Keʻākū Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Drive Up
About Keʻākū Falls
Keʻākū Falls sits within the Keanae‑Wailuanui Hawaiian Home Land and is stewarded by the local tribal land unit (Designation: TRIB; Manager: TRIB), with land ownership recorded as DESG. Framed by lush Hawaiian vegetation, the falls are a rewarding natural destination — known locally for their photogenic cascades and the sense of place they convey. Visitors are encouraged to respect tribal stewardship and any posted access guidance when planning a visit. For those who want to approach the falls on foot, the most commonly used route is a moderate out‑and‑back hike that provides a relatively short but satisfying excursion into the surrounding landscape. The nearest formal backcountry camping facility noted in records is in Haleakalā National Park (wilderness tent permit required), roughly 13.8 km from the trailhead, so most hikers treat Keʻākū Falls as a day outing rather than an overnight destination.
The Setting
Keʻākū Falls sits at 390 feet within Keanae-Wailuanui Hawaiian Home Land, in the coastal lowlands of Hawaii.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
No hiking required. Keʻākū Falls is accessible by vehicle with a roadside viewing area.
Trail Description
The trail’s length, elevation profile, and out‑and‑back character make it suitable for hikers looking for a shorter, steady climb with time to enjoy the falls at the turnaround. Surface, grade, and a formal trail classification or USFS trail number are not listed for this tribal‑managed route, so expect natural footpath conditions and consult local land‑unit guidance before setting out.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a breathtaking view of the falls cascading into a pool below, surrounded by tropical vegetation. The lookout point provides a safe and convenient way to enjoy the scenery without the need for hiking.
Accessibility
This waterfall is viewable from a vehicle-accessible area. No hiking is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Keʻākū Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Keʻākū Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Keʻākū Falls can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is after recent rainfall when the waterfall flow is at its strongest. However, heavy rains may also make the area slippery or hazardous, so exercise caution.
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
Stay within designated viewing areas and avoid venturing too close to the edge of the lookout point. Heavy rains may cause slippery conditions, so exercise caution during wet weather.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on West Wailuaiki Stream, 2.1 miles away, not on Keʻākū Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
127 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 107 years of record
3.10 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge West Wailuaiki Stream near Keanae, Maui, HI (3 km away).
Today
Roaring
137 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
167 cfs
6/10Tue
Roaring
161 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
161 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
159 cfs
6/10Fri
Roaring
153 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
180 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, chance rain showers (trip score 6/10).
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 Olinda hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Keʻākū Falls is located along the Wailua River on the eastern side of Kauai. It is accessible via Kuamoo Road (Highway 580), and the falls can be viewed from a designated lookout point near the road.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the lookout point for Keʻākū Falls. Parking may be limited during peak times, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
390 feet above sea level
Coordinates
20.844206° N, -156.147105° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to secure parking, especially during peak tourist seasons. Bring a camera to capture the stunning views, and consider visiting during the morning for the best lighting conditions.
Where to Stay
Maui Kamaole #F-210 Private, Across Kamaole III, Full A/C, Great Location
Leinaala Oceanfront #303 Panoramic Ocean Front View, A/C Great Location, Pool
Lovely Oceanfront 3 Bedroom, First Floor Corner Unit
OUTRIGGER Kāʻanapali Beach Resort
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.
Nearby Campground
Haleakalā National Park (Wilderness Tent Permit)
8.6 miles away · 10 sites
Overview There are two primitive wilderness tent areas which are accessible only by trail, Hōlua and Palikū. Backcountry users must plan to enter the park entrance for their stay no earlier than 7 am unless they have also obtained a sunrise reservation granting access to the park between 3 and 7 am. Sunrise reservations can be made on recreation.gov. Hōlua, the wilderness tent area reached by the shortest hike, lies at 6,940 ft (2,115m) in the shrubland near Koʻolau Gap. Hōlua is 3.7 mi (6 km) on
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Wailua River State Park, Opaekaʻa Falls, and the Fern Grotto, which can be accessed via a boat tour on the Wailua River.
Wildlife
The area around Keʻākū Falls is home to a variety of tropical birds and plant species. Visitors may also spot fish in the Wailua River.
Nearby Waterfalls
Writing about Keʻākū Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.