Waikaka Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Waikaka Falls
Waikaka Falls is a lesser-known waterfall located in Hawaii, offering a serene and picturesque setting. It is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and may require some effort to access, depending on the trail conditions.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Waikaka Falls is not well-documented, and its conditions may vary. It is recommended to check with local resources or recent visitor reports for updated trail information.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil waterfall surrounded by dense tropical foliage. The area may be slippery and uneven, so caution is advised.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Waikaka Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Waikaka Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The waterfall can be visited year-round, but dry seasons may offer easier access and better trail conditions.
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
Trails may be slippery, uneven, or overgrown. Flash flooding is a potential hazard in Hawaii, especially after heavy rain. Always check weather conditions and exercise caution.
Current Water Conditions
10 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 86 years of record
1.19 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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Waialae Str at alt 3,820 ft nr Waimea, Kauai, HI (5 km away).
Today
Moderate
11 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
11 cfs
6/10Wed
Moderate
10 cfs
6/10Thu
Moderate
10 cfs
6/10Fri
Moderate
10 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
9 cfs
6/10Sun
Moderate
9 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, isolated rain showers (trip score 6/10).
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 Kalaheo 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 274 feet of drop concentrated at the brink. Elevation at the pin is about 2,324 feet.
The ground changes about 65 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 47 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southwest, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,324 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 274 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Specific directions to Waikaka Falls are not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local guides or maps for the most accurate route information.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or no designated parking areas near the trailhead.
Elevation
2,431 feet above sea level
Coordinates
22.047524° N, -159.552322° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear and bring plenty of water. Check weather conditions before visiting, as trails may become muddy or inaccessible after rain.
Where to Stay
Poipu Plantation Vacation Rentals
Kauai Shores Hotel
Hanalei Bay Resort
Banyan Harbor 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
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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Hawaii offers numerous waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints nearby. Consult local guides for recommendations.
Wildlife
The area around Waikaka Falls may feature native Hawaiian flora and fauna. Be respectful of the environment and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Cities near Waikaka Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Aerial
LiDAR
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