East Maui Waterfalls & Rainforest Hike (Hana Highway) — 2.5-Mile Guided Tour with Hotel Pickup
Follow a local guide off the Hana Highway into a string of waterfalls where columnar basalt shelves, plunge pools and rainforest trails make for a compact, swim-friendly day hike. This 2.5-mile guided tour includes hotel pickup, a healthy lunch and chances to jump into cool pools beneath 40-foot cascades.
The Experience
Before You Go
Confirm pickup 24 hours ahead
If you selected hotel pickup, contact Hike Maui 24 hours before your tour to confirm exact pickup time and location to avoid missing transport.
Wear grippy shoes
Trails are wet and rocky—light hiking shoes with good tread or closed-toe water shoes prevent slips on basalt and stream crossings.
Bring a waterproof bag
Keep cameras, phones, and spare clothing dry in a small dry bag since stream crossings and waterfall spray are frequent.
Respect jump advisories
Only jump where your guide confirms it’s safe—water depth and currents change with rain and season.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •A shallow upstream pool that’s often quiet after midday when larger groups leave
- •Small side trails where native ʻohiʻa lehua and fern groves create a near-private canopy for photos
Wildlife
- •Nēnē (Hawaiian goose)
- •ʻAmakihi (native honeycreeper)
Conservation Note
Stay on paths and pack out all trash—the area’s freshwater ecosystems are delicate; use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid disturbing native plants.
East Maui’s valleys are carved into layers of basalt from Haleakalā’s flows; freshwater streams and loʻi (taro terraces) have supported Hawaiian communities for centuries.
Photographer's Notes
- • Base of the largest fall for scale and motion
- • On a basalt ledge looking downstream to capture multiple falls
- • Edge of a shaded pool for low-angle reflections
What to Bring
Closed-toe water shoes or trail runnersEssential
Grip on wet basalt and protection when wading across rocky streambeds.
Small dry bagEssential
Keeps electronics and spare clothes dry during stream crossings and waterfall spray.
Quick-dry clothing and swimsuitEssential
Light, fast-drying layers make swims and sudden rain comfortable.
Reusable water bottle (1–2 L)Essential
Hydration for the day—guides may provide refills, but bring your own bottle.
Common Questions
How long is the hike and how difficult is it?
The guided portion is about 2.5 miles (4 km) of mostly streamside walking with modest elevation changes and short scrambles; difficulty is moderate due to wet, uneven terrain.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes—pickup and drop-off from major resorts in Kihei, Wailea, Lahaina, Kaʻanapali and Kapalua are included, but you must confirm your pickup time and location 24 hours before the tour.
Can I swim and jump from the basalt ledges?
Yes, many pools are swim-friendly and there are designated jump spots (10–15 ft); only jump where your guide confirms depth and conditions are safe.
What is the minimum age and group size?
Minimum age is 8 years. The tour operates with small groups; check your booking—some supplier notes limit bookings to a maximum of 6 passengers.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear closed-toe water shoes or trail runners, quick-dry clothes and a swimsuit; bring a dry bag, sun protection, and 1–2 L of water.
Is the hike safe in rain or high surf?
The tour operates in all weather, but conditions can alter safety—guides will adjust the route or cancel risky activities; always follow their instructions.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–7 hours
Location
Hana, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers who can handle uneven terrain, short scrambles, and brief swims; moderate aerobic fitness recommended.
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