Manoa Falls Trail Guide: Easy Hike Near Honolulu

Looking for a magical waterfall hike that’s easy enough for the whole family? Just a short drive from Waikiki you can find Manoa Falls. Manoa Falls is one of my favorite hikes on the beautiful island of Oahu and it is perfect for families with kids of all ages. This lush rainforest trail takes you through towering banyan trees, bamboo groves, and tropical plants before ending at a stunning 150-foot waterfall. Whether you’re visiting Oahu for the first time or just looking for a short, scenic adventure near Honolulu, this hike is a must-do. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know before hiking this trail including parking, tips to what to pack, and more.

Why Hike Manoa Falls?

If you’re visiting Oahu and want to experience the island’s lush, tropical side without committing to an all-day trek, Manoa Falls is the perfect choice. This short yet rewarding hike is one of the most accessible waterfall trails near Honolulu, making it ideal for families, beginner hikers, and anyone looking to escape the city and connect with nature.

One of the best parts about hiking Manoa Falls is how quickly you’re immersed in a rainforest setting. From the moment you step onto the trail, you’ll be surrounded by vibrant greenery, tall bamboo plants, and massive banyan trees that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a movie scene. In fact, several films and TV shows, including Jurassic Park and Lost, were filmed in this area.

At the end of the trail, you’ll reach the best part of the hike. A stunning 150-foot waterfall cascading down a sheer rock face into a pool of water below. It’s a beautiful reward that feels worlds away from the nearby city of Honolulu.

Whether you’re staying in Waikiki or exploring more of Oahu, Manoa Falls is a quick and scenic adventure that gives you a real taste of Hawaii’s natural beauty without needing to go far.

Trail Overview: What to Expect When Hiking Manoa Falls

Manoa Falls is a fairly easy trail perfect for children of ages two and up. I would recommend baby carrying if you have younger kids. Also don’t let them run ahead of you as there are some places where there can be steep drop offs close to the trail. I held my daughter’s hand around these areas and had her on the safer side of the trail.

The trail over all is pretty good and so beautiful. I would highly recommend wearing comfy shoes that you won’t mind getting dirty in mud. Don’t forget to bring hydration. Hawaii is hot and humid and you will need all the hydration you can get throughout the hike.

Trail Details

Parking cost has increased since last time I visited (10 years ago). It is now $7.00 at the Paradise Park lot near the trailhead.

• Distance: 1.6 miles (round trip).
• Estimated time: 1–2 hours.
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate; suitable for families and beginners.
• Elevation gain: Approximately 600 feet.

Getting to Manoa Falls: Directions, Parking, and Public Transportation

Manoa Falls is located just a short drive from Waikiki, making it one of the most accessible hikes near Honolulu—perfect if you’re looking to squeeze in a family-friendly adventure without going far from the city.

Address:
Manoa Falls Trailhead
3860 Manoa Road
Honolulu, HI 96822

Driving Directions from Waikiki:

To get there, you’ll head north on Manoa Road from Waikiki. It’s about a 15-20 minute drive depending on traffic. The road winds through the peaceful Manoa Valley, giving you a glimpse of lush neighborhoods and beautiful mountain views along the way.

You’ll eventually reach the Manoa Falls Trailhead, which is located at the end of Manoa Road near the Lyon Arboretum. Just follow the signs!

Parking Information:

There is a parking lot available near the entrance of the trail, operated by a local vendor. As of my visit, parking cost $7 for non-residents. It’s a short walk from the lot to the trailhead entrance, where you’ll find a small gift shop and public restrooms (note: no restrooms are available on the trail itself).

If the main lot is full, some visitors park further down the road in residential areas, but be sure to check for any posted signs to avoid parking fines.

Public Transportation Option:

If you’re not driving, you can take TheBus (Oʻahu’s public transit system). Routes from Waikiki to Manoa Valley are available, but be prepared for a short walk uphill from the nearest stop. This can be a great option if you’re visiting without a rental car.

Best Times to Visit Manoa Falls

Manoa Falls is open year-round, but the experience can vary quite a bit depending on the season, time of day, and weather. Here’s what to keep in mind when planning your visit.

Time of Day

If you want to avoid the crowds, aim to hit the trail early in the morning, ideally before 9 a.m. This is especially helpful on weekends or during peak travel seasons when the trail can get busy. Morning hikes are also cooler and give you a better chance of spotting birds and other wildlife. Late afternoon can also be a quieter time, but keep in mind that the trail closes at 6 p.m. and the lighting near the falls fades quickly.

Weekdays vs. Weekends

Weekends tend to draw larger crowds, especially if the weather is nice. If your schedule allows, visiting on a weekday, particularly Tuesday through Thursday, usually means fewer hikers and a more peaceful experience.

Weather Considerations

Manoa Valley gets a lot of rain, which keeps the area so lush and green. However, that also means the trail can get muddy and slippery. Check the forecast before you go, and try to plan your hike for a dry day if possible. That said, a little drizzle can make the trail feel even more like a tropical rainforest and the waterfall flow more but you’ll just want to bring a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes to be safe.

Seasonal Differences

Oahu’s rainy season runs from November through March, so you’re more likely to encounter wet trail conditions during these months. The dry season, from April to October, generally brings sunnier skies and slightly drier trails. Regardless of the time of year, the waterfall is almost always flowing, but it can be especially powerful after recent rainfall.

Note: Rain is good to see a more beautiful waterfall. However, too much rain can cause the trail to be super muddy and slippery. Going after a small rain is good but if it’s been raining for several days I would recommend to proceed with caution.

What to Expect on the Trail

The Manoa Falls Trail is a 1.6-mile round-trip hike that winds through rainforests. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it a great option for families with kids, beginner hikers, or anyone wanting a peaceful walk surrounded by nature.

As you make your way toward the waterfall, you’ll pass through rich tropical vegetation that stays green year-round thanks to frequent rainfall. The air is cool and fresh, and the canopy above offers plenty of shade perfect for hiking even on warmer days.

The trail itself is mostly a gradual incline, with a few muddy or slippery sections depending on recent weather. After a good rain, the path can get pretty slick, so I definitely recommend wearing sturdy shoes with good grip. There are also a few rocky areas toward the end, but nothing too difficult for most hikers.

Expect to hear birds chirping and the occasional rustle of wildlife in the trees as this area is full of native plants and animals, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. And don’t forget to pause and take it all in. There are several spots along the trail that make for beautiful photos and quiet moments to soak up the scenery.

By the time you reach the base of Manoa Falls, you’ll feel like you’ve truly wandered through a Hawaiian rainforest.

One thing that I would recommend is going after it has rained as this would make the waterfall larger and more beautiful. We went after a few days of no rain so the waterfall was pretty slim, unfortunately, but it was all still so beautiful.

What to Bring for Hiking Manoa Falls

I always feel like I overpack when I go hiking, especially with kids. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned from hiking as a mom, it’s that it’s better to be prepared than stuck without something important. Between unexpected spills, muddy clothes, snack emergencies, and Hawaii’s unpredictable weather, I like to pack a few key essentials and leave backup items in the car… just in case.

Here’s a helpful checklist of what I brought for our hike to Manoa Falls, plus a few tips from experience:

Essentials to Carry on the Trail:

• Camera – I brought both my GoPro and my phone. The trail is full of beautiful photo ops, so be sure to have something ready to capture the scenery.
• Water Bottles – Hydration is key, especially in a humid rainforest. We used our reusable Hydroflasks, which keep water cold for hours.
• Baby Carrier – If you’re hiking with a little one, bring a supportive carrier. I used my Ergo baby carrier, which is comfortable and supports a good cause by giving back to children in need.
• Healthy Snacks – Pack easy-to-carry snacks or a light lunch, especially if you’re hiking with kids. The trail doesn’t take long, but snacks help keep everyone happy.
• Comfortable Footwear – Wear sneakers or hiking boots you don’t mind getting muddy. The trail gets slick, especially after rain.
• Breathable Clothing – Skip the jeans and cotton tops. I wore a cotton tank and jeans and regretted it—I was sweating halfway in, especially while babywearing.
• Small Backpack – No need for anything bulky, just something to hold your essentials comfortably.
• Bug Spray – This is a must. Being in the rainforest and inside the humidity brings along a lot of little bugs, especially mosquitoes. Definitely bring a bug spray just to be safe.

Helpful Extras:

• Baby Wipes – There are no restrooms on the trail, just the ones in the gift shop by the parking lot. Wipes are a lifesaver for spills and messy hands.
• Hand Sanitizer – I always bring this for quick cleanups, especially when hiking with little ones.
• Extra Clothes for Kids – Accidents happen. I kept an extra set in the car just in case.
• Trash Bag – Please follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out whatever you bring in.
• Small First Aid Kit – Scrapes and “boo-boos” are part of the adventure, so having band-aids and antiseptic wipes handy is always smart.
• Wallet and Keys – Can’t forget the basics!

This might seem like a long list, but everything fits nicely in a small daypack, and trust me—you’ll be glad you came prepared, especially with little adventurers in tow.

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Hike at Manoa Falls

Whether you’re hiking solo, with your partner, or bringing the whole family along, a little preparation goes a long way in making your Manoa Falls adventure smooth, safe, and fun. This trail is short and scenic, but it still runs through a rainforest—so there are a few things to know before you go.

1.Check the Weather Forecast

Manoa Valley gets a lot of rainfall, which makes the area beautifully lush but also slippery. Try to hike on a dry day if possible, and always check the weather before heading out. The trail can get muddy fast, especially after a recent storm.

2.Wear Proper Footwear

This isn’t a flip-flop kind of trail. You’ll want sneakers or hiking boots with good traction. The trail can get slick with mud and has uneven terrain in some spots, so solid footing is a must.

3.Start Early

Mornings are cooler and quieter, and you’ll beat the crowds (and the heat). The earlier you start, the more peaceful the trail will feel and it’s also a great way to start your day in nature.

4.Keep Kids Close and Supervised

The trail is family-friendly, but there are a few slippery areas and uneven footing. Younger kids should be in carriers or held by the hand in trickier spots. If your little ones are walking on their own, be sure to take breaks and go at their pace.

5.Don’t Climb on Rocks or Swim at the Falls

It might be tempting to get close to the waterfall, but the rocks are slippery and the area near the base can be dangerous. Signs warn against swimming due to the risk of falling rocks and the presence of leptospirosis, a bacteria found in some freshwater sources in Hawaii.

6.Stay on the Trail

Help preserve the natural beauty of the area and avoid getting lost or injured by sticking to the marked path. Plus, venturing off-trail can damage the ecosystem and lead to unsafe conditions.

7.Pack Out What You Pack In

Always follow Leave No Trace principles. Bring a small trash bag to carry out snack wrappers, wipes, or anything else you use along the way. Let’s help keep this trail beautiful for others to enjoy!

8.Don’t Forget Bug Spray

The rainforest setting means bugs are definitely present—especially mosquitoes. A natural bug spray or repellent can make a big difference in your comfort along the trail.

Nearby Attractions to Explore After Your Hike
If you’re planning a full day of adventure, there are plenty of nearby attractions that pair perfectly with a morning hike at Manoa Falls. Whether you want to cool off at the beach, visit a local favorite eatery, or explore more trails, here are some top spots to check out—all under an hour from the trailhead!

1.Lyon Arboretum (right next door!)

Lyon Arboretum is located just before the Manoa Falls trailhead, this botanical garden offers beautifully maintained paths, native Hawaiian plants, and educational exhibits. A great add-on if you want more nature without a strenuous hike.

2.Diamond Head State Monument

One of Oahu’s most iconic hikes is Diamond Head! This moderately steep trail rewards you with panoramic views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. Go early—it gets hot fast!

3.Honolulu Zoo

Perfect for families with younger kids! Located near Waikiki, the zoo is home to tropical animals and shaded walking paths, plus it’s a relaxing way to wind down after your hike.

4.Koko Crater Trail

If you’re looking for a challenge, this steep stair-style hike up old railway ties offers incredible views at the top. Not ideal for little kids, but great for experienced hikers.

5.Leonard’s Bakery

A must-stop for a post-hike treat! Leonard’s is famous for its malasadas—Portuguese-style donuts that are crispy on the outside, soft inside, and come with delicious fillings.

6.Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Haunama Bay is one of the best snorkeling spots on the island. Crystal-clear waters, colorful fish, and gentle waves make it ideal for families, but be sure to reserve ahead—they limit daily access.

7.Waikiki Beach

A classic choice for swimming, relaxing, or grabbing a bite. If you’re staying in the area, it’s an easy and fun place to unwind after a morning hike.

8.Bishop Museum

Hawaii’s largest museum offers engaging exhibits on Hawaiian culture, natural history, and science. A great indoor option, especially if it starts to rain.

9.Tantalus Lookout (Puu Ualakaa State Park)

This scenic drive leads you to one of the best panoramic viewpoints on Oahu, perfect for a quick stop and stunning family photos.

Final Thoughts on Hiking Manoa Falls

Hiking Manoa Falls was such a beautiful experience and one that my family and I still talk about to this day. From the lush rainforest surroundings to the peaceful sound of the waterfall, this trail offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation for families, especially those with young kids. Whether you’re a local looking for an easy weekend outing or visiting Oahu for the first time, Manoa Falls is definitely worth adding to your itinerary. Just remember to come prepared, respect the ‘āina (land), and take your time soaking in the beauty around you.