Akaka Falls
Akaka Falls is a 442-foot waterfall in Akaka Falls State Park, reached by a short paved rainforest loop trail north of Hilo.
Big Island Waterfall Guide
Big Island Waterfalls
Find the best Big Island waterfalls for rainforest lookouts, lush valley scenery, roadside stops and garden walks, from Akaka Falls and Rainbow Falls to Pe'epe'e Falls, Umauma Falls, Onomea Falls, Nanue Falls and Hi'ilawe Falls.
Waterfall directory
Big Island Waterfalls
Browse Big Island waterfalls, including roadside viewpoints, lush valley cascades and scenic natural areas worth visiting.
Hi'ilawe Falls
Hi'ilawe Falls is a towering Waipi'o Valley waterfall on Hawaii Island, best appreciated from approved viewpoints, guided access or the air.
Nanue Falls
Nanue Falls is a Hamakua Coast waterfall area best viewed from the Nanue Stream bridge on Old Mamalahoa Highway.
Onomea Falls
Onomea Falls is a multi-tiered Hamakua Coast waterfall inside Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, surrounded by lush rainforest plants.
Pe'epe'e Falls and Boiling Pots
Pe'epe'e Falls and Boiling Pots are Hilo waterfall and river viewpoints in Wailuku River State Park, best enjoyed from the lookout.
Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is an 80-foot Hilo waterfall in Wailuku River State Park, known for easy lookout access and morning mist rainbows.
Umauma Falls
Umauma Falls is a three-tiered Hamakua Coast waterfall on Hawaii Island, with managed access through Umauma Experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best waterfalls to visit on the Big Island?
Popular Big Island waterfalls include Akaka Falls, Rainbow Falls, Pe'epe'e Falls and Boiling Pots, Umauma Falls, Onomea Falls, Nanue Falls and Hi'ilawe Falls.
Which Big Island waterfall is easiest to visit?
Rainbow Falls in Hilo is one of the easiest Big Island waterfalls to visit because it has quick roadside lookout access and nearby parking.
Which Big Island waterfall has a rainforest loop trail?
Akaka Falls is reached by a short paved loop trail through lush rainforest in Akaka Falls State Park north of Hilo.
Where can visitors see waterfalls near Hilo?
Rainbow Falls, Pe'epe'e Falls and Boiling Pots are in the Hilo area, while Akaka Falls, Onomea Falls, Nanue Falls and Umauma Falls are north of Hilo along the Hamakua Coast.
Can visitors swim at Big Island waterfalls?
Swimming is not recommended at many waterfall areas because of flash floods, slippery rocks, strong currents and restricted access. Use official lookouts and follow posted signs.