Haipua'ena Falls

Haipua'ena Falls, Maui

Haipuaena Falls is a relatively small, but picturesque waterfall located on the Road to Hana (Hana Highway). Because it can't be seen from the road, many people don't know it's here and pass by it.

The waterfall is nestled among rocky cliffs and greenery, along with a beautiful pool at its base. Wild ginger grows along the trail and ferns grow on the rock wall behind the waterfall, creating an idyllic atmosphere. However, because of the cliffs, it is advised to not stand under the waterfall as there is a risk of falling rocks and other debris.

The hike to the falls is only a short trail (about 100 yards – 90 m) on the Hana side of the bridge that leads to the lower falls and pool. There is also another larger waterfall upstream, but the hike can be very slippery, even on dry days.

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

Road to Hana stop: Small waterfall near mile marker 11

Hidden from road: Easy to miss from Hana Highway

Short path: Brief walk to the lower falls and pool

Lush setting: Ferns, rocks, stream water and greenery

Slippery terrain: Mud, roots and wet rocks are common

Upper falls: Harder upstream access can be unsafe

No facilities: Bring water and basic supplies

Rockfall caution: Avoid standing below cliffs or falling water

Visitor prep: Use sturdy shoes and avoid high stream flow

Plan Your Visit

Plan Haipua'ena Falls as a short Road to Hana stop only if you can park safely without blocking traffic. The trail and rocks can be muddy and slippery, and stream levels can rise after rain. Bring sturdy shoes, avoid cliff bases and do not enter the water when conditions look unsafe.

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Visitor Reviews

Reviews and Ratings

5.0

Rated 5.0 out of 5 based on 1 rated visitor review.

Add Your Review

largefamilyaccommodation

Mon Feb 08, 2016

This is a beautiful spot to have a swim and only one of our children actually swum. In hindsight I think it would have been a lovely waterfall for the whole family to swim.

Only 2 other groups were there when we were there. I highly recommend this as a stop on The Road to Hana as it is just a short walk to a beautiful waterfall.

Family friendly. Very pretty

Location, Parking and Directions

Haipua'ena Falls is located near mile marker 11 on Hana Highway, about a half mile past mile marker 11 when driving toward Hana. The lower falls are reached by a short path on the Hana side of the bridge. Parking is limited, so do not stop unless you can pull completely off the road without blocking traffic.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Haipua'ena Falls located?

Haipua'ena Falls is located near mile marker 11 on Hana Highway along Maui's Road to Hana.

Can you see Haipua'ena Falls from the road?

No. The lower falls are close to the highway, but they are not visible from the road. A short path leads toward the waterfall area.

Is the trail difficult?

The lower trail is short, but it can be muddy, uneven and slippery. Sturdy shoes are recommended.

Can visitors swim at Haipua'ena Falls?

Some visitors enter the pool when conditions are calm, but stream flow, slippery rocks, rockfall and water quality can create risks. Avoid the water after rain or when conditions look unsafe.

Are there facilities at Haipua'ena Falls?

No. There are no developed facilities at the waterfall, so bring water, use caution and park only where it is safe and legal.