Maui is an island that seems to have it all like postcard-perfect beaches, epic surfing, incredible snorkeling and whale-watching opportunities, lush rainforests, and breathtaking waterfalls.
If you’re planning a trip to Maui, make sure to include visiting some of the island’s spectacular waterfalls in your itinerary.
Getting out into nature and witnessing these stunning & best waterfalls in Maui is an unforgettable way to experience the real Maui.
The Best Waterfalls in Maui To Visit with Your Loved Ones
With dozens of waterfalls Maui scattered across the island, narrowing down the best ones to prioritize can be tricky. To help, here is a curated list of 5 can’t-miss Maui waterfalls hikes to add to your itinerary,
Twin Falls
Twin Falls gets its name from the duo of stunning falls that have pools ideal for swimming at their base. A manageable 2-mile roundtrip hike through a bamboo forest leads to the falls.
Signage marks the trail so getting lost isn’t a concern. With lifeguards on duty, this can be a good choice for families looking for an easy, safe waterfall hike option. Pack a lunch to enjoy at the falls before heading back.
Makahiku Falls
One of the most photographed falls on Maui, Makahiku Falls impresses all who visit with its mesmerizing beauty as it drops 200 feet into a gorge.
A short uphill trail leads through the forest to an overlook with picture-perfect views.
Energetic hikers can continue onto the falls, where a rope assists in navigating down steep terrain to the plunge pool below. Be prepared to get wet on this adventurous trek to marvel at Makahiku’s majesty up close.
Waimoku Falls
At the end of the renowned Road to Hana Drive, you’ll be rewarded with the chance to experience 403-foot-tall Waimoku Falls. The waterfall hike continues downhill from the Pipiwai Trailhead, through bamboo forests and past additional falls, spanning 4 miles round trip.
As the tallest waterfall accessible by trail on Maui, glimpsing Waimoku’s powerful descent into a gorge is a moment you won’t forget. Cool off with a swim in the pool below before the return hike.
Seven Sacred Pools
The Seven Sacred Pools are a series of cascading waterfalls on the Hana Coast that collect into natural pools said to represent the seven families that settled here centuries ago.
Some require adventurous rock hopping to navigate the pools and falls, while others have cliff jumping for the daring. With lifeguards now making it safer, and the colorful foliage and black and red lava rocks dotted with falls, this unique destination promises a memory card full of spectacular photos.
Puohokamoa Falls
For waterfall hunters craving isolation, Puohokamoa should top the list. Reaching it requires an off-trail trek, crossing rivers with water up to waist high. While risky, the payoff is having a 200-foot-tall waterfall and tropical pool nearly all to yourself.
With only the sounds of nature and the feel of warm sunbeams streaming through the canopy, Puohokamoa offers tranquility found nowhere else on the island. You’ll earn this pristine view of waterfall perfection after such a demanding hike.
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Why Visit the Waterfalls in Maui?
Waterfalls Maui showcases the island’s beauty and diversity. Within a short drive you can be at a towering waterfall deep in the rainforest, watching water cascade down dramatic cliffs into sparkling pools below. Or visit peaceful falls that filter gently over mossy rocks in an oasis-like valley.
Exploring Maui’s falls lets you discover places off the beaten path for a more authentic look at the island.
Visiting the waterfalls also provides opportunities to swim, hike, picnic, or simply meditate in these relaxing natural settings.
The falls offer an escape from crowds, a chance to revitalize yourself surrounded by untamed tropical beauty.
Getting out into nature, breathing fresh air, taking photos, and having unforgettable experiences make a trip to the falls invaluable during a Maui vacation.
How to Get There? (Waterfalls in Maui)
Many of the best waterfalls in Maui require some effort to access. Long, uneven hiking trails, flash flood risks, and navigating narrow, muddy paths often stand between you and that iconic waterfall selfie.
However, the trek getting there builds the rewarding sense of having earned your glimpse of Eden.
For example, the journey to Twin Falls will have you rock-hopping across streams and traversing bamboo forests.
The path lacks clear signage and branches confusingly. You’ll need to keep your bearings to avoid getting turned around.
However, once you hear the twin cascades rushing through the foliage ahead, you’ll know it was all worthwhile.
Bring Essentials to Beat the Elements
While images of Hawaiian waterfalls may conjure up sunny tropical paradises, the weather can shift unexpectedly when you’re deep in the rainforest.
Sudden downpours, slippery mud, and cooler temperatures from cascading waters call for preparation with the right gear.
Make sure to pack closed-toed shoes with sturdy traction for stable footing crossing those wet rocks.
Quick-dry clothing allows you to embrace the adventure when surprise showers strike. And waterproof pouches keep valuables like phones dry when the mist soaks the air.
With the proper equipment, you won’t let temperamental conditions dampen your experience.
Respect Local Land and Customs
Many of Maui’s waterfalls sit on private land or in protected natural reserves. Trespassing and disregarding signage or fences threaten Hawaii’s fragile ecosystems and can get you into legal trouble. Stick to designated public trails and viewpoints.
You should also take care not to disrupt cultural sites or heritage artifacts that hold significance for native Hawaiians.
Research in advance how to be a respectful guest before your visit. Following proper etiquette preserves these special places for future generations.
