Hiking Manoa Falls Trail

Photo by Getty Images

This article was originally published on Oct. 8, 2012, and was updated Oct. 6, 2025.

Looking for one of the best waterfall hikes near Honolulu? Mānoa Falls Trail is a must-visit gem nestled in the lush Mānoa Valley on the island of Oʻahu. With its towering 100-foot waterfall, tropical rainforest scenery and easy-to-moderate trail, this hike is perfect for beginners, families and nature lovers.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning after years, use this guide for trail conditions, parking tips, safety info and local insights.

Mānoa Falls Trail Guide (2025): Hike Oʻahu’s Most Accessible Waterfall

Location: Mānoa Valley, Honolulu, Oʻahu, HI

Trail Type: Out-and-back

Length: 1.6 miles round trip (~2.6 km)

Hike Duration: 45 mins – 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Waterfall Height: ~100 feet

Facilities: Restrooms near parking area

Parking: Free or $5 (details below)

Photo by Getty Images

Why Hike Mānoa Falls?

The Mānoa Falls Trail remains one of the most popular hikes in Oʻahu — and for good reason:

• Scenic Rainforest Hike: Dense bamboo groves, wild ginger and guava trees line the trail.

• Iconic Waterfall: The dramatic 100-foot Mānoa Falls is a stunning reward at the trail’s end.

• Well-Maintained Trail: Recent improvements include gravel paths that help reduce mud.

• Great for All Skill Levels: Suitable for families, beginners and casual hikers.

Photo by Getty Images

What to Expect on the Mānoa Falls Trail

Trail Conditions (2025 Update)

The trail has been upgraded with gravel surfacing from start to finish, significantly improving footing and reducing the deep mud that once defined this hike. While barefoot hiking was once possible here, the new gravel can be rough on unprotected feet — wear sturdy shoes or hiking sandals.

Pro Tip: After heavy rains, the trail can still be slick. Visit during or after light rain for fuller waterfall flow and fewer crowds, but be cautious of slippery sections.

Hike Experience

• Begin your hike from the marked Mānoa Falls Trailhead, which starts just beyond the parking lot.

• Cross a small bridge and enter the dense rainforest, where filtered light and bird calls add to the tropical ambiance.

• Follow the gradual incline as you pass towering bamboo, a flowing stream and a wooden boardwalk section.

• As you approach the falls, you’ll ascend stone steps leading to a viewing area.

• A safety barrier now prevents access to the waterfall pool itself after a rockfall incident in 2002.

Directions: How to Get to Mānoa Falls Trail

Driving from Waikīkī:

1. Take McCully Street and turn right onto Kapiʻolani Boulevard.

2. Turn left on University Avenue and follow it as it becomes Oʻahu Avenue.

3. At the five-way intersection, veer right onto Mānoa Road.

4. Pass Waakaua Street and look for free parking along the residential stretch.

5. For closer access, follow signs for paid parking ($5) at the Mānoa Falls parking area.

Trailhead Access:

• From free parking: 0.4-mile walk to the trailhead.

• From paid lot: Follow the road past the Lyon Arboretum entrance, veer right at the fork toward the trailhead.

Best Time to Hike Mānoa Falls

Fall-Spring: Wet season means lush greenery and stronger waterfall flow. 

Summer: Drier months mean less mud, but lighter waterfall and more crowds.

Insider Tip: Visit in the morning after a night of rain for the best waterfall viewing and fewer people on the trail.