Maui is known for its pristine beaches and world-class surf, but venture inland, and you’ll find another side of paradise—lush rainforests, hidden pools, and cascading waterfalls tucked away along scenic trails. From easy-access waterfalls perfect for a quick dip to adventurous hikes leading to secluded falls, Maui’s North Shore and East Maui offer some of the island’s most magical natural escapes.

Whether you’re looking for a quick roadside stop or an immersive jungle trek, this guide will take you through the best waterfall hikes on Maui, starting with the beloved Twin Falls and exploring even more hidden gems beyond.

Twin Falls

Mile Marker 2, Hana Highway

Located at Mile Marker 2 along the Hana Highway, Twin Falls is one of Maui’s most accessible and family-friendly waterfalls. Set on private farmland at Wailele Farm, it offers short, scenic trails, refreshing swimming holes, and a charming farm stand serving fresh coconuts and banana bread—a perfect way to kick off your Hana adventure. As Twin Falls sits on private land, access is managed to preserve the area. Parking is limited to 55 spots, available first-come, first-served for $10 per car. Kamaʻāina Exclusive Days offer Hawai‘i residents special access on the first Saturday of every month.

Why Stop at Twin Falls?

• Easy, family-friendly trails leading to multiple waterfalls and pools

• Great swimming spots surrounded by lush jungle scenery

• Farm stand treats with local fruit, juices, and fresh-baked banana bread

• No strenuous hiking required—perfect for a quick, scenic stop

For those looking to go deeper into Maui’s jungle, here are some of the best waterfall hikes along the North Shore and Road to Hana.

Waikamoi Falls

Mile Marker 9.9, Hana Highway

Waikamoi Falls is one of the most underrated yet rewarding stops on the Road to Hana. This easily accessible waterfall features two stunning cascades, with the first one located just steps from the road—making it one of the few waterfalls where you can pull over and jump in almost immediately.

The first pool is perfect for a quick swim, offering a picturesque setting surrounded by lush greenery. But the real magic happens just upstream, where a larger, more secluded waterfall and pool create a serene escape for those willing to scramble up a mostly-dry stream bed. On the right day, with water flowing just right, this spot feels like a private paradise.

Why it’s worth a stop:

• Drive-up access – No long hikes required

• Two waterfalls – A smaller, roadside cascade and a hidden gem upstream

• Great swimming – Calm pools for a refreshing dip

Haipua‘ena Falls

Mile Marker 11.5, Hana Highway

Haipua‘ena Falls is a small but charming waterfall that offers a quick and easy stop along the Road to Hana. Just a short stroll from the road, this secluded spot features a tranquil pool and gentle cascade, making it a nice place to stretch your legs and cool off.

While not the most dramatic waterfall on the route, Haipua‘ena Falls still provides a peaceful, shaded setting that feels like a hidden jungle oasis. The first waterfall and pool are accessible and swimmable, but the second, larger set of falls requires a treacherous and unsafe climb, so it’s best to skip that and enjoy other scenic waterfalls further down the road.

Why stop here?

• Quick access – No strenuous hiking required

• Peaceful setting – A quiet, uncrowded alternative to other waterfalls

• Great for a refreshing dip – Perfect for a short swim in a natural pool

Pua‘a Ka‘a Falls

Mile Marker 22.5, Hana Highway

The Road to Hana is filled with breathtaking waterfalls, but Pua‘a Ka‘a Falls stands out as one of the most accessible and convenient stops along the route. Located within Pua‘a Ka‘a State Wayside Park, this lush, rain-fed oasis features two picturesque waterfalls, easy walking trails, and swimmable pools perfect for a refreshing dip.

The first set of waterfalls is just a short walk from the parking lot, making it an excellent stop for families and casual explorers. More adventurous visitors can cross the stream near the picnic area to find an upper waterfall, but this trail is steep, narrow, and often slippery, so caution is advised—especially after rainfall.

Why Stop at Pua‘a Ka‘a Falls?

• Easy access – A short, well-maintained path leads to the waterfalls

• Picnic area & restrooms – A great place to take a break with covered tables and ocean views

• Swimmable pools – Ideal for cooling off after the winding drive

Hanawi Falls

Mile Marker 24, Hana Highway

Hanawi Falls is one of Maui’s most stunning and frequently photographed waterfalls, offering a glimpse into the raw beauty of East Maui’s rainforest. Fed by the pristine Hanawi Stream, the falls flow year-round, making them a reliable and breathtaking stop along the Road to Hana. While hiking to the falls isn't recommended due to safety concerns and private land restrictions, simply pausing to take in the view is enough to appreciate why Hanawi Falls is considered one of the most beautiful natural wonders along the Hana Highway.

The best view of Hanawi Falls is from the Hanawi Stream Bridge, a historic structure that has stood since 1926. From here, you can admire the powerful lower falls as they cascade down rugged cliffs, framed by lush jungle greenery. If conditions allow, some visitors choose to trek down to the pool below for a closer look, but the area is often slippery and prone to flash flooding, so caution is essential.

Why Visit Hanawi Falls?

• Easily accessible – A stunning roadside waterfall with views from the bridge

• Year-round flow – One of the most consistent waterfalls on Maui

• Lush rainforest surroundings – A perfect photo stop on the way to Hana

Wailua Falls

Mile Marker 45, Hana Highway

Wailua Falls is one of the most iconic and accessible waterfalls on Maui, making it a must-see stop on the Road to Hana. Cascading 80 feet down a lush jungle wall, this stunning waterfall requires no hiking—you can admire its beauty right from the road.

For those who want a closer look, a short but sometimes slippery path leads down to the plunge pool, where you can take a refreshing swim beneath the falls. This spot is often buzzing with local vendors selling snacks and souvenirs, making it a great place to take a break, stretch your legs, and soak in the scenery.

Why Stop at Wailua Falls?

• Easily accessible – No hiking required, visible from the road

• Stunning 80-foot cascade – A true postcard-worthy waterfall

• Swimming spot – Cool off in the plunge pool below

• Local vendors – Grab snacks, souvenirs, and chat with friendly locals

‘Ohe‘o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools)

Mile Marker 42, Hana Highway – Haleakalā National Park

‘Ohe‘o Gulch, often called the Seven Sacred Pools, is one of Maui’s most breathtaking and popular waterfall stops. Located within Haleakalā National Park’s Kīpahulu District, this lush valley features a series of cascading waterfalls and tranquil pools, all set against a backdrop of towering cliffs and tropical rainforest.

This spot gets busy fast, so arriving early in the morning or visiting later in the afternoon can provide a more peaceful experience. If you have extra time, consider hiking the Pipiwai Trail—a 4-mile round-trip hike leading through a bamboo forest to the spectacular 400-foot Waimoku Falls.

What to Expect

• Stunning multi-tiered waterfalls flowing year-round

• Easy access – A short walk from the parking lot to the pools

• National Park facilities – Restrooms, ranger station, and picnic areas

Beyond their natural beauty, Maui’s waterfalls are part of the island’s cultural and environmental legacy. Many Upcountry and North Shore properties embrace this landscape, featuring tropical gardens, natural pools, and rainforest surroundings. For those seeking a home that captures Maui’s magic, being near these stunning waterfalls is the ultimate real estate dream.

Whether you’re here for an adventure, a peaceful retreat, or to find your dream home, Maui’s waterfalls offer a glimpse into paradise—one cascading drop at a time.

Tips for Exploring Maui’s Waterfalls

• Wear sturdy water shoes – Many trails can be muddy and slippery.

• Bring a waterproof bag – Protect your phone and valuables from splashes.

• Check weather conditions – Waterfalls are best after rain, but flash floods can be dangerous.

• Respect the land – Some waterfalls are on private property—always follow signs and respect the ‘āina (land).

• Know before you go – Entrance permissions for private and public lands are subject to change, so always check for the latest updates before heading out.