Waimano Falls

Awesome falls hike after the rain! Swimming is very refreshing! Good falls hike for most people! Parking: street parking in a neighborhood; don’t block people in or the driveways! Otherwise there’s space but you might have to walk to the trail start. Trail: Paved or close to it for the first bit, then there are 2 main forks. The first is a little longer and has a sign to take towards Manana ridge, then there is a second set of signs with the Waimano Falls trail on it. Head that way, then you’ll make your way down steep rocky, muddy, and natural terrain with lots of roots and ropes. There’s a T-shaped fork at the bottom, head left for about 200m or so and you should hear the falls and be able to make your way down to them. Audience wise there are young children to elderly who can still move well so it’s not that bad! I slipped and fell a few times but that’s expected here when muddy Waterfall/Swimming: The falls are lovely and the pond is small, if it hasn’t been raining that’s not charged well which can suck. Otherwise the water is cool and refreshing and the basin is rocky in the water. Absolutely beautiful and hitting the rope swing is fun too! Gear: Footwear is dependent on your abilities with the above terrain. Some wear slippers, others boots, running shoes, or water shoes. Don’t need poles or spikes unless you aren’t stable or the mud is extra intense. It also depends how you feel if you choose to get in the water. Most folks just wear the bathing suit down and are mostly dry by the time they are back at the top.

The water is a bit cold but I found it invigorating! Nice fun event - went early around 11am during the week and it was not terribly crowded. Took the tram to and from the falls which was pleasant.

Was not actual falls, im in decent shape and the hike was a challenge. It can be slippery, slid and fell a couple times. Its a great hike but if the island hasnt had heavy rains youll be dissapointed if you make it for the falls.

Nice hike with a rewarding pool and a beautiful waterfall at the end. It got crowded quickly in the afternoon. The trail going in and out was slippery with mud, so be prepared for some light bouldering along the way.

Not going to lie the hike to get in and out is very extreme and by far the most dangerous trail i have ever hiked! We went on a pretty wet day so there was actually a waterfall but its 6ft of a waterfall at best. Would highly recommend not taking little kids on this trip. Was pretty but the hike definitely is way more extreme then advertised.

Terrific spot if you're looking for a waterfall swim and rope swing and willing to work to get there. Lots of vertical and decent to get into the falls, but we had it all to ourselves for the hour and a half we were there.

Waterfall is drying up. I went there after a few rainy nights hoping to see a waterfall but i was highly disappointed. It was just a small drip of dirty water. Hiking to the falls and back is a great workout though.

Nice moderate difficult hike. Very slick on trail in the forest due to tree canopy. Fun and beautiful hike to a nice swimming hole and waterfall.

Enjoyed this hike that is located off the Mānana Ridge Trail. First of all wear proper shoes for this hike. The surfaces can be muddy, slick, rocky and rooted. Bring plenty of water and snacks. It's all steep downhill or uphill once you take the falls section of the trail. The falls were not running much at the time of my hike , however the pools were cool and deep. The area is lush and beautiful with some tropical plants in bloom. There is a rope that is knotted to hold onto to help you walk down the rock face down to the first pool and rope swings into the next pool below it. The journey back up got your blood pumping. Parking on the street, be respectful on not talk loud in the neighborhood.

Not a maintained trail. Us and other people got lost either going to the falls or back from the falls. As an intermediate hiker, this was just a fair hike. Its a straight path for about a mile then for the last mile and a half its a sharp descent to the bottom. This trail is the Manana trail but when you hit the one mile mark, it splits between the waterfall trail and the continuation of the Manana trail. Thankfully there was secure ropes to help you down and up. It wasnt bad going up because its mostly shaded. The waterfall swim was worth it, however, the waterfalls themselves werent as great. It was just a tiny stream. It also wasnt packed at around 2 pm, but when we left at around 3, the crowd started to fill quick. Overall, i recommend this hike but do be careful and follow the ropes.

Waimea Falls is what happens when Mother Nature decides to flex--big time. Nestled in the lush beauty of Oahu, this place is like a tropical postcard come to life. The short hike to the falls? Let's just say it's like nature bribing you with beautiful plants and birds, all leading up to a jaw-dropping waterfall that looks like it was plucked straight out of a movie. And don't worry, it's not one of those hikes that require you to be a professional athlete--you can basically wear flip-flops and still feel like Indiana Jones (minus the boulder chasing you). Once you reach the falls, you'll probably feel like doing an epic slow-motion dive into the refreshing pool beneath it. And yes, you can actually swim here! There's even a lifeguard, so your belly flop won't be too embarrassing. Whether you're a tourist or a local just trying to live your best life, Waimea Falls is the kind of place that makes you realize why people never want to leave Hawaii. Pro tip: Go early to beat the crowds, unless you're into the whole "waterfall mosh pit" experience.

This is a pretty tough hike but definitely a 5 start hike! The hardness is based on the mud and weather and it depends if you do it in or after the rain. We hiked after and during the rain. So much mud and very steep climbs. If it was dry, it would be much easier. We literally had to use the ropes provided to climb up and back to the trailhead. This hike was so worth the effort! The two pools of water were so refreshing and the rope swing was pretty cool. We went out at about 7 am and got to the waterfall by 8'ish. We had the place to ourselves for the next hour and actually did no see anyone until we were halfway back on the trail. I do not know how busy this place would get because it isn't for everyone. You need to be in decent shape. My 10 year old daughter made it but she is tough kid. If you want an amazing jungle hike with a waterfall ending check this out!

This was a nice hike but tiring. Alot of trees and rocks to walk pass. There are two paths to walk. One is about a 5 to 6 mile hike and one to the waterfall which is roughly 2 mile hike. I will recommend to pack lightly because it's definitely a tough trail for someone with a full backpack. There are little pink ribbons to direct you to the waterfall, but another trail that also has some pink and green ribbon. But that trail is for the 5 mile hike. For someone who is 5 feet the trails has alot of ups and downs. Wide dirt roads to climb up and down. After the whole trail hiking back my thighs were so sore. I was dehydrated and so sweaty. The waterfall was not as nice as other pictures. The water flow was not as fill. It was a tiny one. The is a rope you can swing from the top down to a pool. There is two ways to get to the top of the wayer fall which is to swim in the little circle pool, which require you to swim to the rope and climb up the rocks. The other way is to continue to hike and climb down the little cliff to get to the top part of the waterfall

This hike is hard to rate. We went early one morning and parked in the legal neighborhood street parking. There's very , very limited close parking. We got here at 6:30am and nobody was there. By the time we got out of our car another car load of loud hikers parked. We were literally whispering but others were not. Voices carry. The trail was very dry. I can't imagine trying to hike this trail in wet mud and rain. Lots of roots and steep inclines. Not an easy hike but great for exercising your mind and body. I was super careful since I wasn't in top hiking shape. It took us two hours to complete. Just follow the pink ribbons for the falls hike. With it being so dry the falls were not flowing but that was ok with me. It was so quiet and peaceful. Just remember voices carry, pack in , pack out and respect the neighbors. I'm giving it a 3 stars because there's so many other hikes I'd rather do on the Island but glad I experienced it. Would be great for families that what to swim etc. On the way back towards the end of the hike near the entrance we saw 4 dogs that were unleashed with their owners. Fresh dog poop and the owners appeared to be locals not hikers.

Waimano Falls is my current favorite waterfalls hike. I like going to hikes where you reach a summit with breathtaking views or waterfalls. Waimano Falls is located at the top of Pacific Palasades. It's approximately a three mile hike and takes two hours round trip. Of course the best time to go is after it rains where the water will be flowing more. This hike isn't as crowded as others, but the pathways are muddy like Manoa Falls. There's not much of a view while on this trail, but you are surrounded by lush greenery. The payoff is when you get to the pool where you are rewarded with a beautiful waterfall. There is a rope dangling allowing you to jump in. Parking is limited to residential street parking. Please be considerate and take your trash with you. Tips: wear comfortable shoes that you don't mind getting dirty, bring a towel, and a change of clothes.

Anyone...and I'm saying anyone, not just those here on Yelp...that says this is an easy hike, is clearly outta their minds. Not a long hike, mileage wise. But, challenging. A lot depends on the weather. This recent time we did it, the weather was dry and had been for a bit. So, that was an advantage. Because, believe me, if this damn trail is wet and muddy, you gonna pay the piper. Start off on the Manana Trail at the top of Komo Mai Dr. Be considerate, because the trailhead is at the end of a residential street. Hike along the well marked trail til you come to a small sign with an arrow pointing to the right. This will take you to the falls, the other way is the rest of the Manana Trail. Anyways, from here, it's only about 3/4 mile to the falls. But, it's 3/4 of a mile that you will remember for the rest of your days. And if it's raining or has been recently, may the good Lord look favorably upon you. The trail gets steep. Follow the pink ribbons. Use the trees, ropes and roots as you negotiate your way up and down. When you come to the falls, it's going to be a rock scramble to get to the water. The falls may be raging or they may be a dribble. That's the rub. If they're flowing strong that means it's been raining which conversely means the trail is an absolute slog. You gotta pick your poison. Bring plenty of water, you will be sweating. Bring snacks to power up. Bring super grippy water shoes or similar. I don't really recommend walking sticks as you will def need both hands. Don't wear your latest, clean, trendy outdoor wear. You gonna get dirty. Honestly, the waterfall and pools were a little anticlimactic. Assess your fitness level before going. You will feel the burn during and after. All in all, it's around 5 miles total RT starting from the Manana Trailhead.

Wear bug repellent if you have sensitive skin. Don't wear nice clothes or nice shoes. You will get dirty AND muddy, regardless if it is sunny or rainy. Pack an extra plastic bag in your car for MUDDY shoes and/or went clothes from swimming. Be cautious, this trail is hard on the knees/joints. A lot of bending, climbing and the use of rope is involved on this hike. Reception is decent at the beginning. Once you hit the sign/start of hike, the closer you get to the waterfall, you'll have little then no reception at all til you get back out. Super fun hike when the waterfall is flowing and you can actually swing in !

This was such a fun trail with the cutest little waterfall at the end! We tried to aim for a day that hadn't had any rain a few days prior, to avoid a slip n slide hike haha but despite the sunny weather for the past few days, it was still a little damp and slippery. This trail is also on the steeper side, with ropes to help you along some of the more difficult parts. We wore our swimsuits and took a dip in the water (there's three - one in front of the waterfall, a small little pool in the middle, and another larger one with a rope dangling. Be sure to wear LOTS of bug spray, bring a towel if you're going to swim, and wear shoes with grip. Parking is in the residential area, but there was quite a lot of street parking when we went.

Today was the perfect day for this hike. There was a decent rain yesterday so the waterfall was flowing nicely but the trail wasn't overly muddy. After completing the Kuliouou Ridge Trail last week, this one really was a piece of cake. A quick hike in, and a beautiful waterfall. It was also the perfect time to go (about 7:30 am) as I was the only one at the waterfall. And after a quick dip and starting the trek out, I passed no less than 20 people headed to the waterfall. Just a great day and an amazing hike.

Two star rating due to inept shuttle service. Paid $20 round trip only to have to wait at a minimum, 30 min for the shuttle (holds about 14) to take you to the waterfall. They are supposed to have two shuttles running opposite of each other, they had one. Then when the shuttle would arrive, despite it being full, had an "8 minute" mandatory wait.... FOR WHAT?!?!?!! It's full, let's go! Two shuttles under a canopy that worked, no one's using them. The waterfall has seen better days, not much water coming down. Water is cold and refreshing. The trail / hike is paved, not sure how difficult it is, but it can't take more than 15-20 min and it's free. Maybe only pay to go up, not down? The wait is absurd, only have one shuttle running us dumb, the 8 min mandatory wait despite full is criminal.

Dangerous hike. Hike is very muddy and people slip and fall all the time. Many casualties on this hike. Locals will break into your cars also while you're hiking.

Trail completed in late October 2019. This was the hardest trail my partner and I ever did, because everything about it was unexpected and totally different from our usual hikes. We did come somewhat prepared though - wet shoes + tennis shoes, water bottles, waterproof cases for phones, waterproof backpack, GoPro gear, swimwear, and strong minds ready for adventure. It took a very long time to hike there. I want to say about 2.5 hours since we had no clue where to go exactly. Just following All trails map and occasionally getting confirmation from other hikers that we were going the right way. The mosquitoes were very hungry and very present during the hike. The trail was super muddy, so it was nice to walk in the stream every so often. There's a point when you go up stairs and uphill until it seems like you're standing on top of the mountain. Breathtaking view! And once finally reaching the gorgeous waterfall, someone was about to jump from a height I wish I knew how to get to. My partner almost didn't do the lowest jump point at all! So I had to get her to. We came so far and it would be our first waterfall jump ever. It's a great feeling. The water is super deep. The jump point goes higher and higher if you're brave enough. And the fishies are so friendly! I sat in the water on a rock and they started giving me a pedicure. LOL!

This was such a fun trail to do. Definitely had its challenging moments but was a great workout! The way there is mostly down hill, I would wear good shoes & if you're going to bring things wear a back pack! I had my phone & hydro flask & almost lost them both times that I fell lol. The waterfall was more so like a small spring. The water went to about my waist but super nice to get into! It hasn't rained much so no waterfall. The way up was a HIKE. I wouldn't recommend for small children or anyone with knee or back problems. So fun though!

This waterfall was not worth the hike in my opinion. It was a pretty steep and slippery and the waterfall was so small that I was disappointed when I arrived. If you do this hike, be sure to bring or wear bug spray because there are a lot of mosquitos here.

Although everyone will tell you to go--skip this tourist trap! It was an enormous disappointment. Although the natural setting is beautiful, it is ruined by being built over, commercialized, and dumbed down. We felt like we paid $$$ for a walk through a pretty park that ended in a hotel kiddie pool, instead of feeling like we were in nature. Who wants to swim in a waterfall in a lifejacket? With lifeguards on loudspeakers? With people too lazy to walk a paved path, so they take a shuttle bus (more $). Awful. There are many places much closer to nature elsewhere. Additionally, the "cultural spots" are an embarrassment--they are antiquated ideas of how to "preserve" cultural traditions and need to be completely reimagined to join the 21st century's ideas of what sustainable tourism looks like.

A good workout hike, I'm usually resilient with bugs but omg the mosquitos are vicious here. People were there for photo shoots so it was hard getting clean photos of the fall specially as we tried to go when it's dry due to all the mud so was not lots of water in to jump, but even on a dry day it was slippery, my girlfriend thought it was overrated but I enjoyed climbing the rope.

It's beautiful but please make sure you bring enough water and actually are aware of the level of difficulty people make this hike sound like a fun little hike. I almost died. Literally. Couldn't even find the waterfall because there's no signs & there was a group of maybe 20 people ahead of us leading us in circles it was very confusing and dangerous if you don't have enough water and don't know where you're going. Please just beware and be careful. It was VERY steep, very hot, very humid, VERY slippery.

truly truly miserable. if you like hiking through mud and branches and rocks and having to hold on to ropes so you don't bruise at least 3 limbs, then this is perfect for you. if you are just looking to see a pond of water that's low key anti climatic then don't test it, if you're there for the scenery stop 20 minutes in and turn back. the pink string helped i guess. it was a great place to meet some nice people because they also got lost. if you need some inspiration i highly recommend listening to "Don't Go Chasing Waterfalls". please, please stick to the rivers and the lakes that you're used to.

Our friends who are hiking fanatics read the previous reviews and believed all the hype. They regretted it after, as much as we did. This hike is not for normal people, it is very Difficult! If you have pre-existing health conditions don't go. If you have knee, ankle, bone, muscle issues; don't go. If you are over weight don't go. If you are afraid of heights don't go. If you don't have good hiking shoes; don't go. If you don't have hiking sticks or can't find a good wood stick on the floor; don't go. If you have bad stamina; don't go. If you don't work out on a normal basis; don't go- you will be extremely sore the following day and worse the second day after. If you came to Hawaii to relax; don't go. If you like TLC (the girl r&b group) you will remember their song "Don't go chasing waterfalls"!! Don't chase this waterfall, it's not worth it. If you want a waterfall for a nice easy hike Go to Waimea falls it's $20 but you won't die. Back to this Hell-hole: If you have fear and anxiety issues; don't go to this waterfall. Women- if you recently had your nails mani and pedi done recently- don't go! This trail is for Bear Grills and Naked and Afraid contestants who love adventures and who are in shape to do this kind of stuff. If you are over 35 years old, only go if you regularly work out. This is easy for teenagers and youth and gym rats and people that drive a Subaru- this is for you guys- go for it! For all the regular people- Stay away! Go to the Dole Plantation. If you go after reading this and you are not ready- you will remember me! It is not worth it! Do not believe the reviews that make this trail to be something fun, it is not fun. It is challenging, tough, exhausting, and if you don't download the map app you can get lost and sleep with the wild-life. This trail is only if you want to see what you are made of. If you still want to go- download rocky music, take water, snacks. The waterfall at the end is like a peeing camel into a puddle. The water is max 3 ft deep. On the rope swing it is much deeper but just a small spot. The water was mostly dirty or murky. I do not recommend it. If you go- May the Grace of God be upon you All!

I don't know where to begin. There were bloggers saying that this trail was easy and exciting and that the waterfall was worth it. It's not easy! It's difficult! There wasn't much scenery as there were so many long and tall trees (which at the end it would be of benefit for protection). I was holding on to tree roots, ropes, rocks etc. it's slippery, you don't know if your shoe will slip so it's a risk pretty much the whole time. If it was difficult for one part of the trail then ok... but no, the moment the paved way is over GOOD LUCK. The way down was challenging cause it was a lot of unknown. Getting to the waterfall was a mission and definitely not worth it. The water fall wasn't much of a waterfall but just trickles. And it's like ankle deep. The other part of the waterfall where people jump off the rope is deep but then it gets shallow. The going back up was harder (shorter in time) but very hard. Way too steep, way to tricky. I would never do this trail ever again. Couldn't enjoy anything for being so stressed and busy looking at every step and wanting to finish the hell hole.

DO NOT listen to any of the reviews sayings it's easy. It's not. Not for out of shape anyone, knee, back, ankle issues, don't do it. I'm saying this because i did with friends, first timers, and it was not easy, novice nor intermediate for them. I'd give it an ADVANCED. I enjoyed the challenge personally, but having to have others to think of or care for was eye opening. Water fall was kool, not most amazing but I enjoy all nature things. Few people enjoying the ropes and pics. Saw some dogs on trial, surprised they could do it. They did it. It is steep, you will climb down, climb up, using branches and tree roots to hold on to. Thank God for those that put rope to help others. Use the all trials app so you won't get lost like some people did, (not our party) we had to help get them back on the trail. We took a few wrong turns going and coming (2) some people put ribbons to "help" some do some mislead. Use the app. It'll save you from living there at night. Over all good challenging trial. Ok views, lots of trees. Water fall is a 6-7 out of 10 and hydrate well, have water and take snacks for energy. Thank God we had no mosquito problem since it was on and off sun showers. But I've heard..... safe trekking