
Mike's Travel Adventures
Waiakeakua Falls Hike
2.4 miles 958ft elevation Out & Back Trail Moderate
The Waiakeakua Falls Hike is a hidden jungle trek in Mānoa Valley, featuring multiple waterfalls, lush rainforest scenery, and stream crossings. This off-the-beaten-path adventure is perfect for hikers looking for a secluded and rewarding waterfall experience away from the crowds. Expect overgrown sections and difficult navigation and multiple stream crossings. Your feet will get wet. The hike begins near Mānoa Valley, close to Paradise Park (near the Mānoa Falls Trail entrance). There is no official trailhead, so navigation is required, most hikers use GPS or AllTrails maps. Expect a jungle setting with tree roots, vines, and bamboo groves. Mid-Hike: The trail follows Waiakeakua Stream, requiring several crossings over slippery rocks. The jungle is dense, and some sections are overgrown or blocked by fallen trees. The first waterfall is smaller, but continuing further leads to larger cascades. The main waterfall is a beautiful multi-tiered cascade, surrounded by moss-covered rocks and thick vegetation. The pool at the base is shallow but swimmable, though be aware of leptospirosis bacteria in Hawaiian freshwater. The setting is peaceful and rarely crowded, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy nature. Descent & Return: Follow the same path back, being careful on slippery rocks and muddy sections. The full hike takes about 2.5 to 3.5 hours round trip, depending on stops.
Tips for Hiking
Best Time: After light rain, but not during storms.
Early Morning: Cooler temps, fewer people.
Midday: Best lighting for photos, but hotter and more humid.
Late Afternoon: Peaceful, but avoid getting caught near the stream in the dark.
Do NOT hike during heavy rain: The stream can rise quickly, making crossings dangerous.
Parking: Park at Paradise Park (near Mānoa Falls Trailhead). Limited street parking nearby, be respectful of residents.
Trailhead Location: No official trailhead. The hike starts near the Mānoa Falls area, following Waiakeakua Stream into the valley. Use GPS navigation. The path is unmarked and can be confusing.
Wear waterproof hiking shoes. Slippery rocks & stream crossings.
Use trekking poles if needed: Helpful for balancing in the stream.
Bring bug spray: Mosquitos are heavy in the jungle.
Carry extra socks & towels: Your feet will get wet.
Check weather before going. Flash floods are a serious risk.
Respect the area – Part of the hike crosses private land.
Thoughts from my Hike
For this hike, you actually start on the The Pu'u Pia Trail which is located on Alani Drive near Honolulu. There is plenty of parking along this road. After a short walk on a paved path, you will reach the trailhead. Unfortunately it hadn't rained in a little while so I wasn't expecting a great flow today. The falls are located in the Manoa Valley Rainforest. You will descend into the valley by veering off the Pu'u Pia trail and down a steep slope. You will cross streams, wet or dry, depending on water flow, hop over rocks until you reach a series of four waterfalls.