Waterfall Park and Hikes in Oahu

"Manoa Falls is arguably the most popular waterfall in Oahu because it’s only five miles northeast of lively Waikiki HI. The serene, effortless 1.5-mile out-and-back hiking trail is predominantly a flat walking path. The 20-minute Manoa Valley nature hike is equally as beautiful as the falls because of the lush Hawaiian hillside and colorful flowers. The waterfall itself drops 150 feet into a small pool."

"First, one of the best (and most famous) waterfall hikes in Oahu is the spectacular Manoa Falls hike. The Manoa Falls receive tons of foot traffic, greatly due to its close proximity to Honolulu. Nevertheless, this hiking trail is stunning."

"In one day, you can drive this 100-mile path with some beach hopping, but you might have to cherry-pick between the longer activities like the hike, Waimea Valley and the Polynesian Cultural Center if you don’t want to feel rushed. Depart early from Honolulu for your drive north through the farmlands and mountain views of the center of the island, to stretches of empty beachfront and the northwest terminus of the highway at Kaena Point. If you want to do some hiking, the Kaena Point Trail is a 3.5-mile, out-and-back path from the end of the road to the remote western point of the island inaccessible to vehicles."

"Next head to Waimea Valley to see Waimea Falls and swim in the pool at the bottom. This is a beautiful and sacred place and could definitely warrant a few hours of your time – we spent about an hour and a half there."

"Tour Waimea Valley where you can learn about Hawaiian culture, admire a beautiful variety of trees, shrubs and plants and enjoy a swim at a waterfall. (See this link for TripAdvisor reviews of Waimea Valley.)"

"If you’re feeling extra adventurous on your visit to Waikiki HI, embark on a three-mile journey into the Waimānalo Forest Reserve. Maunawili Falls is a secluded 20-foot waterfall near the genuinely breathtaking Ko’olau Mountains. The trailhead begins in the Maunawili residential area in northern Honolulu, 13 miles from Prince Waikiki."

"A post shared by Dustin Letcher (@dustinletcher) on May 17, 2019 at 9:45pm PDT. One of the most challenging hikes you can possibly try out is definitely the one to Maunawili Falls. Though stipulated as a tough hike, what greets you along the way is as memorable as the challenging hike is."

"Next on my list of the best waterfalls in Oahu is the stunning Maunawili Falls. One of the best waterfall hikes in Oahu, the Maunawili Falls trail receives heavy foot traffic. Located near Kailua, Maunawili is a moderate hike with spectacular views."

"The beautiful hike to Likeke Falls, depending on how much time you spend snapping photos and admiring the Ko’olau Mountains, should only take 20-25 minutes. Likeke Falls is one of the least frequented waterfalls in Oahu, but it’s definitely worth the drive, especially if you’re already planning on visiting Maunawili Falls. The short hike is highlighted by mountain vistas, valley overlooks, and lush flora."

"Located near Kailua, the Likeke Falls trail is an easy and muddy trek to a small set of waterfalls. While the Likeke waterfalls themselves are a bit unimpressive, the hike through the lush Hawaiian rainforest is extremely pleasant. Overall, the Likeke Falls are one of the best waterfalls in Oahu."

"Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Andrew K. Smith used under CC BY 2.0. Over at Lulumahu falls, you will not be disappointed with what you see. In fact, leave your footprints along the way as you make your hike to Lulumahu Falls and the moments and sights of this place will forever be imprinted in your memory."

"The Lulumahu Falls trail climbs through dense bamboo forests and over streams, before reaching the towering Lulumahu waterfall, reaching over 50 feet tall. It is definitely one of the best waterfalls in Honolulu!. While there’s heavy foot traffic, this moderate Honolulu waterfall hike is marvelous."

"Finally, let’s talk about one of the most challenging and frustrating waterfall hikes: Waipuhia Falls. Also known as the Upside-Down Waterfall, the Waipuhia Falls, when seen at the right moment, gives the illusion of a waterfall upside-down. However, while witnessing this phenomenon is utterly magical, there is no guarantee that you’ll see it (I, unfortunately, didn’t)."

"Art-filled coffee shop that transforms into a bar and club at night Another stalwart of the neighborhood’s new nightlife scene, this espresso bar and cafe by day and cocktail bar-cum-club by night has been slinging drinks for a decade and still packs in a cool crowd (be warned about the sardine-like situation on First Fridays). The industrial-style space’s brick walls are lined with rotating art exhibits and you can catch both full-on bands and visiting DJs from around the country on weekend nights. If brown liquor’s your thing, don’t miss the impressive whiskey selection."

"Head to Honolulu’s arts and entertainment district where you’ll find The Manifest, an all-night dance party. This Chinatown bar brings in some of the hottest DJs in town!. Be sure to snap some pictures during your night out; Manifest’s artsy brick walls and hanging lights will make a great picture for the ‘gram."

"Taking the traditional rice-based dessert to the next level, the-true-to-its-name butter mochi is indeed buttery, rich, and delicious. Most would agree that butter mochi is best when it’s homemade."

"The gist: New York’s beloved Lady M cakes make their island debutLocals love the food: Lady M cakes are known for their light, creamy, and flavorful texture. Each mille cake consists of 20 layers of crepes, with a layer of cream dividing each. Flavors include a signature cream green tea and lilikoi."

"Next, stop off in Waimānalo for some fresh local foods, Hawaiʻi delicacies or your staple “plate lunch.” Then visit Bellows Beach where the waves are gentle and the Sherwood Forest is a great respite to picnic, relax, sunbathe and enjoy the last daylight hours of the final moments of your Hawaiian vacation. Don’t forget – special rental car discounts are available for Hawaii.com members. Click here for more information."

"If you don’t like sand and prefer to stay away from the ocean, Kaka’ako Waterfront Park is the place for you. At first it won’t seem like much, but as you walk east along the path to the very end is a great view of Honolulu and Diamond Head. This is also a great place for surfers so you might see a few wipe outs while you’re there as well."