Are there fees or permits required for Waihunehune Falls?

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

Is swimming allowed at Waihunehune Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Waihunehune Falls.

LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Waihunehune Falls near Kalihiwai, Hawaii, showing about 208 feet of drop, a single sheer drop, facing north

LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP

Live Conditions · 9 ft³/s · Higher than usual

Waihunehune Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Waihunehune Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Waihunehune Falls.

Hawaii

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain

Halele'a Forest Reserve PCON · PVT

About Waihunehune Falls

Waihunehune Falls is a quietly beautiful cascade on the island of Kauai, tucked into the lush ridges of the Halele'a Forest Reserve. The setting is classic Kauai—thick tropical foliage, steep green slopes and the kind of tranquil, lesser-traveled vibe that makes this waterfall a rewarding discovery for hikers seeking solitude away from busier attractions. The site is designated PCON within the Halele'a Forest Reserve, and the parcel is privately owned and managed (Land owner: PVT; Manager: PVT), so visits tend to be low-key and respectful of the landscape. Because the falls and access route sit on privately managed land, visitors should plan ahead: seek local guidance, confirm access permissions where possible, and tread lightly to protect the area. When approached responsibly, the trek to Waihunehune Falls delivers a peaceful, verdant experience—perfect for photographers and hikers who appreciate quiet natural spots and the sense of exploring a hidden corner of Kauai.

The Setting

Waihunehune Falls sits at 1,512 feet within Halele'a Forest Reserve, in the hills of Hawaii.

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

Trail to Waihunehune Falls: a moderate, out-and-back route of approximately 2.4 miles round trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain. Specific USFS trail surface, grade and classification data are not available for this route; conditions may include unmarked or rough footpaths through dense vegetation and uneven terrain. Because the land unit is privately owned/managed within the Halele'a Forest Reserve, portions of the approach may cross private property—seek local advice and permission before heading out, wear sturdy footwear, and be prepared for limited or informal trail signage.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a peaceful and scenic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The area may be less crowded compared to other waterfalls on Kauai, providing a more secluded experience.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Waihunehune Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Waihunehune Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall winter

The falls can be visited year-round, but the flow may vary depending on recent rainfall. Visiting after a period of rain may enhance the waterfall's appearance.

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, muddy trails, and potential flash flooding, especially after heavy rains. Always prioritize safety and avoid trespassing on private property.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 1 hour ago Moderate

9 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Higher than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

4 5 9 14

Based on 67 years of record

1.12 ft

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.

About This Gauge

Halaulani Str at alt 400 ft nr Kilauea, Kauai, HI

USGS 16097500

3.3 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 1 sq mi

Altitude: 392 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge Halaulani Str at alt 400 ft nr Kilauea, Kauai, HI (5 km away).

High confidence

Moderate right now

10 cfs

↓ Falling

Today

Moderate

10 cfs

5/10

Tomorrow

Moderate

10 cfs

5/10

Wed

Moderate

10 cfs

5/10

Thu

Moderate

11 cfs

5/10

Fri

Moderate

11 cfs

5/10

Sat

Moderate

11 cfs

5/10

Sun

Moderate

11 cfs

5/10

Best window: Today — moderate flow, scattered rain showers (trip score 5/10).

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 Kalihiwai 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.

1-meter lidar shows Waihunehune Falls dropping about 208 feet in a single sheer step. The brink sits at about 1,491 feet above sea level.

The ground changes about 41 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 263 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face north and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Waihunehune Falls near Kalihiwai, Hawaii, for comparison with the lidar view

Aerial LiDAR bare earth

Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Ground elevation: 1,491 feet; Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls: About 208 feet; Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces: North; Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.

Ground profile through the falls

A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).

Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.

Location & Access

Getting There

Waihunehune Falls is located near the town of Kalaheo on Kauai. Access to the falls may require navigating private property or less-defined paths, so visitors should research access routes carefully and respect local guidelines.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability is unclear and may depend on the specific access route chosen. Visitors should plan ahead and be prepared for limited or informal parking options.

Elevation

1,512 feet above sea level

Coordinates

22.136345° N, -159.441500° W

Land Management

Halele'a Forest Reserve PCON

Managed by PVT

Visitor Tips & Gear

Check with local sources or guides for the most accurate and up-to-date information about accessing Waihunehune Falls. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for potentially muddy or uneven terrain.