Maunawili Falls via Maunawili Demonstration Trail

Oahu Waterfall Guide

Maunawili Falls via Maunawili Demonstration Trail

Maunawili Falls is a windward Oahu waterfall reached only through current legal access routes; the old neighborhood trailhead is closed.

Maunawili Falls, Oahu

Maunawili Falls is a picturesque 25 foot (7.6 m) waterfall. At the base of the waterfall is a pool. Some hikers refresh themselves here before heading back. While hiking around the waterfall, you can see beautiful views of the Ko'olau Mountains and other small waterfalls. This forest-covered area also has an abundant amount of papaya, banana, ginger, taro, and ti plants. Keep in mind that the path may be muddy and slippery, so wear proper footwear.

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.

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5.0

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

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Michele

Mon Jul 02, 2012

Muddy wet trip. The locals run it in flip flops, I have no idea how. It took my 11 year old daughter and me 50 mins to get there. Easier coming back. She wants to go again. I have to wait for my blisters to heal first. We went in July. We started at 11:30am and there was a good crowd there already. Go earlier if you want more quiet. Wear clothes that you don't mind getting muddy. Find a walking stick early - that really saved me.
The forest is beautiful, great views, kumquat trees, and babbling rivers. If you like adventure then go.

Location, Parking and Directions

Maunawili Falls is located in the windward Oahu foothills above Kailua, but the former neighborhood access from Kelewina Street is closed. The map point is kept at the current page coordinates for reference only, not as a recommended parking or entry point. Visitors should verify the current legal access route with DLNR or Nā Ala Hele before going and should not park in or enter through closed residential trailheads.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the old Maunawili Falls neighborhood trailhead open?

No. The former Maunawili neighborhood trailhead is closed for realignment, so visitors should not use Kelewina Street or residential access.

How can visitors reach Maunawili Falls now?

Visitors should check current DLNR or Nā Ala Hele updates before going. When legal access is available, it may involve the longer Maunawili Demonstration Trail / Maunawili Trail route rather than the old neighborhood trail.

Is Maunawili Falls an easy hike?

No. The current legal route can be much longer and more demanding than older descriptions, with mud, stream crossings, roots and slippery footing.

Can visitors swim at Maunawili Falls?

Some people have swum there in the past, but water depth, stream flow and underwater hazards can change. Freshwater bacteria may also be present, so visitors should use caution and avoid the water after rain.

Why should visitors avoid the residential access?

The neighborhood access is closed, and entering there can affect residents, private property, parking, safety and trail restoration work.