LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Hikiau Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Hikiau Falls
Hikiau Falls is a peaceful, picture-postcard waterfall on Hawaiʻi Island near Waipio Valley, set amid lush tropical vegetation and offering a quieter alternative to some of the island’s busier sights. The falls and surrounding lands are within the State Department of Land State Resource Management Area (SRMA) and are managed by the State Department of Land (SDOL), so visitors should be aware they are on state-managed property and exercise Leave No Trace principles. Reaching the falls rewards hikers with a serene, secluded setting framed by verdant forest and valley views. The approach is an out-and-back hike of moderate difficulty (see trail details below); because the route can traverse steep descents and rugged valley terrain, plan your visit with adequate time, footwear, and local condition checks — consider a local guide if you’re unfamiliar with Waipio Valley approaches.
The Setting
Hikiau Falls sits at 210 feet within State Department of Land State Resource Management Area, fed by the Manowaiopae Stream, in the coastal lowlands of Hawaii.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back. Distance: 2.4 miles round-trip. Elevation gain: approximately 350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. The trail follows natural, often uneven terrain as it approaches the falls and may include steep sections associated with Waipio Valley access; specific USFS surface/grade/class data or a USFS trail number are not provided for this route. Hikers should be prepared for variable footing and remote conditions, check current access information with local resources, and allow extra time for slower sections on the descent and return.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil and scenic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The area is remote and may require some effort to access, but it offers a peaceful and rewarding experience for those who make the journey.
Accessibility
The trail to Hikiau Falls is not wheelchair accessible and may be challenging for those with limited mobility.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Hikiau Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Hikiau Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The waterfall can be visited year-round, but it is best to go during the dry season (spring and summer) to avoid heavy rains that can make access more difficult.
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
The trail can be steep, muddy, and slippery, especially after rain. Visitors should exercise caution and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Flash floods are a potential hazard in the area.
Current Water Conditions
42 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 5 years of record
10.10 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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Manowaiopae Stream near Spencer Road, HI (8 km away).
Today
Roaring
73 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
72 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
66 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
58 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
60 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
41 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
46 cfs
9/10Best window: Mon — roaring flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to early June, peaking in April.
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 Paauilo 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.
The laser survey finds one clean step here: roughly 266 feet of drop concentrated at the brink. Elevation at the pin is about 160 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 257 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 69 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing north, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 160 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 266 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Hikiau Falls is located near Waipio Valley on the Big Island of Hawaii. Access typically involves navigating through Waipio Valley, which requires a 4WD vehicle due to steep and rugged terrain. Visitors should check local conditions and restrictions before planning their trip.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the Waipio Valley lookout, but space may be limited. Visitors should plan to arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
210 feet above sea level
Coordinates
20.019788° N, -155.293943° W
Land Management
Managed by SDOL
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring sturdy footwear, plenty of water, and be prepared for muddy or slippery conditions. Check weather conditions before visiting, as heavy rains can make the area more dangerous. Consider hiring a local guide if you are unfamiliar with the area.
Where to Stay
Direct Oceanfront Mauna Loa Shores Honu Elua #508 next to Carlsmith Beach park, Hilo HI
Honomu Inn
SCP Hilo Hotel
Somewhere over the Rainbow Loft with AC Hilo
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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Nearby Attractions
Waipio Valley, Hiilawe Falls, and the black sand beach at Waipio Valley are nearby attractions worth exploring.
Wildlife
The area is home to various tropical birds, insects, and other native Hawaiian wildlife. Visitors should respect the natural environment and avoid disturbing wildlife.
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