toward Hana).

CAUTION: As with all freshwater streams and waterfalls in Hawaii, Leptospirosis bacteria may be present in the water. Do not drink the water and keep water out of open wounds (including small scratches) and eyes.

Key Features

Upper and lower waterfalls along the Road to Hana
Upper Puohokamoa Falls is the smaller roadside-area cascade
Lower Puohokamoa Falls is the taller waterfall below Hana Highway
Former access trails are closed or restricted
Upper falls may be seen from Garden of Eden Arboretum when access is available
Rainfall can change the waterfall flow quickly
The surrounding terrain is steep, slippery and not suited for unofficial access
Roadside parking is very limited near this stretch of Hana Highway
Puohokamoa Falls is best approached as a quick viewpoint visit, not a hiking stop

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are there two Puohokamoa Falls?

The name is commonly used for both an upper waterfall near the highway area and a taller lower waterfall hidden below Hana Highway.

Why is Upper Puohokamoa Falls easier to see?

Upper Puohokamoa Falls sits closer to the road and may be visible from managed viewpoints when access is available, while the lower waterfall is farther below the highway.

Why do older visitors remember hiking here?

Older guidebooks and memories may describe former trails, but access has changed. The old routes are closed or restricted now.

What makes Lower Puohokamoa Falls different?

Lower Puohokamoa Falls is much taller than the upper cascade, but its hidden setting below the road makes it harder to see and not a place for casual access.

When does Puohokamoa Falls look fullest?

Like many East Maui waterfalls, Puohokamoa Falls usually shows more flow after rain, while drier periods can make the cascades less dramatic.