The Manoa Falls trail is a short hike through the rain forest of Manoa Valley. Personally, I think the hike is more rewarding than the actual waterfall. Depending on the amount of recent rainfall, the falls may be flowing steadily or may be only a light trickle. The trail is a dense jungle environment following the Manoa Stream the entire way. There are plenty of areas to wander slightly off-trail and wade through the stream or hop across boulders, should it tickle your fancy. I found it to be quite peaceful hanging out in the stream and stacking zen stones. It is a crowded trail — probably the most crowded hiking trail on Oahu due to its easy access from Waikiki. However, if peace and relaxation are what you’re after, just take a few steps off the beaten path, and you’ll have the jungle all to yourself.

To get to the trail, follow Manoa Road until the end. The road will turn in to a single lane with a lot of parked cars along the roadside, then quickly become densley forested. After you pass under the Tree Tops Restaurant, park in the lot on your right. If you arrive before 5 p.m., there is a guard on duty that charges $5.00 to park. After 5 p.m., it’s free. But it’s nice to have the comfort of knowing you won’t arrive back at your vehichle to find shattered windows. Once you have parked, walk up the paved road until you reach a chainlink fence posted with various signs. Pass through the gate, and you have officially begun the Manoa Falls Trail.

Mosquito’s abound in Manoa Valley, so it would be wise to equip yourself with some repellent. We recommend Cactus Juice Sun, Skin and Insect Protectant — the stuff is all natural, eco-friendly and does an awesome job of keeping mosquitoes away. In the event you forget to bring repellent, ask the security guard in the parking lot for some. He usually sells little spray bottles of repellent, but I wouldn’t bank on it. It’s more of a last resort.

This little guy just hung out and let me get right next to him.

From the moment you begin the Manoa Falls trail, you’ll be greeted with a beautiful view overlooking the Manoa Stream and large Banyan Trees. As you continue following the stream you will eventually reach a bamboo forest that looks like a scene straight out of a Kung Fu movie. Upon reaching the Manoa Falls, you’ll notice it has been roped off with all kinds of “Rock Slide” and “Do Not Enter” warning signs. Most regulars to the trail do not obey these warnings. The warnings are kind of pointless, really. You’re no more likely to get hit by a falling rock on one side of the rope versus the other. So, enter at your own risk, but I don’t think there’s anything to worry about. For the full experience, swim in the small pool beneath the falls.

Overall, Manoa Falls is an easy hike for kids and adults alike. There’s a lot to see packed in to such a small trail, and it’s a short trip from town.

Swimming at the base of the waterfall.