Maui’s waterfalls are some of the most beautiful natural wonders I’ve ever experienced. The island’s lush landscapes create perfect conditions for spectacular cascades that range from easily accessible roadside stops to hidden gems requiring adventurous hikes. When visiting Maui, the Road to Hana offers the best opportunity to see multiple stunning waterfalls in a single day trip.
I love how each waterfall on Maui has its own unique character and setting. Some pour into inviting swimming holes while others create dramatic plunges from towering cliff faces. Whether you’re a casual sightseer or an avid hiker, Maui’s waterfalls provide unforgettable experiences that showcase the island’s incredible natural beauty and make for perfect photo opportunities.
Wailua Falls
Wailua Falls is one of Maui’s most accessible and stunning waterfalls. I was amazed when I visited because it’s right off the Hana Highway – you can literally see this 80-foot cascade from the road! The waterfall plunges dramatically into Honolewa Stream, surrounded by lush tropical greenery.
I loved that I didn’t need to hike for hours to witness such natural beauty. For those wanting a closer look, there’s a short path to the right of the bridge that leads to the base of the falls. I took a quick dip in the refreshing plunge pool, which felt incredible after driving along the winding Road to Hana.
Parking can be tight on busy days, but people come and go quickly, so I just waited a few minutes for a spot. Local vendors sell snacks and souvenirs nearby, which added to the charm of my visit. If you go after heavy rain like I did, you’ll see the falls at their most powerful and impressive.
The waterfall is part of what makes the Road to Hana journey so special. I found myself taking dozens of photos, but none truly captured how magical it felt to stand near this natural wonder.
Rating: 4.8 (1518 reviews)
Location: Hana Hwy, Hana, HI 96713
Contact: (808) 587-0300
Website: Visit Website
Upper Waikani Falls – (aka Three Bears)
Upper Waikani Falls, also known as Three Bears, is one of my favorite waterfall spots on Maui. The name “Three Bears” comes from the three distinct streams of water that cascade down the rocks, resembling a papa bear, mama bear, and baby bear.
I found the hike to the falls fairly quick but a bit steep. The path takes you through lush Hawaiian vegetation that makes you feel like you’re in a tropical paradise. The sound of rushing water guides you all the way there.
When I arrived at the falls, I was amazed by the crystal-clear swimming hole at the bottom. Many visitors take a refreshing dip here after the hike. The water felt cool and refreshing, perfect for Maui’s warm climate.
I recommend wearing good shoes with grip since the rocks can be slippery. Also, try to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds. The falls are visible from the road, but getting up close gives you the best experience.
Rating: 4.7 (442 reviews)
Location: Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708
Twin Falls Maui
Twin Falls is one of the most accessible waterfall hikes on the Road to Hana. I visited on a sunny morning and was amazed by the lush rainforest surroundings. The trail leads to multiple waterfall pools where you can take a refreshing swim.
The hike itself is relatively easy, making it perfect for families and casual hikers like myself. I spent about two hours exploring the various falls and swimming holes. The upper falls were my favorite spot, with fewer crowds and beautiful cascading water.
Before hiking, I grabbed some fresh fruit at the farm stand near the parking lot. The Twin Falls area is actually part of a private farm that generously allows public access. I appreciated how they maintain the trails and facilities.
Remember to arrive early as parking is limited to just 55 spots and fills up quickly. I paid $10 for parking, which helps support the maintenance of this beautiful area. The farm does not allow drop-offs or walking in from the highway for safety reasons.
Rating: 4.4 (4432 reviews)
Location: 6300 Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708
Contact: (808) 463-1275
Website: Visit Website
Pua’a Ka’a Falls
I recently visited Pua’a Ka’a Falls on the Road to Hana, and it was a refreshing stop during my journey. The falls are easily accessible from the highway, making it a perfect break from driving the winding road.
The lush greenery surrounding the waterfall creates a peaceful atmosphere. I loved how the water cascades gently over volcanic rocks into a small pool below. The sound of rushing water mixed with birdsong made me feel connected to nature.
Swimming is possible in the pool beneath the falls, though the water was a bit chilly when I dipped my toes in. I noticed several families enjoying picnics at the nearby tables, taking advantage of the restroom facilities.
The park area is well-maintained and offers a quick tropical rainforest experience without a long hike. I spent about 30 minutes here, which was enough time to enjoy the falls and take some beautiful photos before continuing on my Hana adventure.
Rating: 4.8 (581 reviews)
Location: Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708
Hanawi Falls
I recently visited Hanawi Falls on Maui’s famous Road to Hana, and I was completely mesmerized. These beautiful cascades tumble down through lush, green forest and gather in crystal-clear pools below. The contrast of white water against the dark volcanic rock creates a stunning visual.
Viewing Hanawi Falls is fairly easy since there are roadside lookouts right off Hana Highway. I pulled over at one of these spots and was rewarded with an incredible view. The falls aren’t the tallest on Maui, but their multi-tiered nature makes them special.
The surrounding area is incredibly green and peaceful. I could hear the rushing water from quite a distance away, and the mist from the falls created a refreshing coolness in the air. If you’re driving the Road to Hana, this is definitely worth a stop.
I recommend visiting earlier in the day if possible. When I went in the morning, there were fewer tourists, and the sunlight hit the falls at a beautiful angle. Don’t forget your camera – the scenery here is truly picture-perfect!
Rating: 4.7 (245 reviews)
Location: Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708
Makapipi Falls
Makapipi Falls is a hidden gem on Maui’s famous Road to Hana. I discovered this beautiful waterfall during my recent trip to the island. It’s easily missed if you’re not paying attention, as it flows under the Hana Highway bridge.
What makes Makapipi special is its unique viewing angle. Unlike other waterfalls where you look up, here I stood on the bridge and looked down at the falls cascading into a clear pool below. The perspective is truly one-of-a-kind and perfect for photos.
When I visited, the falls were flowing nicely after recent rain. The lush greenery surrounding the waterfall created a magical rainforest setting. If you’re planning to stop here, I recommend pulling over carefully as parking is limited along the narrow highway.
I found the short walk to view the falls well worth it. The sound of rushing water combined with birds singing in the tropical forest made for a peaceful break from driving. Just be careful near the bridge edges and respect any posted signs.
Rating: 4.5 (110 reviews)
Location: Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708
Waimoku Falls
I recently hiked to Waimoku Falls and it was absolutely breathtaking! This stunning waterfall is located in the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā National Park on Maui. The trail leading to the falls is called the Pīpīwai Trail, which takes you through some of the most picturesque landscapes on the island.
During my visit, I enjoyed the sweeping ocean views and lush greenery along the path. The area has been home to native Hawaiians for hundreds of years, and you can feel the cultural significance as you walk through this special place.
The waterfall itself is magnificent and well worth the hike! I recommend wearing sturdy shoes and bringing water, as the trail can be muddy and the weather is often hot and humid. Don’t forget your camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
Be aware that while you can view the falls, swimming isn’t recommended due to safety concerns. Flash floods can happen quickly in this area, so always follow posted signs and safety warnings.
Rating: 4.9 (114 reviews)
Location: Hawaii 96713
Website: Visit Website
Pua’a Ka’a State Wayside
I discovered this peaceful gem right off the Hana Highway during my Maui waterfall adventure. Pua’a Ka’a is a small but charming state park that offers a perfect spot to take a break from the winding road to Hana.
The main attraction here is the beautiful waterfall with a swimming pond. I spent about an hour enjoying the refreshing water after hiking around the short paths through the lush rainforest. The waterfall isn’t massive, but its natural setting makes it quite magical.
What I loved most was how accessible this spot is compared to other Maui waterfalls. There are picnic tables where I enjoyed a quick lunch, and they have restrooms available – a luxury not found at many roadside waterfall stops! The park is free to visit and open during daylight hours.
Rating: 4.7 (619 reviews)
Location: Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708
Website: Visit Website)
Haipua’ena Falls
Haipua’ena Falls is one of Maui’s hidden gems along the famous Road to Hana. I visited this breathtaking waterfall last weekend and was amazed by its pristine beauty.
The short hike to reach it is fairly easy, making it accessible for most visitors.
The waterfall itself isn’t very tall, but what it lacks in height it makes up for in charm. The gentle cascade creates a perfect swimming hole at the bottom, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.
I spent about an hour swimming in the refreshing pool, which was a welcome break from the warm Hawaiian sun.
What I love most about Haipua’ena is that it’s less crowded than some of the more famous Maui waterfalls. This gives you space to relax and truly connect with nature.
The surrounding area offers plenty of spots to sit and enjoy a picnic while listening to the soothing sounds of falling water.
Be sure to bring water shoes as the rocks can be slippery. I’d recommend visiting in the morning to avoid the afternoon crowds that sometimes arrive with tour groups.
Rating: 4.7 (74 reviews)
Location: 11 Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708
Twin Falls Hike
The Twin Falls Hike on Maui’s famous Road to Hana is a must-see stop for waterfall lovers. I visited early in the morning to avoid crowds, and it was totally worth it! The trail is fairly easy, making it perfect for families or casual hikers like me.
After a short walk through lush tropical forest, I reached the first of the two falls. The cool mist from the cascading water felt amazing on a warm Hawaiian day.
There are swimming opportunities at both falls, and I saw several people enjoying a refreshing dip in the pools.
What makes Twin Falls special is that it’s one of the first accessible waterfall stops on the Road to Hana. I spent about an hour exploring both falls and taking photos.
The surrounding vegetation is stunning with bright tropical flowers and banana trees along the path.
There’s a small fruit stand at the entrance where I grabbed fresh coconut water and banana bread for the road. It was the perfect energy boost after the hike!
Just remember to bring water shoes as the rocks can be slippery around the falls.
Rating: 4.3 (188 reviews)
Location: 6280 Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708
Website: Visit Website
Geology and Formation of Maui’s Waterfalls
Maui’s breathtaking waterfalls result from unique geological processes that have shaped the island over millions of years. These cascades exist because of the perfect combination of volcanic activity and persistent water erosion.
Volcanic Origins
Maui formed through volcanic eruptions that began about 2 million years ago. The island’s two main volcanoes, Haleakalā and the West Maui Mountains, created the perfect foundation for waterfalls to develop.
The volcanic rock from these eruptions is mostly basalt, which forms in layers. These layers have different hardness and resistance to water.
When rainwater flows over these varied volcanic surfaces, it creates the perfect setting for waterfalls.
Some of Maui’s most impressive falls, like the 200-foot tall Makahiku Falls, flow over ancient lava flows in Haleakalā National Park. The island’s volcanic history has given us these natural wonders that attract visitors from around the world.
The Role of Erosion
Erosion plays the starring role in creating and shaping Maui’s waterfalls. The northeastern side of Maui receives heavy rainfall – sometimes more than 300 inches per year! This constant water flow carves channels into the volcanic rock.
Over thousands of years, streams gradually cut deeper into the terrain, creating the dramatic drops we see today. The famous Road to Hana waterfalls showcase this erosion process perfectly.
Water follows paths of least resistance, finding weak spots in the rock layers. As softer rock erodes faster than harder layers, ledges form – creating the perfect waterfall conditions. The constant flow also polishes the rock faces, giving many falls their smooth appearance.
In the rainforests of northeastern Maui, this ongoing erosion continuously reshapes the landscape, ensuring that no two visits to these natural wonders are ever quite the same.
Visiting Tips for Maui Waterfalls
Planning your waterfall adventures on Maui requires some insider knowledge to make the most of your experience. I’ve gathered key tips from my many visits to help you enjoy these natural wonders safely and at their best.
Best Times to Visit
The best time to visit Maui waterfalls is during the rainy season between November and March. This is when you’ll see the most impressive water flow, especially at the larger falls.
If you’re hoping to avoid crowds, I recommend arriving early in the morning (before 9 am) or later in the afternoon (after 3 pm). The popular waterfalls along the Road to Hana get extremely busy between 10 am and 2 pm.
Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. I’ve found that rainy days actually offer a special experience – the waterfalls are more powerful, and fewer tourists venture out.
For photography, the early morning light creates the most magical shots, especially at falls like the spectacular 400-foot waterfall in Kipahulu.
Safety Precautions
Always check weather conditions before heading out. Flash floods are real dangers, especially during heavy rain. If water looks muddy or is rising quickly, stay away!
I never swim in pools below waterfalls after heavy rain – dangerous currents can form. The swimming holes are tempting, but safety comes first.
Wear proper footwear with good traction. Many trails to waterfalls are muddy, slippery, and uneven.
My hiking sandals or water shoes have saved me many times.
Bring insect repellent! The humid environment around waterfalls attracts mosquitoes.
Be aware of falling rocks near waterfall cliffs. I never stand directly under waterfalls or climb on wet rocks nearby.
Respect private property and heed warning signs. Some of the most beautiful falls require passing through private land, so always get proper permission or join guided tours.
