Are there fees or permits required for Lelekaae Falls?

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

Is swimming allowed at Lelekaae Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Lelekaae Falls.

Aerial view of the ground around Lelekaae Falls near Wainaku, Hawaii

Aerial view · USGS

Live Conditions · 1,560 ft³/s · Much higher than usual

Lelekaae Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Lelekaae Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Lelekaae Falls.

Hawaii

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

3D terrain

About Lelekaae Falls

Lelekaae Falls is a lesser-known waterfall located in Hawaii, offering a serene and picturesque setting. It is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and is a hidden gem for those seeking a quieter waterfall experience. Specific details about its height are not well-documented.

The Setting

Lelekaae Falls sits at 1,112 feet along the Wailuku River, in the foothills of Hawaii.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Kulaniapia Falls (120 ft) lies 0.7 miles to the southeast.

Kulaniapia Falls

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

Details about the trail leading to Lelekaae Falls are not well-documented. It may involve navigating unmarked paths or private property, so visitors should exercise caution and respect local guidelines.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a tranquil waterfall surrounded by dense tropical foliage. The area may be remote and less frequented, offering a peaceful experience. However, access may be challenging or restricted.

Accessibility

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

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Lelekaae Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Lelekaae Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall winter

Lelekaae Falls can typically be visited year-round, but weather conditions in Hawaii can vary. The dry season (spring and summer) may offer easier access.

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 unclear or unmarked trails. Always check weather conditions before visiting.

Current Water Conditions

Updated 4 days ago Strong

1,560 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Much higher than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

10 26 116 403

Based on 96 years of record

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

Wailuku River at Piihonua, HI

USGS 16704000

1.2 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 220 sq mi

Altitude: 1,090 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge Wailuku River at Piihonua, HI (2 km away).

High confidence

Roaring right now

3540 cfs

↑ Rising

Today

Roaring

3823 cfs

6/10

Tomorrow

Roaring

4443 cfs

6/10

Wed

Roaring

4648 cfs

6/10

Thu

Roaring

4238 cfs

6/10

Fri

Roaring

3760 cfs

6/10

Sat

Roaring

3418 cfs

6/10

Sun

Roaring

4033 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 March to mid 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 Wainaku hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

The Terrain Around Lelekaae 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

Lelekaae Falls is located on the Big Island of Hawaii. Access may require navigating local roads and potentially private property, so visitors should confirm access routes and permissions before planning a visit.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should research ahead of time or consult local resources for guidance.

Elevation

1,112 feet above sea level

Coordinates

19.728794° N, -155.146223° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Check with local authorities or guides for access information. Wear sturdy footwear and bring plenty of water. Be prepared for potentially unmarked trails or unclear access routes.