
Is it safe to swim in the Big Island?
Many waterfalls are totally safe to swim in the base, but it’s illegal to swim at some waterfalls in Hawaii. It’s important to check before you go or keep a lookout for signs. Here is a list of some of the best waterfalls found on the Big Island.
Can you swim in Oahu waterfalls?
On Oahu, there’s not an abundance of waterfalls that the public can access. Manoa Falls is an amazing Oahu waterfall, but visitors aren’t allowed to swim there.
Can you swim at Manoa Falls?
Manoa Falls is an amazing Oahu waterfall, but visitors aren’t allowed to swim there. The good news is that Waimea Falls (also known as Waihi) in Waimea Valley offers a safe place to swim at a waterfall. Friendly lifeguards are on duty .
Can you swim at Waimea Falls?
Waimea Falls Located within Waimea Valley is this charming waterfall, perfect for a family swim. Visitors will have to pay an entrance fee for the botanical garden, but once inside, the paved stroll to the waterfall is quick, and features a changing room, available life jackets and lifeguards on duty.
Why can't you swim around waterfalls?
What makes a waterfall in Hawaii?
Where to swim in Maui?
Can you swim under a waterfall?
About this website

How common is Leptospirosis in Hawaii?
Risk in Hawaii Leptospirosis is currently circulating in Hawaii. It is estimated that 100-200 cases of Leptospirosis are identified annually in the United States. Approximately 50% of these cases occur in Puerto Rico. Typically, Hawaii reports the second-highest number of cases annually.
Is it safe to swim in Hawaii Rivers?
The bacteria normally enter through the mouth, nose, eyes or a cut/abrasion. All the streams and rivers in Hawaii are contaminated. Warning signs are posted at some locations, but for the most part the disease receives little acknowledgment by residents. We do not recommend swimming in fresh water at all.
Is Manoa Falls safe to swim in?
Manoa Falls is a 150-foot waterfall along the Manoa Falls Trail in Honolulu, Hawaii. Swimming in the pool below the waterfall is highly discouraged because there is a threat of becoming infected with Leptospirosis, a disease causing mild to moderate flulike symptoms that can last for 1 to 2 weeks.
Can you swim in waterfalls Oahu?
Important things to know before visiting our waterfalls As you'll see, it's possible to swim at many waterfalls, and we encourage everyone to enjoy this unique opportunity. However, there are a few things to keep in mind: If you have open cuts, stay out of the water.
Where should you not swim in Hawaii?
10 Gorgeous Beaches In Hawaii That Are Too Dangerous For SwimmingHanakapi'iai Beach. Located on the secluded Na Pali Coast, Hanakapi'ai Beach has been called the most dangerous beach in Hawaii. ... Sandy Beach. ... Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach. ... Makena Beach. ... Lumahai Beach. ... Magic Sands. ... Queen's Bath. ... Pipeline Beach.More items...•
What should I avoid in Hawaii?
10 Things Not To Do in HawaiʻiDon't stand next to the blowhole. ... Don't eat at a chain restaurant. ... Don't let a commercial luau be your only exposure to Hawaiian culture. ... Don't limit your visit to Oʻahu. ... And don't avoid the Island of Hawaiʻi. ... Don't only stay in resort towns. ... Don't hike illegally or start a hike late in the day.More items...•
What waterfall can you swim in Hawaii?
The Best Waterfalls You Can Swim In OahuMAUNAWILI FALLS. Maunawili Falls. ... WAIMEA FALLS. Waimea Falls. ... WAIMANO FALLS. Waimano Falls and people using the rope swing above the intermediate cascade. ... LULUMAHU FALLS. Lulumahu Falls. ... LAIE FALLS (LA'IE FALLS) ... JACKASS GINGER POOL. ... KALIUWA'A FALLS (SACRED FALLS) ... MANOA FALLS.More items...
Can you swim in Waimea Falls?
Swimming at the waterfall is allowed but the status of swimming changes throughout the day depending on the weather. There are three waterfall conditions: regular swim, limited swimming, and no swimming. Be sure to check on the waterfall swimming status before your visit by calling (808) 638-7766.
Was Jurassic Park filmed at Manoa Falls?
In the movie Jurassic Park Manoa Falls was used was a filming location. Additionally, Manoa Falls was used as a filming location in the movie Catching Fire, featured as the film's jungle arena. Manoa Falls was also used to film scenes in the television shows Lost and Hawaii Five-0 .
Can you swim at Rainbow Falls Hawaii?
Rainbow Falls is not safe for swimming. However, the pools in the river above Rainbow Falls can be safe for swimming (at your own risk) when the river is calm and the weather is dry.
What island in Hawaii has the best waterfalls?
Maui Waterfalls Not only are Maui's waterfalls exceptionally stunning, they are also some of the most easily-accessible in Hawaii.
What is the most beautiful waterfall in Oahu?
Manoa FallsThe waterfall located nearest to Waikiki, and arguably one of the most magnificent waterfalls on Oahu, is Manoa Falls. Nestled in the back of the lush Manoa Valley, Manoa Falls are a short 45-60 minute hike through bamboo forests and patches of tropical wild flowers.
Are Hawaiian waters clean?
Hawaii beaches are ranked seventh in beach water quality out of 30 states, according to a recent study by the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC). That's great news and is even better when you look at the number of beaches in Hawaii. The study evaluated 467 beaches – all public by law.
Is the water in Hawaii safe?
Yes, it is safe to drink and use tap water on the island of Oahu including in Waikiki. The Board of Water Supply in Hawaii works in conjunction with State and Federal agencies, such as the U.S Environmental Protection Agency and Hawaii State Department of Health, to ensure the water in Hawaii is safe to drink.
Is it safe to swim in Hawaii sharks?
Swim, surf, or dive with other people, and don't move too far away from assistance. Stay out of the water at dawn, dusk, and night, when some species of sharks may move inshore to feed. But be aware that tiger sharks are known to bite people at all times of the day.
Are there stonefish in Hawaii?
However, its South Pacific relative, the stonefish, has potentially deadly venom. Fortunately, this species does not occur in Hawai'i.
Why can't you swim around waterfalls?
Another big reason to not swim around waterfalls is a risk of leptospirosis, which isn't uncommon in Hawaii.
What makes a waterfall in Hawaii?
What makes a waterfall in Hawaii? Rainwater channeling into streambeds hitting a long drop. The strong rains in Hawaii cause streams to pick up rocks and debris along the way. That is real.
Where to swim in Maui?
There a few falls to swim in maui - Blue Pool, The falls at the end of Pipiwai trail in the other side of Haleakala NP, Seven Pools (All of them are in Hana or on the road to Hana) I don't think the risks in swimming are that grave to give up ur fantasy. In tropical places swimming under a waterfall is fairly common and very very enjoyable.
Can you swim under a waterfall?
You don't actually swim "under" it; just in the pool under it . The force from the falls were so powerful we couldn't have swam under them if we tried. :-)
What is the name of the waterfall in Maui?
Pua’a Ka’a Falls. A short hike within the Pua’a Ka’a State Wayside will reward you with a relatively secluded and picturesque waterfall, cascading into the delightful pool below. Another stop on Maui’s Road to Hana, Pua’a Ka’a translates to “rolling pig” in Hawaiian. 7. Makeleha Falls.
Where is the waterfall in Waimea?
Located within Waimea Valley is this charming waterfall, perfect for a family swim. Visitors will have to pay an entrance fee for the botanical garden, but once inside, the paved stroll to the waterfall is quick, and features a changing room, available life jackets and lifeguards on duty.
How many pools are there in Haleakala National Park?
There are more than seven pools, and they aren’t sacred – rumor has it that a local hotel owner coined the name in order to attract more visitors to his establishment.
How long does it take to hike to Secret Falls?
Located up the Wailua River, you will need to either rent kayaks or book a guided tour to reach the trailhead. Then, you have to complete the 45-minute hike through the muddy jungle to reach the falls.
Where is the boiling pot waterfall?
Aaron Fellmeth Photography/Flickr. Located just a mile upstream of Rainbow Falls on the Wailua River, Pe’epe’e Falls feeds a series of several pools known as the boiling pots. Cooling lava flows created columns, which connect a series of cascading waterfalls and pools that appear to be bubbling.
How tall is Waikani Falls?
1. Upper Waikani Falls. Also known as Three Bears falls, Waikani is approximately 70 feet tall, and visible from the Hana Highway. However, the best views come when you climb under the bridge and follow a short jungle path to the base of the waterfall.
What falls are visible from Hana?
Thaths/Flickr. Makapipi Falls is visible from the Road to Hana, and is unique in that the waterfall plummets into a striking blue pool. Unfortunately, the strength of the falls is often dependent on rainfall - so here's to hoping you catch it on a good day. 9. Lulumahu Falls.
What is the best waterfall in Oahu?
If you are looking for a hike to add to your Oahu itinerary that lets you walk directly to the base of a waterfall, Lulumahu Falls is one of the best and most memorable hikes on the island.
Where is the prettiest waterfall in Hawaii?
Waimea Falls. Waimea Valley is a gorgeous park and botanical garden on Oahu’s North Shore that is home to Waimea Falls, one of the prettiest waterfalls in Hawaii. Waimea Falls. Photo credit: Sydney Richardson. Waimea Falls can be reached by taking a leisurely, one mile hike through the Waimea Valley Park.
How long does it take to hike to the waterfall in the jungle?
You will want to wear a good pair of hiking shoes and plan to get muddy. The hike to the waterfall takes roughly 2 hours and zig zags back and forth across the Lulumahu Stream.
Where is Waimoku Falls?
Hawaii is known for its waterfalls but one of the prettiest waterfalls can be found on the island of Maui inside the Kipahulu entrance of Haleakala National Park. Photo credit: Jess from I’m Jess Traveling. The Kipahulu District is a remote area in East Maui and getting there is half the adventure.
What is the best part of Waimea Falls?
One of the best parts about visiting Waimea Falls is that you can take a refreshing swim in the pool surrounding the fall!
How many waterfalls are there in Hawaii?
Hawaii has more than 100 waterfalls throughout the islands. Some are famous and are easy to get to while others are hidden away and only accessible by hiking or taking a helicopter ride.
Where is Akaka Falls State Park?
Akaka Falls State Park is approximately 11 miles north of Hilo in the Hamakua Coast area of the Big Island of Hawaii.
How to swim when snorkeling?
If in doubt, don't go out. Wave heights can increase quickly. If they do, dive underneath the wave, come up behind it, and then swim to shore between wave sets.
How to swim in the ocean?
In the Water Tips 1 Only undertake ocean activities when a lifeguard is present, or go with professionals and certified watermen. 2 Check conditions before you go out and look for ocean hazards such as rip currents, rocks and shorebreaks. 3 Swim with a buddy. 4 Know your limits and don't push beyond your abilities. 5 It's important that you know how to swim if you go snorkeling, and at the very minimum wear a flotation device. 6 If in doubt, don't go out. 7 Wave heights can increase quickly. If they do, dive underneath the wave, come up behind it, and then swim to shore between wave sets. 8 Do not go into the ocean under the influence of drugs or alcohol, which greatly increase your risk of drowning. 9 If you are caught in a rip current, remain calm and go with the flow - don’t fight the current. Once the rip current releases you offshore, swim at an angle away from the current, towards the shore, and call or signal for help.
Can you go on an ocean trip with a lifeguard?
Only undertake ocean activities when a lifeguard is present, or go with professionals and certified watermen.
Is snorkeling safe in pairs?
Snorkeling is much more fun and safest in pairs. Always snorkel with a buddy and look out for each other’s safety.
How far do you have to walk to the waterfall in Hawaii?
You must pay an admission fee to get into the valley. Once you’ve paid the fee, you’ll have to walk approximately 3/4 of mile on paved paths to get to the waterfall.
Is Waimea Valley open?
I really wish this place did more to help guide visitors to their attractions as they offer no maps and minimal guidance once you have paid your admission. Waimea Valley is open daily from 9am – 5pm. It’s located on the North Shore of Oahu across from Waimea Beach. For more information, visit their website.
Can you swim at Manoa Falls?
Manoa Falls is an amazing Oahu waterfall, but visitors aren’t allowed to swim there . The good news is that Waimea Falls (also known as Waihi) in Waimea Valley offers a safe place to swim at a waterfall. Friendly lifeguards are on duty .
Can you swim at a waterfall on Oahu?
Where to Swim at a Waterfall in Oahu. As you are planning activities for your Oahu vacation, you might want to consider swimming at a waterfall for a unique experience. On Oahu, there’s not an abundance of waterfalls that the public can access. Manoa Falls is an amazing Oahu waterfall, but visitors aren’t allowed to swim there.
Why can't you swim around waterfalls?
Another big reason to not swim around waterfalls is a risk of leptospirosis, which isn't uncommon in Hawaii.
What makes a waterfall in Hawaii?
What makes a waterfall in Hawaii? Rainwater channeling into streambeds hitting a long drop. The strong rains in Hawaii cause streams to pick up rocks and debris along the way. That is real.
Where to swim in Maui?
There a few falls to swim in maui - Blue Pool, The falls at the end of Pipiwai trail in the other side of Haleakala NP, Seven Pools (All of them are in Hana or on the road to Hana) I don't think the risks in swimming are that grave to give up ur fantasy. In tropical places swimming under a waterfall is fairly common and very very enjoyable.
Can you swim under a waterfall?
You don't actually swim "under" it; just in the pool under it . The force from the falls were so powerful we couldn't have swam under them if we tried. :-)
