Exploring Maui’s lush interior is a must-do activity for every traveler. Last year, over 2.48 million tourists visited the island, but I found the real magic happens when you step off the main roads. We found some of the best waterfalls in Maui, many tucked away on incredible jungle hikes. This guide shares our favorite spots, from famous cascades along the Hana Highway to hidden gems. We learned so much about finding these Maui nature hikes and want to help you plan your own amazing trip. Get ready for a journey into the heart of the island’s green landscape.
Best time to visit Maui for Waterfall Hikes
| Best Month to Visit | Seasonal Occasion / Key Event |
| March | Start of the spring season with lush landscapes from recent rains, ideal for waterfall hikes. |
| April | The prime shoulder season offers an outstanding balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds on the trails. |
| May | Enjoy warm and pleasant weather for hiking popular trails, such as those on the Road to Hana. |
| September | Shoulder season with fewer crowds, providing a more peaceful experience on popular trails. |
| Travel Insurance-For peace of mind during activities like hiking and swimming in remote spots, think about getting travel insurance before your trip. |
Top-rated 11 waterfall Hikes in Maui
1. Waimoku Falls, Maui
This tall waterfall hikes in Maui is the final reward at the end of the Pipiwai Trail. The Waimoku Falls are worth visiting, but the hike to get there is just as good, taking you through a unique bamboo forest. Seeing the massive 400-foot cascade feels like a scene from a movie. It’s one of those essential Waterfall Hikes in Maui that makes the effort worth it.
- Distance from trailhead: 2.0 miles
- Best for: Moderate
- Waterfall height: 400 feet
- Swimming hole: No
- Rest Rooms: Yes
- Cost: $30 Entrance (Haleakalā National Park) + $0 Parking
2. Pipiwai Trail
This is more than just a path; it’s a full, wholesome experience leading to hikes in Maui Waimoku Falls. The trail goes past the big Makahiku Falls and through a dense, interesting bamboo forest where the stalks creak in the wind. The boardwalks help with the mud, but it’s still a workout. This is a must-do for anyone seeking the full Maui adventure hiking experience.
- Best for: Moderate
- Distance: 4.0 miles
- Elevation: 650 feet
- Type of Route: Out & Back
- Length: 2.5–5 hours
3. Twin Falls Maui Hike
As the first easy-to-reach waterfall on the Road to Hana, this spot gets busy. It’s a great family-friendly waterfall hikes in Maui, offering a short walk to the lower falls. I grabbed a smoothie from the farm stand at the entrance, which was a perfect treat. The “Caveman Falls” further up requires a bit more effort to reach.
- Distance from trailhead: 0.5 miles to upper falls
- Best for: Beginner-friendly
- Waterfall height: Verify on the official site
- Swimming hole: Yes
- Rest Rooms: Yes (portable toilets)
- Cost: $0 Entrance + $10 Parking
4. Wailua Falls
This is one of the most photographed waterfalls hikes in Maui for a good reason. It’s right off the road, making it very easy to get to. A short, slippery path takes you down to the plunge pool for a swim. We found local vendors selling snacks and souvenirs in the parking area, which added to the lively feel. It’s a perfect stop.
- Distance from trailhead: ~100 yards
- Best for: Beginner-friendly
- Waterfall height: 80 feet
- Swimming hole: Yes
- Rest Rooms: No
- Cost: $0 Entrance + $0 Parking
5. Upper Waikani Falls (Three Bears Falls)
Upper Waikani Falls is nicknamed for its three cascades. This is a great photo stop along the waterfalls on the Hana Highway. The view from the bridge is good, but a steep scramble leads to the pool below this hikes in Maui. Parking is minimal, so we had to be patient. When the flow is strong, the three falls merge into one. This is a classic stop along the Road to Hana.
- Distance from trailhead: <0.1 miles
- Best for: Beginner-friendly
- Waterfall height: 70 feet
- Swimming hole: Yes
- Rest Rooms: No
- Cost: $0 Entrance + $0 Parking
Popular : 13 Best Hikes in Oahu for Great Views
6. Honokohau Falls
Honokohau is the tallest waterfall hikes in Maui, a huge two-tiered giant over 1,100 feet. You can’t hike to it, which makes seeing it even more special. The only way to see this incredible sight is by helicopter. It’s a bit of a splurge, but the aerial views of the inaccessible valley and lush West Maui Mountains are absolutely unforgettable.
- Special Feature: Maui’s tallest waterfall, only viewable by helicopter.
- Where to Stay: Hotels in nearby Lahaina or Ka’anapali
- Hours: Verify on the official site
- Hidden Gem: Famous for its appearance in the movie Jurassic Park.
7. Pools of ‘Ohe’o (Seven Sacred Pools)
Located in Haleakalā National Park, these tiered pools are beautiful. The swimming spot, which is currently not allowed for safety reasons, was a bit of a letdown for us. However, the short Kūloa Point Trail offers safe and nice views of the pools cascading towards the ocean. It’s a great spot to appreciate the power of nature.
- Special Feature: Famous tiered pools in Haleakalā National Park.
- Where to Stay: Travaasa Hana, 364A Keanini St, Hana, HI 96713
- Hours: Open 24/7 (Visitor Center 9:30 AM–4:30 PM)
- Hidden Gem: The Kūloa Point Trail offers the best safe viewing.
8. Waihe’e Ridge Trail
For great coastal views, this is one of the best hikes in Maui. It’s a challenging uphill climb that rewards you with wide vistas of green valleys and the ocean. I could even see the Makamakaole Falls hike in the distance. The trail can get muddy, so going with good shoes is a must. It’s one of the top Maui nature hikes.
- Best for: Moderate
- Distance: 4.5 miles
- Elevation: 1,610 feet
- Type of Route: Out & Back
- Length: 2.5–4 hours
9. Makamakaole Falls Hike
This hike, known as “13 Crossings,” has a real jungle experience. We went through a bamboo forest and crossed the stream multiple times to reach the base of this 270-foot waterfall. The swimming hole was so refreshing. This hidden waterfalls Maui hike felt like a real discovery, away from the big crowds. This hike is a must for experienced hikers.
- Distance from trailhead: 1.0 mile
- Best for: Moderate
- Waterfall height: 270 feet
- Swimming hole: Yes
- Rest Rooms: No
- Cost: $0 Entrance + $0 Parking
10. ‘Iao Valley State Park
This park is very green and historically important. The main feature is the 1,200-foot ‘Iao Needle, a green-mantled rock outcropping. The paved paths make it very easy to walk through the gardens and along the stream. It’s a peaceful place, but be sure to make reservations online beforehand as they are now required.
- Special Feature: Home to the iconic 1,200-foot ʻĪao Needle.
- Where to Stay: Iao Valley Inn, 80 Iao Valley Rd, Wailuku, HI 96793
- Hours: 7:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Hidden Gem: The Nearby Kepaniwai Park Heritage Gardens are free.
11. Ho’olawa Valley
This valley is where you’ll find the popular Twin Falls Maui hike, but it also offers a broader Hawaiian jungle experience. We went past the main falls to find smaller, less crowded swimming holes. The area is on a private farm that allows public access. It’s a great introduction to the lush landscapes and jungle hikes in Maui.
- Special Feature: A green, accessible valley with multiple waterfalls.
- Where to Stay: Paia Inn, 93 Hana Hwy, Paia, HI 96779
- Hours: 7:10 AM–6:00 PM
- Hidden Gem: Smaller, less-crowded pools can be found upstream.
Travel Basics & Tips for Maui Waterfall Hikes
- Book park entry online for Haleakalā and ‘Iao Valley.
- Rental car contracts may not cover some unpaved roads.
- Bring cash for small farm stands along the Hana Highway.
- Cell service is spotty; download offline maps before you go.
- These Maui waterfall hikes can be slippery; always use caution.
- Wear sturdy shoes you don’t mind getting muddy and wet.
Conclusion
This trip was full of amazing Maui adventure hikes. Seeing these powerful waterfalls and green hiking trails in Maui was a great reminder of nature’s beauty. Hiking as a family can be hard, but as I always say, “It’s hard, but it’s the easiest thing in the world because we love doing it.” I hope you find your own great trip among the Waterfall Hikes in Maui.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the prettiest water in Maui?
Napili Beach boasts one of the most stunning and breathtaking waters in Maui. It is one of the most popular beaches in Maui due to its turquoise water and plush sand.
Is 7 falls a hard hike?
It is considered one of the challenging paths, but you will encounter people exploring it beauty.
Where do the rich stay in Maui?
Most of the rich used to stay in Maui’s luxury stays, like the Napili Kai Beach resort, Western Maui Resort and Spa, and the Hyatt Regency Maui.
