Spectacular Kauai waterfall cascading down lush cliffs

Kauai Waterfall Discovery Maps

Find and explore the Garden Isle's most spectacular cascades with detailed access maps

Kalani Miller, Kauai native and local expert

Written by an Island Native

Waterfall Discovery Maps

Kauai earns its Garden Isle nickname through abundant rainfall. This creates incredible waterfalls cascading down cliffs and through valleys. Seeing them provides quintessential Kauai experiences. But accessing them varies dramatically. Some appear from your car. Others require serious adventures.

Roadside Accessible Waterfalls

Wailua Falls

This stunning, double-tiered waterfall featured in Fantasy Island opening credits. Drive right up to lookout for fantastic views. Paths leading down exist but are steep, dangerous, and officially closed. Enjoy safely from the top. Go in afternoon for rainbow chances in the mist.

'Opaeka'a Falls

Another easy waterfall short drive from Wailua. The name means "rolling shrimp," which once populated the stream. Dedicated lookout provides great views. Walk across street for beautiful Wailua River valley panorama.

Waipo'o Falls

This magnificent 800-foot cascade dominates Waimea Canyon. Multiple lookouts along Waimea Canyon Drive offer views. Canyon Trail hike reaches the top, not the base. But it provides great workout with waterfall bonus.

Hiking Required Waterfalls

Hanakāpīʻai Falls

Reaching this 300-foot waterfall rewards challenging but incredible effort. Requires 2-mile hike to Hanakāpīʻai Beach, plus another 2-mile trek inland through lush valley with stream crossings. You'll need park reservation to access trailhead. This hike earns every view you get.

Ho'opi'i Falls

Beautiful two-tiered waterfall popular with locals. The hike stays relatively short but can get very muddy. Great spot for refreshing swims. This location appeared in original Jurassic Park scenes.

Adventure Access Waterfalls

Uluwehi (Secret) Falls

This waterfall's "secret" status disappeared long ago. But the journey remains true adventure. You must kayak or canoe up Wailua River, then hike about one mile through jungle to reach beautiful 120-foot cascade and swimming hole.

Manawaiopuna (Jurassic) Falls

The iconic 400-foot waterfall where Jurassic Park helicopter lands. Located on private land deep in Hanapepe Valley. Only accessible via helicopter tour, making it truly special and exclusive sight.