Lulumahu Falls Honolulu
An unmarked trail through a lush bamboo forest leading to a serene waterfall, offering a magical escape in Honolulu.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Lulumahu Falls Honolulu
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An unmarked trail through a lush bamboo forest leading to a serene waterfall, offering a magical escape in Honolulu.
"A magical hike through a bamboo forest to a beautiful waterfall, a must-see on Oahu! "
🎟️ Get Your Permit Online
A permit is mandatory! Book it in advance to avoid issues.
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Muddy & slippery trails! Hiking or water shoes are a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lulumahu Falls
End of the trail
A beautiful, secluded waterfall cascading into a refreshing pool. Perfect for a dip!
Bamboo Forest
Along the trail
Wander through a magical, towering bamboo forest that feels like a movie set.
Graffiti Bunker
Along the trail
Discover a unique, art-covered bunker adding an unexpected urban element to the hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Permit & Parking
Trail Conditions & Footwear
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Get Your Permit Online
A permit is mandatory! Book it in advance to avoid issues.
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Muddy & slippery trails! Hiking or water shoes are a must.
💧 Pack Light & Stay Hydrated
Bring water, but avoid overpacking. Less is more on this trail.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Trails can be confusing; an offline map helps prevent getting lost.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Get Your Permit Online
A permit is mandatory! Book it in advance to avoid issues.
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Muddy & slippery trails! Hiking or water shoes are a must.
💧 Pack Light & Stay Hydrated
Bring water, but avoid overpacking. Less is more on this trail.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Trails can be confusing; an offline map helps prevent getting lost.
⚠️ Be Cautious at Falls
Large rocks can fall from the top. Avoid standing directly under the cascade.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Lulumahu Falls for its magical bamboo forest and beautiful waterfall, offering a refreshing escape. While the hike is generally manageable, be prepared for muddy, slippery trails and the need for a permit. Some find the trail confusing, but the natural beauty and less-crowded atmosphere make it a worthwhile adventure.
"You do need a permit for this hike! Even though it has been raining (not hard or a lot though) days leading up to this hike (its Hawaii it rains everyday lol) it was not overly muddy and we did not find it too difficult to hike or follow the trail with our 1.5 year old and our 3.5 year old (who hiked the whole thing himself!). Warning ⚠️ a woman there told us large rocks fall down from the top of the waterfall so despite how beautiful it is you might not want to stand right under the falls."
Tara Busch
"This was one of our favorite spots during our trip. We ventured out there twice taking different trails each way and exploring all around! My husband and I even danced in the bamboo forest to our favorite song it was magical. The falls were gorgeous but slippery so be very careful. We wore hiking shoes and clothes over our swimsuits the first time the next time we went we wore water shoes and just our swimsuits and brought water. The less you bring the better! We had no trouble finding a parking spots when we went but there is limited parking."
Kristine Hertz
"It’s a nice hike, but…The trails can be a bit confusing and slippery in some spots, definitely wear good grippy shoes, and be prepared for mud with any recent amount of rain. There was also one trail towards the back end of the falls that went straight up the side of the steep incline and then basically ended. I turned some kids around who were walking that way because it was truly treacherous in that spot at least.
Other than that, it was a pretty decent moderate to challenging hike, which wound back and forth across the water several times, so if you go, wear good water/hiking shoes that you’re not afraid to get wet!
We hiked in with a backpack with water and a small picnic lunch, which we enjoyed by the falls which were very pretty and refreshingly cool as well. It’s about 2-3 miles in total depending on how much you switch back and forth as you hike."
Meghan Skrepenski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Waikiki, you can drive or take a taxi/rideshare to the trailhead. The drive is about 20-30 minutes. Parking is limited, so consider arriving early or being dropped off.
Public transportation options are limited and may require multiple transfers, making driving or rideshares more convenient. Check local bus routes for the most up-to-date information.
The trailhead is not officially marked. Look for the entrance near the Nu'uanu Pali Drive and the Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve. Using a GPS app with downloaded maps is highly recommended.
The hike is generally considered easy to moderate. While not overly difficult, it can be muddy and slippery, requiring good footwear.
The hike to the falls and back typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a permit is required for Lulumahu Falls. You can book this online in advance through the Honolulu Board of Water Supply website.
The permit fee is typically a small amount, often around $1 per person, but it's best to check the official website for current pricing.
While there isn't a strict gate closure, it's advisable to complete the hike during daylight hours for safety and visibility. Check permit details for any specific time restrictions.
Yes, swimming at the base of Lulumahu Falls is a popular activity. The water is refreshing, but be cautious of slippery rocks.
The primary cost is the permit fee. There is no separate entrance fee for the hike itself, beyond the required permit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Wear sturdy hiking shoes or water shoes with good grip. Bring quick-drying clothes, and consider wearing your swimsuit underneath if you plan to swim.
The trail winds through a lush rainforest, including a bamboo forest and an open field. It involves crossing streams and can be muddy and slippery.
It's less crowded than some other popular Oahu attractions, especially if you go on a weekday or early in the morning.
There are no facilities directly at the trailhead or along the hike. Plan accordingly and use restrooms before you start.
Typically, pets are not allowed in watershed areas like Lulumahu Falls to protect water quality. Always check the latest regulations before bringing a pet.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the towering bamboo forest, the unique graffiti bunker, and of course, the beautiful waterfall itself. The surrounding lush greenery also makes for great shots.
Be extremely cautious near the waterfall. The rocks are slippery, and there's a risk of falling rocks from above.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the bamboo forest and waterfall. A waterproof camera or phone case is advisable due to potential splashes and stream crossings.
Drone usage is often restricted in protected areas like watershed reserves. Check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. Midday sun can be harsh, but the waterfall's mist can create interesting effects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While swimming is an option, supervise children closely due to slippery rocks and the depth of the water. The bamboo forest is a magical element that often captivates children, offering a unique sensory experience. Remember to secure your permit in advance and aim for an early morning visit to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To save further, pack your own snacks and water instead of buying them nearby. Consider using a rideshare service and coordinating with other travelers to split the fare, or research public transport options if you're comfortable with longer travel times.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Lulumahu Falls Trail
As you progress, the trail involves several stream crossings. These can range from stepping stones to wading through shallow water, so waterproof footwear is essential. The path can become quite muddy and slippery, especially after rainfall, making good traction crucial. While the main path is generally discernible, some sections can be confusing, leading to the common experience of getting slightly lost. Downloading an offline map on apps like AllTrails is highly recommended to stay on track.
Despite the potential for getting turned around, the journey is rewarding. The trail is approximately 2-3 miles round trip, offering a moderate challenge that’s manageable for most fitness levels. The payoff is the magnificent Lulumahu Falls, a beautiful cascade where you can cool off and enjoy the serene surroundings. Remember that while the falls are stunning, caution is advised due to potential falling rocks.
Permit, Parking, and Practicalities
Parking at the trailhead is notoriously limited. Arriving early in the morning, especially on a weekday, significantly increases your chances of finding a spot. If parking is full, you may need to park further away and walk a short distance to the trailhead, or arrange for a drop-off. This is a common piece of advice from visitors who have experienced the parking crunch.
When it comes to footwear, the consensus is clear: leave the flip-flops at home. The trail is often muddy, slick, and involves stream crossings. Sturdy hiking boots or water shoes with excellent grip are highly recommended to navigate the terrain safely and comfortably.
+1 Bringing a small backpack with water and snacks is advisable, but avoid overpacking to maintain agility on the trail. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit