Naalapa Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainPhoto Credits (1)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Naalapa Falls
Naalapa Falls tumbles through a verdant stretch of the Kohala Forest Reserve on Hawai‘i Island, offering a peaceful, rainforest-draped setting for those who can visit. The site lies within the Kohala Forest Reserve and is managed by SDNR; it also carries an SCA designation, so the waterfall and surrounding habitat are overseen for conservation and may have special access considerations. Visitors should check with SDNR about current access rules before planning a trip.
The Setting
Naalapa Falls sits at 1,073 feet within Kohala Forest Reserve, fed by the Alakahi Stream, in the foothills of Hawaii.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Access to Naalapa Falls is via an out-and-back route roughly 2.4 miles in length with about 350 feet of elevation gain; the hike is rated moderate. The approach traverses lush, often uneven forest terrain and can require route-finding through vegetation, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Because the falls are within the Kohala Forest Reserve (managed by SDNR) and subject to SCA protections, confirm permitted access and any seasonal restrictions with SDNR before heading out.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil and scenic waterfall surrounded by dense tropical foliage. The falls are often part of a guided experience that highlights the natural beauty and cultural significance of the area.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Naalapa Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $0.00
Permit required
Access to Naalapa Falls requires permission from the landowners or participation in a guided tour.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Naalapa Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Naalapa Falls can be visited year-round, but weather conditions may vary. The dry season (spring and summer) typically offers more stable conditions for tours.
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 stay with their tour group and follow all safety instructions. The terrain may be uneven and slippery, so proper footwear is essential.
Current Water Conditions
3 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 61 years of record
1.95 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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Alakahi Stream near Kamuela, HI (8 km away).
Today
Low
3 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Low
4 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
4 cfs
4/10Fri
Low
6 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
5 cfs
4/10Sun
Low
5 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
4 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — low flow, scattered rain showers (trip score 4/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid June to late July, peaking in July.
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 Kukuihaele 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 656 feet of drop concentrated at the brink. Elevation at the pin is about 1,084 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 492 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 579 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,084 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 656 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Naalapa Falls is located on private land in the Kohala region of the Big Island of Hawaii. Access is typically granted through guided tours or by obtaining permission from the landowners.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is typically arranged as part of guided tours. Independent parking options are not available due to the private nature of the property.
Elevation
1,073 feet above sea level
Coordinates
20.112454° N, -155.609681° W
Land Management
Managed by SDNR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Book a guided tour in advance to ensure access to the falls. Wear sturdy footwear and bring water, as the terrain may be uneven. Respect the private property and follow all guidelines provided by the tour operators.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort
Fairway Villas Waikoloa by OUTRIGGER
Palm Villas 2 Bed/2 Bath Loft #F22
Hilton Waikoloa Village
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
Nearby attractions include Pololu Valley Lookout, Waipio Valley, and other scenic spots in the Kohala region.
Wildlife
The area around Naalapa Falls is home to various tropical birds and native Hawaiian plants.
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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