The Manoa Falls waterfall cascades down a steep, lush green cliff surrounded by dense tropical vegetation. The water flows into a small pool at the base, and warning signs near the waterfall caution visitors about potential health hazards of getting close to the waterfall.

Manoa Falls Trail: A Local’s Complete Guide

ByKody B

Manoa Falls is one of the most popular hiking trails on Oahu and for a good reason. Just a short 18-minute drive from Waikiki, this trail offers a taste of the Island’s natural beauty without the intense challenge of other hikes.

If you’re into the lush, tropical rainforest vibes, Manoa Falls will not disappoint. The trail ends at a stunning 150-foot waterfall, making the hike well worth it.

As locals who love exploring Oahu, we’ve hiked many of the Island’s trails, and Manoa Falls remains one of our favorites because it’s simple and perfect for most people. Just assess your own physical abilities before hiking any trail!

A hiker wearing a cap and a bright yellow backpack stands on a stone ledge in front of a tall, narrow waterfall cascading down a lush green cliff. The surrounding area is dense with tropical foliage, and the hiker is pointing towards the Manoa Falls waterfall.

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    Manoa Falls Quick Facts

    Parking: $5 fee to park on-site

    Entrance Fee: Free

    Route Type: Out & back

    Distance: 1.7 miles

    Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes

    Difficulty: Moderate

    Terrain: A mix of dirt, rocks, and tree roots, with some paved sections near the beginning

    The Hike to Manoa Falls

    The hike to Manoa Falls is marked as moderately challenging, but I’ve seen a wide range of people on this trail—children, older adults, and everyone in between. While many can enjoy it, it’s always wise to consider your own and your family’s physical capabilities before heading out.

    In 2021, the trail underwent reconstruction, making it easier to navigate. For instance, the beginning of the trail now has a paved path instead of the old muddy one. Eroded sections have also been reinforced, which makes the hike smoother and more manageable.

    That said, the trail can still get very muddy in certain spots, depending on when you visit. Wearing proper hiking shoes with good grip is really important. I’ve often seen visitors trying to hike in shoes that aren’t suited for the conditions (white sneakers with zero grip), and it’s just not worth the trouble or ruining your nice shoes.

    About 5-7 minutes into the hike, you’ll reach a shipping container along the trail. This area was once used while filming the first Jurassic Park movie, so be sure to stop and take in the views.

    A person stands at the base of a massive tree trunk, dwarfed by its size. The tree is surrounded by thick, green vegetation, and the ground is wet, indicating recent rain.
    A rocky, muddy Manoa Falls trail winding through a dense, green forest. A person with a yellow backpack can be seen walking along the path in the distance, surrounded by tall trees and thick underbrush.
    A shipping container on the Manoa Falls trail with an open entrance sits on a gravel path surrounded by lush greenery. The container appears to be used as a tunnel or passageway, with tropical trees and vegetation in the background.
    A woman in a vibrant red outfit stands on a gravel portion of Manoa Falls trail, reaching up to a tree branch. She is surrounded by dense, green foliage, with the overcast sky visible through the canopy.
    A woman in a bright red outfit stands joyfully on a gravel path on the Manoa Falls trail surrounded by lush green vegetation. She is smiling with one arm raised as she enjoys the natural scenery around her. The background is filled with dense trees and greenery, under a cloudy sky,

    Manoa Falls has also been a backdrop for several other movies and TV shows, including Lost and Hawaii 5-0, so don’t be surprised if some parts of the trail look familiar.

    We’ve been lucky enough to spot rainbows in this section, so don’t let a little rain deter you! It’s one of those moments that makes the hike even more special, so be sure to pause and take it all in.

    One of the things that makes this hike special is the lush, tropical setting. The tall bamboo groves and dense vegetation create a unique atmosphere that really makes you feel connected to nature. The sights and sounds along the way add to the experience, making the hike to the waterfall just as rewarding as reaching the falls themselves.

    A woman in a yellow rain jacket stands in a lush forest within Manoa Falls, looking out towards a faint rainbow that arches over the misty mountains in the background. The area is dense with green vegetation.
    The silhouette of large trees in Manoa Falls with thick trunks and sprawling branches dominates the foreground, with mist-covered mountains faintly visible in the background. The scene is enveloped in a thick canopy of green leaves.

    About halfway into the trail, you’ll walk past giant trees and a small stream. Depending on when you go, the stream might be flowing or dry.

    The jungle atmosphere and very tall trees at Manoa Falls are something else. I always look up so much that I think my neck’s going to start hurting, but it’d absolutely be worth it—these trees are just that beautiful. You just might see some white wild parrots too!

    Eventually, you’ll come across a set of stairs and catch your first glimpse of Manoa Falls through the trees.

    A hiker in a yellow rain jacket and red leggings walks along a muddy, gravel trail surrounded by tall trees and dense greenery in Manoa Falls. The path is wet, with lush foliage covering the ground and trees towering overhead.
    A small stream flows through a dense forest near Manoa Falls. The water is clear, surrounded by rocks and vibrant green ferns, creating a peaceful and natural scene.
    A hiker with a yellow backpack stands with arms outstretched, embracing two enormous tree trunks along the Manoa Falls trail. The trees are tall and thick, with a dense forest canopy above.
    A woman in a red outfit stands with arms wide open, facing a small waterfall in the lush green forest near Manoa Falls. The scene is filled with dense foliage, with the sound of the rushing water adding to the serene atmosphere.
    A hiker with a yellow backpack stands on a stone ledge in front of the tall, cascading Manoa Falls. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, with a dense forest in the background.
    The Manoa Falls waterfall flows down a tall, lush green cliff, surrounded by dense tropical vegetation. Warning signs are visible near the base of the falls, indicating potential hazards in the area.
    Hikers make their way up a set of stone steps surrounded by ferns and tropical greenery on the trail leading to Manoa Falls. The waterfall is visible in the background, cascading down a tall cliff.

    Warning: Do Not Swim in the Waterfall

    Unfortunately, Manoa Falls is not swimmable, so please respect the signs warning you not to swim. This is for your own safety. We always emphasize the importance of respecting the land, so please be a responsible visitor.

    If you’re looking for a great swimmable waterfall hike on Oahu, I recommend checking out Waimea Falls on the North Shore.

    The tall Manoa Falls waterfall is surrounded by thick, green vegetation. Warning signs at the base of the falls caution visitors about potential health hazards, highlighting the natural beauty and the importance of safety.

    Manoa Falls Tours

    If you’d rather take a tour, we recommend the two options below. Both offer transportation from select hotels in Waikiki.

    The first tour includes a local guide and stops at Tantalus Lookout in Puu Ualakaa State Park, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of southern Oahu, stretching from Diamond Head to Pearl Harbor. The second tour is a self-guided experience focused solely on Manoa Falls.

    Best Time to Hike Manoa Falls

    We’ve hiked this trail many times, and each time offers a different experience depending on when we go. If we want to enjoy the trail with fewer people around, we get there right at 8:00 am when the trail opens.

    The early morning hours are also cooler, making for a more comfortable hike.

    We’ve also done the trail in the late afternoon, after 4:00 pm, and found it less crowded than during the peak hours of 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

    It’s important to note that the waterfall isn’t constantly flowing, especially if it hasn’t rained in a while. We’ve had different experiences depending on the weather.

    Our favorite time to go is after several days of rain when the waterfall is most impressive. I was in awe the first time I saw Manoa Falls flowing vigorously. However, it’s crucial to prioritize safety—don’t hike during heavy rainfall, and always take flash flood warnings seriously.

    Even when the waterfall isn’t as strong, just being in the tropical rainforest is a gift. It’s peaceful, and the view is still beautiful.

    A couple stands in front of the cascading Manoa Falls, posing for a photo. The man wears a black t-shirt and light blue shorts, while the woman wears a yellow rain jacket and red leggings. The waterfall and surrounding lush greenery create a picturesque backdrop.
    A view of the Manoa Falls area with large trees framing the scene. A faint rainbow is visible above the misty, forested mountains in the background, adding a touch of color to the lush green landscape.
    A group of hikers gathers at the base of the Manoa Falls waterfall, admiring its height and the surrounding greenery. The waterfall flows down a tall, green cliff, creating a peaceful atmosphere for visitors.
    A man in a green t-shirt stands at the base of Manoa Falls, taking in the view. The waterfall flows down a steep, lush cliff surrounded by dense tropical vegetation, with a stone barrier in front for safety.
    A hiker stands on a muddy trail surrounded by lush greenery on the way to Manoa Falls. The trail is lined with tall trees, and the overcast sky adds a moody atmosphere to the scene.

    Manoa Falls Parking

    There are two small parking lots at Manoa Falls, and they charge a small fee of $5.00. Don’t be tempted to park on the side of the road just before the paid parking area—you will get a ticket. It’s not worth the risk.

    A parking lot near Manoa Falls, with several cars parked under the shade of large trees. The wet pavement indicates recent rain, and the surrounding greenery adds to the natural beauty of the area.
    A parking lot near Manoa Falls with a white minivan and several other cars parked under the shade of large, leafy trees. The area is surrounded by dense vegetation, enhancing the peaceful ambiance of the location.

    Facilities

    One of my favorite things about Manoa Falls is that it has many facilities that other hikes on Oahu don’t offer. You’ll find restrooms, a hose to wash off your muddy shoes, and even a store where you can pick up snacks. It’s convenient and makes the experience that much more enjoyable.

    Pro Tip: Stop by the hose to rinse off your muddy shoes. It took me three hikes at Manoa Falls to realize there was a hose where I could wash my feet. It’s located near the second (upper) parking area. We now always park in the second lot because it’s closer to the hose, so you won’t have to walk far after rinsing off—meaning you can keep your shoes even cleaner.

    A sign inside a building near Manoa Falls reads, "Restrooms are for toilet use and handwashing only. Please clean your shoes outside the building."
    The interior of a building near Manoa Falls, featuring a Coca-Cola vending machine, a small table with stools, and framed pictures of tropical plants on the wall. The restroom doors are visible in the background.
    A sign near a staircase at Manoa Falls indicates the availability of a hose for cleaning muddy shoes upstairs. The staircase is wet, with greenery visible in the background.
    A hose is laid out on the wet ground near a grassy area and a large dumpster in the parking lot of Manoa Falls. The surrounding area is damp, indicating recent rain, and the lush green forest is visible in the background.
    A nearly empty parking lot at Manoa Falls, surrounded by dense green trees. The wet pavement reflects the recent rain, and only two cars are parked.

    What to Bring

    We always recommend packing the basics like water and snacks, but don’t forget the mosquito repellent since you’ll be hiking in a rainforest. If you’re not a fan of getting wet, bringing a raincoat is a good idea, too. Rain is pretty common on this side of the island, but it’s also what makes the waterfall so beautiful.

    A woman in a yellow rain jacket stands on a trail at Manoa Falls, looking out over the dense, green forest. A faint rainbow is visible in the misty sky above the treetops, adding to the peaceful and magical atmosphere.

    Manoa Falls Trail Hours

    The trail is open from sunrise to sundown, which varies depending on the time of year. Keep in mind, it’s a rainforest, so don’t expect to catch a sunrise here.

    We recommend getting there at 8:00 a.m. or later and plan to be out by around 7:00 p.m. And no, you don’t need a reservation to hike Manoa Falls.

    Is Manoa Falls Worth It?

    Absolutely. This is one of the easiest hikes on Oahu and a top favorite waterfall hike on the island. Its proximity to Honolulu and Waikiki makes it convenient, and the views along the trail are worth the effort.

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