Kalauao Falls Hike

3 miles -1000ft elevation Loop Trail Hard

The Kalauao Falls Hike is a moderate jungle trail tucked inside the Aiea Loop Trail in central Oahu, leading to a hidden waterfall and swimming pool. This hike is perfect for those looking for a less crowded, off-the-beaten-path waterfall adventure. Unlike more popular waterfall hikes like Mānoa Falls, this trail feels more secluded and offers a peaceful rainforest setting. The hike begins from the Aiea Loop Trailhead, located inside Keaiwa Heiau State Park. The first section follows the Aiea Loop Trail, a well-maintained dirt path through a lush Hawaiian forest. Expect to see towering eucalyptus trees, strawberry guava, and native plants. Mid-Hike: About 1.5 miles in, look for an unmarked side trail that descends down to the stream, this is where you leave the main Aiea Loop Trail. Follow the stream downhill, crossing it several times before reaching the waterfall. Expect muddy sections, slippery rocks, and some minor scrambling. The waterfall cascades into a small swimming pool, perfect for cooling off. Kalauao Falls is seasonal, meaning it flows best after heavy rain, but be cautious of flash floods. Enjoy the peaceful, secluded atmosphere before heading back. Return Hike: Retrace your steps back uphill to the Aiea Loop Trail. The return hike can feel steep and tiring, especially after rainfall.

Tips for Hiking

Best Time: After recent rain, but not too much rain
Early Morning: Cooler temperatures, fewer people.
Midday: Can be hot and humid, especially on the return.
Late Afternoon: Beautiful lighting, but avoid hiking too close to sunset.
Flash Flood Warning: Kalauao Falls depends on recent rainfall, too little, and it may be dry; too much, and the stream can flood. Check conditions before hiking.
Trailhead Location: Aiea Loop Trailhead, inside Keaiwa Heiau State Park. The turnoff to Kalauao Falls is unmarked, so use GPS navigation or AllTrails for guidance.
Wear waterproof hiking shoes: The trail is muddy, and stream crossings are slippery.
Bring bug spray: Mosquitos are common in the jungle areas.
Pack a swimsuit & towel: If you plan to swim at the waterfall.
Download offline maps: The turnoff to the falls is unmarked, a GPS app helps. Check the weather: Avoid hiking after heavy rain due to flash flood risk.

Thoughts from my Hike

Overall this was a pretty enjoyable hike. The trail was marked pretty good and not too hard on the leg muscles. The trek down to the falls was very steep and I would definitely recommend shoe spikes if you have them or very good hiking shoes. Gloves help out a lot also when going down to the falls and the trek back up to the top of the trail. Unfortunately the falls were not running good when I did this hike. We hadn't had a good rain in a little while. I did not do the full loop. I marked out the part I did not do in black on the map. So I kinda figured I went about 3 miles total, and the negative elevation because I had to go down into the valley floor to get to the falls.