Chasing Waterfalls on Maui
If there is one thing the Road to Hana is famous for, it is waterfalls. The lush, rainy eastern side of Maui is dotted with cascades of every size, from roadside trickles to towering plunges into swimmable pools. Part of the magic is that a new one seems to appear around every bend. Here is a guide to the best waterfalls on the Road to Hana and how to enjoy them.
Twin Falls
Near the very start of the journey, Twin Falls is a popular first stop and a great warm-up for the day. A short, easy walk leads to lovely cascades and pools, and there is a farm stand at the entrance for a snack. Because it is early on the route and easy to reach, it can get busy, so arriving early helps you enjoy it in peace.
Wailua Falls
Farther along, past Hana town, Wailua Falls is one of the most photographed cascades on the whole drive, and for good reason. This tall, powerful waterfall plunges dramatically right beside the road, making it incredibly easy to admire and photograph without a long hike. It is a jaw-dropping stop that lives up to the postcards.
Waimoku Falls on the Pipiwai Trail
For the grand finale, the Pipiwai Trail in the Kipahulu area leads to the towering Waimoku Falls, which drops hundreds of feet down a sheer cliff. The roughly four-mile round-trip hike winds through a magical bamboo forest to reach it, making the reward feel truly earned. If you have the time and energy, this is one of the most spectacular waterfall hikes on Maui.
The Roadside Cascades In Between
Beyond the famous names, the real charm of the Road to Hana is the countless smaller waterfalls you pass along the way. Many tumble right beside the one-lane bridges that define the drive.
- Dozens of small cascades visible from the road and bridges.
- Hidden pools tucked just off the highway for a quick dip.
- Lush, fern-draped grottoes that appear after a fresh rain.
Keep your eyes open and your camera ready, because some of the prettiest falls do not even have a name.
Tips for Waterfall Stops
A few reminders keep your waterfall day safe and respectful. Trails and rocks near the falls can be slippery, so wear water shoes and step carefully, and never swim if the water is high or rising, since flash floods are a real danger. Respect any private property and posted signs, and take only photos. A guided tour makes it easy, since your guide knows which falls are best and safest on the day you visit.
Let the Falls Lead the Way
From the easy pools of Twin Falls to the roadside drama of Wailua Falls and the towering Waimoku Falls at the end of a bamboo forest hike, the Road to Hana is a waterfall lover’s dream. Take your time, stay safe near the water, and soak in the endless cascades. Chasing these waterfalls is the very heart of the Road to Hana experience.