Are there fees or permits required for Haha Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Haha Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Haha Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Haha Falls.

LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Haha Falls near Ualapue, Hawaii, showing about 611 feet of drop, a single sheer drop, facing southwest

LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP

Nearby gauge (East Fork Kawela Gulch) · 2 ft³/s · Higher than usual

Haha Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Haha Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Haha Falls.

Hawaii

By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain

Private Landowner Watershed Protection Area WPA · PVT

About Haha Falls

Haha Falls is a quiet, lesser-known cascade tucked into Hawaii’s lush tropical landscape, offering a peaceful reward for hikers who seek solitude and verdant scenery. The falls’ exact height isn’t well-documented, but the setting—surrounded by dense rainforest vegetation and the sound of flowing water—makes it a picturesque stop for nature lovers and photographers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience. The falls sit within a Private Landowner Watershed Protection Area and are managed by the private landowner (listed as PVT), so visitors should be mindful of watershed protections and private-property considerations.

The Setting

Haha Falls sits at 2,579 feet within Private Landowner Watershed Protection Area, in the hills of Hawaii.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Puʻukaʻōkū Falls, the tallest waterfall in Hawaii at 2,756 feet, lies 4.9 miles to the northeast. Also nearby: ʻOloʻupena Falls (900 ft, 4.8 mi).

Puʻukaʻōkū Falls ʻOloʻupena Falls

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

There is no USFS trail number or federal trail designation provided for this route. The path is generally rustic and can include uneven terrain—expect natural surfaces, roots, and variable footing typical of Hawaiian forest trails. Because the falls lie within a private watershed protection area managed by a private landowner (PVT), verify access before you go, wear sturdy footwear, and pack water and basic navigation tools; follow Leave No Trace principles and any posted access guidelines.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a tranquil waterfall surrounded by dense tropical foliage. The area may be secluded, offering a peaceful experience. However, trail conditions and access may vary, so preparation is key.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Haha Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Haha Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall winter

Haha Falls can typically be visited year-round, but the best time to visit may depend on recent rainfall, as water flow can vary.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Heavy rains during wet season (November through March) bring higher flow but can make trails slippery.

Safety Information

Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks, sudden changes in water flow, and potential flash flooding during heavy rains. Always check weather conditions before visiting.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 1 hour ago Strong

These readings come from the USGS gauge on East Fork Kawela Gulch, 1.7 miles away, not on Haha Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.

2 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Higher than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

Based on 29 years of record

2.95 ft

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.

About This Gauge

EF Kawela Gulch nr Kamalo, Molokai, HI

USGS 16415000

1.7 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 0 sq mi

Altitude: 3,625 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge EF Kawela Gulch nr Kamalo, Molokai, HI (3 km away).

High confidence

Strong right now

2 cfs

↓ Falling

Today

Roaring

2 cfs

6/10

Tomorrow

Roaring

2 cfs

6/10

Tue

Roaring

4 cfs

6/10

Wed

Roaring

7 cfs

6/10

Thu

Roaring

4 cfs

6/10

Fri

Roaring

2 cfs

6/10

Sat

Roaring

1 cfs

6/10

Best window: Today — roaring flow, scattered rain showers (trip score 6/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late November to late December, peaking in December.

How we calculate this

This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.

Know when to go.

Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Ualapue hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR

Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.

Along the line through the falls, the bare ground drops about 611 feet, most of it in one sheer step, the signature of a plunge waterfall. The ground at the falls is roughly 2,606 feet above sea level.

Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 380 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 392 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing southwest, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Haha Falls near Ualapue, Hawaii, for comparison with the lidar view

Aerial LiDAR bare earth

Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Ground elevation: 2,606 feet; Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls: About 611 feet; Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces: Southwest; Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.

Ground profile through the falls

A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).

Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.

Location & Access

Getting There

Access to Haha Falls may require navigating through local roads and potentially a short hike. Directions can vary depending on the specific location, so consulting local resources or guides is recommended.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability is uncertain. Visitors may need to park along nearby roads or designated areas if available.

Elevation

2,579 feet above sea level

Coordinates

21.095759° N, -156.882256° W

Land Management

Private Landowner Watershed Protection Area WPA

Managed by PVT

Visitor Tips & Gear

Check with local guides or residents for the most accurate directions and trail conditions. Bring plenty of water, insect repellent, and sturdy footwear. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall.