Oahu, Hawaii — Waimea Falls It had been raining on and off for the four days before we went to the falls. On the day we visited, there were also two brief showers. We bought tickets on-site after arriving. Even though it was rainy, the plants and scenery along the path to the falls were still beautiful. The moment we saw the waterfall, because of the rain, the water below had turned a little yellow. The downside was that photos just didn’t turn out as nice. If you’re planning to get into the water, they provide free life vests in all sizes by the waterfall. It’s best to bring something to prevent mosquito bites or to treat them afterward. The vegetation along the trail is beautiful but there are quite a lot of mosquitoes — each of us got bitten a few times, and our oldest got several big bites. If there’s been a lot of rain and you have high expectations for the waterfall, it’s better not to go that day. Before or after your visit, you can check out the popular Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck for shrimp. However, a local parking attendant told us that Jenny’s Shrimp Truck nearby is actually the best. For me, it was more about the experience — nothing particularly outstanding.
Waimea Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Waimea Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Waimea Falls famous?
Waimea Valley is a sacred Hawaiian site (ahupua'a) with over 700 years of cultural history and home to one of Hawaii's most accessible waterfalls. The valley is also renowned for its world-class botanical garden featuring over 5,000 species of tropical plants.
Can you swim at Waimea Falls?
Yes — swimming is permitted in the pool at the base of Waimea Falls when lifeguards are on duty and conditions are safe. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Waimea Falls?
No pets allowed in Waimea Valley Botanical Garden, including the trail to Waimea Falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Waimea Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Paid admission required — adult tickets typically around $20–$25, with discounts for children, seniors, and Hawaii residents. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Waimea Falls?
Parking is available on-site at Waimea Valley. The parking lot is adjacent to the entrance and included with admission. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Waimea Falls?
About 1.2 km / 0.75 miles one-way (2.4 km / 1.5 miles return) on a paved pathway through the botanical garden. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Waimea Falls hike difficulty
Easy — fully paved, mostly flat pathway suitable for all ages and wheelchairs with assistance. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Waimea Falls?
Year-round, though winter months (November–March) typically have higher water flow. Weekday mornings are less crowded than weekends. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Waimea Falls
From the entrance, follow the single paved pathway that winds through Waimea Valley's botanical gardens for approximately 0.75 miles. The path is clearly marked and leads directly to the waterfall. Life jackets are provided free of charge at the falls and must be worn for swimming.
Waimea Falls official website
Attractions near Waimea Falls
- •Waimea Bay Beach Park — famous North Shore beach for surfing and cliff jumping (summer swimming)
- •Banzai Pipeline — world-renowned surf break, short drive east on Kamehameha Highway
- •Haleiwa Town — historic surf town with shops, restaurants, and shave ice
- •Laniakea Beach (Turtle Beach) — popular spot to see Hawaiian green sea turtles
- •Pua'ena Point Beach Park — calm beach for families and stand-up paddleboarding
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
No questions yet — be the first to ask.
More to explore nearby
Rainbow Falls
Hilo, Hawaii
Big Island waterfall famous for morning rainbows.
Manoa Falls
Honolulu, Hawaii
Lush rainforest waterfall above Oahu's Manoa Valley.
Wailua Falls
Lihue, Hawaii
Twin Kauai waterfall featured in Fantasy Island.
Akaka Falls
Honomu, Hawaii
Big Island's most-visited waterfall.