VALLEYS & WATERFALLS
Welcome to waterfall country. The Hāmākua Coast on the Big Island serves up misty cliffs, lush valleys, and trails that feel like time forgot them (in a good way). Here’s a fast, confidence-boosting guide to the best valleys & waterfalls—with local respect and safety baked in.
ʻAkaka Falls State Park – Honomū
A paved jungle loop leads to a jaw-dropping 442-ft plunge. Easy for families, photogenic in any weather, and a perfect first stop after coffee.
Why go: Iconic, accessible, rainforest soundtrack included.
Pro tip: Go early for softer light and open parking; wear shoes with grip—Hāmākua does “dewy” like a pro.
Rainbow Falls & Boiling Pots – Hilo (Wailuku River)
Five minutes from downtown Hilo. Rainbow Falls sometimes throws actual rainbows in the morning mist. Boiling Pots (upstream) shows lava-terraced pools churning after rain—great from the overlook.
Why go: Zero fuss, maximum “wow,” perfect add-on to Hilo errands.
Pro tip: Obey signs and barriers—flash floods are sneaky; photos are better than heroics.
ʻUmauma Falls – Hakalau
A classic triple-tier waterfall in manicured gardens. You can pair a scenic visit with ziplining or ATV tours on the same property if that’s your flavor.
Why go: Beautiful tiers, easy access, mix-and-match activities.
Pro tip: After rain, the flow is dramatic—bring a microfiber cloth for your lens (the mist machine will be ON).
Bonus: Kulaniapia Falls – near Hilo (private access)
Day-pass access via the on-site lodge gets you a serene waterfall setting away from crowds.
Pro tip: Reserve in advance; it’s limited entry and that’s the charm.
Valleys & Vistas (awe, safely)
Waipiʻo Valley Lookout – North Hāmākua
One of Hawaiʻi’s most powerful views: taro patches, sheer cliffs, black-sand beach. Road access into the valley is restricted and rules change—enjoy the lookout unless you’re on an approved tour/resident access.
Respect: This is living, sacred land. Take it in from the top, leave no trace, and skip the trespassing.
Pololū Valley – North Kohala
A short, steep trail from the lookout drops to a photogenic black-sand beach ringed by ironwood. Parking is tight; a steward program helps manage safety and culture.
Trail reality: Steep, uneven, often slick—your calves will file a comment card.
Pro tip: Good shoes, hands free (no open coffee cups), and avoid cliff edges—wind gusts don’t care about your itinerary.
Waimanu Valley – via Muliwai Trail (advanced)
Remote, unforgettable, and not casual. Requires permits, planning, and experience. If you’re new to the island, start with the lookouts and save this one for the sequel.
Quick Planner (skim-friendly)
Best time: Morning—cooler, calmer, easier parking, prettier light.
After rain: Waterfalls ≫ stronger. Trails ≫ slick. Streams ≫ can flash flood. Choose lookouts if in doubt.
Footwear: Closed-toe with tread; trekking poles help on muddy/steep bits.
Driving: Coastal roads are winding—pull over for locals, enjoy the views.
Pack list: Light rain jacket, water, snacks, bug repellent, hat, sunscreen, small first-aid, camera/phone, microfiber cloth.
Facilities: Restrooms are limited at some lookouts—plan ahead. (Translation: say yes to the last clean bathroom you saw.)
Nearby Places To Stay
Local Respect (how we travel kindly)
Stay on marked trails. Valleys often include loʻi kalo (taro) and sacred sites.
Heed “Kapu/No Entry.” If a sign or gate says no, it means no.
Don’t take rocks, don’t stack rocks. Both harm culture and habitat.
Pack in/out. If it isn’t biodegradable in five minutes (spoiler: it isn’t), take it with you.
Listen to stewards/rangers. They’re protecting the place—and you.
Easy Half-Day from Hamakua Sunrise Estate
ʻAkaka Falls right after breakfast (golden light, happy feet).
Honomū or Hilo for malasadas + coffee.
Rainbow Falls quick stop.
Back to the lanai for a long lunch and a longer stare at the ocean.
Want more adrenaline? Swap in ʻUmauma for gardens + zipline, then sunset stories by the firepit.
Photo & Safety Pro Tips
Photographers: Tripod + ND filter = silky water; a polarizer tames glare and deepens greens.
Crowds: If the lot is full, don’t improvise parking—circle back later. The waterfall isn’t going anywhere.
Weather: Check same-day status (closures happen), and don’t argue with streams or surf. Nature wins every time.
Phone signal: Can be spotty—download offline maps before you go.
The quick take
Base yourself on the Hāmākua Coast, start early, tread lightly, and let the valleys & waterfalls do what they do best—steal the show (and your camera roll).