Are there fees or permits required for Kapakaiki Falls?

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

Is swimming allowed at Kapakaiki Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Kapakaiki Falls.

Aerial view of the ground around Kapakaiki Falls near Kapaa, Hawaii

Aerial view · USGS

Nearby gauge (Eb Of North Fork Wailua River) · 54 ft³/s · About average

Kapakaiki Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Kapakaiki Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Kapakaiki Falls.

Hawaii

By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026

3D terrain

Lihu'e-koloa Forest Reserve SCA · SDNR

About Kapakaiki Falls

Kapakaiki Falls is a remote, lesser-known cascade on the island of Molokai that rewards those willing to seek it out with a quiet, tropical setting framed by dense native vegetation. Though often overlooked by visitors, the falls sit within the Lihu'e-Koloa Forest Reserve SCA and are managed by the SDNR, so visitors should treat the area respectfully and follow any posted restrictions. The setting feels wild and serene—ideal for hikers who prefer off-the-beaten-path destinations and nature photography away from crowds. Access can be challenging and minimally signed, so plan ahead and go prepared: sturdy footwear, insect protection, and navigation tools are recommended. Because the site is managed by SDNR and lies in a protected forest reserve, practicing Leave No Trace principals helps preserve the fragile surroundings for future visitors.

The Setting

Kapakaiki Falls sits at 1,138 feet within Lihu'e-koloa Forest Reserve, in the foothills of Hawaii.

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

The route is not a formally developed trail in many sections and may include narrow, unmarked footpaths through dense vegetation; surface, grade, and official trail-class ratings are not formally documented. Hikers should expect uneven footing and limited signage, carry good navigation aids, and allow extra time for slower, careful travel.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a secluded and tranquil waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Due to its remote location, it is unlikely to be crowded, offering a peaceful experience. However, the trail and access conditions may be rugged and require careful navigation.

Accessibility

The trail to Kapakaiki Falls is not considered accessible for individuals with mobility challenges due to its remote and rugged nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Kapakaiki Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Kapakaiki Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall winter

The waterfall can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season (typically spring and summer) to avoid muddy trails and potential flash floods.

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, flash floods, and dense vegetation. It is recommended to hike with a companion and inform someone of your plans before visiting. Cell service may be unreliable in the area.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Barely Flowing

These readings come from the USGS gauge on Eb Of North Fork Wailua River, 2.6 miles away, not on Kapakaiki Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.

54 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

19 23 57 103

Based on 112 years of record

0.40 ft

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is about average for this time of year.

About This Gauge

EB of NF Wailua River nr Lihue, Kauai, HI

USGS 16068000

2.6 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 6 sq mi

Altitude: 500 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge EB of NF Wailua River nr Lihue, Kauai, HI (4 km away).

High confidence

Barely Flowing right now

54 cfs

↓ Falling

Today

Barely Flowing

58 cfs

3/10

Tomorrow

Low

59 cfs

4/10

Mon

Low

55 cfs

4/10

Tue

Low

57 cfs

4/10

Wed

Low

57 cfs

4/10

Thu

Low

62 cfs

4/10

Fri

Low

62 cfs

4/10

Best window: Tomorrow — low flow, scattered rain showers (trip score 4/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to early May, 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 Kapaa hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Is Kapakaiki Falls Frozen?

Updated about 7 hours ago

Not frozen highs above freezing lately

Kapakaiki Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 77°F to 67°F.

Days below freezing: 0 of the last 14
Current cold streak: 0 days
Freezing days ahead: 0 of the next 7
Flow: 56 ft³/s

Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.

Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail.

Weather Forecast

The Terrain Around Kapakaiki Falls

High-resolution lidar hasn't been flown here yet, so this is the aerial view of the ground around the falls. Open the 3D view to tilt and spin the landscape.

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

Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.

Location & Access

Getting There

Kapakaiki Falls is located on the eastern side of Molokai. Access typically requires navigating unpaved roads and possibly hiking through dense vegetation. Visitors should consult local guides or resources for the most accurate directions.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking options are limited and may involve roadside parking or parking at a nearby trailhead. Visitors should ensure they are not blocking private property or access roads.

Elevation

1,138 feet above sea level

Coordinates

22.101195° N, -159.435021° W

Land Management

Lihu'e-koloa Forest Reserve SCA

Managed by SDNR

Visitor Tips & Gear

Check local weather conditions before visiting, as heavy rains can make trails slippery and dangerous. Bring plenty of water, wear sturdy footwear, and consider hiring a local guide for assistance. Cell service may be limited in the area.