Wailua Falls
Hawaii • 80 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 Wailua Falls
Wailua Falls is a striking roadside cascade that plunges roughly 80 feet into a narrow pool framed by lush tropical vegetation, making it an easy and rewarding stop for photographers and casual sightseers. The falls' dramatic drop and verdant setting deliver a quintessential Hawaiian waterfall experience without requiring extensive travel off the main access route—there's a convenient parking/viewing area that lets you take in the scene at your own pace. For visitors who want to explore beyond the overlook, a moderate out-and-back route offers a closer perspective. The hiking option is a 2.4-mile route with about 350 feet of elevation gain; it’s well suited to hikers looking for a short, scenic outing that combines waterfall views with a bit of trail time rather than a lengthy trek.
The Setting
Wailua Falls sits at 285 feet in the coastal lowlands of Hawaii. The falls drop 80 feet.
Height: 80 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Waimoku Falls (400 ft) lies 1.7 miles to the west. Also nearby: Makahiku Falls (200 ft, 1.8 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
Out-and-back route, 2.4 miles total with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain; difficulty: moderate. The trail leads closer to the falls for more intimate views of the 80-foot cascade. USFS trail number, surface, grade, and formal class information are not provided in the available data; expect a short, natural-surface hike rather than a paved or heavily developed path.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 80 feet.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Wailua Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Wailua Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The falls can be visited year-round, but mornings are typically less crowded. After rainfall, the water flow may be more dramatic, but the area may also be more slippery.
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
Exercise caution when parking and walking along the highway. Rocks near the falls can be slippery, and flash flooding may occur after heavy rain. Do not attempt to climb or swim near the falls.
Current Water Conditions
5 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 29 years of record
0.79 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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Oheo Gulch at dam near Kipahulu, Maui, HI (3 km away).
Today
Moderate
6 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Moderate
4 cfs
5/10Tue
Moderate
6 cfs
5/10Wed
Moderate
5 cfs
5/10Thu
Moderate
5 cfs
5/10Fri
Moderate
8 cfs
5/10Sat
Moderate
8 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, scattered rain showers (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late November to early December, 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 Hana hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Wailua Falls is located along the Hana Highway (Highway 360), approximately 5.2 miles from Hana town. The falls are visible from the road, making it a convenient stop for travelers. Look for a small parking area near the bridge that crosses Wailua Stream.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Limited roadside parking is available near the falls. Visitors should exercise caution when parking and walking along the highway as the area can be busy with traffic.
Elevation
285 feet above sea level
Coordinates
20.683610° N, -156.030723° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and secure parking. Be cautious of traffic along the Hana Highway. If you plan to take photos, bring a camera or smartphone with a good zoom lens. Avoid climbing on rocks or entering the water as conditions can be slippery and dangerous.
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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.
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
Maui Kamaole #F-210 Private, Across Kamaole III, Full A/C, Great Location
Heavenly Hana Paradise
Paia Inn
Hana Kai Maui - #106 Kuakahi partial oceanview studio
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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Nearby Campground
Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits)
8.8 miles away · 3 sites
Overview Located on the island of Maui, Haleakalā National Park maintains three wilderness cabins for visitor use-- Hōlua, Palikū, and Kapalaoa. All cabins are accessible only by trail from the summit area and require you to hike a minimum of 3.7 mi (5.9 km). Backcountry users must plan to enter the park entrance for their stay no earlier than 7 am unless they have also obtained a sunrise reservation granting access to the park between 3 and 7 am. Sunrise reservations can be made on recreation.go
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the town of Hana, the Seven Sacred Pools (ʻOheʻo Gulch), and Waiʻanapanapa State Park.
Wildlife
The area is home to various tropical birds and insects. Visitors may also see native plants and flowers.
Cities near Wailua Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Wailua Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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