Waimea Falls, Oahu: Botanical Garden & Waterfall

Waimea Valley

Oahu Waimea Falls

Waimea Falls, also known as Waihi Falls, is one of the more accessible falls on Oahu.  It is located within Waimea Valley, which is a unique Hawaiian botanical garden within a significant cultural and archaeological site.  Admission is $26 for adults, $20 for seniors/students, and $18 for children ages 4-12. The park is open Monday-Thursday and Saturday-Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (closed Fridays; Thursdays close at 2:30 p.m.). There is a fee to enter the park.  This is a worthwhile contribution, as the place is dedicated to the preservation of the incredible botanical and cultural features of the area. 

There is an optional shuttle service for the very young or elderly to be able to also enjoy the falls.  The 3.5-mile hike, which is mostly along flat, paved ground, is well worth doing as the path meanders through the magnificent gardens and historical sites.  A visit to Waimea Falls is very much a cultural experience if you take the time to relax and enjoy the surrounds.

The 45 foot (13.7m) waterfall is part of Kamanui Stream that flows from the north end of the Koolau Mountains on Windward side Oahu all the way through Waimea Valley to join the Waimea River to the ocean.

The area used to be an adventure park where you could see cliff-diving shows, ride ATVs and trams and go kayaking. It was shut down and turned over to the Audubon Society in 2003, and turned it into a botanical garden. Now it is managed by Hi'ipaka LLC - a nonprofit organization with much more of a focus on cultural and botanical preservation.

**For current prices and fees please call (808) 638-7766.