Hanawi Falls

Hanawi Falls is a roadside waterfall along the Road to Hana, known for twin cascades, rainforest scenery and easy views from the highway near Hanawi Stream.

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Hanawi Falls

Hanawi Falls, Maui

This Hanawi Falls is a popular stop on the Road to Hana on Maui’s northern shoreline. But what most visitors see of this waterfall is actually known as Upper Hanawi Falls. Many people stop right here at the bridge that was built across Hanawi Stream. The waterfall is a 30-foot (9 m) cascade. It plunges down from the cliffs into a small pool. During or after heavy rainfall, the waterfall is much larger.

The other part of Hanawi Falls is downhill from here. This part most people never get to see. It’s a 200-foot (61 m) cascade. It can be accessed from the town of Nahiku via a trail. However, the trail passes through land that is leased by the East Maui Irrigation company, and they don’t grant hiking permits to Hanawi Falls.

So the best and safest way to view Upper Hanawi Falls is from the bridge. Some people hike down to the pool area, but this is not advised. The hike down there can be slippery and rock slides or flash flooding can occur without warning.

Key Features

Road to Hana waterfall near mile marker 24
Viewed from the Hana Highway bridge area
Rainforest setting with frequent East Maui moisture
Flow can change quickly after rain
Limited roadside pullout space near the bridge
Upper Hanawi Falls is the usual roadside view
Nearby waterfalls include Makapipi Falls farther along the highway
Better for a short photo stop than a long roadside visit

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Hanawi Falls often have more water than some nearby waterfalls?

The Hanawi area receives frequent rainfall from East Maui's windward weather pattern, so the stream can keep flowing even when smaller roadside waterfalls are weaker.

What is the difference between Upper Hanawi Falls and lower Hanawi Falls?

Visitors usually see the upper falls from the Hana Highway bridge area. Lower cascades are farther downstream and are not part of the normal roadside viewing stop.

Why is the bridge view part of the Hanawi Falls experience?

The bridge gives a quick look into the stream valley, which is why many people notice the falls while driving this section of the Hana Highway.

Why can photos of Hanawi Falls look different from day to day?

Rainfall changes the waterfall's volume and color, while clouds and forest shade can make the same scene look bright green, misty or darker depending on the weather.

How does Hanawi Falls compare with Makapipi Falls?

Hanawi Falls is usually seen from the side near the bridge area, while Makapipi Falls is viewed from above where the stream drops below the road.