Is swimming allowed at Waipuhia Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Waipuhia Falls.

Nearby gauge (Kalihi Str) · 13 ft³/s · Much higher than usual

Waipuhia Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Waipuhia Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Waipuhia Falls.

Hawaii

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain

Photo Credits (5)

Cliff from Arlington, Virginia, USA CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

1.5 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

300 ft

About Waipuhia Falls

Waipuhia Falls, also known as the 'Upside Down Waterfall,' is a unique natural phenomenon located on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. The waterfall is famous for its appearance during strong winds, which can blow the water upwards, creating the illusion of an inverted waterfall. It is a lesser-known and somewhat elusive destination, often obscured by weather conditions or vegetation.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Mānoa Falls (150 ft) lies 1.6 miles to the south.

Mānoa Falls

Trail & Hike Details

1.5 mi distance 300 ft climbed

The Approach

The moderate 1.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

The trail to Waipuhia Falls is unmarked and can be challenging to navigate. It passes through dense vegetation and may be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. Hikers should be prepared for uneven terrain and bring proper footwear. The falls themselves may not always be visible, depending on weather conditions and water flow.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a short but adventurous hike through lush Hawaiian forest. The highlight is the unique 'upside-down' effect of the waterfall, which occurs during strong winds. However, the phenomenon is not guaranteed, and the falls may appear as a more traditional waterfall under calm conditions.

Accessibility

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

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Waipuhia Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $0.00

🏊 Is There Swimming at Waipuhia Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall winter

The falls can be visited year-round, but the 'upside-down' effect is more likely during windy conditions, which are common in the winter months. Morning visits may offer better visibility and cooler temperatures.

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 trail can be slippery and muddy, especially after rain. Visitors should exercise caution and avoid hiking alone. Be aware of falling rocks and strong winds near the falls.

Current Water Conditions

Updated 19 minutes ago Roaring

These readings come from the USGS gauge on Kalihi Str, 2.4 miles away, not on Waipuhia Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.

13 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Much higher than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

1 1 4 7

Based on 113 years of record

2.57 ft

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.

About This Gauge

Kalihi Str nr Honolulu, Oahu, HI

USGS 16229000

2.4 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 3 sq mi

Altitude: 464 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge Kalihi Str nr Honolulu, Oahu, HI (4 km away).

High confidence

Roaring right now

13 cfs

↑ Rising

Today

Roaring

14 cfs

6/10

Tomorrow

Roaring

16 cfs

6/10

Tue

Roaring

17 cfs

6/10

Wed

Roaring

15 cfs

6/10

Thu

Roaring

16 cfs

6/10

Fri

Roaring

15 cfs

8/10

Sat

Roaring

15 cfs

6/10

Best window: Fri — roaring flow, mostly cloudy (trip score 8/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to early 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 Maunawili 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 615 feet of drop concentrated at the brink. Elevation at the pin is about 1,334 feet.

The whole reach is steep: about 711 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 120 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face south and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.

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

LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Waipuhia Falls near Maunawili, Hawaii, showing about 615 feet of drop, a single sheer drop, facing south

Aerial LiDAR bare earth

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

Ground elevation: 1,334 feet; Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls: About 615 feet; Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces: South; Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.

Ground profile through the falls

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

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

Location & Access

Getting There

Waipuhia Falls is located near the Pali Highway (Highway 61) on Oahu. The falls are not directly visible from the road and require a short hike to reach. Visitors typically park near the Pali Lookout area and follow an unmarked trail.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at the Pali Lookout area, but it may require a fee. Visitors should check local regulations and signage for updated parking information.

Elevation

1,476 feet above sea level

Coordinates

21.364455° N, -157.807108° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear and bring insect repellent. Check weather conditions before visiting, as rain can make the trail more hazardous. Be cautious of slippery rocks and overgrown paths. Consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds and ensure parking availability.

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With 1.5 miles and 300 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.