Wailua Falls

Wailua Falls is a tall roadside waterfall beyond Hana on East Maui, known for its easy highway view, lush valley setting and short walk from the parking area.

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Wailua Falls

Wailua Falls, Maui

Wailua Falls on Maui is an roadside waterfall, located right on Hana Highway (located just past mile marker 45). No need to hike to it; you can see it from the road. The waterfall is an 80-foot (24 m) cascade and is surrounded by lush vegetation. There’s a small cave and pool at the bottom of it. If you want to hike down to the bottom of the waterfall, be careful because the rocks are slippery.

Key Features

Tall East Maui waterfall visible from Hana Highway
Known for a clear roadside view near the bridge
Most often visited during the drive beyond Hana toward Kipahulu
Water flow changes quickly with East Maui rainfall
Small roadside parking area can fill quickly
Popular photo setting with a full waterfall view, cliff walls and tropical greenery
Lush valley setting feels different from smaller roadside cascades along the route
A short visit here still requires careful parking and enough daylight for the return drive

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Wailua Falls so easy to recognize?

Its tall drop, green valley backdrop and roadside view make it one of the most photographed waterfalls along East Maui's Hana Highway.

How is Wailua Falls different from smaller Hana Highway waterfalls?

Many waterfalls along the drive appear briefly beside the road, while Wailua Falls has a larger drop and a more open view from near the bridge.

Why does Wailua Falls look different from day to day?

Rainfall in the East Maui mountains changes the flow quickly, so the waterfall may look delicate during dry weather and much stronger after rain.

What makes the photo angle at Wailua Falls popular?

The falls can often be photographed with the full drop, cliff walls and tropical greenery in one frame, which is harder at many tighter roadside waterfalls.

Is Wailua Falls connected with the Kipahulu side of Maui?

Yes. It is on the East Maui route beyond Hana, before reaching the Kipahulu area, where the road continues through a quieter and more remote part of Maui.