Best Waterfall Hikes in Oahu You’ve Never Heard Of (But Should Explore!)

As one of the top Hawaiian islands for families, Oahu’s a total gem for anyone who loves chasing waterfalls. It’s got jungles, valleys, and cliffs that hide some seriously cool cascades. I’ve hiked tons of trails here, and I’m stoked to share the six best waterfall hikes that’ll blow your mind. Using info from blogs and my fellow travelers, I’ve mixed it all up to give you the full scoop on some of the best things to do in Oahu. These Oahu waterfall hikes are perfect for newbies or pros, with epic views, swim spots, and even movie locations. Let’s hit the trails, stay safe, and keep that aloha vibe alive by respecting the land.

Top-Rated Waterfall Hikes on Oahu, Hawaii

1. Waimano Falls Trail

This trail in Pearl City is the ultimate waterfall adventure. You get two amazing waterfalls, plus chances to cliff jump or swing on a rope. It’s a bit tough, but so worth it, especially when it’s rainy from November to March. This is one of the notable Oahu waterfalls you can swim in, offering a refreshing break after the challenging trek.

• Where: Pearl City, Central Oahu
• How Long: 4.7 km (3 miles)
• Climb: 244 m (810 ft)
• Time: 1-2 hours, plus chilling at the falls
• Toughness: Challenging (AllTrails says so, but some call it moderate)
• Trail Type: Out-and-back

You start on Komo Mai Drive, and it’s chill for the first half-mile. Then, boom, it drops steep, with mud, roots, and slippery gravel. The lower falls have a deep pool—perfect for jumping if you check the water first—and a rope swing that’s a blast. A side path takes you to the upper falls, where you use a rope to get to a waist-deep pool. Watch out for loose rocks and sketchy ropes. Park on the street, but don’t block driveways or leave stuff in your car. Get there early to dodge crowds and enjoy the rainy season’s full flow.

2. Mānoa Falls Trail

Everybody loves Mānoa Falls because it’s easy to reach and feels like a movie set. It’s in Jurassic Park and Lost, and the rainforest vibe with banyan trees is unreal. There’s even a cool story about Princess Kahalaopuna tied to this place.

• Where: Round Top Forest Reserve, near Honolulu
• How Long: 2.9 km
• Climb: 176 m
• Time: About 1 hour 7 minutes
• Toughness: Moderate
• Trail Type: Out-and-back

The path twists through a jungle, but it gets muddy, so wear good shoes. The 100-foot waterfall looks awesome, though it’s stronger after rain. You can’t swim in the pool, but just seeing it is enough. Check the weather to avoid flash floods, since it rains a lot here. The trailhead’s close to Honolulu, but you gotta pay to park. Check out the nearby Lyon Arboretum for rare plants. Bring your dog if it’s leashed—this one’s great for families.

3. Lulumahu Falls Trail

Want a peaceful hike? Lulumahu Falls in Nuuanu Valley is your spot. It’s got a 50-foot waterfall with vines all over, but you need a permit to hike it legally.

• Where: Near Honolulu, North Shore
• How Long: 2.6 km (1.5 miles)
• Climb: 212 m (900 ft)
• Time: Around 1 hour
• Toughness: Moderate
• Trail Type: Out-and-back

Kick off at the old hunting station on Pali Highway. The trail’s narrow, with bamboo and stone steps, and you follow pink or red ribbons to stay on track. You’ll pass a reservoir and a graffiti-covered wall. You need a permit from the Division of Forestry and Wildlife since it’s private land. There’s no parking, so get dropped off. Mud’s a problem, so download offline maps. Keep an eye out for hunters and wildlife, and leash your dog. The falls’ chill vibe makes it a secret treasure if you plan right.

4. Likeke Falls Trail

Likeke Falls is a quick, pretty hike to a two-tiered waterfall in Windward Oahu. It’s perfect if you want a short trip with big views. You can start from two spots, and both are awesome.

• Where: Near Kaneohe, Windward Oahu
• How Long: 1.3 km
• Climb: 66 m
• Time: 27 minutes
• Toughness: Moderate
• Trail Type: Out-and-back

From the First Presbyterian Church, it’s a fast 15-minute walk. From Pali Lookout, it’s 1.5 hours with killer views. At the church, follow the fence and take the left trail at a T-intersection—look for a carved arrow on a tree. The path’s muddy with jungle plants, but the upper pool’s rocks are slippery, so don’t jump. Park carefully near Ko’olau Golf Club to avoid tickets. Dogs can come if leashed. This trail’s short length makes it great for beginners.

5. Waimea Falls

Waimea Falls in Waimea Valley mixes nature with Hawaiian history. The paved path goes by ancient sites and farms, and you can swim at the falls with a life jacket.

• Where: Waimea Valley, North Shore
• How Long: 3.1 km
• Climb: 89m
• Time: 51 minutes
• Toughness: Easy to moderate
• Trail Type: Out-and-back

Follow the Waimea River to a waterfall that’s either a trickle or a huge flow, depending on rain. Buy a ticket to swim—life jackets are included, and lifeguards are there. Signs label plants, so you learn about Hawaii’s nature. If it hasn’t rained, the falls might be dry, so check first. This trail’s easy for kids and older folks, making it one of the more easy hikes in Oahu for families, complete with cool history to soak up.

6. Kapena Falls

Right by Honolulu, Kapena Falls is a super quick hike to a two-tiered waterfall seen in The Rundown and Lost. It’s close to the city but feels wild.

• Where: Near Pali Highway, Windward Oahu
• How Long: 0.5 miles
• Climb: 27 m
• Time: 20-30 minutes
• Toughness: Easy to moderate
• Trail Type: Out-and-back

Start at Nuʻuanu Memorial Park’s parking lot. The trail passes small cascades like Alapena Pool before hitting the main falls. A rope’s there for swings, but don’t swim—there’s a risk of leptospirosis. The jungle around it is gorgeous, making it feel far from the city. Dogs are okay on a leash, and it’s perfect if you’re short on time for hiking in Oahu waterfalls.

Tips for Oahu Waterfall Hiking

• Stay safe! Check the weather, because rain can make trails muddy or cause flash floods. Wear shoes with a good grip. Knowing what to bring is crucial for navigating these Oahu hiking trails with waterfalls, so consider this part of your essential Hawaii packing list.
• Some trails, like Lulumahu, need permits. Parking’s tricky for Waimano and Likeke, so get there early and don’t block locals’ driveways.
• Some visitors choose to cruise Hawaii and then extend their trip by planning their stay in Oahu specifically for exploring these incredible natural wonders. Finding the right places to stay in Hawaii, whether you prefer 5-star accommodations or resorts in Hawaii, can make accessing these trailheads easier.
• Show aloha: leave no trash, share the trail, and lock up your car to avoid theft.
• Rainy season (November to March) is best for big waterfalls, but trails get slippery.
• If you want to jump or swing at Waimano, check the water depth and ropes first. Don’t swim, at Mānoa or Kapena.

Why These Hikes Rock

I picked these trails because they’re all different and awesome. Waimano’s got wild cliff jumps and swings. Mānoa and Waimea mix cool stories and movie vibes. Lulumahu and Likeke are quieter with epic scenery. Kapena’s great for a fast trip near town. Each one shows off Oahu’s jungles and waterfalls, making your hike unforgettable. Respect the island, stay safe, and have a blast exploring!