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Manoa Falls

Honolulu, Hawaii

3.6/5
based on 14 reviews

Details

Distance

1.59 miles

Elevation Gain

600 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Hillary + Matt

Manoa Falls Trail is a short up-and-back hike that's perfect for beginners who are looking for big payoff with little effort.

Located in close proximity to Honolulu, the 150-foot Manoa Falls is accessible from the nearest road by a hike of approximately 0.8 miles (one way). The hike passes through a diverse array of ecosystems in Manoa Valley and feels like a true jungle, which makes it a great photo-zone. This valley is also home to filming locations from Jurassic Park and LOST. The path to the waterfall is often muddy and slippery so wear sensible shoes (read: no sandals!), and be aware that flash floods may occur at anytime. 

Swimming is not permitted in the pool at the base of the waterfall.

Budget approximately two hours for the entire Mānoa Falls Trail hike.

HOW TO GET THERE:
Take McCully Street out of Waikiki and turn right onto Kapiolani Boulevard. Turn left at University Avenue. Follow University Avenue as it turns into Oahu Avenue. At a five-point intersection, veer right onto Manoa Road. After passing Waakaua Street, find free parking along the final residential stretch of the street. It’s a .4 mile walk to the trailhead. Otherwise, continue driving along Manoa Road and follow the signs for $5 parking on the right hand side. After parking, continue following the road toward the mountain. At a fork, veer right toward a fence with signs marking the Manoa Falls trailhead.

CAUTION:
As with all freshwater streams and waterfalls in Hawaii, Leptospirosis bacteria may be present in the water. Do not drink the water and keep water out of open wounds (including small scratches) and eyes.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

  • There is a small fee to park at the trailhead 
  • Seasonal closures can happen due to weather. Visit hawaiitrails.hawaii.gov for updates
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Features

Fitness
Photography
Hiking
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Groups
Scenic
Waterfall

Manoa Falls Reviews

The falls weren't that impressive, but the vegetation was beautiful.

Love this hike! so much green

This was a short, easy, hike, right in town but you could have been miles from civilization. It was wet and a bit slippery but well worth the mud...

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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