Skip to main content
National Park & Nature

Manoa Falls

📍 Manoa Falls Trail, Honolulu, HI, USA
No photos yet
3.5/ 5.0
★★★★☆

Quick Facts

Location
USA, Oahu
Category
National Park & Nature
Duration
1-2 hours
Address
Manoa Falls Trail, Honolulu, HI, USA
Coordinates
21.3300, -157.8000

Introduction

Manoa Falls is a popular hiking destination on Oahu, located deep in Manoa Valley near Honolulu. The approximately 1.6-mile round-trip trail passes through lush tropical rainforest, ending at the 150-foot Manoa Falls cascading down a green cliff face, particularly impressive during the rainy season. The trail is shaded by dense canopy with layered tropical plants, giant ferns, bamboo groves, and wild ginger flowers creating a classic Hawaiian rainforest scene. Mountain mists often drift through, with sunlight filtering through the canopy in dappled patterns, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The Manoa Falls trail is suitable for most visitors due to its short distance and low difficulty, making it an excellent introduction to Oahu's tropical rainforest ecology. The shallow pool at the falls base can be waded during rainy season, though rocks are slippery. The trail has been featured in films including Jurassic Park and Lost.

✨ Highlights

1
Rainforest Hike
Through lush Hawaiian tropical rainforest, experiencing pristine ecology
2
150-foot Waterfall
Manoa Falls cascading from green cliff, spectacular in rainy season
3
Beginner Trail
1.6-mile round-trip low difficulty, suitable for most visitors
4
Film Location
Featured in Jurassic Park, Lost, and other productions
5
Mystical Atmosphere
Mountain mist and dappled light create dreamlike tropical ambiance

🛈 Practical Info

→Location:Manoa Valley, Honolulu, Oahu
→Trail Length:Approximately 1.6 miles round-trip
→Duration:1-2 hours including photos and rest
→Best Time:After rain for best falls; morning avoids afternoon showers
→Ticket Information:Free; parking $5
→Transportation:20 minutes from Waikiki by car; or bus 5 to Manoa

💡 Tips

• Trail is muddy and slippery, especially after rain; wear hiking shoes
• Rainforest has mosquitoes; apply repellent beforehand
• Mountain rain comes suddenly; bring a light rain jacket
• Rocks at falls pool are slippery; do not wade in high water

FAQ

How much is the admission for Manoa Falls?

Free; parking $5

Any practical tips for visiting Manoa Falls?

Trail is muddy and slippery, especially after rain; wear hiking shoes Rainforest has mosquitoes; apply repellent beforehand

How long should I spend at Manoa Falls?

A typical visit takes 1-2 hours.