Overview
Hiilawe Falls is a stunning 1,000-foot waterfall located in the beautiful Waipio Valley on the Big Island of Hawaii. It's accessible via a guided tour or a hike, offering breathtaking views of the lush valley and the powerful falls.
Hiilawe Falls is culturally significant to the Hawaiian people and is featured in many local legends and stories. It's also a popular spot for photography and hiking.
Location
Address
Waipio, Oahu, Hawaii
Neighborhood: North Kohala
Coordinates
21.550000, -159.780000
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May and September-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and better light for photography
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
pleasant and mild
- • lush greenery
- • wildflowers
summer
warm and sunny
- • clear skies
- • long daylight hours
autumn
pleasant and mild
- • fall colors
- • cooler temperatures
winter
rainy and humid
- • rainbows
- • waterfall at peak flow
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book a guided tour
- Bring plenty of water
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes
- Check weather conditions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate to high
- • steep hikes
- • slippery trails
Medical facilities: limited on-site, nearest hospital 30 minutes away
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual and comfortable, comfortable hiking shoes, light clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, inappropriate clothing, flip-flops
Booking Tips
- • at least 1 week
- • official website or local tour operators
- • 48 hours
- • available with guided tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Waipio Valley Guides
Size: 45 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide with cultural stories, Tickets, Weather updates
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center
Charging Stations: Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Kona International Airport (KOA)
Distance: 60 km
Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 30 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Cultural significance and natural beauty
Historical Significance: The falls are mentioned in the legend of Hiilawe, a Hawaiian princess
Insider Tips
- Free entry if you hike from the bottom of the valley
- Best food and drinks at the local farm stands
- Early morning visits offer the best experience
Local Recommendations
- • Try local shave ice at the nearby stands
- • Ask for guide John for the best experience
- • Visit the local taro fields
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Hawaiian, Japanese
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Viewpoint overlooking Hiilawe Falls
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide angle for the full view
Result: Breathtaking shot of the waterfall and valley
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Waipio Valley Artworks
Distance: 500m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Art Gallery
Taro Fields
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Cultural Site
Pololu Valley
Distance: 15km
Walking: N/A, need to drive
Type: Valley and Beach
Reviews
Based on 1,200 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book a tour in advance"
- "Go early to avoid crowds"
- "Wear good shoes"
- "Bring water and snacks"
Contact Information
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Available Tours
0
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
1,200
Adult Entry
$25 for guided tours