Plan your visit
Plan your hike
Prepare for a muddy but rewarding 1.6-mile rainforest trek.
Getting there
Driving, taking the bus, or booking a shuttle.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive from Waikiki via H-1 to the Punahou Street exit, and bear left onto Manoa Road until it ends at the Paradise Park lot. | 15-20 minutes from Waikiki | $7 for parking | The Paradise Park lot fills up quickly in the morning; free street parking is available in the lower neighborhood but requires a longer walk uphill. |
| Bus: Take TheBus Route 5 from Ala Moana Center or Kalakaua Avenue to the Manoa Road / Kumuone Street stop. | 60-90 minutes from Waikiki | $3 | Requires an additional 10-15 minute walk from the final bus stop to the official trailhead. |
| Tour: Book a guided hiking tour or shuttle service with pickup from select Waikiki hotels. | 3-4 hours total | $20-$80 depending on the package | A convenient option for visitors without a rental car; often includes hiking sticks, bug spray, and local commentary. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The trail is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Go early in the morning to beat the crowds and heat. The waterfall flow is strongest during the winter months (November to March).
What to bring
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Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip.
The trail is often very slippery and muddy.
How the day runs
Step-by-step schedules for your visit.
Beat the crowds and the heat with an early start.
- Arrive and Park
Pay $7 at the main trailhead parking lot.
- Begin the Trail
Pass through the Shipping Container Archway.
- Bamboo Forest
Take photos as light filters through the bamboo.
- View the Waterfall
Reach the 150-foot waterfall observation area.
- Finish the Hike
Return to the parking lot and change your muddy shoes.
Let a guide handle transport and lunch.
- Waikiki Pickup
Meet your shuttle outside your hotel.
- Guided Hike
Walk the 1.6-mile trail with local commentary.
- Tantalus Lookout
Enjoy a provided healthy lunch with scenic views.
- Waikiki Drop-off
Return to your hotel.
Packing for the trail
Bring sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes. Flip-flops are dangerous on the muddy, slippery path. Mosquito repellent and a lightweight rain jacket are highly recommended.
You will likely get muddy. Bring a plastic bag to store your dirty shoes and pack a change of clothes for after the hike.
Easiest way to do it
Oahu: Manoa Falls Rainforest Self-Guided Hike
3 h 30 min 4.6 (244)
- Bottled water
- National Park fees
- Bug spray
- Walking stick
From$53per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How long is the hike?
The trail is 1.6 miles round trip. It takes 1 to 2 hours depending on your pace and trail conditions.
Where is the parking lot?
The main parking lot is at the end of Manoa Road. It costs $7 per vehicle.
Are there restrooms?
Yes, there are restrooms near the parking entrance. There are none on the trail itself.