Hanawi Falls

The Highlights

The Hanawi Falls is one of the most pristine and prodigious stops along the Road to Hana. These incredible falls are one of the most photographed waterfalls in all of Hawaii. Due to being fed continuously by the Hanawi stream-river, these falls continuously flow and cascade throughout the year. This makes it the perfect place to see one of Hawaii’s most incredible waterfalls at any time throughout the year. In addition to the majestic waterfalls and soothing freshwater pools, the rainforest in the area is lush and awe-inspiring.

The Land

The Hanawi Falls is part of a larger water flowing system known as the Hanwai Streams. Together with the other streams in the area, over which 400 million gallons of rainwater is channeled each day, making it one of the most important sources of water in the Hawaiian islands.  The falls themselves have two collective parts, known as upper Hanawi Falls, and Lower Hanawi Falls.

The Upper Hanawi Falls

The Upper Hanawi Falls is the most common part of the system that is adventures visit. It is the easiest part to access, and most people who just want a short break to stretch their legs, or cool off in one of the pools, tend to stop here. The Upper Hanawi Falls consists of a 30-foot waterfall, that can be seen comfortably from the bridge that was built to traverse the Hanawi Stream. The waterfall pours and collects below, providing a cool, and sometimes even ice-cold freshwater swimming pool.

The Lower Hanawi Falls

The Lower Hanawi Falls is the less visited, but quite incredible second part of the falls Hanwi Falls system. The Lower Hanawi Falls is actually the more impressive of the two. At 200 feet, the size of this cascading waterfall is almost 7 times larger than the one found at the Upper Hanawi Falls. The only way to access This incredible waterfall is by hiking to it through a trail that is found in the town of Nahiku. As with a few of the other more bountiful waterfalls and pool on the Road to Hana, parts of this trail are regulated by, East Maui Irrigation. Due to this fact, visitors are encouraged to get permission before making the trek.  It may seem a bit of pain, but if you want to see one of the most amazing waterfalls and rainforest in the area, it’s well worth it.

How to Get There:

Reaching the Upper Hanawi Falls is not particularly difficult. It can be found near Mile Marker #24 on the Hana Hwy. The  Bridge that crosses The Hanawi Streams makes it easy to find.  The Lower Hanawi Stream is more difficult to get to, and requires as mentioned about, going through part of  EMI controlled areas. We recommend getting permission to be on the safe side and avoiding any potential penalties or safety issues.

Enjoy and Let Enjoy

Before you leave this amazing and scenic natural landscape, remember that the beauty of this magnificent beach is very fragile. Treat it with respect it deserves. Help preserve this rare Eco-system by remembering to remove anything that you brought with you. There are no trash, restroom facilities, or disposal services at the property, so please avoid littering. In addition, please avoid removing anything from the site without express permission. Above all, It is important to be conscientious and maintain the magic you’ve experienced here. Help future visitors experience the same sense of awe and wonder that you have just enjoyed.