Waimea Falls image

Waimea Falls

Tourist attraction Hiking area

One of the Best Places To Visits in Kapaeloa


Address

Waimea Valley Rd, Haleiwa, HI 96712, United States

Website

www.waimeavalley.net

Contact

+1 808-638-7766

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (3.3K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Saturday: 9 am to 4 pm
  • Sunday: 9 am to 4 pm
  • Monday: (Washington's Birthday), Closed, Hours might differ
  • Tuesday: 9 am to 4 pm
  • Wednesday: 9 am to 4 pm
  • Thursday: 9 am to 4 pm
  • Friday: 9 am to 4 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: waterfall (44) falls (32) water (30) life (26) walk (23) hike (21) beautiful (16) swim (15) paved (15) gardens (12)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Warren P. 1 year ago on Google
    This waterfall and garden is amazing!! Walking through the gardens before you reach the waterfall is worth it. It’s about a 20 minute walk if you just towards the waterfall without stopping and roughly 20-30 minutes if you do stop along the way. Either way you will enjoy all that offers. Now the waterfall itself…. Beautiful! Water was fresh, a little cool but perfect once your in it. The life vest are mandatory to have on when you get in but it’s free. You’re only paying for the entry fee… My kids and I swam for a good while. As you enter there’s some rocks you have to navigate through so I recommend wearing water shoes, something with rubber underneath. Towards the right side of the waterfall there’s a little spot you can stand up, perfect for pictures. Surprisingly the water falling down was amazingly warm, we were all shocked by that, so I highly recommend swimming or floating towards it and touch the water as it’s flowing down. What’s also cool about this spot is all the movies that have been filmed here. It’s like Hawaii is the location for a movie shoot.
    41 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Kris S. 3 months ago on Google • 121 reviews New
    Beautiful hiking trails here at Waimea Falls. On our tour, we were told right from the start that there was no waterfall due to it being so dry when we were there. It was a little disappointing to get that far and not see the waterfall, but the hike and flora made it worth it! The different flora species was interesting to see and observe how different it is from home (when we struggle to keep orchids alive inside in the winters, they blossom freely in the trees here). Make sure you have a good supply of water with you! In the heat, you definitely need it when hiking the trails!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kevin C. 2 months ago on Google • 109 reviews New
    Less than spectacular. However, if you are looking to swim at the bottom of the waterfall with a life jacket then this is probably for you. Note: Life jackets are Required and available at the waterfall. There is a paved path to the fall and it’s about three-quarter mile walk. The are inclines/declines in both direction. There is shuttle service available to and from the waterfall for a fee of $10 per person each way, so round-trip per person is $20. In order to get access to the waterfall, you must pay a fee to enter the park. The park itself is very beautiful and the waterfall is also very beautiful. It’s just not a very big waterfall and not spectacular in any way, shape, or form. There are a couple places along the three-quarter mile walk to get refreshments, and something to drink as well as restrooms and changing stations. Overall, this is a good place to take the entire family and just relax!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kathryn G. 1 month ago on Google • 112 reviews New
    Really pretty!! The botanical gardens are expansive and full of so many different plants native to Hawaii, as well as many endangered species. There were also various signs that shared different pieces of history. Depending on when you go, it's very quiet and relaxing. The falls are an easy walk up a hill with a cash-only booth right there if you need to store anything or pick up a missed item, e.g. sandals and coverups. The lifeguards provide life vests for everyone who wants to swim. Truly a beautiful location and worth the trip

  • 5/5 Jaybird P. 2 months ago on Google • 104 reviews New
    Wonderful and favorite place for my wife and I to hike the trails, smell the Forrest fragrances and see all the wonderful flowers and wildlife. We are annual members which is well worth it living here in Hawaii at such a small family price. See you out on the trails

  • 5/5 Jasmeen K. 1 month ago on Google • 102 reviews New
    Amazing hike to get to the waterfall, you can swim there, they provide mandatory life jackets to get in the water! There’s changing rooms and bathrooms by the waterfall. The water is on the colder side! But overall a really amazing experience!!

  • 5/5 Roman R. 3 months ago on Google • 80 reviews New
    1 hour round trip on fully paved trail, $25 entrance fee. Waterfall was active with plenty of water and the swim hole was very refreshing. There are plenty other trails with waterfall free of charge, but this one is the only one if you don’t want to get dirty.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Richard R. 2 years ago on Google
    This was a wonderful place to spend the morning. My wife and I walked through the valley and learned so much about the plants and some history of the islands. We also were able to hold hands as we tool a slow stroll through the valley. The staff was incredible and helpful. They were also very friendly and knowledgeable. If you want an excellent but yet affordable activity this is an excellent option. I highly recommend spending some time here. It was especially good for a romantic early morning with my wife.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael C. 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing waterfall with a pool that you can swim in. The walk to the waterfall is very scenic. DO NOT BUY SHAVE ICE. The shave ice is more of a mainland slushy with crunchy ice rather than Hawaiian shave ice. THE WALK TO THE WATERFALL. The walk to the waterfall is about 0.7 miles. It is entirely paved. My wife, daughter, and I walked at a leisurely pace and made it there in 20 minutes. For those that cannot make the walk, there is a shuttle that will take you from the entrance to the falls for ~10. For those that can walk, they definitely should. AMENITIES. There is a restaurant / cafe at the entrance. There is also a small cafe that serves food, coffee, and shave ice very near the falls. DO NOT BUY SHAVE ICE. The shave ice is more of a mainland slushy with crunchy ice rather than Hawaiian shave ice. There are plenty restrooms at the entrance and along the way. WATERFALL ANF POOL. The waterfall is beautiful. You can swim in the pool, and it is monitored by life guards. The life guards hand out life vests. The water is a frigid 75 degrees. Like all colder water, it’s great once you’re in it for a moment.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Akash B. 1 year ago on Google
    The falls area was nicely laid out. There's plenty of space for people to sit if they don't want to go swimming. People are there supervising swimmers with life vests provided, donations are all they ask for. The walk to the falls is quite beautiful. Lots of plants and trees to see with spots to sit and enjoy the moments
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Masprapa L. 1 month ago on Google • 52 reviews New
    Nice beautiful trial. Easy to walk there are plenty of bench to sit and relax. The water fall is small and crowded. The area that you can play with the water is tiny.

  • 5/5 Miss M. 1 year ago on Google
    The falls were beautiful and cold. You need a life vest to get into the water but it's worth it. I suggest you bring water shoes. The rocks are very slippery, some are sharp. I came here via a tour so the tickets were included, I don't know the original price. The gardens leading up to the falls are spectacularly breathtaking! I am very glad that I decided to visit them this time around! The climb up is not too bad even for a couch potato but it isn't a straight walk, there's ups and downs.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Wendell G. 1 year ago on Google
    The waterfall was pretty cool place to visit. There are lifeguards there and they provide you with a life vest. At 5:30 pm they make everyone get out of the water so don’t come later in the day. The walk from where you get your ticket to where the waterfall is about half a mile. You can pay $10 each way for a ride but I don’t think it’s worth it if you are able.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Barton 2 months ago on Google • 44 reviews New
    Very easy paved trail that is great for the entire family. (No dogs allowed) Lot’s of Hawaiian fruit trees along the trail to see and a snack bar with shave ice is along the pathway. Plenty of restrooms as well. The swimming hole at the bottom of the falls is safe and they have a life guard. There is lots of parking when you first arrive and it is recommended to buy tickets in advance.

  • 4/5 E A. 1 year ago on Google
    3.9. We were able to hike to the waterfall as part of our luau package. We had a wonderful time. The entire walk was paved and slightly inclined. There was a lot of beautiful plants to see along the way. Just a little crowded but understandable due to the time of year we're visiting. The water was a little cold but is fine once you get used to it.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Chell B. 2 years ago on Google
    We had so much fun on our afternoon hike the trail head closed at 4:00 as long as you get in and pay before then you have until 5:30 to finish your experience. We recommend you go later in the day and you will have the fall mostly to yourself. Swimming in the falls closes at 4:55. You should be able to make it up and swim in under 15 mins. You will pay $20 per person for the day or $30 for a season pass. This is a pretty easy hike if you are somewhat in shape.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Reny L. 7 months ago on Google
    Waimea Valley is a cultural and botanical preserve located on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. One of the main attractions within Waimea Valley is Waimea Falls, also known as Waihi Waterfall. Waimea Falls is a stunning 45-foot waterfall that cascades into a natural pool at the base. Visitors have the opportunity to hike through a lush botanical garden, enjoying the beauty of various plants, flowers, and trees along the way. The hike typically takes about 30-45 minutes and is relatively easy, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Once you reach the falls, you can take a refreshing swim in the pool beneath the waterfall. Lifeguards are present to ensure the safety of visitors. It's a wonderful way to cool off and appreciate the natural beauty of the surroundings. Please note that there is an admission fee to enter Waimea Valley, and there may be additional fees for activities such as swimming or guided tours. Make sure to check their website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on fees, hours of operation, and any guidelines or restrictions that may be in place. Visiting Waimea Valley and experiencing the beauty of Waimea Falls is a memorable and enjoyable activity for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful and refreshing outing on Oahu's North Shore.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sarah C. 1 year ago on Google
    This was our second visit to Waimea Falls (entrance cost $ 67.84); this time we came when the weather was warmer. The hike is relatively easy. We did rent a wagon for $10 in case my 10 year old got tired, which she did. The grounds were well manicured and there was no shortage of beautiful flora. We loved all the hidden little trails and stairs we discovered. The waterfall was quite active and we briefly swam in the water with use of life vests we were provided. The vests probably don’t get the proper drying it needs so they smelled a little, but not enough to ruin the fun. For a fee, there were also storage bins for rent to store your valuables. Overall, the experience was relaxing and we would definitely return. Plus, anything you can do to support restoring cultural sites and maintaining this beautiful property is worth the price.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Ryan R. 10 months ago on Google
    This is a beautiful spot on north shore Oahu. The botanical gardens are stunning and you feel like you are part of the island. The walk up to the waterfall is quite a trek and will take about 20 minutes. Bring plenty of water and your towel. Bring cash if you want to store your items at the falls. You need to wear a life vest to swim in the water and the guys at the booth appreciate your tips. Also bring water shoes because it is very rocky and some sharp edges. You will be surprised how difficult it is to actually swim up to the waterfall since the current is pushing against you. It is well worth the effort. The water is cold but you get used to it quickly. I do recommend this adventure, but be prepared for a workout. Only reason I didn't give 5 stars, because it was very pricey at $100 for admission for a family of 5. That should include the shuttle ride to the falls in my opinion.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Scott M. 6 months ago on Google
    The best part of the falls is the walk getting there. It's not a long walk and was pretty easy. There are a couple of hills, but nothing too hard to handle. The path is paved the whole way, and there is a shuttle you can pay for if walking isn't your thing. The gardens along the way are well maintained and cared for. The falls were a little crowded, but there was seating for everyone to relax.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tabetha F. 6 months ago on Google
    Not really a hike as it is paved good for families with strollers. Have to wear life jacket in the falls. Place is expensive if u just want to see the waterfall. However if you enjoy plants then the money maybe worth It was 25.00 per person to get in. I would like to see them have samples of to eat of the type of food/ nut trees they have there.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Angelene R. 2 months ago on Google • 26 reviews New
    Don’t expect any spectacular Niagara Falls views. It’s a small waterfall which can be easily walked to on the paved walkway. The side trails leading to the various gardens was nice as well. Paid admission but free parking, bathrooms and life jackets. Life guards present as well. Food and drinks are over priced.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Stephen B. 3 months ago on Google • 19 reviews New
    Been taking people here for years. Nice short easy walk and everyone Loves a waterfall!!! The flowers are always Beautiful even in the off season when there isn't as much in bloom. Lots of hibiscus and Love that they have plants from all over the world not just Hawaii although they have seemed to change the focus to just Hawaii, also like that every single things says what it is and the history of lots of them. Hawaiian village and games are also really good. Also peacocks!!!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dr. Jan W. 6 months ago on Google
    Easy, magnificently beautiful stroll to sweet 30’ waterfall with pool for swimming. All amenities available, food, drink, towels, clothes, shoes, even lifeguards. Best to go early and not on weekends, too crowded. Must wear life vest to float, provided. Clean and convenient. Gardens are spectacular every step of the way!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Carlos A. 11 months ago on Google
    I absolutely love this place. Main pathway is paved but you can turn it into a proper hike by venturing off the well maintained side trails on both sides. Stunning and gorgeous. Well maintained. Every time I visit Oahu I make sure that I visit here, and every time the upkeep and maintenance and restoration gets better and better. They’ve done a remarkable job with the cultural history and the botanical gardens. A must visit.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 John M. 1 year ago on Google
    This is a tour site for locals rather than a commercialized spot for the International tourists. A cool, nice (but deep) natural swimming pool. Life guard is around. And life vests are required and provided free of charge.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tyneca A. 2 years ago on Google
    Nice views and you can get in the water. Vendor there to rent life jackets and great place for pictures. Make sure you have on walking shoes or catch the shuttle cart.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Trisha H. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful falls but big hike to get there. Very crowded. Everyone who gets in the water is required to wear a life jacket. Too many people for me. There is a tram you can pay $10 to ride to/from the falls.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kelton C. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful array of plants, animals, and scenic gardens!! Would highly recommend checking this place out when you come! Only downside is you have to wear a life vest for the mystical pond and you can't jump off rocks.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Melanie M. 9 months ago on Google
    Great place to spend the day. Today was beautiful and hot, so when you visit, make sure to bring hydration. The stroll to the waterfalls was nice and simple. Mild hills and slopes, not too intense. The way is paved and there are signs to prevent being lost. There's also a shuttle that passes by, so watch out and make way for it. There's a $10 charge for one way trip. Bring mosquito repellent, sunscreen, shades, hat and water. If you're going in the water, there are life vests, make sure to tip! Enjoy and have a great summer 🌞 🤙🏽
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Pela D. 1 year ago on Google
    This place is open by 0900 so go early in the weekend to get free parking cause only few parking in front of the office are free. Tickets 20$ for adults but they have some discount for senior kids n military as well. The Waterfall just amazing the lake is deep for the safety staff provide life jacket and also do not go the left corner of the lake because of the falling rocks staff warn Tht too. Even if you are zero level simmer you will enjoy just relax don't get panic you not gonna sink😂 with the life jacket.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Scott D. 8 months ago on Google
    The falls were nice. Good place for a dip in the small lake at the bottom of the falls. Surprised, they gave everyone life jackets. But I guess when the lake is 30 ft deep, it is important to keep people safe. The walk to the falls through the Botanical Gardens was very nice. There were some plants I have never seen before. And the cultural exhibits for interesting. Nice place to stop for the day. Not that it takes more then a 2 hours.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sergio B. 8 months ago on Google
    Gorgeous waterfall in a peaceful, lush valley. The walk to the falls is about 15-30 minutes (depends how fast you walk, and how often you stop to admire the scenery and gardens). There are restrooms, changing rooms, and a snack spot near the waterfall. It isn’t too busy before 12pm, but gets rather busy after. The water felt refreshing and was relaxing. I recommend bringing water shoes since entry to the pool is rocky. There are lifeguards on duty as well to guide visitors.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cristal R. 10 months ago on Google
    Beautiful hike, all paved. The botanical gardens were just mesmerizing. They do have an entry fee. Adults are $25; however, we did get a military discount, which came out to $10 an adult. So that was nice. On this hike, you can get wet in the waterfall, but you must wear a lifejacket which is provided to you once you arrive at the waterfall. They do have a little store in there, but cash only. There's also changing room and restrooms, but you will be waiting in line. We didn't mind walking back with our wet bathing suits. By the time we got back to the car, we were already dry. Another great thing is that they do provide a shuttle to the waterwall; however, for an extra charge per person ($10 one way or $20 round trip). This is a great option if you don't want to do the hike. Saves you about 20-30 min, depending on how often you stop to look at the scenery.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Raymond T. 8 months ago on Google
    This is probably the hike I would recommend to everyone at all skill levels. We have seen all age groups doing this hike, including people in wheelchairs. The main path is paved the entire way, and there is even a little shuttle that runs every 30 minutes for $10 a person. There is one slight grade that could prove challenging to people with walking issues, but other than that... it was beautiful.

  • 5/5 M H. 11 months ago on Google
    Go early (before noon) and there is no wait line. Nothing could have prepared me for the beauty and enormity of the botanical gardens leading up to the waterfall. Most people weren't going on the little side excursion walks which was their loss, because there were some amazing plants and flowers worth looking at. I even spotted a couple of small lizards. The falls were also pretty but unfortunately the rain made the swimming area look like a giant mud pool. I didn't go in. Hopefully next time I visit I can take a dip in some clear waters.

  • 4/5 Catherine M. 8 months ago on Google
    Waimea Falls was a fun place to visit! Our group tour included a ride on the tram around the valley and drops off near the waterfall. If you like to swim, you can swim in the lagoon and get close to the waterfall. Life vest are available for swimmers. I was able to swim up to the waterfall and feel the current. Pretty fun experience while in Hawaii for the first time.

  • 5/5 Desi W. 8 months ago on Google
    Paved walkway with a few detours, if you chose to take them, to the waterfall. Gorgeous area with a great history. The falls is small but beautiful. We were going to a luau so didn’t swim. There are changing areas/restrooms near the falls as well as shaved iced, etc.

  • 5/5 Marcio Fraga M. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful waterfall despite not having so much water fall in the month we went (January/23). The walk through the local vegetation is pleasant and without ascents, it has good infrastructure with cafes, shops and clean bathrooms. Admission is $25 per adult, including parking and a vest for your dive.

  • 5/5 Ben B. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful hike through gardens with amazing plants/flowers, ending at the falls. You do have to pay to get in, but it's well worth it if you're interested in the Hawaiian flora/fauna. It's amazing to see how massive some of the houseplants you may have in your own home can get, given the proper conditions! You can swim at the base of the falls, so bring your swimsuit if you would like to do that (They sold swimsuits there, but they were pricey). It was pretty crowded and the falls were more of a trickle while we were there, but it may be better at certain times of day/seasons (we were there during the early afternoon in June). There's also a small restaurant at the entrance, as well as a gift shop.

  • 5/5 Ekhi G. 10 months ago on Google
    Beautiful place. The hike took me about 20 min each way. It’s very rewarding. The waterfall is small and you have to hike to it through a few rocks but the entire hike and waterfall are just incredible. You have to pay a fee when you drive to the parking and parking spaces are limited but people come in and leave constantly so the wait isn’t long

  • 4/5 Michelle V. 1 year ago on Google
    We took a few hours to see Waimea Valley Falls. Entrance fee was reasonable, less than $10 pp. (military discount) there was also student price and child price $6-$8 This gives you access to the pretty level and completely paved even walking paths. There are many trails that lead off the main that are not paved but fairly easy. Some stairs, some ramps, some slight elevation when visiting some areas in the park. The walk to the falls take about an hour but we stopped and read all the signage and looked at all the beautiful flowers, trees and shrubbery. They offer a shuttle to drive you to the falls. One way pp is $10. There is a vending machine closer to the falls $3.75 for a soda. When you get within a minute of the falls there are bathrooms, picnic tables, the shuttle drop off and pickup and a small concessions. It did not open until 11am and at that point we wanted shave ice but we were told it would take an hour for it to be ready. Disappointed. The falls are smaller than we expected. You can go into the water but you have to notify the lifeguards on duty and they will give you a life jacket to wear along with instructions, you cannot enter the water without a life jacket on. It’s free. We didn’t get in the water. The walk back is quit steep after leaving the concession stand but paved. When we arrived it was 5 mins after it had opened and we parked next to the building entrance in the upper parking lot. However when we left at 11:30ish it was so packed there was no parking. Go early.


Call +1 808-638-7766 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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