Wondering where to find the most beautiful places in Maui? Check out these 12 best waterfalls in Maui that are absolutely stunning, keep scrolling down for all the info!
This best Maui waterfalls post was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Look, I’ve been going to Hawaii since I was 10 years old, and I’ve done the Road to Hana more times than I can count.
My mom lives on Kauai part-time, my grandmother lived there, and I’ve been dancing hula for over 20 years.
So when I tell you about Maui waterfalls, it’s not from reading other blogs.
It’s from actually being there with my two boys, making mistakes, and figuring out what’s worth your time.
Here’s what you need to know upfront.
Quick Stats That Actually Matter
About 1.5 million people drive the Road to Hana every year. That’s a LOT of people fighting for parking at the same waterfalls.
The Road to Hana has over 600 curves and more than 50 one-lane bridges. Most of Maui’s best waterfalls are along this route.
If you’re planning a Maui trip and feeling overwhelmed, listen to my podcast episode “What You Need to Know About the Road to Hana on Maui” first.
I break down the logistics that nobody tells you about.
The Honest Truth About Maui Waterfalls
Maui doesn’t have the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii (that’s Kauai). It doesn’t have the most powerful waterfalls (Big Island wins there).
What Maui has is accessibility.
You can see multiple gorgeous waterfalls in one day without needing special equipment, extreme fitness, or a helicopter. Most are right off the Road to Hana.
The downside? Everyone knows this now. The popular spots get absolutely mobbed between 10am-2pm.
Should You Even Drive Road to Hana Yourself?
Real talk: driving the Road to Hana is exhausting. I’ve done it many times, and there’s always a moment where I think “why didn’t I just book a tour?”
600+ curves means you’re constantly turning the wheel. Your passenger gets to enjoy the views while you’re white-knuckling hairpin turns.
If you’re doing it yourself, start EARLY. Like 6am early. The roads are less crowded, you get better parking, and you’re not stuck behind 15 tour buses.
Or just book a Road to Hana tour and enjoy the ride. The guides know where all the good waterfalls are, they handle the driving, and you actually get to relax.
I’m not saying you can’t drive it yourself. I’m saying be realistic about what you’re signing up for.
Which Maui Waterfalls Can You Actually Swim In?
This is the question everyone asks, so here’s your answer:
Yes, you can swim: Twin Falls, Pua’a Ka’a Falls, Wailua Falls, Kopiliula Falls, Nahiku Pond
No swimming (closed): Pools of Oheo (Seven Sacred Pools) – closed indefinitely as of 2025
Not recommended: Waimoku Falls, Honokohau Falls (helicopter only anyway)
Depends on conditions: Punalau Falls, Alelele Falls, Makahiku Falls top pool
Now let’s get into the actual waterfalls.
Maui Waterfalls: What’s Actually Worth Your Time
Comparison Table (Because You’re Scanning This on Your Phone)
| Waterfall | Can You Swim? | Good for Kids? | How Hard? | How Far? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Twin Falls | Yes | Best for families | Easy | 0.5 miles |
| Pua’a Ka’a Falls | Yes | Perfect for toddlers | Super easy | Basically roadside |
| Wailua Falls | Yes | Pretty easy | Easy-Moderate | Short trail |
| Waimoku Falls | No | Older kids (8+) | Moderate | 2 miles |
| Pools of Oheo | CLOSED | Can view only | Easy viewing | 0.5 miles |
| Honokohau Falls | No access | Helicopter only | N/A | Helicopter |
| Punalau Falls | Maybe | Needs supervision | Moderate | 10-30 min scramble |
| Makahiku Falls | Top pool only | Pretty good | Easy-Moderate | 0.5 miles |
| Alelele Falls | Yes | Good | Easy | 10-15 mins |
| Makamakaole Falls | No | Teens | Moderate-Hard | 2.5 miles |
| Kopiliula Falls | Yes | Sketchy trail | Moderate | Short but steep |
| Nahiku Pond | Yes | Good | Easy | Drive to it |
The 12 Waterfalls (My Honest Takes)
1. Twin Falls – Start Here If You’re Testing the Waters
Mile marker 2 on Hana Highway
Twin Falls is where everyone starts because it’s only about 10 minutes past Paia. There’s a farm stand with parking (costs around $10-20), and you can grab smoothies afterward.
The first waterfall is about a 10-minute walk. Most people stop there and turn around.
Don’t be most people.
Keep walking. There are multiple pools scattered throughout the property. The further you go, the fewer people you’ll see.
My boys loved this one because the water’s not too deep and there are lots of rocks to climb on. It’s a good warm-up for the rest of Road to Hana.
Is it worth it? Yes, especially if this is your first time. It’s low commitment and gives you a taste of what Maui waterfalls are like.
Want someone else to handle it? Book this Twin Falls tour.
2. Pua’a Ka’a Falls – This One’s Stupidly Easy
Mile marker 22.5, Hana Highway
I’m going to be straight with you: Pua’a Ka’a Falls is the easiest waterfall stop on the entire Road to Hana.
You pull into the state park, walk maybe 2 minutes, and boom. Waterfall. Swimming pool. Picnic tables.
There’s a second waterfall higher up if you want to keep going, but honestly? The lower one is plenty.
This was one of my boys’ favorites because they could actually swim without me hovering over them the whole time. The pool’s shallow enough for little kids but deep enough to be fun.
The parking lot fills up fast, so get there early. Like before 9am if possible.
Is it worth it? 100% yes. This is what I mean when I say Maui waterfalls are accessible. No special skills needed.
3. Punalau Falls – Hidden and Kind of a Pain to Reach
Past mile marker 19, Hana Highway
Punalau Falls is about 100 feet tall and completely hidden from the road. Most people have no idea it’s even there.
Getting to it requires scrambling over volcanic boulders along the streambed. The rocks are slippery. You need decent balance and water shoes with grip.
How long it takes depends on recent rain. After heavy storms, the stream’s higher and the rocks are even more slick. We’ve done it in 10 minutes and we’ve done it in 30.
Is it worth it? Only if you’re comfortable with moderate scrambling and potentially getting wet before you even reach the waterfall.
If you have young kids or anyone with mobility issues, skip this one.
4. Honokohau Falls – The Helicopter-Only Waterfall
West Maui Mountains
Honokohau Falls is the tallest waterfall on Maui at 1,100 feet. It drops in two tiers and looks absolutely stunning.
You can’t hike to it. The valley’s completely inaccessible by land.
If you want to see it, you need to book a helicopter tour. But here’s the thing: not every helicopter tour goes here, and weather has to cooperate.
I’ve taken helicopter tours where we flew right over it, and I’ve taken tours where the pilot said “too cloudy, can’t go that direction.”
Is it worth it? If you’re already booking a helicopter tour, sure. But don’t book a helicopter tour JUST for this waterfall unless you confirm with the company they actually fly over it.
5. Pools of Oheo (Seven Sacred Pools) – Currently Closed for Swimming
Haleakala National Park, Kipahulu District
Entry: $30 (valid 3 days for entire park)
Let me save you some disappointment: The Pools of Oheo are closed for swimming as of 2025. Equipment that monitors flash flood risks got damaged, and until it’s fixed, nobody’s allowed in the water.
You can still visit and see them from the trail. The Kuloa Point Trail is super easy (about half a mile) and gives you great views.
But if you were planning to swim in the “Seven Sacred Pools,” that’s not happening right now.
Here’s what I recommend instead: Do the Pipiwai Trail to Waimoku Falls (next on this list). It starts at the same place, and it’s honestly way more impressive anyway.
Planning tip: That $30 Haleakala entrance fee is good for 3 consecutive days and covers BOTH the Summit District and the Kipahulu District. If you’re doing sunrise at Haleakala crater, save your receipt and use it when you visit the pools.
The two districts aren’t connected by road, so you can’t do both in one day. But you can do them on separate days with the same ticket.
6. Waimoku Falls – The Best Hike on Maui
Haleakala National Park, Pipiwai Trail
Distance: 4 miles round trip
Time: 3-4 hours total
Okay, Waimoku Falls is my favorite waterfall hike on Maui. Not just because the waterfall’s 400 feet tall (though that helps).
The Pipiwai Trail takes you through this massive bamboo forest that feels like you’ve been transported to Asia.
The bamboo’s so thick it creates this tunnel, and when the wind blows it makes this creaking sound that’s both peaceful and slightly creepy.
You’ll pass smaller waterfalls along the way, including Makahiku Falls about half a mile in.
The trail’s rated moderate. My boys did it fine, and they were probably 8 and 10 at the time. Just budget 3-4 hours total and bring lots of water.
Swimming’s technically possible in the pool at the base of Waimoku Falls, but the National Park Service discourages it because of rockfall. Just enjoy the view.
Is it worth it? Absolutely. This is the waterfall hike I’d pick if I could only do one.
Want a guide? Book this East Maui waterfall hike.
7. Makahiku Falls – The Appetizer for Waimoku
Haleakala National Park, Pipiwai Trail
Distance: 0.5 miles from parking
Makahiku Falls is on the same trail as Waimoku Falls, just way earlier. It’s about half a mile from the trailhead.
There’s a viewing platform where you can see the 184-foot waterfall from above.
Now here’s the part locals don’t usually tell tourists: There’s a spur trail that goes to the top of the falls where there’s a pool.
People call it the “infinity pool” because it looks like it goes on forever with a 200-foot drop right underneath.
Only go if water levels are low and you’re comfortable with heights. If it’s been raining, absolutely skip it.
Is it worth a separate trip? No. But if you’re already doing the Waimoku Falls hike, stop here on your way.
8. Alelele Falls – The Quiet Alternative
Pi’ilani Highway, southern Road to Hana
Alelele Falls is on the less-traveled southern part of the Road to Hana loop. Most people turn around at Hana town instead of continuing, so it’s way quieter here.
The waterfall’s about 50 feet tall. The trail’s short (10-15 minutes) with a few stream crossings that kids think are fun.
The pool at the base is calm and good for swimming.
Is it worth it? If you’re doing the full loop and want to escape crowds, yes. If you’re already exhausted from the Road to Hana, skip it.
9. Makamakaole Falls – West Maui’s Long Hike
Waihe’e Ridge Trail, West Maui
Distance: 5 miles round trip
Makamakaole Falls is one of the only West Maui waterfalls you can reach by hiking. Most require helicopters.
The Waihe’e Ridge Trail is a workout. 5 miles round trip with elevation gain. You’ll get distant views of this 270-foot multi-tiered waterfall.
Is it worth it? Only if you’re staying in West Maui and don’t want to drive to Hana. Otherwise, Road to Hana waterfalls are way more impressive for less effort.
10. Wailua Falls – So Close You Can Touch It (Almost)
Just past Hana town
I need to be honest about this one: Don’t compare it to Kauai’s Wailua Falls. Kauai’s is 173 feet and absolutely stunning. Maui’s is 80 feet and… fine.
But here’s what Maui’s version has going for it: You can actually get close to it. Like really close. It’s basically right off the road.
The trail down to the base is short but steep. Once you’re there, the mist feels amazing after hiking in the heat, and the pool’s good for swimming.
I’ve been here with my boys. It’s fun getting so close to a waterfall, but manage your expectations if you’ve seen Kauai’s version.
Is it worth stopping? Yes, because it takes like 15 minutes total. But don’t go out of your way for it.
11. Kopiliula Falls (Kopihula Falls) – Steep and Sketchy
Just past mile marker 21
You can see Kopiliula Falls from the road, but getting close requires a steep, slippery trail with basically no handholds.
It’s short. But it’s sketchy.
The water’s super clear and cold. There’s interesting East Maui Irrigation infrastructure around the bridge that makes for cool photos.
Is it worth it? Only if you’re comfortable with steep, slick trails and nobody in your group has mobility issues.
12. Nahiku Pond and Nahiku Landing – The Local Spot
End of Nahiku Road (turn off Hana Highway)
Nahiku’s not on the main Road to Hana, so most tourists miss it completely.
You drive down Nahiku Road (which is lush and narrow and very green) until you reach a calm pond with a small waterfall and a rope swing.
It’s peaceful here. Good views of the coastline. A nice place to decompress after the chaos of the more popular stops.
Is it worth it? If you have extra time and want something quiet, sure. If you’re already exhausted, skip it.
The Tours Worth Booking (I’ve Vetted These)
If driving sounds terrible, these are the tours I actually recommend:
West Maui Mountain Waterfall and Horseback Ocean Tour
You ride horses to a secret waterfall, then visit a petting zoo. It’s unique and great for families.
Waterfall & Rainforest Hiking Adventure
Includes hotel pickup, takes you to waterfalls most people can’t find on their own. Good for first-timers.
Rappel Maui Waterfalls and Rainforest Cliffs
For adrenaline junkies. Small groups only. Books up fast.
The Stuff Nobody Tells You (But I Will)
Buy water shoes before you go. The rocks are slippery and you don’t want to spend your vacation in urgent care. Get them on Amazon before your trip.
Don’t swim with open cuts. Hawaiian streams can carry leptospirosis. It’s rare, but not worth risking your entire trip over.
Check weather before heading to waterfalls. If it’s been raining hard in the mountains, stay out of streams. Flash floods are real and they kill people.
Look upstream before getting in water. If you see debris or rising water, get out immediately.
Respect closure signs. If something’s closed, there’s a reason.
The parking situation is worse than you think. Popular waterfalls have tiny parking areas. Arrive early or be prepared to drive past and try again later.
Questions People Actually Ask Me
Which island has the best waterfalls – Maui, Kauai, or Big Island?
Depends what you want. Maui has the most accessible waterfalls for families. Kauai has taller, more dramatic falls. Big Island has the highest volume.
As a Hawaii travel expert who’s been to all the islands 40+ times, I send families with young kids to Maui.
Can you swim in all the Maui waterfalls?
No. Twin Falls, Pua’a Ka’a Falls, and Wailua Falls are your best bets. Pools of Oheo are closed. Never swim during or after heavy rain.
Do I need permits for the waterfalls?
No permits for Road to Hana waterfalls. You’ll pay $30 to enter Haleakala National Park (covers Waimoku Falls and Pools of Oheo for 3 days).
What time of year should I visit?
Winter (November-March) has higher water flow but muddier trails. Summer (April-October) has clearer pools but lighter flows. Pick your priority.
Are the waterfalls crowded?
The popular ones (Twin Falls, Pua’a Ka’a) are PACKED between 10am-2pm. Go before 9am or after 3pm.
Can my kids do the waterfall hikes?
Twin Falls, Pua’a Ka’a Falls, and Wailua Falls work for little kids. Waimoku Falls is better for kids 8+ who can handle a 4-mile hike.
Do I need a rental car?
Technically yes, unless you book a tour. Discount Hawaii Car Rental usually has good rates (that’s my referral code).
What about West Maui waterfalls?
Most require helicopters. Makamakaole Falls is hikeable but it’s a workout.
What I’d Actually Do If I Was Planning Your Trip
If you have one day: Drive Road to Hana early (leave by 6am). Hit Twin Falls, Pua’a Ka’a Falls, and Wailua Falls. Add Waimoku Falls if you’re up for a hike.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed: Listen to episode 31 of Hawaii Travel Made Easy where I break down Road to Hana logistics.
If you want zero stress: Book this Road to Hana tour and let them handle it.
If you’re planning your whole Maui trip: Grab my Maui Travel Guide for Families.
It has daily itineraries, kid-friendly activities, and all the stuff I’ve learned from 40+ Hawaii trips.
Need more Hawaii planning help?
- Free 7-day Maui email course
- Oahu Travel Guide
- Kauai Travel Guide
- Big Island Travel Guide
- Island Hopping Guide
Looking for more waterfall content? Check out Oahu waterfalls, Kauai waterfalls, and Big Island waterfalls.
Feeling overwhelmed? I offer Hawaii travel consultations.
As a certified Hawaii Destination Specialist who’s been going to the islands since age 10, I’ll help you plan your trip so you don’t waste time or money on stuff that’s not worth it.
That’s it. Go see some waterfalls. Take water shoes. Don’t jump off anything without checking how deep it is first.
