Maui Waterfall Guide

Wall of Tears

Wall of Tears is a remote West Maui waterfall area known for many thin cascades spilling down steep, rain-carved cliffs after wet weather.

Plan Your Visit

Wall of Tears, Maui

The Wall of Tears is one of Maui's lesser-known waterfalls. In fact, as many as 17 waterfalls are cascading down a cliff, hence the name Wall of Tears. Not many people get to see these amazing waterfalls. They are hidden deep in the West Maui Mountains near the summit of Pu'u Kukui and are best seen from a helicopter. According to an ancient legend, the gods poked their fingers into the sides of these cliffs to create the illusion of “crying.”

Key Features

Remote waterfall area in the West Maui Mountains
Known for many thin cascades on steep rain-carved cliffs
Waterfall flow depends heavily on recent rainfall
Not a roadside waterfall or standard public trail destination
Most visitors see it from the air or from a distance
Weather can bring clouds, poor visibility and flash-flood risk
Access should be handled only through safe, legal and permitted options
Do not enter closed, private or unsafe terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Wall of Tears?

Wall of Tears is in the remote West Maui Mountains, where rainwater drops down steep cliff walls in many narrow cascades.

Can visitors drive to Wall of Tears?

No. Wall of Tears is not a roadside waterfall with a public drive-up viewpoint or standard parking area.

How do most visitors see Wall of Tears?

Most visitors who see Wall of Tears do so from the air or from a distance, depending on weather, tour routing and visibility.

When does Wall of Tears have the most water?

The waterfalls are usually more active after rain, though the same weather can also bring clouds, low visibility and unsafe conditions.

Is hiking to Wall of Tears recommended?

No. The terrain is remote, steep and hazardous. Do not enter closed, private or unsafe areas, and follow current access and safety rules.