Paaiki Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
Photo Credits (1)
About Paaiki Falls
Paaiki Falls is a picturesque cascade on the Big Island of Hawai‘i, part of the Wailuku River system and set amid lush, tropical vegetation. The falls and their fern-lined banks make for a rewarding short outing for hikers and photographers looking to experience a quieter pocket of the island’s interior. The waterfall sits within the Pu'u Ka Pele Forest Reserve, a State-designated SCA managed by SDNR, so visitors should be mindful of reserve rules and signage while enjoying the area. Expect a natural, undeveloped setting and plan to practice Leave No Trace principles when visiting this scenic spot.
The Setting
Paaiki Falls sits at 1,207 feet within Pu'u Ka Pele Forest Reserve, fed by the Kawaikoi Stream, in the foothills of Hawaii.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The route to Paaiki Falls is a moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. Trail records list the length, elevation gain and difficulty but do not publish an official surface, grade, or trail class; hikers should therefore anticipate natural dirt tread, uneven footing and moderate climbs in places. The land unit is managed by SDNR (Pu'u Ka Pele Forest Reserve, SCA), so stay on marked routes, obey posted regulations, and bring sturdy footwear and basic navigation supplies.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene and lush environment typical of Hawaii's waterfalls. However, access to Paaiki Falls may be challenging or restricted, and the falls are not as easily accessible as other nearby attractions like Rainbow Falls.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available, but the falls may not be easily accessible for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Paaiki Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Paaiki Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The falls can be visited year-round, but the flow may be stronger during the rainy season (winter and early spring).
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 exercise caution due to potentially slippery rocks, strong currents, and unmarked trails. Always check weather conditions and avoid visiting during heavy rains due to flash flood risks.
Current Water Conditions
27 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 112 years of record
2.67 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
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Kawaikoi Stream nr Waimea, Kauai, HI (10 km away).
Today
Moderate
27 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
23 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
23 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
23 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
23 cfs
8/10Sat
Moderate
22 cfs
8/10Sun
Moderate
21 cfs
8/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late February to late April, peaking in March.
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 Kekaha hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Paaiki Falls is located near Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii. It is accessible via the Wailuku River State Park area, but specific access to the falls may require navigating private property or less-defined trails.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at Wailuku River State Park, but access to Paaiki Falls itself may require additional arrangements or permissions.
Elevation
1,207 feet above sea level
Coordinates
22.143700° N, -159.717075° W
Land Management
Managed by SDNR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check with local authorities or guides for the most up-to-date information on accessing Paaiki Falls. Be prepared for potentially unmarked trails and respect private property boundaries.
Where to Stay
Hanalei Bay Resort
Banyan Harbor Resort
Kauai Shores Hotel
Poipu Plantation Vacation Rentals
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Rainbow Falls, Pe'epe'e Falls, and Boiling Pots, all part of the Wailuku River system.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of native Hawaiian flora and fauna, including tropical birds and lush vegetation.
Cities near Paaiki Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Aerial
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