Why haven't I heard of this place? The scenery is so beautiful. Bring your swimsuits, sunscreen and towel while you take a short stroll through the greenery and enjoy Hawaii. Once at the end you'll reach the waterfall, which is included in the admission. You will be required to use a life vest prior to getting in the water. Perfect for kids and if you're limited on long distances. read more

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As a local resident and pass holder I will provide the ups and downs from my personal experiences including those with disabilities. Negative: 1) A few months ago we got to the ticket booth, we're annual pass holders and always purchased together but the cashier said one pass expired the day prior, I asked "how's that possible?" she said, "leave, go buy a pass because you're not getting in" instead of being polite and looking into it (purchase in the gift shop). Some of us were going to go in because the kid so then she asks for my 4 yr olds ID, I said "excuse me, a 4 yr olds?" We said "never mind" and we left without buying renewals. I didn't get her name but had never seen her before as we knew everyone, She was low tone and big and the only personnel without a smile on their face. *Please keep in mind this is the only negative instance out of the years and hundreds of visits. 2) The waterfall can be overcrowded, so your photos will have lots of people in life vests in them. 3) A lot of tourist have no idea when it comes to parking. A man knocked on my window and said he's tired of waiting on me. So they need a parking attendant directing within the lots. 4) Main front restrooms need updating. Positive: 1) I'm an annual holder because this is where I work out. A walk, a skip, small hikes, and a swim, stopping halfway sitting in the grass under a tree surrounded by nature on ancient land with a cold drink in my hand before another round or two. it's an amazing experience and I learn something new each time. 2) Everyone who works here (other than up top) truly wants to be there and are incredibly smart. Disabilities: 1) My son is neurodivergent and the moment we arrive these precious people greet him, hug him, high five, and tell him how amazing he is, they even help when he's having a meltdown. His speech is delayed, he's overwhelmed, but want him to have a safe and open area to run outside, he seems free and notices everything from the sky to the smallest ant. It's also a perfect place to sneak in exercise for him too. 2) I am a parent with controlled epilepsy, it's scary whether I'm with my son or when I come alone because there's always a chance I could have a seizure, but this allows me that outdoor Hawaii experience knowing plenty of people and personnel are there so this is another reason why I choose to visit so often. *There are many accessible options for those who have disabilities. One of the biggest complaints are the price and too many tourist, I see that. But a place that has so many working, volunteering, able to keep the land clean, care for families who need the extra help seeing something beautiful without traveling a long distance as other gardens and waterfalls may not be as accessible, or having the safety of others around. We have to pay for that care. read more

My first botanical garden experience, and it was awesome because there was an easy hike to the waterfall and you can swim in it as well. It does get crowded, and photos by the waterfall can be a bit difficult, but loved how there were changing rooms, shops, and such in between. A life vest is mandatory to get in, and those are free to use. I got through the entrance as part of a tour group and walked up the path to the waterfall. Swam in there and floated around for a bit, got out, returned the life vest, and explored the gardens. It's divided up into various categories and we saw some birds, lizards, and other critters in addition to various plants. Pretty! Plenty of photo ops throughout. There's a food area here as well. I tried some coffee and some local plates. All pretty good. read more

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Our family really enjoyed exploring the garden, waterfall. So many beautiful plants, flowers. Really appreciate the life guards and life vest provided while swimming at the waterfall. read more

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We are frequent visitors to Oahu so we decided to scout some new places, so we decided to stop here. Little did we know to see a falls it was going to cost us parking and admissions. When there is so many free parking places in HI, it's hard to stomach a charge to visit a waterfall. Note the cost of parking and waterfall was not noted when you entered the area. When parking you are informed that parking is two dollars plus and taxes: depending on day and as you enter further you learn there is an admission charge of 26 dollars! As I just saw the best waterfall in Oahu that was free, I was not include to spend this amount among tons people. Based on the number of people and coat, I skipped this experience. Unfortunately, I already paid for parking and tax. Enjoy the free waterfall as of Oahu instead!!! read more

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Waimea Valley was a nice, easy stop on our North Shore day. There is a small entrance fee, and from the visitor center it is about a 15 minute walk to the falls. The path is paved and only slightly uphill, so it is a pretty easy walk even if you are not looking to do a serious hike. There are bathrooms, food options, and souvenirs before you start your walk, which makes it a convenient place to spend a little time and rest before/after. At the falls, there is a small sitting area and you can rent equipment and life jackets. There are even two small changing booths if you want to get in the water. The swimming area looked pretty crowded when we visited, and getting down to the water requires carefully climbing over some rocks. I would definitely recommend wearing appropriate footwear if you plan to swim. Overall, it is an easy and scenic walk to a beautiful waterfall, but I would go in expecting the swimming area to be busy. read more

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2026 update: the pricing for adults is $26, and students is $20. They also charge $6 for parking now. Still our children's favorite excursion on the island and they ask to go every time we come. It's exactly 3/4 mile and about a 30 min leisurely walk to the waterfall. Once you get up there, there is a life vest station (life vests are free). Taking a dip in the waterfall is always a highlight and the water is cool and refreshing! read more

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This is a beautiful nature preserve! It was my second time visiting and my niece and daughter had a blast swimming by the water fall. I highly recommend it-so many beautiful plants and there are information booths all the way up the trail. We went without a stroller with my toddler as well and we made it! A fun, family friendly hike and they have transportation options if you can't walk to the falls or back (or if you don't want to) but I think it's $10 per person per way if you do that. read more

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First time visiting and got to participate as a volunteer in the 'Uala workshop. This was a great introduction for me to see the passion and commitment the workers at Waimea Valley have not only for conservation efforts but also for the cultural significance and teaching others how important it is to others. We got to see the falls after the event was done but I'd love to come back and take a swim as well. read more

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Beautiful place to visit, bring your water bottle and snack, can be hot and the walk to the falls is back in the park. I would be there when they open. they have a small gift shop and also they sell food and drinks. read more

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Gotta keep it real-- this place was just OK. I know, I know... how could I possibly think this was anything other than paradise? Sure, I am a total plant nerd-- just ask my wife. But the whole thing just felt contrived. As another SoCal-based reviewer suggested, it's sort of like the Huntington Library Gardens, or maybe even the LA County Arboretum. First off, parking was tough. This might have been because there was some kind of traditional Polynesian games going on during our visit, and the place was crowded with all sorts of people. Admission was a bit pricey for a unique opportunity to see fake nature, but as my dad says in Vegas, "We're not here for a haircut." The paved path from start to finish sort of detracts from the beautiful flora. I enjoyed seeing all the tropical plants, and this place (like other botanical gardens) has different sections dedicated to plants that have no earthly business being in Hawaii: A South American section featured plants from across the Pacific, etc. I had to wonder how they keep these these from becoming weedy or invasive. The falls were a bit of a let-down. After traversing the shoals of people running amok for the festival, leaving trash everywhere and making a lot of noise that kind of took away from the experience, the falls sort of drain into a muddy pond full of people who are kicking up the bottom with their feet, until the water looks like chocolate milk. There is a stand of aluminum bleachers (yes, bleachers) for people to sit and watch this spectacle. I left feeling like I felt about most of my trip to Oahu-- this place is beautiful, but people ruined it. One was left to wonder if Waimea Falls and the beautiful valley there would have been better off being undeveloped. We'll never know, I guess. read more

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The views here are amazing. This was one of the highlights of our trip to Oahu. The hike to the waterfall is easy and goes through some amazing scenery and plants. The waterfall swim was a little more challenging than I expected. The current going out from the waterfall really pushes you out so it's best to hug the rocks around the falls to get under the waterfall. Everyone, including good swimmers, should wear a life vest as depth drops off quickly, and the currents can tire you out. read more

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Gorgeous experience in an amazing natural setting! A must-see! Good food and reasonably priced, swimming in the falls is remarkable, and the valley itself is stunning. But the highlight of the trip? The kindness and Aloha spirit of the staff. Baleria treated me like family when I forgot my prescription sunglasses at the waterfall, assured me she was happy to go up herself and look, and called me personally the next day to tell me where they'd be. Sweet, kind and considerate! The entire team at Waimea Valley made the trip a memorable experience. Mahalo palena ʻole! read more

Waimea Valley - Waimea Valley Falls - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Haleiwa, Hawaii

This place honestly feels like walking straight into a movie scene. It's the kind of waterfall experience where you actually get to swim underneath it, which makes it feel way more interactive than most nature spots. The walk in is very easy and accessible, and I liked that they offer a golf cart option for people who need it. Everything is really well maintained, and it feels safe but still natural. It's stunning from start to finish and really captures the essence of Hawaii in a very effortless way. read more

As soon as you find a parking space in their lot, make your way to the wonderful heiau (temple) just above the lot. It's really an interesting addition to the grounds and shouldn't be missed. The Waimea Valley is an absolutely beautiful botanical garden with an easy walk to the waterfall; the road is completely paved all the way and not very far to the falls. Those with mobility issues can take a shuttle both ways, but it's $10 each way. While parking is free, entry into the valley and to the falls is another cost and not exactly budget-friendly if there are several members in your group. Still, aside from the cost, the valley is amazing with the variety of plants that can be seen. There was some chanting going on, but I couldn't locate the source of it. It was nice just to listen, though. The waterfall itself was a bit of a letdown. It's small and there were lots of people swimming under it. You had to wear a lifejacket to swim, but I'm not sure if you had to pay to rent it. There are restrooms and a snack vendor in the valley as well as a bigger food vendor before heading into the valley, so you don't have to worry about creature comforts. While I enjoyed Waimea Valley and Falls, I thought it was really commercial and would've enjoyed a more "natural" setting. All in all, still worth the trip! read more

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Beautiful park and light hike to a waterfall. You can see a lot of the plants and nature of the island. Good way to spend a couple of hours away from the cities. If you go swimming don't lose your phone it will cost you to hire a diver to get it read more

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Big thanks to MC and the amazing crew for allowing me to share this wonderful idea with the rest of the family. We had a magnificent time during this Toa Lua dinner. The food is delicious and the garden that leads to the water falls is full of precious sceneries that Mother Nature has provided for of all of us to enjoy. We will be back for more. Much Love and Mahalo to this Wonderful Obana read more

Waimea Valley - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Haleiwa, Hawaii

My mom and I the third day we were here decided to go to Waimea Falls. It is $25 per person located near the North shore. The falls right now are a little bit dry because the rainy season in Hawaii hasn't been that great but the garden and botanical area and amphitheater is still lush and green as ever. They have a new food options. They have a little grab and go area, a shop, restrooms and a place for coffee and tea. My mom and I watched the 11:30 AM luau presented by a local group in Wimea Valley. If you haven't been, I definitely recommend coming by however I do not recommend going in October. It's very lush and green and very pretty, however, none of the bushes are blossoming because it is the dryer season. The luau that we watched with the local group from Waimea Valley was very lovely and very relaxing. 10/10 read more

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A TV ad for Waimea Valley's annual Summer Concert Series brought me and the spouse here, specifically to watch the Hawaiian Style Band as we're both fans of Robi Kahakalau. Getting here would've been smooth sailing had it not been for the tourists and turtles along the way that backed up traffic for at least 3 miles or more. Once here, the meandering road led to the parking lot and a friendly attendant. Parking was ample and free with our concert tickets. Security was visible so cars were safe from break-ins. If someone has difficulty walking, there is a drop off and turnaround at the facility's main entrance. We checked in at the will call table for bracelets. I thought they were going to scan our QR codes but instead went off a printed list that didn't show my name. But, they let us in without hassle. Inside I saw a gift shop, clean restrooms, a takeaway food counter and a restaurant with a big outdoor lanai. There was more to see but I didn't have time to poke around. We didn't eat anything but had some drinks from the pop up bar. A few vendors also sold crafts. The concert was held in a small courtyard laid with a mix of flagstone, gravel and artificial grass. Crowds were smaller than I expected. A big tree provided shade but the overcast skies did most of the work. The stage should've been propped up higher rather than sitting in a low point. Boundary signs prohibiting high-backed chairs went unheeded by some, which further impeded the stage's view. OVERALL: A very relaxing afternoon listening to great Hawaiian music! read more

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Beautiful park! Loved the botanical gardens. Many different plants from various regions. The waterfall was a bonus. So peaceful. Nice food and beverage options to enjoy after your trip. read more

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Despite how I've had this place sitting in my list of bookmarks for quite some time, I have to admit I actually didn't know much about Waimea Valley before coming here. What little I did know was limited to all of the positive things I had heard from friends - the valley is beautiful, there's a variety of flora and fauna to see, and, most significantly, a waterfall and natural swimming pool at the end of the trail! Which, all together, was more than enough to convince me I should come here to check this place out for myself! Given how popular Waimea Valley is, we were surprised that there wasn't much of a crowd even around lunch time (we weren't able to make it in the morning, as was recommended to us). As we pulled in through the gate, we were happy to see a bunch of spaces available in the front parking lot (there's a smaller lot further down), but even happier to find out it was free! Similarly, we also didn't expect to see a handful of eateries next to the visitor center desk and gift shop, but skipped on trying anything since we had already ate beforehand. Now, if you're looking for a relatively chill hike through nature, this is the place for you. To be honest, it's really more of a walk - while it does branch out along the way, the main path, as well as the majority of the offshoots, is actually paved and relatively flat (for those with mobility concerns, they do have a shuttle that can take you from end to end). Along the way, there are culture sites where you can learn about the early Hawaiian people and a number of botanical gardens with numerous different flowers and plants. If you should want/need to take a break, there are places to sit and a snack shack with some picnic tables as you approach the waterfall where you can grab a bite, drinks, snacks, and even a sweet treat. As for the aforementioned waterfall, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little underwhelmed. While I certainly didn't expect something as dramatic as Yosemite Falls, I still thought it would be...bigger. Of course, it didn't help that we were here during the dry season, as I imagine it would've looked more impressive with rainwater feeding the flow. That said, the pool is pretty large and the relatively calm waters made it perfect to splash around a bit and float in the water. Plus, it's nice that they have lifejackets and lifeguards on hand to help keep folks safe. While Waimea Valley is undoubtedly pretty and serene, I think it's fair to say that it's also a little bit pricey at $25 per adult (though, they do have cheaper rates for seniors, students, children, and for large groups). It's especially true if you don't plan on getting into the water, regardless of the fact that the money goes towards preserving and maintaining the valley. Still, I have no regrets and I'm glad to be able to check this off my list of bookmarks. If/when I do ever return, I'll just have to make sure it's during the winter so that I can see a much more powerful version of the waterfall. read more

Waimea Valley - Waimea Valley Waterfall and Natural Pool - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Haleiwa, Hawaii

This is a nice easy walk to the waterfall, lots of shade with some sunny areas. Make sure to bring water and comfortable shoes. Check the park website to see if swimming is permitted on the day you go. For those who can't walk far, this is wonderful, they have trams that will get you within a short walk to the waterfall for an extra $10 each direction. It was a beautiful walk, taking in the Beaty of the flowers and greenery. If you forget your water there is a place to stop and grab a snack and drinks at the top. We saw plenty of people swimming, water shoes are helpful and if you forget they do have them in the gift shop. They offered life jackets to everyone entering the water. And had nice covered bench seats for you to rest on. We decided to take the tram down. The driver was informative and funny. Definitely worth the entrance fee and tram ride. read more

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Checked out Waimea Falls recently and thought it was a nice, easy spot to spend a couple hours. The trail itself is fully paved and mostly flat the entire way, so it feels more like a relaxing walk than a hike. I think it's around 2 miles total. Along the path there are concession stands and places to stop, and at the waterfall there's also a small shop with clothes and other touristy stuff. The waterfall area was pretty organized. People were swimming when I went, and there were lifeguards on duty the whole time. Everyone has to wear a life vest, which they provide, even with the lifeguards there. There are steps and areas around the water where people can sit, leave their belongings, or just watch family members swim. One thing I liked was that the place had a little more going on than just the trail itself. Near the entrance there are small restaurants and souvenir shops, and while I was walking back there was a dance presentation happening at the amphitheater. You do have to pay for entry to the trail, but overall it was a decent experience if you want an easy walk and a place to cool off for a bit. read more

Waimea Valley - Waterfall at the end of the trail - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Haleiwa, Hawaii

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So fun and very beautiful. You can take a bus up to the waterfall or walk. Quaint walk with beautiful scenery. Definitely recommend. read more

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The Waimea valley is located on the North Shore of Oahu just opposite of where some of the largest surf in the World is located. It's not uncommon to see waves there of 25-40 feet high, especially this time of year! read more

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Trail to falls is full of flora and fauna of all types. On our way to the North Shore it rained for a short period, but when we got to falls it was raging. They closed for swimming, but it was great to see the falls at full strength. read more

AGAIN I FORGOT TO CHECK-IN!!! DAMN IT‍ITS OK... I'll just review my visit! We went go to the TE MOANA NUI hosted by TAHITI MANA. But we didn't make it for the events. We were absolutely late! However, we still were able to walk around in the main area to enjoy the scenery and the nice lush greenery. It was nice day tho. Ever tho we missed the events, we still made the best of our visit and enjoyed walking around the front area where the restaurant and shops are ar. We even brought our new additional to the family... LUCKY SUNSHINE SHADOW. Our mix dwarf rabbit! he was very good too! It was his first outing. With the family and he enjoyed the air as well. He kept popping his head out of the pouch to sniff the air and then he'd chill in the edge. I'd like to go back when they host another event here. Oh there was a charge to attend. Not sure how much, but the did give Kamaaina discounts. AND... people could enter the event and register PRIOR to their events. You'd have yo search it up tho. I don't know much of it just yet! Tahiti Mana is the Business. They also have lessons in Tahitian dancing as well. From little to adults. So, if you ever wondered what Waimea is like... YOU SHOULD TAKE A LOOK @ IT. You just taught loving it. Ok thanks for reading and have a good one! A hui hou MALAMA PONO read more

I definitely enjoyed my visit here. The hike to the waterfall was amazing with lots of different plants and history as you walk through the botanical gardens. The price to get in is decent and parking is pretty easy to find if you get there early. If you're looking for an easy, paved hike, this is definitely for you! It's perfect for all ages and you can go at your own pace, take pictures on the way, and even stop by for a snack. There are restrooms and changing areas if you decide to get in the water to enjoy the waterfall. They even have life vests available for rental. read more

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What an unforgettable day exploring the botanical gardens in Hawaii! We decided to start our visit with a guided tour before wandering the grounds on our own (party of 4) and I can't recommend that enough. It completely elevated the experience. Our tour guide, George, was an absolute gem. He's not just knowledgeable he's a phenomenal storyteller who truly brings the land, the history, and the gardens to life. We learned so much about the plants, the culture, and the rich history of the land, but what made it so special was how fun and engaging he made it. It never felt like a lecture it felt like an adventure. If you're planning a visit, do yourself a favor and book the tour and if you can, request George. He adds that perfect spark that turns a beautiful visit into a truly memorable experience. read more

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Nice little hiking while visiting Hawaii. Admission is $25 per person for adults which I felt was kinda overpriced. Parking is free so that is a plus. We came early and had no issues with parking. This trail is known for their water fall which is all the way at the end. It takes 30 minutes from the entrance, give or take. Easy trail for everyone. There are restrooms, snacks and coffee shops as well. There is shuttle ride but for additional cost. To get into the water, must wear life vest which is provided. The place is well maintained. Beautiful sceneries and a nice day out. It did rain a bit but that didn't ruin the experience. read more

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One of the best places to visit on the island. It has everything from history, culture, beautiful flowers, plants and lots of birds (amateur birder) - LOL Nice paved walk up to the Falls, there are ride options available, but if able definitely walk as the beauty is worth it. We got there early (plenty of parking) and they have a great snack bar with good coffee and baked goods. They also have other food & drinks. The Falls are the pot of gold at the end of the Rainbow. They have really built it over the years with bathrooms & changing rooms at the top near the falls. They also have a gift shop & snack bar. We spent hours enjoying all that the valley had to offer. read more

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Probably nice if you wanted to walk around the trails. $100 for 4 to walk to the falls. $10 each one way if you want a ride. Then the tip jar at the falls. I'm sorry, this is all ridiculous. Must wear a life jacket. There is lifeguard onsite. There are some raised seats with a shade if someone on your party wants to go into the murk. Maybe it is not like this year-round but in mar 2025 it was disgusting looking and wife stunk when whe got out and that clung around since there is no where to hose the fetid water off you. I hope if you decide to go here the water is in better condition then this. read more

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The walk-through Waimea Valley to get to the Falls is a beautiful hike. It shouldn't be too hard for most people to do, I saw people doing it flip-flops. The main path up is an asphalt paving or hard packed earth. As you were walking up the path, there will be a little side paths you can take, none of them are very hard to do but are very interesting. There is a fee to get in, $25. The flowers and the vegetation on the walk up are beautiful. When you get to the Falls, you can swim in them. It is mandatory to wear a life vest, which are provided. There's a little gift shop and snack shop not far from the Falls. There is also a two stall dressing room that you could change your clothes in. When I say dressing room, I really mean it's four walls with about a foot open at the bottom and about 7 feet tall. Most people wore their bathing suits there and back from the falls. It was warm enough that everyone was pretty dry by the time they got back to their cars. Before you start, there is a very extensive food area with bathrooms. There is also a really nice gift shop which we bought some wood art. I saw people of all ages doing this walk up to the falls. It is a little rocky when you were getting in the water, but the lifeguards were there to help people. read more

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Beautiful as always! This was our second time visiting and this time it didn't rain. Overcast but it was perfect for walking around. Appreciate that all tickets are online but it would be nice if they could have one line for people purchasing tickets and another for those who have already purchased tickets. We did not go in the waterfall this time and the water was not flowing super strong but plenty of people were in the water. They do require life jackets that are provided and there is a sitting area for those who don't go in. The whole place is well maintained but when we went there were not a lot of flowers in bloom. Definitely recommend taking the 12:30 pm tour that is led by one of the staff! It makes it so much more enjoyable and educational. We've come before and wandered the lovely grounds but having a knowledgeable guide makes it better. The entry price is a bit high at $25/pp but knowing it is for a non-profit that seeks to preserve flora and fauna of Hawaii definitelymakes it worth it. read more

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Definitely worth paying for the tour! Our guide was George and he was so entertaining, so knowledgeable and really opened our eyes to the history of the area. Loved every minute! And the beauty of the area, definitely took us a couple of hours to enjoy it all. read more

If I could give this place 10+ stars I absolutely would. This was an amazing hike. It's paved all the way through. There are scooters you can rent as well in case the hike is too much. There's a really cute gift shop and a luau (pay extra) But let me tell you about the place itself ... all the different types of flowers, trees, birds and honestly the sheer sound of being out in nature was absolutely captivating !! Our entire family hiked to the waterfall and it was truly such a beautiful sight. There's a little snack shop along the way before you get to the waterfall with fruit, shaved ice among other snacks. There are life jackets when you get to the waterfall , these are required !! I highly highly recommend this place. You learn a lot, so many things to read along the way and all the history in this place as well, it's beautiful! Just get out there & do it!!! read more

Waimea Falls was such an adventure. The short half mile walk to the falls was filled with stunning flowers, lush vegetation, and gigantic trees that made me feel like I was walking through the world of Avatar. Every step felt alive and full of color. When you arrive at the falls you are met with an incredible sight of rushing water surrounded by cliffs and greenery. I found myself just standing there taking it all in. It was peaceful and powerful at the same time. It was not crowded when we arrived which made the experience even better. I suggest coming early because it does get busy later in the day. Waimea Beach is just around the corner where you can enjoy a beautiful sunset after the falls. If you enjoy nature, beauty, and a little bit of adventure this is a must visit. Here are some pictures from the falls to give you a glimpse of what makes this place so special. read more

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Visited Waimea Valley for a short day trip to explore the botanical gardens and hike up to the waterfall. There is SO MUCH to see and explore within the gardens we had to restrict ourselves from wandering off the main path as we didn't have time. The main walk up to the waterfall was very easy and paved the whole way. Lots of side adventures you could go on that seemed to be higher difficulty. We saw lots of really cool plants and plenty of wildlife as well... and SO MANY SNAILS. The waterfall had been dry for a few weeks when we went but finally was pushing through water for the first time the day we went so we were lucky to actually see the waterfall but because it had been dry for a while the waterfall was very brown with sediment. The journey up to the waterfall was definitely more exciting than the fall itself. It rained the day we went but of course the gift shop had ponchos ready to go for us. Great day trip and definitely would come back and leave even more time to explore. read more

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