Maui is often called the “Valley Isle” due to the abundance of lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and winding streams found across this gorgeous Hawaiian island. For hikers seeking the most scenic trails showcasing breathtaking waterfalls, Maui is a paradise.
This guide features the 10 best hikes in Maui with waterfalls, offering stunning views, refreshing swims, and unforgettable encounters with majestic waterfalls. From family-friendly treks to challenging routes deep in the rainforest, discover the island’s most magnificent falls.
Table of Contents
Garden of Eden
Trail Distance: 1 km roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 53 m
Terrain Rating: Easy to moderate
Hike Time: 21 minutes
Trailhead Location: Off Hana Highway past Wailua. Get Directions
Features: Kid-friendly | Hiking | Walking | Views | Waterfall | Wildflowers | Wildlife | Fee | No dogs
The hiking trail to Garden of Eden features two spectacular waterfalls that emerge from openings in the lush green cliffs to tumble picturesquely into sparkling pools below. Visitors cross back and forth over Puohokamoa Stream on this relatively short but adventurous hike along uneven terrain and through untamed jungle dotted with guava trees and fragrant blooming ginger.
The sound of rushing water leads hikers upstream first to three-tiered Makahiku Falls and then onward to the thin, delicate ribbon of Upper Makahiku Falls cascading 200 feet down the cliffside. Vibrant green ferns, red hibiscus blooms, and yellow ginger flowers flourish in this small piece of unspoiled Hawaiian paradise with no handrails or safety features obstructing the awesome displays of nature’s raw power. Come prepared with sturdy shoes and swimming gear to take a plunge into the heavenly waterfall pools.
Iao Tableland (Iao Valley "Secret" Trail)
Trail Distance: 4 km roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 280 m
Terrain Rating: Challenging
Hike Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Trailhead Location: Unofficial trailhead past Kepaniwai Park. Get directions
Features: Dogs on leash | Hiking | Forest | River | Views | Waterfall | Wildflowers | Wildlife | Rocky
For experienced hikers willing to brave an unofficial yet unbelievable waterfall trek, the steepSecret Trail scaling the valley walls in West Maui’s gorgeous Iao Valley leads to a breathtaking payoff. The strenuous uphill through muddy forest eventually emerges to reveal a landscape filled with scenic vistas of the lush valley that make the quad-burning workout worthwhile.
The Iao Tableland crosses seasonal streams and passes a lovely triple-tiered waterfall on the way to the massive 240-foot Wailuku Waterfall pouring off a high green ridge. Standing atop the misty tableland looking out at perpetual rainbows and the towering falls in their full glory is a memory that will remain etched in the mind forever. Be prepared with proper footwear for slippery, dangerous conditions on this unique waterfall adventure. Feel your spirits soar as high as the falls!
Makamakaole Falls
Trail Distance: 0.6 km roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 17 m
Terrain Rating: Easy
Hike Time: 12 minutes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Recommended Seasons: Year-round
Trailhead Location: Off Hana Highway near Mile Marker 32; Get directions
Features: Kid friendly | Hiking | Walking | Forest | River | Waterfall | Wildlife
An easy 20-minute walk through ginger-scented jungle leads to the sparkling 120-foot Makamakaole Falls, whose name means “eye-catching view” in Hawaiian. And the sight ofcrystal water cascading down ancient lava rock cliffs draped in emerald ferns and neon-orange flowers is definitely eye-catching, making this roadside waterfall well worth a stop.
The short hike crosses over Makamakaole Stream on your way to a viewpoint of the lovely double waterfall and its perfectly oval-shaped pool. Dip your toes into the cool water or simply sit and meditate to the relaxing sounds of nature on this family-friendly trek ideal for all ages to glimpse one of Maui’s most magical waterfalls. Bring your camera to capture these special memories amid an enchanting tropical paradise!
Makamakaole Stream: 13 Crossings
Trail Distance: 3.2 km roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 151 m
Terrain Rating: Moderate
Hike Time: 1.5-2 hours
Dog Friendly: No
Recommended Seasons: Summer, Fall
Trailhead Location: Off Hana Highway past Keanae. Get directions
Features: Hiking | Forest | Views | Waterfall | Wildflowers | Wildlife | Muddy | Rocky | Scramble | No dogs
Adventurous hikers can take on the challenge of rock-hopping across Makamakaole Stream 13 times on this waterfall quest into magical valleys tucked between towering cliffs blanketed in lush jungle foliage. Each crossing of the stream brings refreshing relief for sore feet while treating you to scenic views of mini cascades tumbling down mossy boulders all around.
The uphill trek follows bamboo groves and passes through an old Hawaiian village site along aquamarine pools dotting the tranquil stream. Your reward after all the stream crossings is arriving upon a rocky beach with a picture-perfect view of wide Makahiku Falls sending a soothing cascade of crystal water down from a high green cliff into the sparkling pool below. Feel tension dissolve as you immerse yourself in the meditative wonder of this secluded waterfall haven.
Road to Hana Scenic Drive
Trail Distance: 74.7 km
Elevation Gain: 2,796 m
Terrain Rating: Challenging
Hike Time: Full day
Dog Friendly: Yes
Recommended Seasons: Year-round
Trailhead Location: Multiple access points in east Maui; Get directions
Features: Dogs on leash | Kid friendly | Scenic driving | Beach | Forest | Paved | Views | Waterfall | Wildflowers | Wildlife | Historic site
No trip to paradise is complete without experiencing the legendary Road to Hana, a gorgeous Hawaiian scenic highway offering drivers nearly non-stop views of majestic waterfalls. The ribbon of pavement winds past rainforested cliffs, weaving through 59 bridges and 600 hairpin turns. From major tourist attractions to hidden gems, waterfalls appear at nearly every corner to make jaws drop in awe.
Be sure to stop early on at Twin Falls to view twin streams trickling down into a large jungle pool. Further along, take some time to swim beneath the Lower Puohokamoa Falls cascading right next to the roadside or venture uphill 20 minutes to discover the hidden Upper Puohokamoa Falls tucked within the foliage. Don’t miss the famous black sand beach at Waianapanapa State Park with a cave trail passing a striking 120-foot bridal veil falls.
With so many waterfall wonders, the Road to Hana deserves an entire leisurely day to immerse yourself in the magic of Maui. Come thirsty for adventure!
Seven Sacred Pools Trail ('Ohe'o Gulch)
Trail Distance: 1.0 km Loop
Elevation Gain: 23 m
Terrain Rating: Easy to moderate
Hike Time: 15 minutes
Dog Friendly: No
Recommended Seasons: Year-round
Trailhead Location: ‘Ohe’o Gulch, Haleakala National Park; Get directions
Features: Kid-friendly | Hiking | Walking | Bird watching | Forest | River | Views | Waterfall | Wildflowers | Wildlife | Fee | No dogs
Haleakala National Park shelters the magnificent ‘Ohe’o Gulch, often referred to as the Seven Sacred Pools, with some of Maui’s most famous and popular waterfalls tumbling into terraced pools connected by gentle streams. The gorgeous Pipiwai Trailfollows the ‘Ohe’o Gulch uphill through bamboo forests with scenic overlooks of the waterfalls at every turn.
During the short uphill trek, hikers will first encounter 80-foot Makahiku Falls pouring into a large pool perfect for swimming. Next is the elegant 200-foot Kuloaloa Falls dropping straight off a high cliff through the canopy to a rocky pool below. The awe-inspiring grand finale is four-tiered, 400-foot Waimoku Falls, the tallest waterfall in Maui, sending a thundering cascade of water into a stream-fed pool surrounded by fragrant mango and guava trees. Visitors won’t want to miss a refreshing dip beneath the misty veil after the rewarding hike.
Twin Falls Trail
Trail Distance: 2.9 km
Elevation Gain: 109 m
Terrain Rating: Easy to moderate
Hike Time: 53 min
Recommended Seasons: Year-round
Trailhead Location: Off Hana Highway past Paia; Get directions
Features: Kid friendly | Hiking | Dog friendly | Forest | Views | Waterfall | Muddy | Rocky
The postcard-perfect Twin Falls are among the most famous waterfalls on Maui thanks to their picturesque jungle setting with dual streams descending into scenic pools perfect for swimming beneath the refreshing cascades. The family-friendly hiking trail to Twin Falls treats visitors to views of water tumbling over lava rock outcroppings all along the trek through vibrant rainforest filled with fragrant guava, mango trees, and colorful tropical flowers.
After crossing a bubbling stream, hikers will arrive at a lower pool with a pretty 20-foot waterfall – keep going uphill to discover the more grand upper falls. Here two separate falls pour from a cliff surrounded by lush ferns into a large round natural pool begging for a swim. Visitors of all ages delight in the magnificent Twin Falls hike rewarding those willing to venture into the jungle with heavenly waterfall pools for an unforgettable experience.
Waimoku Falls via Pipiwai Trail
Trail Distance: 5.5 km Out & back
Elevation Gain: 310 m
Terrain Rating: Moderate to challenging
Hike Time: 2 h 2 min
Dog Friendly: No
Recommended Seasons: Year-round
Trailhead Location: Kipahulu, Haleakala National Park. Get directions
Features: Hiking | Forest | River | Views | Waterfall | Wildflowers | Wildlife | Rocky | Fee | No dogs
The uphill trek showcases striking falls all along the way, like the thin, ribbon-style Makahiku Falls and the tall Kuloaloa Falls. But pressing onward over uneven, muddy terrain will treat you to the jaw-dropping sight of magnificent Waimoku Falls pouring from valley cliffs blanketed in lush jungle foliage into a cool stream-fed pool. Feel a sense of glory for undertaking this difficult trail culminating with the crowning waterfall centerpiece of East Maui’s spectacular tropical paradise.
Waihe'e Ridge Trail
Trail Distance: 6.4 km Out & back
Elevation Gain: 440 m
Terrain Rating: Moderate to challenging
Hike Time: 2 h 40 min
Dog Friendly: Yes
Recommended Seasons: Fall, winter, spring
Trailhead Location: Near Waihe’e town; Get directions
Features: Dogs on leash | Hiking | Running | Forest | Partially paved | Views | Waterfall | Wildflowers | Wildlife
Wailua Iki Falls
Trail Distance: 1.3 km Out & back
Elevation Gain: 54 m
Terrain Rating: Easy
Hike Time: 24 min
Dog Friendly: Yes
Recommended Seasons: Year-round
Trailhead Location: Iao Valley State Park; Get directions
Features: Kid friendly | Hiking | Forest | Views | Waterfall | Wildflowers | Wildlife
Nestled at the back of gorgeous Iao Valley, the easy family-friendly hike to wide Wailua Iki Fallstreats visitors to a culminating view of crystal water pouring from 100 feet up the valley’s sheer green cliffs framed by tall tropical foliage. Cross the iconic Iao Stream and enter the lush jungle canyon adorned with guava trees, wild orange and lemon fruit, fragrant ginger flowers, and vibrant crimson hibiscus blooms.
Delight as the sound of rushing water grows louder and louder until finally the 200-foot wide falls majestically come into full view, sending millions of gallons of waterfall magic tumbling per second into a large round pool. Make sure to capture photos ofjaw-dropping Wailua Iki Falls contrasted against the sheer emerald valley cliffs before taking a meditative moment to soak up the relaxing negative ions from this wonder of nature. Visitors leave feeling profoundly moved by the overpowering beauty of this easily accessible yet unspeakably stunning Maui waterfall treasure.
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| Trail | Length | Difficulty | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garden of Eden | 1 km | Easy to moderate | Kid-friendly, swimming hole |
| Iao Tableland | 4 km | Challenging | Unofficial trail, view of 240-ft Wailuku falls |
| Makamakaʻole Falls | 0.6 km | Easy | Short walk to 120-ft falls |
| Makamakaʻole Stream: 13 Crossings | 3.2 km | Moderate | Series of stream crossings & mini cascades |
| Road To Hāna | 74.7 km | Challenging | Iconic scenic drive with countless falls |
| Seven Sacred Pools | 1 km | Easy to moderate | Iconic waterfall pools and overlooks |
| Twin Falls | 2.9 km | Easy to moderate | Lower & upper falls with swimming |
| Waimoku Falls | 5.5 km | Moderate to challenging | 400-ft falls at end of steep uphill trek |
| Waihe’e Ridge Trail | 6.4 km | Moderate to challenging | Panoramic ridge views of hidden falls |
| Wailua Iki Falls | 1.3 km | Easy | Short walk to huge 100-ft falls |
What To Bring While Hiking Best Hikes In Maui With Waterfalls
Here are some recommended items to bring when hiking the best trails to waterfalls in Maui:
Sturdy shoes
Many of the trails can be slippery, muddy, or rocky, so good traction from waterproof hiking boots or sports sandals is essential. Make sure to break shoes in before the hike.
Swimsuit and towel
Pack your swimsuit and towel for refreshing dips in the waterfall pools and streams. Some falls even warrant water shoes if scrambling on rocks into pools.
Water and snacks
Bring plenty of water and energizing trail snacks to refuel during your hike. The tropical climate causes high fluid loss. Hydrate before, during, and after!
Rain jacket
Weather can change unexpectedly. A lightweight rain jacket provides protection during passing showers so you can continue enjoying the views.
Camera
Capture those jaw-dropping waterfall moments! Bring extra batteries and memory cards. Consider a waterproof case if planning water activities.
Sun protection
Don’t forget your hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The tropical sun is intense, even while under canopy cover. Reapply sunscreen if swimming.
First aid kit
Pack essentials like bandages, antiseptic cream, bug spray, tweezers, etc. A hiking pole can provide stability on uneven, slippery terrain.
Trail map
Pick up free park maps and know your route. Cell service is unreliable in remote areas. Bring a full tank of gas and cash for fees.
Follow leave no trace principles to preserve Maui’s exquisite landscapes. Fill your soul amid the refreshing waterfall beauty! Stay safe and enjoy this guide to the island’s most marvelous hike-able falls.
FAQs About The best hikes in maui with waterfalls
What is the most beautiful waterfall in Maui?
The most beautiful waterfall in Maui is widely considered to be Waimoku Falls, located at the end of the Pipiwai Trail in Haleakala National Park. This 400-foot waterfall flows down a lush, fern-filled canyon and ends at a sparkling pool perfect for swimming.
What is the 400-foot secret waterfall in Maui?
The 400-foot “secret” waterfall in Maui is Makamakaʻole Falls. Located along Makamakaʻole Stream just outside of Hana in East Maui, most tourists drive right by without realizing this stunning hidden waterfall is just a short hike away.
What is the most accessible waterfall in Maui?
The most accessible waterfall in Maui is Twin Falls near Hāna. The trail to get there is relatively short at around 15 minutes and is an easy, paved path that is manageable for people of most abilities and fitness levels.
Which part of Maui is the most beautiful?
The Road to Hāna in East Maui is considered the most beautiful part of the island. It features lush rainforests, towering waterfalls around nearly every corner, quiet black sand beaches, and crystal clear pools for swimming, making it a must on any Hawaii bucket list.
Where is the prettiest water in Maui?
The Seven Sacred Pools (ʻOheʻo Gulch) is home to some of the prettiest waterfall pools in Maui. This famous stop off the Road to Hāna features a series of tiered pools spilling into the ocean, surrounded by towering waterfalls and Hawaiian folklore.
What is the best hike in Maui with waterfalls not on the Road to Hana?
One exceptional off-the-beaten-path waterfall hike is to Makamakaʻole Falls and Makamakaʻole Stream just outside of Hāna. Most tourists pass right by it, making it far less crowded than the major attractions on the Road to Hāna.
What is the secret waterfall in Hawaii?
Kuliʻouʻou Ridge Trail on Oahu takes hikers through forest strewn with guava trees to two hidden waterfalls, Maikuao Falls and Kapalaoa Falls. Requiring navigating through slippery streambeds, this trail feels like genuine, off-grid, secret waterfall hunting.
What is the easiest waterfall to see in Hawaii?
Upside Down Falls on the Big Island is one of the easiest waterfalls to access in Hawaii. Located right off Chain of Craters Road in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, a short 10-minute walk along a paved path brings you to this unique waterfall cascading into steam vents.
What is the blue waterfall in Hawaii?
Hāʻena Beach Park at the end of Kuhio Highway features a picturesque blue waterfall spilling directly into its lovely sheltered cove. Tunnels Leading to Nowhere Trail takes hikers behind the striking blue waterfall for amazing views through the lush valley.
Where can I jump off waterfalls in Maui?
While tempting, it is highly discouraged to jump from any waterfalls in Maui for safety reasons. Even jumping from small waterfalls can lead to serious injuries. Instead, enjoy a refreshing dip in the plunge pools below or watch local thrill-seekers risk their jumps during your visit if you see any brave souls.
Conclusion
From family-friendly adventures to challenging quests into untamed rainforests, the 10 magnificent hikes on this list offer every type of visitor a chance to glimpse some of Maui’s most incredible waterfalls accessible via dazzling trails. Whether seeking refreshing swimming holes, scenic perspectives of falls tucked deep in valleys, or close-up views of sheer cascades pouring down jungle cliffs, these must-see natural wonders awakening all the senses will leave even the most seasoned explorers thirsting for more.
Let the soothing sounds and negative ions detoxifying your body from Maui’s abundant waterfalls rejuvenate your spirit. Let the prismatic rainbows in the perpetual mist remind you of nature’s diety beauty.
Linger as long as possible amid each of these unique tropical paradises sheltering liquid diamonds within their lush valleys. And emerge with a renewed appreciation for our awe-inspiring planet that compels you to become an ambassador helping preserve these sacred Hawaiian treasures so others may also experience the rebirth awaiting those who embark deep into the Valley Isle’s hidden waterfall havens.
SARAH LEE
Sarah has been hiking for over five years and is passionate about promoting the mental and emotional benefits of spending time in nature. She has written several articles on the topic and strongly advocates hiking as a form of therapy. Sarah is also a certified yoga instructor, often incorporating yoga and mindfulness practices into her hiking trips. She is dedicated to providing accurate and up-to-date information on trail conditions, difficulty levels, and must-see sights.
SARAH LEE
Sarah has been hiking for over five years and is passionate about promoting the mental and emotional benefits of spending time in nature. She has written several articles on the topic and strongly advocates hiking as a form of therapy. Sarah is also a certified yoga instructor, often incorporating yoga and mindfulness practices into her hiking trips. She is dedicated to providing accurate and up-to-date information on trail conditions, difficulty levels, and must-see sights.
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From otherworldly moonscapes to verdant jungle waterfalls, this Maui hiking guide beautifully captures the diversity of the island’s landscapes. The Pipiwai Trail and challenging Trek to Hana look especially remarkable. I’ll be referring back to this often when planning my trip to paradise!
Thank you Silvester!!
From towering waterfalls to alien-like landscapes, this list captures Maui’s incredibly diverse natural beauty perfectly. As someone who has hiked the Road to Hana and through majestic Iao Valley, I can vouch for the thrill of jungle treks across this stunning island. For my next trip, I’m eager to check out the otherworldly red and black sands of Kaihalulu Beach and the peaceful bamboo forest along East Maui’s Waihou Spring Trail.
Mahalo for spotlighting these dazzling landscapes and ocean vistas waiting to be explored boot-first! This will be an invaluable guide for planning future adventures in paradise.
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Lush valleys and bamboo forests leading to Hidden Falls and cascading pools – Maui tempts even non-hikers to lace up their boots! Say aloha to waterlogged adventures on the Valley Isle.
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Maui’s valleys overflow with rainbows after the rain,
Verdant cliffs dotted with silvery waterfalls shimmering far below.
Ancient lava flows lead to black sand beaches and emerald bays,
Revealing this island’s awe-inspiring beauty on every trail.
The lush, tropical landscapes of Maui offer some of the most spectacular waterfall hikes in Hawaii. From short and easy walks to all-day treks, there’s a waterfall hike for every type of adventurer. Some must-see waterfalls include the 400-foot Waimoku Falls in ‘Ohe’o Gulch, the towering pools of Pipiwai Trail, and the remote wonders of Nu’u Bay. Just be prepared for slippery trails and bring mosquito repellent! There’s nothing quite like the sight and sound of crystal-clear water tumbling down cliffs covered in vibrant green rainforest. Enjoy this insider guide to Maui’s best waterfall hikes!