Day Trips to the Best Waterfalls in Maui

Despite its small size, Maui has several microclimates, including a tropical rainforest with lush vegetation. Thanks to high humidity throughout the year and the rugged terrain in some areas, this climate is ideal for the formation of incredible waterfalls. Of all the many things to see and do in Maui, visiting its waterfalls is one of the most highly recommended.

The different waterfalls are scattered around the island and some of them are difficult to reach if you don't know the area, so the best way to see them is on an excursion. In this article, I will tell you about the best waterfalls in Maui and how to visit them.

The best option

Maui Island Day Trip

A full-day excursion offering the best views of the world's longest coastal route.

You will visit the Hanawai waterfalls, tropical rainforests, unique beaches, volcanic caves and bamboo forests on a spectacular tour that includes transfers, a guide and meals.

From S$279 at Hellotickets

On this full-day excursion to Hana, you will travel along the road to Hana and stop at different points of interest such as Ho'okipa Beach, the windsurfing capital of the world, the bamboo forest, the black sand beach, traditional Hawaiian villages and, of course, Maui's main waterfalls.

You will visit Waikani Falls, also known as the Three Bears Falls, the most famous thanks to the TV series and films shot in Maui. You will also see the two waterfalls in Pua'a Ka'a State Park, where locals like to go swimming. The next waterfalls you will visit are the Wailua Falls.

You will be able to swim in the waterfalls, so don't forget to bring your swimsuit, towel and a change of clothes.

Recommended if... You like adventure and have little time to see the best of Maui. With this excursion, you can take advantage of a full day to travel this route to some of the most beautiful places in the world.

There are options for all tastes and budgets in Maui. As this is one of the best activities and tours among tourists in the Hawaiian city, there is a wide range on offer. In any case, I can help you choose the most interesting excursions based on your interests:

Excursions for small groups

With this option, you'll enjoy the road to Hana with its various attractions on a private excursion, just for you and your group. Some of these excursions are done in all-terrain vehicles that can take you to places that are inaccessible to regular vehicles. If you want to know which waterfall you will visit, you have to ask the guide in advance, because the itinerary is subject to change, but as all the waterfalls in Maui are magnificent, you can rest assured that whichever one you visit, you will be fascinated by its beauty.

On this excursion, young children are welcome and it can be done in groups of up to five people. You will have the guide all to yourself and your companions, which allows you to take the tour at your own pace. If you want to spend more time swimming in the waterfalls, you can do so by coordinating with your guide.

If you are looking for more activities to do with children in Maui, you will find that there is a wide variety of fun experiences to share with your little ones.

Excursions with water activities included

It is well known that Maui has some of the best beaches in the world. This makes it a fantastic destination for all kinds of water activities, such as snorkelling, diving, surfing and kayaking. And, of course, many excursions to Maui's waterfalls also include these types of sports.

For the more adventurous, you can book combined excursions that include snorkelling to see turtles while walking through the waterfalls and swimming in them or jumping from the rocks. Other excursions also include a kayak trip or abseiling, so why not give it a go?

When you arrive in Maui, you will see many locals offering tours to the waterfalls and other places. Avoid them. Most of these "guides" are not professionals.

Unlike other destinations, Maui has a very unique geography and dangerous areas, so it is not advisable to improvise when choosing tours. The best option for booking excursions in Maui (both to waterfalls and other places of interest) is through online companies specialising in the sale of tourist packages, excursions and experiences.

When you visit these online shops, you will also discover other options for tours and activities in Maui that will help you organise your travel itinerary. Another advantage is that you can pay by credit or debit card in your own currency.

Given that this is a tropical climate, humidity is very high in Maui. Rain can be a double-edged sword, as it can be an ally if you want to see the waterfalls in all their glory. However, it can also complicate your route, as you will have to navigate the winding muddy paths that lead to them.

Likewise, rain can ruin your plans if you choose one of the best hiking tours in Maui or any other outdoor activity that this city has to offer.

For all these reasons, I recommend checking the weather forecast for the area before booking any activities. Keep in mind that if it rains, the excursion may be changed to another day, but don't be discouraged because there are many activities for rainy days in Maui to make the most of your time.

I also recommend that you take a look at our post on What to do in Maui in winter.

Duration of Maui waterfall tours

The duration of excursions to Maui's waterfalls varies from one excursion to another and will depend largely on the other places included in the excursion itinerary.

As most of the waterfalls are located along the road to Hana, you should allow at least 6 hours for the trip.

In any case, whether you are travelling to Maui for five days or have seven days to explore the city, it is a good idea to plan your itinerary well and organise this excursion in advance.

The road to Hana, where most of the waterfalls are located, is quite dangerous, not only because of the number of curves, but also because it is very narrow.

Lately, due to its growing popularity, reckless driving and failure to comply with traffic regulations, residents have become increasingly concerned about the safety of the road to Hana. For these reasons, it is better to take a guided tour with a professional driver rather than going on your own.

Another important advantage of guided tours is that you will be able to access places that only locals know about and you will do so in complete safety. If, on the other hand, you go on your own, your lack of knowledge of the region may cause you to miss out on places of interest and may also put you at risk.

Excursions to Maui's waterfalls include visits to the most beautiful spots on the Hawaiian island, where you can admire spectacular waterfalls that break the silence of the tropical rainforest.

From the "three bears waterfalls", as those in Waikani are known, which can be seen from the vehicle taking you along the Hana route, to those in Pua'a Ka'a State Park, where you can also swim safely. Passing by Wailua Falls, the highest waterfall on the entire route and the highlight of the excursion.

As one of the region's main attractions, excursions to Maui's spectacular waterfalls include transport in a wide variety of vehicles designed to ensure you have an unforgettable day.

From an air-conditioned car or van to a limousine or luxury minivan, or even a helicopter to see the impressive waterfall from the air.

Any of these means of transport will take you along the world's longest coastal route on the way to the famous Hana Highway.

• If you plan to visit Maui's waterfalls and take the Road to Hana, find out how to get there and what to see on the Road to Hana.
• Wear appropriate clothing.
• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for wet areas.
• Bring a swimsuit and towel.
• Don't forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
• Remember that it is a several-hour trip, so bring water and some snacks for the road, especially if your excursion does not include meals.
• If you are travelling with young children, pack some toys to keep them entertained.
• Always follow your guide's safety recommendations.
• Stay with your group at all times.