Maunawili Falls Hiking Trail

This is a cool trail! It’s not too short and not too long with a big payoff at the end — if you like cliff diving from waterfalls. Maunawili Trail is located off the Pali Highway heading towards the town of Kaneohe on the windward (east) side of Oahu. The trail itself is relatively easy, about 3 miles round trip. It’s wet and muddy jungle terrain that follows the Maunawili stream for the majority of the hike. There are several stream crossings across slippery rocks, so expect to get wet on this trail. In fact, I would recommend wearing your swim suit. Especially if you want to swim in the pool under the falls at the end of the hike. The water is a wee bit chilly — colder than the ocean, but refreshing after a hot and humid hike. I would advise against swimming in the water if you have any open wounds, as you’re more likely to contract Leptospirosis; a flesh eating bacterial infection found throughout the tropical fresh waters of Hawaii. It’s rare, but I wouldn’t test fate.

The trail begins following Maunawili Road, then winds through the jungle along the stream with plenty of photo opportunities. The first mile is relatively level terrain, but as you progress there is a steep incline followed shortly by a steep decline. After the decline, you’re almost to the falls. Continue following the stream, and it’s right around the bend.

The waterfall itself isn’t particularly large or breathtaking, and on a dry day it may only be a trickle. However, it is a beautiful environment that’s fun for the whole family. The pool is small, but deep. So, you shouldn’t have to worry about hitting bottom if you jump from the cliffs. There are 3 jump locations. The most obvious is from the waterfall itself. The other 2 jumps are higher and more precarious. I’d estimate they are as high or higher than the Waimea Bay jumping rock if you’re familiar with that leap. At least 30 feet, and the target is much smaller than the entire Waimea Bay. Also, if you choose to swim across the pool and climb up the falls, there is another small waterfall and pool located above the main falls.

Maunawili Trail is a dog friendly hike. The trail “requires” dogs to be on a leash, but like many regulations in Hawaii, the rules are ignored. I wouldn’t say the trail is crowded, but there can be a decent amount of people hiking on the weekends. Some families will spend the entire day hanging out at the falls, so consider yourself lucky if you have the falls all to yourself.

As for unique sights and smells, you may find some giant snails if the trail is freshly damp. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, kick up a few logs to find a large centipede. Also, the trail is often littered with passion fruit blossoms. Pick a blossom up and smell it for a real treat. It’s one of the most fragrant flowers I have ever encountered in the wild.

The Maunawili Falls Trail is a great hike on a hot day that isn’t too far from town. It’s the perfect trail for some waterproof Teva Open Toachi sandals with all the stream crossing and cliff jumping. Just take the necessary precautions if you plan on grabbing any centipedes or jumping from 30 foot cliffs. Bring your family, friends and dogs and enjoy a day in the jungles of Hawaii.

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