Manoa Falls

The Basics

The 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) round-trip Manoa Falls trail is well marked, and while visitors some go at it alone, a number of tour operators offer guided hikes. Parts of the path are paved or lined with gravel, but because of the heavy foot traffic and rainy weather, the trail can be very wet and muddy. As a result the relatively easy hike can be slippery; the last few minutes before the falls are the most challenging. The pool at the bottom of the falls is no longer open for swimming due to falling rocks.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Plan on getting dirty, and wear sturdy walking shoes that you don’t mind getting muddy.

• Bring insect repellent, as mosquitos are out in full force on the trail.

• There is a small snack shop near the trail entrance.

• The force of the waterfall depends on rainfall; expect less water in summer months.

How to Get There

Manoa Falls is located at the end of Manoa Valley, northeast of downtown Honolulu. If driving from Waikiki, take the H1 toward the airport, exit at Punahou Road, and continue on to Manoa Road. There is paid parking near the entrance to the hike.

When to Get There

The Manoa Falls trail is open year-round. Oahu has a mild, tropical climate, with hotter days in summer and a rainy season typically from November to March. On rainy days the waterfall is at its most impressive and the trail is less crowded—yet also very muddy.

Tropical Vegetation

Manoa Falls is full of colorful, tropical plants, and a naturalist guide or book can help you identify what you see along the way. Parts of the trail are lined with guava, eucalyptus, and banyan trees as well asawapuhi, or bitter ginger flowers. It is common to spot tropical birds and insects as well.

Ways to explore

Plan at least a couple of hours to hike the trail to Manoa Falls. Parts of the path are paved or lined with gravel, but expect some wet and muddy patches if there’s been rainy weather or heavy footfall. Some travelers visit the falls independently, or you can join guided hikes to take the stress out of navigation. Either way, while it was previously possible to swim in the pool at the base of the falls, this is now prohibited due to falling rocks. A popular choice for families, a trip to Manoa Falls can be combined with other activities in Honolulu, such as boat trips, snorkel tours, or helicopter rides.

Accessibility

The trail to Manoa Falls is not wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None; however, consider whether your child can walk the full hike route, as it may not be suitable for smaller kids.

What to pack

Snacks, water bottle, sunscreen, insect repellent

What to wear

Sturdy shoes, hat, sunglasses

Not allowed

Drones

Amenities

Small snack shop, basic restrooms

Address

Manoa Falls is located at the end of Manoa Valley, northeast of downtown Honolulu. Most visitors arrive by car or on a guided tour.

Driving

If driving from Waikiki, take the H1 toward the airport, exit at Punahou Road, and continue to Manoa Road. There is convenient paid parking near the entrance to the hike.

Public transportation

It’s possible to reach the trailhead for Manoa Falls by bus: From the Ala Moana Shopping Center, board bus 5 to Manoa Road and continue on foot.

Best times to visit

For the most peaceful experience, set out on the hike to Manoa Falls in the morning. Before the heat of the day settles in is one of the best times to experience this hike.

Best days to visit

The best day to visit is anytime after rain, as the force of the waterfall depends on rainfall. While the waterfall will be most impressive, expect a muddy trail.

Best months to visit

The Manoa Falls trail is open year-round. Oahu has a mild, tropical climate with hotter days in the summer and a rainy season typically from November to March. To see the waterfall at its most powerful, visit during the rainy season.