6 Best Waterfalls in Maui That Are Easily Accessible (No Long Hikes!)

Chasing waterfalls in Maui doesn’t have to mean muddy hikes or steep trails. Some of the island’s most beautiful cascades are surprisingly easy to reach, whether you’re road-tripping the Hana Highway or just looking for a refreshing stop along the way.

On my last trip to Maui, I sought out the waterfalls that didn’t require hours of trekking through the jungle. These six are perfect if you’re short on time, traveling with kids, or simply want an easy win with a big payoff. Here are my favorite easily accessible waterfalls in Maui, plus tips on what to expect at each one.

Overview Table

Waterfall	Location / Mile Marker	Swimming Allowed	Trail Difficulty	Best For
Twin Falls	MM 2, Road to Hana	Yes (when safe)	Easy	Families, swimming
Upper Waikani	MM 19	Not recommended	None	Photography, quick stop
Makapipi Falls	MM 25	No access	None	Unique top-down view
Puaʻa Kaʻa Falls	MM 22.5	Yes (if safe)	Easy	Picnics, families
Wailua Falls	MM 45.9	No access	None	Iconic views
ʻOheʻo Gulch	Kīpahulu District	Sometimes	Easy loop	Tiered pools, scenery

1. Twin Falls (Road to Hana, Mile Marker 2)

Easy hike | Family-friendly | Swimming spots | Great for first-timers

Twin Falls was my very first waterfall stop on the Road to Hana, and honestly, it’s a perfect way to ease into the island’s wild, tropical landscape. Just past mile marker 2, it’s one of the most accessible waterfalls in Maui with a welcoming blend of lush jungle, flowing streams, and natural pools.

The trail itself is short and relatively easy, about 1 to 1.5 miles round-trip depending on how far you explore. But don’t expect just one waterfall. What makes Twin Falls special is that it’s actually a collection of small cascades and swimming holes scattered along a scenic path. The lower falls are the easiest to reach and most popular for swimming, especially on warm afternoons. If you’re up for a little more adventure, you can continue further into to find more secluded upper pools and falls, though these may require light scrambling and stream crossings.

What I love about Twin Falls is how immersive the experience feels, even with other people around, the sound of water and dense greenery make you feel tucked into a little rainforest world. I’d recommend going in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak crowds, especially since this is a major stop on the Road to Hana.

What to Bring:

• Water shoes or grippy sandals (the trail can be slippery)
• Quick-dry towel & change of clothes
• Bug spray (especially in warmer months)
• Waterproof phone pouch if you plan to swim

Local Tips & Safety:

• Swimming is not always allowed. Conditions can change quickly, especially after rain. Always observe posted signs and avoid entering murky or fast-moving water.
• There is a fruit stand and snack shack at the entrance. Their fresh-cut pineapple and smoothies are a treat, especially after the hike.
• Restrooms and showers are available near the parking area, which makes this a good family-friendly stop.

Seasonal Note:

During heavy rains, the trail may be closed due to flash flood risks or excessive mud. Check weather conditions before visiting, and skip the hike entirely if flash flood warnings are in effect.

• Trail difficulty: Easy
• Swimming: Yes, when safe (mostly at lower pools)
• Parking: Paid lot ($10 per vehicle) with limited spots
• Location: Mile Marker 2 on the Hana Highway, near Haiku
• Tip: Grab a smoothie or fresh coconut at the entrance, it’s one of my favorite roadside snacks on the island.

2. Upper Waikani Falls (“Three Bears Falls,” Mile Marker 19)

Scenic roadside stop | Triple cascade | Quick photo op or short hike

Upper Waikani Falls, affectionately known as Three Bears Falls, is one of the most photogenic stops along the Road to Hana. You’ll spot it just past mile marker 19, where three parallel cascades tumble gracefully down a fern-draped cliff. Locals nicknamed them Papa Bear, Mama Bear, and Baby Bear. Once you see them, you’ll get why.

What I loved about this spot is how easily accessible it is. You can see the falls right from the bridge, making it a great option if you’re short on time or not up for hiking. That said, there is an unmarked, steep path down to the pool at the base if you’re feeling adventurous, but it’s not official, and can be slippery and dangerous when wet. I opted to view it from the road and still felt like I got the full effect.

Why It’s Worth a Stop:

• The layered triple-drop effect is rare and incredibly photogenic
• It flows year-round, even in the dry season
• The ferns and greenery make it feel like a real-life jungle postcard

Trail Info & Safety:

• There is no official trailhead or designated parking
• If you choose to go down to the pool, do so at your own risk
• The path is often muddy and overgrown, and there have been accidents, be cautious

Parking & Logistics:

• The safest option is to drive past the falls, park in a pull-off, and walk back carefully along the road
• Do not block traffic or stop directly on the bridge (even though many people do)

Pro Tip:

If you’re doing the full Road to Hana drive, time your stop here for late morning when the sun hits the water just right. Bring a cold juice or snack and enjoy it while taking in the view it’s a peaceful little moment amid a day of adventure.

• Trail difficulty: None (optional scramble, unofficial)
• Swimming: Technically possible but not recommended due to difficult access
• Parking: Limited roadside pull-off past the bridge
• Location: Hana Highway, Mile Marker 19
• Tip: Use a wide-angle lens or panorama mode to capture all three “bears” in one frame

3. Wailua Falls (Mile Marker 45.9)

Roadside viewpoint | 80-foot cascade | Iconic Hana stop

Wailua Falls felt like the grand finale of the Road to Hana. Just beyond mile marker 45, this stunning 80-foot waterfall is one of the easiest to see and arguably one of the most photogenic on the island. It plunges from a cliff into a lush, misty ravine surrounded by vibrant greenery, and you can admire the entire view right from the bridge.

It’s a popular photo stop for good reason. You’ll often see tour vans lined up here, and yes, it can get busy, but it’s absolutely worth it. The water flow is consistent year-round, which means you’re unlikely to be disappointed no matter when you visit.

Local tip: While some visitors attempt to scramble down to the base, it’s steep, unofficial, and can be extremely slippery. I stayed up top and still walked away with some of my favorite waterfall shots of the entire trip.

• Trail difficulty: None (view from road/bridge)
• Swimming: Not safely accessible
• Parking: Small roadside pull-off near the bridge
• Location: Mile Marker 45.9, Hana Highway
• Tip: Come early or late in the day to avoid crowds and catch golden hour light on the falls

4. ʻOheʻo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools, Kīpahulu District)

Tiered pools + waterfalls | Easy loop trail | National Park gem

ʻOheʻo Gulch better known as the Seven Sacred Pools was one of the most peaceful and memorable places I explored in East Maui. Located inside the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā National Park, this series of cascading waterfalls and natural pools flows through a forested valley before spilling toward the ocean.

There’s an easy loop trail here that takes you around the pools and offers multiple viewpoints. When conditions are safe (and that’s not always), swimming is allowed in the lower pools. Even when it’s not, it’s a dreamy spot to walk, take in the scenery, and enjoy a quiet moment away from the road.

Park tip: This area is part of Haleakalā National Park, so your $30 vehicle entry fee also gets you access to the summit area for sunrise or sunsets within 3 days.

• Trail difficulty: Easy (short loop trail)
• Swimming: Sometimes allowed (check with park rangers)
• Parking: Inside Haleakalā NP, Kīpahulu District
• Location: ~12 miles past Hana town
• Tip: Don’t skip the Pipiwai Trail nearby if you have time (though it’s a moderate hike and not part of this “easy” list)

5. Makapipi Falls (Mile Marker 25)

Overhead waterfall view | No hike required | Unique perspective

Makapipi Falls caught me completely off guard, mostly because it flows directly beneath the Hana Highway. Just past mile marker 25, you’ll cross a narrow bridge, and if you pause for a moment (safely), you can look straight down at the water spilling over a lava rock cliff into a lush gorge below. It’s not your typical waterfall view, which is exactly why I love it.

Unlike most other falls in Maui that you hike to, this one offers a rare top-down vantage point. The best part? There’s no hiking involved. It’s quick, dramatic, and right off the road, perfect for a photo stop if you’re doing the Road to Hana drive.

Local tip: The falls look especially beautiful after a rain, but if it’s been dry, the water flow may be underwhelming.

• Trail difficulty: None (view from the bridge)
• Swimming: No access
• Parking: Small pull-off just past the bridge (be cautious of traffic)
• Location: Mile Marker 25, Hana Highway
• Tip: Use a wide-angle or drone shot (if permitted) for the full drop view

6. Puaʻa Kaʻa Falls (Mile Marker 22.5)

Rest area with waterfalls | Family-friendly | Easy walk + swimming

Puaʻa Kaʻa State Wayside Park was never on my radar until I needed a bathroom break, then I discovered it has not just one, but two peaceful waterfalls just steps from the parking lot. This lush little roadside park is an ideal stop to stretch your legs, enjoy a snack, and even take a dip if the weather’s been kind.

The lower falls are easily visible from the paved path and picnic area, and you’ll often see people dipping their feet or splashing around in the pool below. Walk uphill for a few minutes and you’ll find another small fall hidden behind dense greenery. The entire area feels tucked into the forest, with native plants and bamboo all around.

Travel tip: Bring bug spray it’s humid and can get buggy, especially near the pools.

• Trail difficulty: Easy paved path + short uphill walk
• Swimming: Yes, when flow is low and safe
• Parking: Free lot with bathrooms and picnic tables
• Location: Mile Marker 22.5, Hana Highway
• Tip: Great place to stop for lunch or fresh fruit from nearby stands

What to Bring for Waterfall Hopping

• Water shoes or sandals with grip
• Bug spray
• Quick-dry towel
• Change of clothes
• Waterproof pouch or dry bag
• Reusable water bottle

Best Time to Visit Maui Waterfalls

• Morning: Softer light, fewer crowds
• After Rain: Stronger flow, but slippery trails
• Dry Season (Apr–Oct): Clear access, lighter flow
• Wet Season (Nov–Mar): Bigger waterfalls, but more mud + risk

Waterfall Safety Tips

• Don’t swim after heavy rainfall, and flash floods are real
• Respect “kapu” (forbidden) signs and private property
• Stay on trails and avoid climbing near edges
• Lock valuables or keep them out of sight in the car

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be an expert hiker to experience Maui’s magic. These six waterfalls offer big beauty without the effort, and they’re ideal whether you’re road-tripping with kids, short on time, or just craving an easy adventure.

If you’re planning a full Hana drive or looking for more ideas, check out my guide to the best places to visit in Maui or where to find the best snorkeling spots. Maui’s full of surprises, you just have to know where to stop.