Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Lulumahu Falls

    4.5 (360 reviews)

    Lulumahu Falls Photos

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Lulumahu Falls

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Leah H.

    First: Don't forget your pass to park and hike!!! Second: sign in and out on the hike log In The mailbox at the parking site! Watch you step as it is muddy and has lots of roots. You also climd and step over a bunch of river rocks! Wear good hiking shoes NOT a hike for sandals or white shoes!!! Very muddy. I saw multiple people on our way back slipping a lot due to bad shoe choices. This is a place where ankles could easily get rolled. Other than that the stream and water falls are awesome. I loved the whole hike! It was fun crossing the river back and forth and skipping over rocks.

    Connor L.

    Nice little out and back to a waterfall, couple places where you can go multiple routes. Follow the pink ribbons and you'll be fine. Think eventually they all lead to the falls. Got into one spot that was a little sketchy especially with my baby in a carrier backpack but had a great time and would do it again. Beautiful scenery all the way to the falls and different unique terrain. Not insanely busy on a Saturday morning but I just beat the rush to the falls and parking lot was pretty full after. A little muddy but not terrible. Would recommend for all levels. Saw multiple kids on the trail as well as some pups.

    Gilianne N.

    Love this hike although it was a bit challenging to go through it and I got lost a bit along the way. I recommend downloading an offline map to guide you through as it can get confusing as to which way to go. Be ready to get dirty and muddy as it rains from time to time. The view was beautiful and it was worth it getting to the end. I also recommend bringing clothes and shoes that you don't mind getting wet and muddy in.

    Ryan M.

    I've always seen a bunch of cars pulled over on the side of the road on the pali highway while headed toward Kaneohe. I heard there was a hike and finally came to do it. It is located on private DLNR land so a PERMIT IS REQUIRED. Yes most people don't get one and don't usually get usually stopped. But there is a sign clearly posed at the trail head. So it's like wearing a seat belt, you don't have to, but it's the law. A permit is easily acquired online and it's only $2.50 and can be for multiple people. You can get it here. https://trails.ehawaii.gov/camping/all,details,57925.html Don't risk a ticket or have to turn back and ruin your day over $2.50 (per group) That's just dumb. The hike is relatively easy to moderate, you definitely need shoes. It's mostly shaded so no head covering is required. It goes thru a bamboo forest and ends at a waterfall. It's very easy to go off trail because there are also trails that pig hunters use to go to other areas. So you gotta use your powers of observation. Only stay on trails that are well trodden, if you see a bunch of newly fallen leaves it's probably the wrong way. Also follow the stream once you see it, you're hiking to a waterfall after all. Being in Nuuanu it can be rainy and muddy. If it's rained the day before or that day it will be muddy or even if it's rained hard a few days before. So be prepared for that or wait for another day. Being so moist there can be a lot of mosquitos so bring bug spray. The end of the trail is a waterfall which makes it a nice scenic hike, the water is no deeper than knee high so no swimming. There is a small waterfall feature just before the main falls so don't turn around then, it's just 30 more feet up that little hill to the main falls.

    Gorgeous waterfall!
    Haley N.

    One of the BEST hikes on the entire island! We take all of our friends and family here. It's about two miles round trip. Fairly easy terrain, there are a few spots where you need to scale some wet rocks but as long as you stay sharp you shouldn't have any issues hiking it. Beautiful scenery throughout, bamboo forest, stunning open fields as you look around, and the waterfall is amazing and huge! This is easily one of the "best bang for your buck" hikes (yes, be a good citizen and pay the $2 hiking permit). Speaking of the permit, follow this link to make a reservation: https://trails.ehawaii.gov/camping/all,details,57925.html TIPS & TRICKS: * Put on your best hiking shoes (be prepared to get a little muddy) and your best water outfit (be prepared to stand under the falls for the best photo op!) * The trail isn't always easy to see, look for the pink ties on the trees that mark the way. Or just go during the day when there are plenty of people around to lead the way! * Enjoy every minute of this hike and leave the trail better than you found it! Mahalo!

    Eka S.

    Trail has 2 entrances but both lead up to waterfall! Kid friendly, easy hike! Water is nice, cold and refreshing. Use the pink ribbons to stay on path!

    Jo W.

    This is not to make fun of anyone, myself included, but holy cow if you come to this waterfall expecting a peaceful hiking experience with a gorgeous waterfall to yourself, you'll be disappointed by all the bikini-clad girls, influencers, and tourists who are snatching up spots to take Instagram-worthy waterfall photos. No joke, Lulumahu Falls is a hotspot for influencers and influencer-wannabes, and full of people who want to take pictures for social media...I mean, myself included. We arrived in a rush of a crowd who ALL wanted photos. Was it worth hiking here and getting photos? YES. We went through a bamboo forest, a gorgeous path, peaceful forests, climbed up slippery rocks, and followed the river to ultimately be rewarded with the gorgeous waterfall. We got a lot of fantastic photos in the morning before it got hot and sunny. Bring lots of bugspray since there's a lot of mosquitos, along with lots of sunscreen!

    Mira S.

    About 20 minutes to the waterfall, and similar back. You can take a slightly different way back to go through a pretty open space overlooking a little body of water and with a nice view of the hills. The waterfall is fine, maybe 30 feet high, not spectacular. The trail was pretty easy to follow, keep an eye out for the pink ribbons on the trees. It starts at the south end of the parking lot, just outside the lot. The waterfall gets crowded.

    Yari W.

    This hike is a gem! The trail going to Lulumahu Falls is a bit tricky. Even my wife and I got lost but we managed to track it down. The hike itself is easy to intermediate. As you get closer you'll encounter some strenuous one. Huge boulders are everywhere so extra careful on where to step in. Green foliage everywhere and it was just peaceful. Less traffic when we hit the trail. I'd say don't skip this hike. You'll enjoy this as we'd. Lots of shade and multiple rocks to choose to rest for a while. Make sure to bring liquids with you and a fully battery camera as the falls is beautifully splendid. You can even take a quick dip here, it's safe! See yah later...

    Feb W.

    "Waterfalls wouldn't sound so melodious if there were no rocks on their way." ~ Bishabe Gautam Been hiking Nuuanu trails for quite sometimes now and I never knew that there's a waterfall somewhere that gushing and offers a good hike. I am so elated that finally this hike to Lulumahu Falls is crossed out on my juanderlist and it is a must of things to do in Oahu. No wonder it take me some time to hike this waterfall because coming here is a bit tricky. There's not even a legal sign on where the trail is. Basically, it is an unmarked trail that crosses the creek through a bamboo forest leading to the falls. It's a bit challenge to get there but goodness other hikers tie some orange ropes or a piece of fabric on some branches. Just don't give up, it's all worth the time. There are some part of a strenuous trail but manageable. When I arrived I was in an awe. The falls is not that high but so splendid wonderful. It's clean so swimming is possible. There are some rocks on the bottom which are perfect for photoshoot while the background is the cold gushing water. I would definitely recommend this hike to anyone! Hiking scale goes to easy - intermediate rate. It was never difficult (except finding the trail up there). PS: don't leave important belongings in your car. Breaking in in this area is a serious thing so make sure to leave all your golds in your house/hotels. And pick up your trash and don't just dump somewhere! Mahalo for reading and happy juandering fellow yeeps!

    Maxine P.

    Short beautiful hike through rainforest to a stunning waterfall. Trail goes through thick bamboo forest until the trail crisscrosses creek bed. There are a number of water crossing that can be a little slippery in places.there is some bouldering, areas feet need to be placed carefully. After a rain it can be a little muddy. To hike the trail you must have a permit. The parking area is suppose be a high break-in, so make sure to not leave anything in your car.

    Falls
    Liszette G.

    Once you get past the bamboo forest the trail is marked by neon (pink and orange) ribbons. It's best to stay to the right side of the trail. The left side will take you up the harder trail. We arrived around 8:30 am & were able to hike with other people. The waterfall is so worth it. Take extra clothes if you take a dip, & always pack up whatever you take in!

    Amanda R.

    Ok hike but misleading reviews. I generally don't leave yelp reviews, but my mom tripped and fell and we felt misled by the reviews for this hike. Not a 20 minute hike. About an hour minimum each way. It's very slippery and muddy. While there is water at the end and it is nice, I wouldn't recommend if you have any water or a similar waterfall near you at home. Prepare to get wet and muddy. We weren't prepared and it ultimately was not worth it and would skip next time.

    Bamboo forest

    See all

    9 days ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Reid K.
    7
    131
    29

    3 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 4
    Love this 7
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    6 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 17
    Thanks 4
    Love this 8
    Oh no 2

    2 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 4
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Eka S.
    272
    11
    9

    1 year ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jo W.
    589
    1265
    11636

    3 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 2
    Love this 5
    Oh no 4
    Photo of Mira S.
    141
    1258
    3357

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    4 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 0
    Love this 6
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Feb W.
    188
    642
    9193

    4 years ago

    Helpful 13
    Thanks 1
    Love this 10
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 2

    2 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 0
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 1
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Mike M.
    2162
    2467
    1616

    4 years ago

    Helpful 9
    Thanks 1
    Love this 9
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Chad O.
    24
    24
    21

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 14
    Thanks 1
    Love this 12
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Lynn N.
    8
    318
    57

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of John G.
    514
    1115
    10380

    6 years ago

    Helpful 23
    Thanks 0
    Love this 15
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ana C.
    0
    50
    11

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Vivian L.
    42
    111
    19

    4 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Liza M.
    248
    494
    2803

    7 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 0
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Joe C.
    355
    1037
    14224

    6 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Amazing Hike! Highly recommend it. Not too difficult and the waterfall is the icing on the cake.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 9

    Lulumahu Falls Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Lulumahu Falls

    Is there any parking lots and any fee for the parking? Is it difficult to hike and how long does it take and any entrance fee?

    Don't go if it's rained the day before or day of it will be muddy. There's no fee for parking, just park on the side of the road with the other cars.… Read more

    I read that it's private property now and that we need a permit to hike, where can I get the permit?

    You don't actually need a permit to get to the waterfalls. However, there is no clear marked trail to follow. If you stay to the right of the fence when you hit the dead end of the road, it'll take you to the beginning of the "trail" to the falls.… Read more

    Does this hike allow dogs to come along?

    Yes you can. They will love the swimming pools

    Does anyone know what's up with the reservoir part? This was one of my favorite hikes to do with my pup, tried to do it last week and got lost trying to find a new route. Seemed like everything was blocked off?

    Yup blocked off. I added a map of the route to my review. You go straight back from the double fence door entrance and through like a swamp and it leaves just at the dam

    Is this hike closed now? Huge government no trespassing fence put up before you reach the grassy hill.

    There is a trail that goes towards the right before the fence. If you follow it, you'll meet up with the trail before the first crossing.

    Trying to hike this but wondering when are peak times when boars come out? To be able to avoid hiking during that time

    Dawn and dusk. I have hiked this so many times and have never seen a boar.

    Do I need a permit to hike this trail?

    Technically it's pig hunting grounds. Which is done by knife "usually". So your supposed to have a permit... but nobody ever gets one.

    How close can I get to the beginning of this hike if I'm traveling via TheBus?

    Looks like about a mile away because you will need to get off at the last stop before TheBus heads to Kailua.

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    Review Highlights - Lulumahu Falls

    We started off in the bamboo forest and once we got out we followed the rocky path which lead us to an open field.

    Mentioned in 57 reviews

    Read more highlights

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Hiking 3,392 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

    4.8(172 reviews)
    3.0 mi

    Visiting Pu'u Ualaka's State Park is on my top ten favorite things to do in Honolulu. The Park…read moreoffers spectacular views of the entire Southside of the Island. I travelled up Mount Tantalus to the Park yesterday with my daughter. We travelled through beautiful dense forest at the Park entrance. At the highest overlook, we could see everything and more from Diamond Head out to (and beyond) the airport. We could see all of Honolulu. I felt like we were on top of the world! Plaques offer fascinating overviews of the history and geology of the landmarks below. We could even see inside the famous tuff cone, Punch Bowl! Nearby is the first macadamia nut orchard in Hawaii. The overviews are paved with railings and easily accessible. The Park offers picnic areas with a couple pavilions and picnic tables. There is a charge for non-resident parking of $7 that can be paid electronically. Resident parking is free. Parking is limited, but there are several parking areas. We had no trouble finding parking mid week. Warning signs tell guest not to leave valuables in the car. Pu'u Ualaka'a State Park is only two miles from downtown Honolulu (maybe a couple more miles to the top). The Park is an easy 5 star and worth a visit.

    There is a lookout in this park that provides a panoramic view of Honolulu and Waikiki. The view is…read moregorgeous. Also a perfect place to watch sunset. One thing to note is that it does get really windy here. There are two parking lots available near this lookout. The one right next to the lookout is very small. It only holds about a dozen cars. The safer bet is to park at the slightly further parking lot with only a five minute walk to the Vista point.

    Photos
    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park
    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park
    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

    See all

    Diamond Head State Monument - Shaved Ice

    Diamond Head State Monument

    4.5(2.2k reviews)
    6.3 miDiamond Head

    Vacationed in Hawaii (4/29-4/3 2026) so of course we had to hit up the beautiful island trails!…read moreDiamond Head was on our list so we booked it in advance since you need to make reservations. We did it all through Groupon to get picked up from our hotel and dropped off as well. The trail is definitely a popular hot spot for tourists but we didn't mind the crowd. We did an early one to see the Sun rise, though by the time we got there the sun was out already. Totally okay. Water was provided by our tour guide. He gave us some history on Diamond Head and then dropped us off and gave us 2 hours to explore before getting picked up. Thank you Jonah from Fun Hawaii Group! Aaaand we were on our way! Paths were clean and clear of overgrown plants for the most part. My wife and l hike regularly so we didn't feel the hike was bad at all. Weather was perfect (it rained on us a bjt too which was unexpected but fun) and it wasn't a long hike either. There are steps involved which we enjoyed for the added cardio! When we made it to the top it was breathtaking! The views of the ocean and the mountains were beautiful! Still find myself looking at photos. It was truly magical. We were in paradise!

    Hiking Diamond Head State Monument is honestly one of my favorite things to do when I visit Oʻahu…read more It's about a 1.6 mile round trip hike and took us around 1.5-2 hours, but this can vary depending on stops and crowds. I'd say it's a moderate hike--not super long, but you definitely feel it. There's a pretty significant incline, especially toward the end with all the stairs, so it gets your heart rate up for sure. The path isn't paved, so it's a mix of rocky, uneven ground and dirt trails, and it can get a bit muddy if it's rained recently. There are also these dark tunnels you walk through, which was actually really cool and made it feel a little more adventurous (just use your phone flashlight). The best part is definitely the view at the top. You get these insane panoramic views of Waikīkī and the ocean--totally worth the climb. A couple quick tips: make reservations before you go, get there early because it gets hot fast, bring water, and wear decent shoes (especially if it's been rainy). Also expect a little waiting in tight spots like the stairs near the top. Overall, it's a fun hike and 100% worth it if you're visiting.

    Photos
    Diamond Head State Monument - Top of the crater

    Top of the crater

    Diamond Head State Monument - Super Mommy and Son Son

    Super Mommy and Son Son

    Diamond Head State Monument - Happy Hikers!

    See all

    Happy Hikers!

    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Bench where you can relax!

    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike

    4.3(38 reviews)
    3.0 mi

    Did this amazing hike again starting at a different location with an alteration due to a closure of…read moreone section of the trail. I love the combination of this trails because the variety of beautiful views, landscapes, type of surfaces. Dense lush rainforest to dryer areas with a variety of foliage. Started at the Makiki Arboretum trail, taking the loop to the right on the Maunalaha Trail. This section will get the blood flowing as you climb upward over a very rooted trail. Once you arrive at an area with metal benches there is an intersection of multiple trails. Take Makiki Valley Trail to the Right. After a short hike take the Moleka Trail to the Left. The Moleka trail becomes the Manoa Cliff trail which you stay on for a number of miles. If you struggle with narrow trails with drop offs this section may not be for you. There are beautiful views of Manoa Valley from the trail. Some sections of this trail can be muddy. In the past Hike once you go through the gate the Manoa Cliff trail takes a sharp turn to Left at Intersection of other trails. In our case there was a recent landslide and there was a warning sign not continue on the Manoa Cliff Trail. No problem we took Pauoa Flats Trail until we reached Kalawahine Trail and took a Left on it. Take this trail until you reach a paved road, take a right down the road until you see the next trailhead, Nahuina Trail which zig zags its way down. When you come to Makiki Valley trail go left. When you reach Kanealole take it to your right. This trail will take you back to trail you started on. Since there are so many different trails to do this loop I suggest using Alltrails download. We clocked over 10 miles. I'd rate it as intermediate. Bring plenty of water, I carry crampons in case there are muddy slippery areas. Would not do if heavy rain or strong winds expected.

    Afternoon hike at Manoa Cliff, Kalawahine, and Makiki Valley Loop…read more Great trail, awesome views. Best if you can download the map as you loose service in several areas of the trail. My trail map also showed I hiked 7.3 miles and my husband stated 6.4, but either way it is long. Just be ready for a good long hike. We started in the rain so yes mud was around, and yes places were pretty slippery. But all in all not too bad to get around. Just wear good hiking shoes. Conditions: bugs, muddy, easy parking, great views, dog friendly, well maintained, wild flowers

    Photos
    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Son son and mommy

    Son son and mommy

    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Mommy and son son

    Mommy and son son

    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike

    See all

    Lulumahu Falls - hiking - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...