From magnificent cascades hiding in plain sight to those found deep within the jungle, the Hawaiian Islands are home to countless magnificent waterfalls. And while we love witnessing the beauty of Hawaii’s waterfalls from afar, there is little better the liberating feeling of standing near a cascading waterfall — except maybe wading into the water yourself after a nice hike. Today, we’re taking you on an adventure to a little-known double waterfall sure to take your breath away.
Because this incredible destination is fed by a waterfall, it is important to issue a friendly warning about the risks associated with flash flooding, and leptospirosis bacteria found in many of Hawaii’s natural pools. It is advised that you check weather reports and ocean conditions before heading out for the day, never swim in these pools when you have open wounds, and to always watch your step. With that warning out of the way, let’s dive in.
Flowing from Wailuku River — just upstream of the wildly popular Rainbow and Pe’epe’e Falls in Hilo, Hawaii — Wai’ale Falls is a little-known gem that’s worthy of a visit not due to its height, but the sheer amount of water that flows here.
Leila Mende/AllTrails
This breathtaking waterfall is split into two parts: the upper tier, which naturally flows over a sheer, lava cliff into a pool below, and the lower tier, which was created by a man-made wall — almost like a dam — that has been built beneath the falls.
Razor Piting-florence, AZ Randle/AllTrails
While you can view this double waterfall from a bridge on Waianuenue Road, you can also embark on a short, dirt trail that leads to the top of the waterfall and gives you a unique vantage point…
Awesome Hans and Chewy/AllTrails
…or even hike to the large, deep pool beneath Wai’ale Falls. Here, you will discover a large rock island in the middle of the river and a small pebble beach that looks directly towards the falls.
Leila Mende/AllTrails
The short, .3-mile trail that leads to the top of Wai’ale Falls can be quite muddy and overgrown, but if you’re up for the adventure, the panoramic views you’ll discover are well worth the effort.
Gary Tindall/AllTrails
Gary Tindall/AllTrails
If the water level isn’t too high, you could easily spend an entire afternoon above the falls exploring the numerous swimming holes you’ll find here and even venturing upstream to larger, unnamed falls.
kynan tait/Flickr
Cascading approximately 55 feet into the pool below, cliff jumping is popular here, but we suggest a milder activity: taking as many photographs as you can.
kynan tait/Flickr
If Wai’ale Falls isn’t on your Hawaii waterfall bucket list, it should be. While we understand not wanting to swim in the pools due to Wailuku River’s natural tendency towards flash flooding, the hike alone is worth it for the surreal view.
Gary Tindall/AllTrails
For more information about Wai’ale Falls, visit the listing on AllTrails. Have you ever witnessed the beauty of Wai’ale Falls for yourself? What about these “12 Refreshing Natural Pools You’ll Definitely Want To Visit This Summer In Hawaii?”
Leila Mende/AllTrails
Razor Piting-florence, AZ Randle/AllTrails
Awesome Hans and Chewy/AllTrails
Gary Tindall/AllTrails
kynan tait/Flickr
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