Manoa Falls Rainforest & Self-Guided Hike
Recommended by 90% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Honolulu, USA
- 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
Overview
Experience the secluded, tropical beauty Hawaii is famous for on this self-guided hike to Manoa Falls. A shuttle takes you to the start of the hike, and then you can explore on your own. See tropical plants, streams, and a the rushing waterfall after a moderate .8-mile (1.3 km) hike. There are restrooms, and a snack shop, which you are welcome to visit at the end of the hike.
- Experience the beauty of Manoa Falls on a self-guided hike
- Spend the morning in a tropical rainforest on a .8-mile (1.3 km) hike
- Hikers are provided with water, bug spray, directions, and a walking stick
- Round-trip transportation by shuttle is provided from select Waikiki hotels
What's Included
- National Park fees
- Bottled water
- Walking stick
- Bug spray
- Gratuities
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Pickup details
If you are not staying in Waikiki, a free parking lot is available at 2805 Monsarrat Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815. Please park there and walk to the Queen Kapiolani Hotel for shuttle pick-up. Be on time, as the shuttle will not wait for late arrivals. After booking, please contact Kaimana Tours to confirm your pick-up location and time. International travelers without a U.S. mobile number should provide their hotel room number. We will try to reach you 24 hours before your tour; if we cannot contact you, the shuttle may not be able to operate. Please wait outside of the hotel your pick-up was assigned to. The driver has multiple stops, so you may not be the first or last pick-up of the day. Allow a 5–10 minute window for arrival, and if the driver hasn’t arrived by then, please give us a call. After booking, please contact Kaimana Tours to confirm your pick-up location and time. International travelers without a U.S. mobile number should provide their hotel room number. We will try to reach you 24 hours before your tour; if we cannot contact you, the shuttle may not be able to operate. *Only book this activity if you require transportation.*
What To Expect
1
Manoa Falls
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Drivers and Receptionist MAY speak Portuguese as well.
- Infants must sit on laps
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- We do not recommend this hike for ages older than 65
- Not recommended for children under 3 and people with disabilities
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 40 travelers
Supplied by
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Jeff_C
The hike is very steep, rocky, and may be muddy. Lots of people will be hiking with you, as it's a popular hike. The tour driver was great! He had lots of knowledge about movies along the trail, and also restaurants suggestions for later in the day.
Reviews
4.6
based on 229 reviews
Keith_K, Feb 2026
You're going to get wet! Trail is slightly difficult and the provided walking sticks were very handy. The final waterfall was worth the hike. Loved our driver who gave good info about the island and surrounding areas. Very personable!
Melinda_W, Feb 2026
Walking sticks were great. Time at the falls was perfect. It was muddy and rained off and on which was expected. Pick up and drop off was great.
Izabela_K, Jan 2026
Just a reminder that it is all up hill with very uneven stones to climb. Bring a walking stick to help. We are older and take ur time. Nature was wonderful with a cockatiel laughing like a person in the trees at trail beginning! Falls are worth it.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Aloha,
Mahalo for sharing your experience and helpful reminder for future guests! You’re absolutely right — taking your time and enjoying nature along the way makes the hike even more special. We love that you noticed the wildlife at the trailhead — moments like that are what make the journey memorable.
For guests who would like extra support, we do provide walking sticks to help with balance and stability along the trail. Our team is always happy to assist and encourage everyone to go at a comfortable pace.
Mahalo again for hiking with us, and we’re so glad you enjoyed the beautiful scenery and waterfalls.
Tracey_L, Dec 2025
The home was tranquil and beautiful. I would definitely sign up for the early hike (7am), got to walk without crowds and could enjoy the bird chatter in the canopy. I would also wear comfortable walking shoes that you don’t mind getting muddy.
JESSYLN_A, Dec 2025
This experience is literally just a ride to the waterfalls, an hour long hike then a ride back. I don’t personally feel it was worth the $50 per person price tag. I don’t believe there’s an admission fee to get into the entry point either so you could easily drive yourself and pay the parking fee or take a taxi instead.
The hike itself was moderate, mostly easy but some areas “difficult” because it’s so slippery. The terrain is entirely river rocks, it rained the morning of our hike so lots of mud and slippery rocks. Highly recommend shoes but hiking boots not super necessary. It’s about 45 minutes up due to the incline then about 30 minutes down. A hiking stick was given to us but it’s not necessary if you’re able bodied.
The waterfall itself is a bit underwhelming a very thin but tall waterfall.
The driver was informative and entertaining so that helps increase the value of what we paid.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Thank you for taking the time to share your detailed feedback. We’d like to clarify a few important points for future guests. As clearly stated in our online tour description during booking, this experience is a self-guided hike, with transportation provided and additional information shared by the driver/guide along the way.
Waterfall conditions are entirely dependent on recent rainfall, which is something beyond our control and is also noted in the tour details. On days with less rain, the waterfall may appear thinner, while heavier rainfall creates a stronger flow.
The value of the tour includes round-trip transportation, local insight, safety guidance, hiking sticks, and the convenience of not needing to navigate or park on your own. While guests are welcome to drive themselves if they prefer, many choose this experience for ease, comfort, and local knowledge—something we’re glad to hear you enjoyed from your driver.
We appreciate your honest input and are happy to hear you found the hike manageable and the driver informative and entertaining.
Louis_C, Nov 2025
A bit of a struggle up hill worth what you see at the top tho. Definitely wear gear for the occasion. Can be and is wet a and muddy climb
DAVID_B, Oct 2025
Our drive/host Orlando was so knowledgeable about the area and all the plants and trees and we found that quite interesting!And the Manoa Falls trail was beautiful!
Oralia_S, Oct 2025
No one told us there was not going to be a WATERFALL….. hike all the way to See Nothing so Disappointing.
If i knew this i wouldn’t have wasted my money.
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Thank you for your feedback. The waterfall’s flow varies depending on rainfall, and during dry weather it may not be visible — this is a natural occurrence that’s outside of our control. While we understand your frustration, we do take pride in the beautiful forest and hiking experience the trail offers all year long. We hope you were still able to enjoy the peaceful scenery and nature along the way.
We’d also like to kindly remind visitors that this review section is intended to reflect your experience with our service, not only the trail itself. The area remains one of the nicest forest walks around, offering a unique experience no matter the season.
Wendy_P, Oct 2025
The trip was canceled due to not enough people registering. I received refund but was disappointed I did not get to go.
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Thank you for your understanding, and we’re truly sorry for the disappointment caused by the cancellation. Unfortunately, we do require a minimum number of guests to operate the tour, and in this case, we didn’t quite meet that threshold.
We’re glad the refund was processed smoothly, but we completely understand that missing out on the experience was frustrating. We hope to welcome you another time soon so you can fully enjoy the tour.
BrianaOrtiz, Sep 2025
Fun quick family fun on this trail tour. Definitely make sure to wear hiking boots as the rocks can be super slippery.
Jennifer_A, Aug 2025
One of the highlights of our vacation. Appropriate shoes a must. The foliage is amazing, I hear that the waterfall is better and runs harder in the wetter winter months. I found a walking stick to be very beneficial.
Annette_v, Jul 2025
It was a great, but there are a large amounts of mosquitoes. Best to wear leggings and use a lot of bug spray. Matthew was our tour driver and he was fantastic!
JamesT_M, Jul 2025
Matthew was a great guide. We were provided with a walking stick, water, and bug spray. We needed all of it. This is a steep inclined trail with wet rocks and loose pebbles. The waterfall was worth it though.
Yasmin_P, Jun 2025
The drive from Waikiki to Manoa in itself is so beautiful, & then you’re taken away with how much beauty the trail has 💚 We were given 2 hours to complete the hike which is more than enough time if you’re at a moderate fitness level. There is a slight incline closer to the waterfall, and the trail is mostly rock/pebble so best to wear enclosed shoes and ones with good grip. But in saying that, I do recommend using the sticks the tour guides give you for coming down the trail cause it can get slippery. Our tour guide was prompt, funny & a pleasure to have!!! Would love to do it again 💚 Mahalo team!
Pete_F, Jun 2025
Matt was very knowledgeable - he’s provided plenty of water, as well as bug spray and walking sticks, which was essential
Ayana_S, Apr 2025
That hike was awesome! But seriously, if you're not super fit or into nature, maybe reconsider, 'cause I'm neither! I was totally gasping for air the whole time, and there were a million bugs! But that waterfall at the top? Totally worth it.
Jeff_C, Apr 2025
The hike is very steep, rocky, and may be muddy. Lots of people will be hiking with you, as it's a popular hike. The tour driver was great! He had lots of knowledge about movies along the trail, and also restaurants suggestions for later in the day.
Deanna_C, Feb 2025
Beautiful hike but very slippery. When the tour guide recommends the walking stick he is serious! Matthew was informative and helpful. It's a fantastic way to experience the beauty of this area.
Meaghan_W, Feb 2025
Matthew was a great tour guide and so informative about the island. The Manoa Falls were so pretty after the rain fall from the night before.
dennis_e, Dec 2024
This was a nice activity, that would have been a lot better if there was water coming down the waterfall. There was no rain in the rain forest or water in the waterfall. Basically it was a hike up a very rocky mountain.
Response from Host, Jan 2025
Thank you for your honest feedback! We're glad you enjoyed the activity overall, though we understand that the lack of water in the waterfall and the rain forest made it less enjoyable than expected. Unfortunately, the flow of the waterfall can vary depending on the weather, and sometimes, the conditions aren’t ideal. We truly appreciate your understanding and hope to offer you a more rewarding experience next time with better weather!
LV_R, Nov 2024
Lots of gorgeous endemic plants and trees to see, just like in the Jurassic Park films. Easy to navigate. There's a very challenging hike at the end of the main hike (by the waterfall).
Response from Host, Dec 2024
Thank you for sharing your experience! We’re so glad you enjoyed the stunning endemic plants and trees along the hike—it’s always amazing to see nature so beautifully preserved, and the Jurassic Park comparison is spot on!
The challenging section near the waterfall definitely adds a bit of adventure to the experience, but the rewards are definitely worth it. We appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback and hope you had a memorable time exploring the island’s natural beauty. We'd love to welcome you back for more adventures in the future!
Betsy_D, Nov 2024
If you’re looking for a simple way to explore the Manoa rainforest without a formal guide, this self-guided tour does the trick. The rain was on and off, which is expected in a rainforest, and while the ground was a bit muddy, it was manageable with decent footwear. The trail was a little busy but offered a nice, relaxed hike through beautiful scenery.
The transportation included a couple of quick points of interest: the driver noted Obama’s first job at Baskin Robbins and pointed out the hospital that issued his birth certificate on the way to the trailhead. From there, you’re free to hike at your own pace. The trail isn’t too steep, so it’s suitable for someone with moderate fitness, but it might be a bit challenging if you’re not used to hiking.
Though it’s a bit pricey for what you get, this self-guided tour is a solid choice if you’re happy to explore on your own and simply need transportation to the trail. It’s a great, low-key way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Manoa rainforest.
Response from Host, Nov 2024
Thank you for sharing your experience! We're so glad you enjoyed exploring the Manoa rainforest and that the self-guided tour gave you the flexibility to hike at your own pace. The rain and muddy conditions are definitely part of the authentic rainforest experience, and we're happy to hear you were able to manage with proper footwear.
We’re also glad you enjoyed the quick points of interest along the way—our drivers love sharing local tidbits, and it’s always fun to learn a little more about the area on the way to the trailhead!
Thanks again for your review, and we hope you’ll join us again for another adventure in the future!
Kristina_A, Sep 2024
Amazing hike, steeper than indicated but worth the effort. Will take the full two hours. Some sections are a fast incline.
Response from Host, Sep 2024
Thank you for your kind words! Safe travels back home!
Jeff_G, Sep 2024
Steve was a great guide! He was knowledgeable and funny! Definitely recommend and would go again. Five ⭐️
Response from Host, Sep 2024
Thank you Jeff! You are always welcomed back
Molly_F, Sep 2024
The tour guide, Steve, was very personable and knowledgeable. The trail and welcome center were well taken care of. The trail had a lot of unusual flowers and birds. The waterfall, however, was a little underwhelming. .......................
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Response from Host, Sep 2024
Mahalo
Natika_H, Aug 2024
Wear appropriate shoes. Lots of rocks, mud, and slippery! Bring a walking stick if your tour doesn't offer you one. Don't forget your water. There were lots of small kids and they did a great job.
Response from Host, Aug 2024
Thank you for your kind words. Aloha and safe travels back home.
Natalie_A, Jul 2024
Everything at the hike was so pretty and our tour guide Steve made it an amazing experience. He said a lot of funny jokes and was very informative at the same time. I highly recommend him! Thank you!
Response from Host, Jul 2024
Thank you for your kind review!! We're glad you enjoyed the day! Safe travels back home!
Sharony_G, Jul 2024
I don’t think you should bill this as a movie tour. It’s really like a taxi driver in a shuttle taking us to the foot of a mountain. Mentioning a couple things about people like The Rock and showing us his school doesn’t cut it. I appreciated the wooden stick and the bottled water though. And it’s helpful for people who don’t want to take a bus or walk alone. Other downside: I smelled marijuana in our van but that could have been an earlier customer. I know it’s pervasive but it give me a headache.
Response from Host, Jul 2024
Aloha, many films were filmed at Manoa Falls, its just an added information but the main attraction is the falls and walk through nature. In concerns to the smell it is illegal here in Hawaii, many times just driving around you get a strong whiff of it on the streets because many people smoke openly, there have been cases were clients smoke and the smell carries on into the shuttle too. We're sorry about that but it's something hard for us to control and police.
Mahalo.
Karen_M, Jul 2024
I brought my grandkids to Hawaii and we took this hike and being 70-year-old. It was a little tough on me but they had a fabulous time and I would take any of them back anytime. If you’re older, be sure you get a walking stick.
Response from Host, Jul 2024
Mahalo Karen! Congrats on doing this hike, truly one of our favorites in the entire island. We are so glad you enjoyed it
Arnel_B, Jul 2024
It was a great trip. Our driver was very friendly and knowledgeable. The hike was more than what we expected. Had a great time
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