There’s just something about the sound of rushing water and the sight of sunlight filtering through a jungle canopy that makes chasing waterfalls in Maui so addictive. I’ve made it a ritual to stop at as many as possible each time I drive the Road to Hana (and yes, I still get excited every time). Whether you want a quick photo stop, a swimming hole, or an epic jungle hike, these Maui waterfalls all have something special to offer.
If you’re new to Maui, or just want to see which falls are truly worth the stop, here’s my personal list of 12 Maui waterfalls you can actually experience yourself—no extreme hiking skills required.
Quick List: 12 Maui Waterfalls to Visit
- Twin Falls
- Waikani Falls (Three Bears)
- Wailua Falls
- Makapipi Falls
- Hanawi Falls
- Pua’a Ka’a Falls
- Upper Hanawi Falls
- Lower Puohokamoa Falls
- Upper Puohokamoa Falls
- Alelele Falls
- Makahiku Falls
- Waimoku Falls
1. Twin Falls
Location: Mile Marker 2, Road to Hana
Why I love it: The easiest “first stop” for waterfalls in Maui. There’s a farm stand (with fresh fruit and smoothies!) and the trail to the falls is short but scenic. Perfect if you want to jump in and cool off early in your journey. There are a couple of different cascades to explore, and you can go as far as you feel like.
Personal tip: Arrive early for easy parking and fewer crowds. Bring cash for the farm stand.
2. Waikani Falls (Three Bears)
Location: Mile Marker 19, Road to Hana
Why it stands out: Three side-by-side streams flow over lush rocks, and the photo from the bridge is iconic. You can carefully climb down to the base (if conditions are safe), but parking is tight—sometimes I just roll down the window for a quick look if the lot’s full.
Note: The trail down is muddy and slippery. I usually admire from above if it’s been raining.
3. Wailua Falls
Location: Mile Marker 45, Road to Hana
Why I recommend it: Tall, classic, and easy to access. I love how dramatic the waterfall looks right from the roadside bridge. It’s usually one of my last stops before reaching Kipahulu, and a quick hike down gets you close to the plunge pool.
Family-friendly: The trail is short but a little steep—hold little hands!
4. Makapipi Falls
Location: Mile Marker 25, Road to Hana
What’s unique: This one is different—you actually stand on a bridge and look straight down at the waterfall beneath your feet! If you’re into photography or want a new perspective, this is a fun, fast stop.
Tip: After heavy rain, Makapipi is especially dramatic.
5. Hanawi Falls
Location: Mile Marker 24, Road to Hana
Why stop here: This is a classic “Road to Hana” photo op, especially after a fresh rain. The main falls tumble beside a one-lane bridge, and the sound of rushing water echoes through the trees.
Caution: The current here can be stronger than it looks, so enjoy from the bridge or banks.
6. Pua’a Ka’a Falls
Location: Mile Marker 22, Road to Hana (Pua’a Ka’a State Wayside Park)
Why I always stop: Bathrooms, picnic tables, and an easy walk to the pools make this a great spot for a snack break. There’s usually a lifeguard on duty and you can swim in the pool below the falls.
Best for: Families, groups, or anyone wanting an easy rest with a view.
7. Upper Hanawi Falls
Location: Above Hanawi Bridge, Road to Hana
Why it’s special: More hidden than lower Hanawi, the upper falls are reached via a steep (and often muddy) path. The extra effort means you’ll likely have the place to yourself, surrounded by dense rainforest.
My advice: Only hike if you’re steady on your feet and don’t mind getting dirty!
8. Lower Puohokamoa Falls
Location: Mile Marker 10, Road to Hana
Details: This waterfall used to be easier to access, but now it’s best viewed from the Garden of Eden Arboretum, which charges admission. I stopped here for a coffee and to enjoy the manicured gardens and falls view.
Tip: Worth it if you want a relaxing stroll with a waterfall backdrop (and fewer crowds).
9. Upper Puohokamoa Falls
Location: Near Mile Marker 11, Road to Hana
Why go: Tucked away and sometimes overlooked, Upper Puohokamoa is visible from a roadside overlook. The falls themselves are tall and elegant—bring binoculars if you want to see every detail.
Parking: Limited, so watch for traffic when you stop.
10. Alelele Falls
Location: Beyond Kipahulu (end of Road to Hana)
What I loved: This is the waterfall for solitude seekers. The hike is short but adventurous, and the pool at the base is perfect for a peaceful swim. On my visit, I shared the spot with just a couple of local families.
Extra note: The trail can be muddy, so wear shoes you don’t mind getting dirty.
11. Makahiku Falls
Location: Pipiwai Trail, Haleakalā National Park
Experience: About half a mile into the famous Pipiwai Trail, Makahiku drops dramatically into a lush valley. The overlook is set high above the falls, making for a great photo stop and a chance to catch your breath.
Bring: Bug spray—trust me!
12. Waimoku Falls
Location: End of Pipiwai Trail, Haleakalā National Park
Why this is unmissable: The tallest accessible waterfall on Maui, Waimoku is a 400-foot stunner at the end of a bamboo-lined hike. Standing in the mist at the base, you really feel Maui’s wild side.
Safety: Don’t get too close to the base—rocks can fall, and the cliffs are steep.
Maui Waterfall Tips
- Arrive early to beat crowds, especially at Twin Falls and Wailua Falls.
- Respect private property—stay on marked paths.
- Bring water shoes for slippery rocks and muddy trails.
- Watch for flash floods—never swim after heavy rain.
- Pack out all your trash and help keep Maui beautiful.
Which Waterfall Was My Favorite?
Honestly, Waimoku Falls left me speechless on my first visit (in the best way), but for sheer convenience and fun, I’ll always have a soft spot for Twin Falls. Each has its own personality—try as many as you can!
Planning More Maui Adventures?
Don’t stop here—check out my Ultimate Maui Itinerary for more epic stops, hikes, and food tips between the waterfalls.
FAQs: Maui Waterfalls
Can you swim at all these Maui waterfalls?
Swimming is possible at Twin Falls, Pua’a Ka’a, and Alelele—but always check conditions and watch for flash floods.
Are these waterfalls open year-round?
Most are accessible year-round, but heavy rain can close trails or make swimming dangerous.
Do I need a pass for any waterfalls?
Pipiwai Trail (Makahiku and Waimoku Falls) is inside Haleakalā National Park and requires an entrance fee.
Are any waterfalls accessible for wheelchairs?
Pua’a Ka’a State Wayside Park offers paved paths to the viewing area.
Ready to chase Maui waterfalls? Pin this guide for later and follow along for more honest Hawaii travel tips at Travel with Zee!
