Manoa Falls

The 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) round-trip Manoa Falls trail is well marked, and while visitors some go at it alone, a number of tour operators offer guided hikes. Parts of the path are paved or lined with gravel, but because of the heavy foot traffic and rainy weather, the trail can be very wet and muddy. As a result the relatively easy hike can be slippery; the last few minutes before the falls are the most challenging. The pool at the bottom of the falls is no longer open for swimming due to falling rocks.

• Plan on getting dirty, and wear sturdy walking shoes that you don’t mind getting muddy.

• Bring insect repellent, as mosquitos are out in full force on the trail.

• There is a small snack shop near the trail entrance.

• The force of the waterfall depends on rainfall; expect less water in summer months.

Manoa Falls is located at the end of Manoa Valley, northeast of downtown Honolulu. If driving from Waikiki, take the H1 toward the airport, exit at Punahou Road, and continue on to Manoa Road. There is paid parking near the entrance to the hike.

The Manoa Falls trail is open year-round. Oahu has a mild, tropical climate, with hotter days in summer and a rainy season typically from November to March. On rainy days the waterfall is at its most impressive and the trail is less crowded—yet also very muddy.

Manoa Falls is full of colorful, tropical plants, and a naturalist guide or book can help you identify what you see along the way. Parts of the trail are lined with guava, eucalyptus, and banyan trees as well asawapuhi, or bitter ginger flowers. It is common to spot tropical birds and insects as well.

No, there is no entry fee to visit Manoa Falls on the island of Oahu. If you’re driving to Manoa Falls, you can park at the Manoa Falls Parking Lot for US$7, a short walk from the trailhead. Or, park on the street down the hill and walk up.

The trail through the jungle to Manoa Falls on Oahu is covered with gravel and rocks. If it’s recently rained (which often happens in this area of Hawaii), it can get muddy and slippery. The hike to the falls and back is about 1.6 miles (2.6 kilometers).

Manoa Falls on the island of Oahu is open year-round, so you can visit any time, but the best time to visit weather-wise is June to October, which is outside the rainy season. If you’re looking to beat the biggest of the Hawaii crowds, then visit on a weekday and avoid weekends.

Yes, because the trail to Manoa Falls can get slippery and muddy, you’ll want to have good hiking boots (perhaps even waterproof ones, depending on when you visit Hawaii). You’ll also want to dress in light layers that you can remove and bring a poncho in case of rain.

Yes, if you’re looking to hike with a guide who knows the area well, there are guided tours for Manoa Falls. You can book guided experiences that only do the hike or tours that combine the Manoa Falls hike with stops at other Oahu natural areas.

No, swimming at Manoa Falls isn’t allowed. It used to be, but because of a rockslide, it’s not permitted anymore. If you’re doing the hike on your own, ensure everyone in your group knows that swimming isn’t allowed, so there's no temptation once you reach the falls.