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    Kapena Falls

    3.3 (20 reviews)

    Kapena Falls Photos

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    Petroglyphs, secured by a gate.
    Suanne K.

    A hidden gem behind Nuuanu Cemetery. Here you can take a short 15 minute hike to look at petroglyphs, and if you're lucky, someone jumping into one of the pools. If you are worried about leptospirosis, don't chance it. Popular with locals and kids, Kapena Falls is a perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu. Bring a bento and have lunch there, just make sure you take your rubbish with you!

    Tank G.

    All the reviews are true. This is Dirty Mike and the Boys' hangout. The trail is dirty, the water is dirty, the bugs are horrible. It is located behind a funeral home/cemetery. If you still want to rough it and see for yourself. There are two ways to get there. You can go to the left of the large green metal building, which is the easier route or you can go to the right. Going to the right takes a bit longer and more athletic ability. The left is about a 5 to 10 minute hike. The mosquitoes are bad on whatever side you chose. You also pass a homeless camp on that side too. You should not go here by yourself. The water fall is about 15 to 20 feet and the pool is dirty. I would not recommend even looking at the water, let alone swimming in it. I took a few pictures and left. I was there for no more than 10 minutes. I felt so dirty when I got to my car. I felt the need to disinfect my entire body. If I were you I would find another hike/waterfall.

    Krys F.

    Sacred love so don't disrespect. It's easy to get to by going through the cemetery. You'll see petroglyphs along the way. Really big pohaku. Great for teaching kids about culture. Lots of homeless along the streams, however they don't bother. My pics don't show the falls which is a little deeper in. Can jump from the rocks.

    Directions: Park on the street in front of the Nuuanu Memorial Park & Mortuary. Walk along the road through the park, all the way to the end of the road (maybe 250 yards). You'll see a green, metal maintenance shop. The trail head is to the left of the building. It's not marked. Follow that trail all the way to the end (approx. 10 minute walk if your slow). The falls are at the end, with a large pool. Now, what to expect: It's an easy walk, in what would otherwise be a pretty wooded area along a creek with Banyan trees and petroglyphs that are poorly marked and hard to see. If it weren't for the trash everywhere left behind by homeless transients, it would be even better (but I digress). Still, if you want an easy hike for all ages, it's not bad. Lower your expectations and you'll be glad you did it. What this place really needs is a caretaker to clear out the trash. It's a shame the city or the mortuary doesn't adopt it and treat this place with greater reverence.

    Only took 7 mins to get here
    Leona T.

    Short walk along a river to a cute little waterfall. It's good for kids . If you're looking for a hike this isn't it. If you're kinda lazy but want some good pics this is your spot.

    Alexandra B.

    This is not really a hike more like a ten minute walk! It's right next to the highway and the cemetery and it's just such a gorgeous lush area. The waterfall is short and small but there is a large pool of water to swim in and around a 40 ft cliff to jump off of! It's lots of fun but be careful :) also- tons of bugs so pack lots of bug spray. A nice place to hangout for an hour or so and take gorgeous pictures!

    Pretty-ish, but very smelly and murky water.
    Olga K.

    All reviews said dont go. Still went. The 3 min walk was Beautiful. felt like one second your in the city and the next in the jungle. Avatar wonderland Jurassic park kinda vibe. Destination: The waterfall was pretty too but water didn't look inviting. Indecent, dirty, and a couple beer cans floating. If I was dieing from heat exhaustion I'd jump in but I wasnt.

    The beginning of the hike
    Amir R.

    If you're into waterfalls and not willing to hike for so long I totally recommend this place. It literally takes 5-10 mins to finish it. It's an easy hike and amazing. I'm giving it 4 stars because there was couple issues there such as, lots of trash and the path is sort of not clear. You have to be careful not to slip. I would totally go there once a week!

    Fil K.

    This is probably one of my favorite spots... I'm only giving it a one star so less ppl come... if your reading this.. good job on finding gold... besides a few of the transient homeless...(which are anywhere and everywhere) this place is the best! You can literally be in the middle of the jungle with a 5 min walk! Not to mention the water is cleanish.. and even has fish! Please ONLy CATCH n RELEaSe! These fish should NOT be eaten! THEy are FATAlly TOXIC!

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    1 year ago

    Super cool, shallow water if you don't know how to jump don't. If you know how have fun. Super cool!

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    7 years ago

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    9 years ago

    A couple different spots, 25 feet, 40 feet, 8 feet, perfectly safe jump towards the middle lots of fun easy hike.

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    11 years ago

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    Ask the Community - Kapena Falls

    Review Highlights - Kapena Falls

    Here you can take a short 15 minute hike to look at petroglyphs, and if you're lucky, someone jumping into one of the pools.

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    Sunday Market Thai Buddhist Temple

    Sunday Market Thai Buddhist Temple

    5.0(3 reviews)
    9.8 mi

    Wat Thai of Hawaii…read more.. Every Sunday they have a market along with meditation session at this hidden oasis in the midst of the twisted roadways and rails of Pearl City. This tricky one way road coming from Waipahu is the only way into this village and yes it's basically that with an open market setting selling various produce and food vendors on Sunday this deserted place comes alive. I was lucky enough to find a parking right outside along the highway as I really didn't want to park inside with the assumption that is full it's an easy walk in. Love the foods they have there with spring rolls, friend chicken to braised pork noodles all at such reasonable prices it's like your transported to Thailand though mindfully it is very rustic but a great destination for something different...explore! Thank you!

    Hidden Sunday gem! 10 am to 2 pm. Cash only…read more It's off Farrington highway, past the bus station, to your right. You can't miss it. There are a lot of flags along the highway. There's a lot of parking but it gets packed fast. Get there early so you can find a spot. It was hard to get out though cause the roads are so narrow and some cars would be blocking the exit. We had to wait for them to move their cars before we could get out. There's pho, with a condiments station. A lot of thai food. The best part, papaya salad that's made in front of you. Everything is good! I can't wait to go back to try the pho and fried chicken! Everyone seems to be lining up for that.

    Photos
    Sunday Market Thai Buddhist Temple
    Sunday Market Thai Buddhist Temple
    Sunday Market Thai Buddhist Temple

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    Ho'oulu 'Aina

    Ho'oulu 'Aina

    4.9(12 reviews)
    2.8 mi

    I've been asking my college professor all semester when would we be visiting Hooulu Aina after…read morehearing how the class last year got to learn about planting awa. So when the chance came I was definitely excited and ended up learning a lot. To teachers especially if you have handicap students: Do it!! There was a hike (which my professor forgot to tell me about) to the site we worked at, but depending on the severity of the students disability it's doable (though they may complain a lot especially if you don't prepare them ahead of time). Plus there is a road where the guys were able to take me back down in a truck (which if my professor had let them know ahead of time they probably could have brought me up, though I won't tell him, but the minor discomfort I felt was well worth the satisfaction of what we accomplished that day).

    This place is amaze. My family friend told me about it, since she's the psychologist at Kokua…read moreKalihi Valley clinics and has been here a few times herself. I came for the first time last month and was treated to an amazingly therapeutic day of clearing invasives in order to allow koa to naturally come up. Learned about a few plants and how to identify them and was treated to an amazing lunch after, cooked by volunteers, and took some edible hibiscus home for cooking. Although I spent three hours clearing, I definitely feel like I came away with so much more than I put in and regretted putting off coming for wanting to sleep in, or do other errands, in the few months prior. I have been missing out on a lot. I came for the second time this past weekend and we spent some time clearing weeds from several different sites on the farm, which we then fed to the pigs. Other activities include kapa pounding, hale building, garden maintenance, and cooking, so lots of opportunity to do what suits you and your abilities. The staff is great. I worked with Aulani this weekend, who is a total gem and a staffer there for the last six years. She introduced me to maile hohono, which puts a stop to mosquito bites and OMFG it's a miracle plant. Lots of people here fulfilling volunteer requirements, but I'm just doing it cuz I love it. Make sure to dress appropriately with things you can get dirty in. Bring your own water, even better bring your own plates/silverware for lunch, and be prepared for a day of well-being and rejuvenation. Make sure to also check out Roots Cafe to support local farms/food. I haven't been myself, but can't wait to go.

    Photos
    Ho'oulu 'Aina
    Ho'oulu 'Aina
    Ho'oulu 'Aina

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    Choco le'a - Seasonal Item: 3pc Candy Truffle Box with Nerds, Twix, and Caramel Apple

    Choco le'a

    4.8(191 reviews)
    2.6 miManoa
    $$

    Chocolate fact: In 1847, the British chocolate company J.S. Fry & Sons, led by Joseph Fry and his…read moresons, created the first commercial chocolate bar. By mixing cocoa powder, sugar, and melted cocoa butter, they produced a moldable paste that solidified into a "chocolate délicieux à manger" (delicious chocolate to eat), revolutionizing the industry. Bringing peace to our world, one chocolate at a time. Got the sweetest gift from my Cycle Buddy, Randy S. There was a Spring Dubai Chocolate Bar, delicate mango slices dipped in chocolate, Classic Crunch a le'a (white chocolate, peanut butter, puffed rice cereal, marshmallows, toasted macadamia nuts, dark chocolate chips with a chocolate drizzle), and a trio of delicious truffles (one was definitely rainbow shave ice and two were these had an amazing Hibiki whisky filled center.

    Hidden treat…read more.. Manoa has this cute spot tucked around the corner from Manoa Marketplace which can be easily missed as this cozy spot is quite tiny though prepared yourself from some crafted explosion once you enter their shop. With space for just a few folks to browse their massive display case home to majority of their treats all labeled with description of each item really doesn't help with making the decision of what exactly you came for which was me in a nutshell though knowing it wasn't just for me I wasn't prepared for items like the collab with Fujiya Hawaii with their yummy wafers a pink for Spring/Sakura in my opinion along with their white chocolate was a stunning work of art. Truffles with local vibes like their Rainbow Shave Ice that has the layered flavors, Lilikoi and even Birthday Cake makes celebrating any occasion or just some girls night fun and delicious. You can choose your favorites or a prepackaged box all are done with such care smiles galore are guaranteed. The staff here is just so friendly and helpful as I signed up for their loyalty program as returning here is something that I can see myself doing in the near future. Thank you!

    Photos
    Choco le'a - Seasonal Item: European Style Hot Sipping Chocolate w/Chips

    Seasonal Item: European Style Hot Sipping Chocolate w/Chips

    Choco le'a - Seasonal Item: Chocolate Macadamia Nut Sampler

    Seasonal Item: Chocolate Macadamia Nut Sampler

    Choco le'a - Seasonal Item: Strawberry Crunch a le'a

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    Seasonal Item: Strawberry Crunch a le'a

    Manoa Valley - Christmas wreath made by my wife

    Manoa Valley

    4.9(8 reviews)
    2.3 miManoa

    This is a review of the Manoa Christmas Parade 2015…read more It has been many moons since we took da kid to the Manoa parade when he was a squirt. In those days, the parade was relatively short, less than 30 minutes as I recall. My how things have changed. This year we took our little fur ball princess to da parade, and boy was she in awe of the festivities. The parade now seems to run close to an hour and there appears to be a more diverse group of marchers. From school bands to financial institutions, and all groups in between, the Manoa Christmas Parade, because it is on less busy streets, has a more neighborhood and personal feel as compared to say, the Kaimuki Christmas parade. A highlight of the parade has to be Mrs. Claus, rocking away on her chair as she passes the crowd in the back of her vintage truck. This is a clever take on the Claus tradition, something the crowds seem to look forward to. Another highlight was this year's Grand Marshall and Lion Stanley Takamine. Way to go Lion Stan! Many thanks to all who participated in this great parade institution in beautiful Manoa Valley to the delight of the many families who lined the streets watch. Happy holidays to everyone!

    So why 5 stars? Well duh this is where I live (so yeah I am probably biased). We are a small…read morecommunity with a rich unique history (i said HISTORY so all you burglars go Kahala or something). While we can no longer can leave our doors unlocked, neighbors know each other and still talk to one another and look out for each other. Parks: 5/5. Manoa District Park. Huge park with tables and places to dispose of your coal if you decide to grill (Longs and Safeway is just down the road if you forget something). A baseball field, a gym, swimming pool, tennis courts, basketball courts are just a few things available here. Library. 3/5. Manoa Library. Currently in a small temporary location. There is a totally brand new library currently under construction sure to be a 5 star location when it does open. Shopping & Dining. 4/5. Manoa Shopping Center & surrounding shops. With so many restaurants ranging from healthy (Andy's) to not so healthy (McDonald's) they is sure to be something for everyone. Schools. 5/5. Manoa Elementary & Noelani Elementary. Great schools with great parent involvement. Their seasonal craft fairs are super awesome. I know I have missed some stuff, but I am sure you can see why we have a great community worthy of 5 stars. #Yelp 365 007/365 Date Visited: Everyday

    Photos
    Manoa Valley - 2015 Manoa Christmas Parade- nice!

    2015 Manoa Christmas Parade- nice!

    Manoa Valley
    Manoa Valley

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    World's Largest Wave Mural

    World's Largest Wave Mural

    5.0(3 reviews)
    2.0 miKalihi

    A giant wave... It…read moregot me at "hello" whenever I drive up and down Waiakamilo Road and you just can't miss it though it's behind a chained fenced surrounded by parked cars you can never really get a clear view of it but this stunning work of art is something so worth seeing or at least drive by it for a closer look. I'm clueless of the details like my friend Nadine C but know that it's always so stunning to get a quick glance at regardless and I did have that chance as I was dropping off some cans for recycling and to see that it was located right next to the wall which was really cool. Whatever reasons you may find yourself here, as a crafter I appreciate the joy it brings to everyone and hope that it stays there forever and ever. Thank you!

    Only in Honolulu…read more.. On a little Hawaiian island named O'ahu, in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, is the World's Largest Wave Mural! Standing 5 stories high, this 14,000 square foot masterpiece was created by Hilton Alves from Brazil. It took him just 8 days to complete on October 26, 2013. However, 6 months of planning,150 gallons of paint, and $10,000 (for supplies) went into it! This Landmark in Kalihi, on the corner of Waiakamilo and Kalani Streets, reminds me of the Angel Wings project by Colette Miller. Colette has artwork all over the world, and so does Hilton Alves. While Ms. Miller reminds us that "We are the angels of the earth", Mr. Alves has more of an environmental theme and has educational projects which call upon children in our communities to get involved. There are about 11 wave murals in 5 different cities and 3 countries! For more information, visit the website: TheArtOfHilton.com Aloha!

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    World's Largest Wave Mural
    World's Largest Wave Mural - Wall BEFORE painting of Huge Wave! The Wave is so much better.

    Wall BEFORE painting of Huge Wave! The Wave is so much better.

    World's Largest Wave Mural - 1.30.20

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    1.30.20

    Rainbow Tunnel - The other side of the tunnel!

    Rainbow Tunnel

    4.4(7 reviews)
    14.1 mi

    Pretty neat place but also a little sketchy…read more There is a no loitering sign above the tunnel - I did hear there was people who used to hang out in the tunnel and smoke in there (so luckily i was the only one there!) Its very easy to find with google maps/directions. You just park in the residential area and just walk right up. We didnt stay no more than 15 minutes here. Its not that big of a tunnel and there isnt much to see. Alot of the rainbow has been repainted white (probably from the graffiti)

    "Try to be a rainbow in someone's cloud." --Maya Angelou…read more I saw this Mililani Rainbow Tunnel on Instagram and HAD TO see it for myself and get a few photos! The location is kind of vague. I drove around the perimeter of Mililani High School, but didn't see anything that resembled an entrance. Luckily, there were a couple of early morning joggers coming my way. I rolled down the window of my car and asked a woman if she knew where The Rainbow Tunnel was... Nope. She turned around and asked the guy behind her if he knew... Yes! He pointed behind me and said that I had to cross Kam Highway. Hmmm... I'm a townie. I have no idea about the layout of Mililani. It's confusing as heck! Luckily, there was an address attached to the Instagram page! It was quite accurate, so, I added it to this Yelp page. I parked on Hakupokano Loop when I could see the entrance to the Rainbow Tunnel. The other end of the tunnel is close to the Mililani High School football field on Kipapa Drive. However, there's no parking there and the entrance isn't visible from the street. Go to the Hakupokano side! This is a really cool landmark! No wonder it's an Instagram sensation! I didn't count how many photos there are of The Mililani Rainbow Tunnel... there are over 300 photos for sure. Note: There is also a Rainbow Tunnel in Canada, so make sure that you specify "Mililani Rainbow Tunnel" if you're searching online. Good luck, be happy, and enjoy!

    Photos
    Rainbow Tunnel - 9/05/22

    9/05/22

    Rainbow Tunnel
    Rainbow Tunnel

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    Kapena Falls - localflavor - Updated May 2026

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