Just across from the Bay, Waimea Valley is the most accessible waterfall hike on Oahu. With lush gardens, cultural sites, and a swimmable waterfall, it’s a favorite for nature and movie fans alike.
Waimea Valley Hike
This paved trail winds through lush gardens and cultural sites, leading to a 45-foot waterfall. Lifeguards are on duty and provide flotation vests, making this one of the few waterfalls on Oahu where swimming is safe and accessible.
North Shore Oahu
Botanical garden by Waimea Bay.
Guest Admissions
Per-person costs for Waimea hike.
All ages & Abilities
Waimea Valley has a paved path.
Movies & Television
Featured in countless productions.
Guided or solo
Guests can add a guide to the hike.
Tour Guide & Founder
This has been one of my favorite places to bring guests for over a dozen years. During that time Iʻve got to know the best times to visit and how quickly the conditions in the Valley can change.
Tour Guide & Founder
This has been one of my favorite places to bring guests for over a dozen years. During that time Iʻve got to know the best times to visit and how quickly the conditions in the Valley can change.
Waimea Valley & falls trail
Whether you’re wandering through lush gardens, spotting movie scenes, or cooling off under the falls, Waimea Valley is one of our favorite North Shore stops.
The trail is easy, family-friendly, and accessible, with options for those with mobility needs. Just note that admission isn’t included, and swimming may close after heavy rain or dry spells.
With restrooms, a cafe, and plenty of shade, it’s an excellent pick for families, photographers, and film fans. But the cultural experiences are what really make it special.
Waimea Valley Hiking Tours
| Detail | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | ✓ Easy (paved cultural nature walk). |
| Trail Type | ✓ Maintained botanical garden path leading to waterfall. |
| Exposure | ✓ No ocean risk; controlled swimming area at the falls. |
| Visit Time | ✓ 1–3 hours including waterfall visit. |
| Best For | ✓ Families, cultural experience, relaxed walking. |
| Key Challenge | ✓ Heat and distance if walking the entire valley. |
| Access Note | ✓ Lifeguarded swimming available (conditions permitting). |
- Summer Hours: Open 7 days a week 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Winter Hours: Open Tuesday-Sunday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
- Closures: Thanksgiving, Christmas, Special Events
- Hiking Costs: Approximately $10-$30 per person entry
- Difficulty: Easy with accessible paved path to falls
- Address: 59-864 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712
- From Waikiki: 1.5 hour drive (H2), 3 hours bus (1 Transfer)
- From Ko Olina: 1 hour drive (H2), 2.5 hours bus (Transfer)
- From Turtle Bay: 15 minute drive (Kam HWY), 30 minute bus
Similar activities & places
Whether you’re here for a peaceful nature walk, a swim in the waterfall, or a glimpse of Hawaii’s cultural roots, Waimea on the North Shore. Looking for more places to cool off or connect with the land? Try the Manoa Valley trail or a few nearby favorites.
But wait, there’s more. Click the button to discover Hawaii hiking tour locations.
These are the top nearby activities and location options available on this featured tour.
Experiencing Waimea Valley
The route to the Valley skirts along Waimea Bay, and thereʻs no mistaking this beautiful place. It pairs perfectly with Haleiwa shopping and the Dole Plantation on a private Oahu North Shore Tour.
North Shore Tour
-
Group rates from
$699
- Explore the 7 mile miracle
- 1-2 activities + 3-5 photo stops
- 9 hour custom private tour
Oahu Combo Tour
-
Group rates from
$699
- Pearl Harbor w/ island
- 1-2 activities + 3-5 photo stops
- 9 hour private tour
About Waimea Valley & Falls
Whether you’re visiting for the movie locations, cultural history, or just to cool off under a waterfall, Oahu hiking tours bring you to some of the most memorable spots on the island. Scroll down for tips and quick answers to help plan your visit.
Where is Waimea Valley, and how do you get there?
What makes Waimea Valley unique vs. other hikes?
What are the hours and best times to visit Waimea?
Waimea Valley is open at different times and days, depending on the season. But if you want to swim, you must arrive early in the afternoon. Mornings are best for lighter crowds and cooler temps.
Swimming closes about a half hour before the valley, weather permitting. The shuttles stop going up approximately an hour before that, so youʻll need to keep that in mind if you want to skip the walk.
Do you need a reservation or permit for Waimea Valley?
Are there restrictions or rules at this State Park?
In Hawaii, we encourage guests (as we try to do) to tread lightly. So please help us do our part during your hike to help keep this Valley thriving. We’ve taken guests here for the better part of a decade, and everyone comes away with their own favorite memory.
Explore Routes
Pick from iconic destinations like Pearl Harbor, the North Shore, or a majestic Circle Island adventure to perfect your getaway!
Select Length
Enjoy a half-day excursion or a full-day adventure. You can go all out with a sunrise-to-sunset tour and make the most of your day.
Must See Stops
Customize your private tour with family favorites, local cuisine, shopping, hiking, and visits to some of the best island beaches.
More ideas from Halia Private Tours
Planning your trip to Waimea? Visit the Things to Do in Oahu Blog for updates and insider advice. Plus a few great photos to help get you excited and make your visit even more memorable.
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More great Oahu hiking tours
Waimea is a favorite for nature lovers, film buffs, and families alike. Want to see it for yourself? You can even add the valley on a private Circle Island Tour as you explore the island of Oahu.
North Shore Tour
-
Group rates from
$699
- Get a taste of the North Shore
- 1 x activity and 2 photo stops
- 6 hour custom private tour
Circle Island Tour
-
Group rates from
$799
- Circle the Koolau Mountains
- 1-2 activities + 3-5 photo stops
- 9 hour custom private tour
Oahu Combo Tour
-
Group rates from
$899
- Pearl Harbor w/ island tour
- 2-3 activities + 4-6 photo stops
- 12 hour custom private tour
Not sure which North Shore hike or private tour is the best match for you? Take our quick tour match quiz or head to the footer for help creating your perfect day.
