Are there fees or permits required for Waiʻalae Falls?

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

Is swimming allowed at Waiʻalae Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Waiʻalae Falls.

Live Conditions · 5 ft³/s · About average

Waiʻalae Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Waiʻalae Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Waiʻalae Falls.

Hawaii

By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026

Na Pali-kona Forest Reserve SCA · SDNR

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Waiʻalae Falls

Tucked into the lush, tropical slopes of Kauaʻi, Waiʻalae Falls is a quietly scenic cascade that rewards visitors seeking a more secluded waterfall experience. Surrounded by dense greenery and the dramatic ridgelines of the Na Pali-kona area, the falls sit within the Na Pali-kona Forest Reserve, a State Conservation Area managed by the Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources (SDNR). That protected setting helps preserve the native vegetation and the peaceful atmosphere that draws hikers and photographers alike. The approach to Waiʻalae Falls tends to be less crowded than Kauaʻi’s better-known attractions, making it ideal for those who prefer a mellow outing in nature. Because the site lies inside an SCA under SDNR stewardship, visitors should plan ahead, follow local guidelines, and respect any posted access rules to help protect the reserve’s resources and cultural values.

The Setting

Waiʻalae Falls sits at 2,844 feet within Na Pali-kona Forest Reserve, in the hills 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

The most commonly used approach to Waiʻalae Falls is an out-and-back route of approximately 2.4 miles round trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain; difficulty is generally rated moderate. The route is managed as part of the Na Pali-kona Forest Reserve (SDNR), so check current access conditions and any seasonal restrictions before you go. Specific trail surface, grade, and official trail class are not specified in public agency records for this route, so hikers should be prepared for uneven, natural terrain and bring appropriate footwear, navigation, and water.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a tranquil waterfall surrounded by dense tropical vegetation. The area may be slippery and overgrown, so proper footwear and caution are advised.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Waiʻalae Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Waiʻalae Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall winter

The waterfall can be visited year-round, but visiting during or after rainfall may enhance the water flow. However, heavy rains can also make access more difficult.

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

The terrain around the falls may be slippery and uneven. Visitors should exercise caution, especially after rain. Be aware of flash flood risks in the area.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 1 hour ago Barely Flowing

5 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

2 3 10 25

Based on 86 years of record

0.97 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

Waialae Str at alt 3,820 ft nr Waimea, Kauai, HI

USGS 16019000

2.5 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 2 sq mi

Altitude: 3,820 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge Waialae Str at alt 3,820 ft nr Waimea, Kauai, HI (4 km away).

High confidence

Barely Flowing right now

5 cfs

→ Holding steady

Today

Barely Flowing

5 cfs

3/10

Tomorrow

Low

6 cfs

4/10

Tue

Low

5 cfs

4/10

Wed

Low

5 cfs

4/10

Thu

Low

6 cfs

4/10

Fri

Low

7 cfs

4/10

Sat

Low

6 cfs

4/10

Best window: Tomorrow — low flow, isolated rain showers (trip score 4/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late April, peaking in December.

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 Pakala Village hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Waiʻalae Falls is located near the town of Lihue on Kauai. Access to the falls may require navigating unpaved roads or private property, so visitors should confirm access routes before planning their trip.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability is unclear and may depend on the access route. Visitors should research ahead of time or consult local guides.

Elevation

2,844 feet above sea level

Coordinates

22.074555° N, -159.605768° W

Land Management

Na Pali-kona Forest Reserve SCA

Managed by SDNR

Visitor Tips & Gear

Check with local authorities or guides for the most accurate and up-to-date access information. Bring plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and be prepared for potentially muddy or uneven terrain.

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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.