Pāpalaua Falls
Hawaii • 1200 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Pāpalaua Falls
Pāpalaua Falls (Papalaua Falls) plunges from the northern shore of Molokaʻi into the steep-walled Papalaua Valley, fed by the Kawai Nui stream. The cascade totals about 501 m (1,644 ft) and breaks into five distinct drops; the dramatic middle drop of roughly 340 m (1,120 ft) is visible from the sea and makes the falls a favorite subject on aerial and boat tours. The stream flows year-round and the falls are at their most powerful during the rainy season (November–March), creating a spectacular, mist-shrouded sight against the island’s green cliffs. Because the valley is remote and steep, most visitors experience Pāpalaua Falls from the air or from boats offshore rather than by land. That said, route descriptions list a rugged out-and-back approach (see trail info below) for experienced hikers who can manage dense vegetation, uneven footing and exposed cliff edges. If you plan a visit, aim to go with a knowledgeable guide or a tour operator — from sea or air you’ll get the most reliable and dramatic views of the falls’ towering drops.
The Setting
Pāpalaua Falls sits at 2,024 feet along the Halawa Stream, in the hills of Hawaii. At 1200 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in Hawaii.
Height: 1200 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Puʻukaʻōkū Falls, the tallest waterfall in Hawaii at 2756 feet, lies 3.0 miles to the west. Also nearby: Kahiwa Falls (1749 ft, 0.7 mi).
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
Trail type: out-and-back. Length: 2.4 miles. Elevation gain: 350 ft. Difficulty: moderate. Note: the terrain in Papalaua (and nearby Halawa) is rugged, with steep cliffs, dense vegetation and uneven footing; many visitors still prefer aerial or boat access for the clearest views. Sources vary on the falls’ listed height (a local trail database lists ~1,200 ft while Wikipedia documents a total drop of about 1,644 ft over five drops), so plan conservatively and be prepared for route-finding and exposed sections if you attempt the land approach.
What to Expect
The falls plunge a dramatic 1200 feet.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Pāpalaua Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $0.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Pāpalaua Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Pāpalaua Falls can be visited year-round, but the best time to see the falls at their fullest is during the rainy season, typically in the winter months. However, helicopter tours operate year-round, weather permitting.
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 aware of the rugged terrain and potential hazards if attempting to access the falls by land. Helicopter tours are generally safe but depend on weather conditions. Always follow the guidance of tour operators or local guides.
Current Water Conditions
22 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 103 years of record
2.37 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
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Ualapue hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Pāpalaua Falls is located in the Halawa Valley on the eastern side of Molokai. The falls are most commonly viewed via helicopter tours departing from Molokai or neighboring islands. Access by land is extremely difficult and not recommended for most visitors due to the rugged terrain and lack of established trails.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is no designated parking area for Pāpalaua Falls as it is typically accessed via helicopter tours. Visitors attempting to reach the area by land should be aware that parking options in the Halawa Valley are limited and may require permission from local landowners.
Elevation
2024 feet above sea level
Coordinates
21.159429° N, -156.804843° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
If viewing the falls via helicopter, book your tour in advance as availability may be limited. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery. If attempting to access the area by land, consult local guides and be prepared for challenging conditions.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
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
High-End Resort Condo Nestled on Molokai Shoreline
Kahana Beach Vacation Club
Gardens at West Maui
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.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Halawa Valley, Moa'ula Falls, Kalaupapa National Historical Park
Wildlife
The area is home to native Hawaiian birds and lush tropical vegetation. Visitors may also see marine life along the coastline during helicopter tours.
Cities near Pāpalaua Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Writing about Pāpalaua Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.