Koholālele Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (2)
About Koholālele Falls
Koholālele Falls is a lesser-known waterfall on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi, tucked into the lush landscapes of Wailua River State Park. Managed by SPR (designation: State Park), the falls offer a quieter, more intimate waterfall experience compared with busier island attractions — ideal for hikers who want verdant rainforest scenery and the hush of cascading water. Reaching the falls requires a moderate hike through the park: the route is an out-and-back trek of about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. Because the falls lie within Wailua River State Park, check with SPR for current access information and park rules before you go to ensure the best and safest visit.
The Setting
Koholālele Falls sits at 259 feet within Wailua River State Park, fed by the Left Branch Opaekaa Str, in the coastal lowlands of Hawaii.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls (151 ft) lies 2.1 miles to the east. Also nearby: Wailua Falls (80 ft, 1.7 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The approach to Koholālele Falls is an out-and-back trail totaling approximately 2.4 miles with about 350 feet of elevation gain, rated as moderate. The park-provided data lists length, gain, difficulty, and trail type but does not specify a formal surface, grade profile, or trail class; hikers should therefore be prepared for natural, uneven trail conditions and variable footing. As the falls are inside Wailua River State Park (managed by SPR), confirm route access and conditions with park staff prior to heading out.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a secluded and tranquil waterfall surrounded by dense tropical vegetation. The area is likely to be quiet and free from crowds, but access may be challenging due to its remote location and potential private property restrictions.
Accessibility
The falls are not known to be accessible for individuals with mobility challenges due to the remote and potentially rugged terrain.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Koholālele Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Koholālele Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Koholālele Falls can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit may be during the wetter months (spring and fall) when the waterfall flow is likely to be more robust.
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 flooding during heavy rains, and potential hazards associated with remote hiking. Always inform someone of your plans before visiting remote areas.
Current Water Conditions
2 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 66 years of record
0.97 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 Left Branch Opaekaa Str nr Kapaa, Kauai, HI (2 km away).
Today
Low
3 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Low
3 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
3 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
3 cfs
4/10Fri
Low
3 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
3 cfs
4/10Sun
Low
3 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — low flow, isolated rain showers (trip score 4/10).
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 Wailua Homesteads 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 254 feet, most of it in one sheer step, the signature of a plunge waterfall. The ground at the falls is roughly 288 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 118 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 140 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 288 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 254 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Koholālele Falls is located in the Hamakua region of the Big Island. Access to the falls may involve traveling through private property, so visitors should research and obtain permission if necessary. The exact route to the falls is not well-documented.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, as access to the falls may involve private property. Visitors should plan accordingly and respect local guidelines.
Elevation
259 feet above sea level
Coordinates
22.055385° N, -159.394057° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Research access requirements thoroughly before planning your visit. Bring appropriate footwear and supplies for hiking in tropical conditions. Be respectful of private property and local guidelines.
Where to Stay
One Bedroom Condo in Pono Kai Resort
Kauai Shores Hotel
THE ISO HOTEL, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
Hanalei Bay 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.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Hamakua Coast offers other attractions such as Akaka Falls State Park and Waipio Valley.
Wildlife
The area may feature native Hawaiian birds, insects, and tropical flora. Be mindful of the environment and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Cities near Koholālele Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Aerial
Aerial
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