Laie Falls Trail
A secluded 7-mile hike on Oahu's North Shore leading to a serene waterfall and pool, with stunning ridge views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Laie Falls Trail
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded 7-mile hike on Oahu's North Shore leading to a serene waterfall and pool, with stunning ridge views.
"The best hike I have had in Hawaii, 100% recommend!"
✅ Secure Your Permit
An online permit is mandatory. Don't forget to complete this step before your visit!
👟 Sturdy, Waterproof Shoes
Expect mud and slippery sections, especially near the falls. Good grip is essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Laie Falls
End of the trail
A serene cascade into a refreshing pool, perfect for a cool dip after your hike.
Panoramic Ridge Views
Along the trail
Breathtaking vistas of the lush valley and distant Pacific Ocean.
Lush Tropical Forest
Throughout the trail
Immerse yourself in a vibrant green world of ferns, ginger, and wild guava.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Permit & Preparation
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✅ Secure Your Permit
An online permit is mandatory. Don't forget to complete this step before your visit!
👟 Sturdy, Waterproof Shoes
Expect mud and slippery sections, especially near the falls. Good grip is essential.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The 7-mile round trip hike can be strenuous, especially with humidity. Stay hydrated!
➡️ Trail Intersection
Early on, go right for the waterfall. Signage is generally good.
Tips
from all over the internet
✅ Secure Your Permit
An online permit is mandatory. Don't forget to complete this step before your visit!
👟 Sturdy, Waterproof Shoes
Expect mud and slippery sections, especially near the falls. Good grip is essential.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The 7-mile round trip hike can be strenuous, especially with humidity. Stay hydrated!
➡️ Trail Intersection
Early on, go right for the waterfall. Signage is generally good.
🌿 Enjoy the Seclusion
This trail is less crowded, offering a peaceful experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Laie Falls Trail is a highly recommended, rewarding hike offering stunning natural beauty and a sense of seclusion. While challenging with its length and slippery sections, the payoff of reaching the serene waterfall and enjoying panoramic views makes it a favorite for many. Some find the final descent tricky, but the overall experience is deeply immersive and peaceful.
"The best Hike I have had in Hawaii
100% recommend
Its a long Hike
I started at 10:50 am and was in my car by 2:15 pm.
The path is clear and well maintained.
There is one intersection that you will meet early on in your hike, for the waterfall you should go right.
I went on October, the waterfall was amazing and water level was deep. Amazing experience
Also this trail is not walked by many, so you will most likely have the opportunity to enjoy the waterfall all by yourself or with your friends."
Saifeldin Ain
"Tucked away on Oʻahu’s lush North Shore, the Lā‘ie Falls Trail is one of those rare gems that delivers a true Hawaiian hiking experience — where the journey and destination are equally rewarding. From the moment you step onto the path, you're embraced by a world that feels untouched, alive, and profoundly peaceful.
The trail begins with a gentle ascent through private land, opening quickly into expansive ridgeline views. On a clear day, the Pacific Ocean shimmers in the distance, stretching endlessly beyond the town of Lā‘ie. As you gain elevation, the air becomes cooler, and the sounds of the world below fade into birdsong and the rustling of leaves.
What makes this hike truly captivating is the diversity of scenery. One moment, you're weaving through ironwood forests that whisper with every breeze; the next, you're surrounded by towering ferns, ginger, and wild guava trees that perfume the trail with a sweet, earthy fragrance. The foliage is thick and lush — a living cathedral of green.
The crown jewel of the hike, Lā‘ie Falls itself, is a modest yet elegant cascade tucked into a serene jungle alcove. It’s not grand in height, but it feels sacred, as though you've stumbled upon a secret oasis. The pool at its base is inviting — cool, refreshing, and perfect for rinsing off the effort of the climb.
This is not a trail for those seeking an easy stroll — the 7-mile round trip can be muddy, root-ridden, and steep in places, especially after rain. But for those willing to embrace the challenge, it rewards with an experience that is meditative, scenic, and deeply immersive.
Pro Tips:
Bring water, sturdy shoes, and expect to get muddy.
Start early to avoid afternoon heat and maximize the tranquility.
Final Verdict:
Lā‘ie Falls Trail is a stunning blend of tropical wilderness and soulful seclusion. It’s the kind of hike that leaves you breathless not just from the effort, but from the beauty — a place where the spirit of Hawai‘i is felt in every step."
Ben C
"So we hiked about a mile of this trail and learned a ton so I wanted to share what we learned, with the caveat that we did not make it to the end of the trail. First, you need to fill out an online permit. Second, the trail is definitely longer than a mile, its in good condition but you definitely raise in elevation and with the humidity and heat it can be difficult. The signage was pretty good and we never felt lost. Overall a very nice trail but definitely more difficult than we were expecting. Still a pleasant experience though."
Travis Dorsey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located on Oahu's North Shore. While specific directions can vary, it's generally accessible by car. Parking availability might be limited, so arriving early is recommended.
Public transportation options to the immediate trailhead might be limited. It's advisable to check local bus routes or consider ride-sharing services if you don't have a car.
The trail is generally well-maintained and marked, but it's always good to have a map or GPS device. Pay attention to signage, especially at intersections.
Information regarding parking fees is not widely available, but it's always wise to be prepared for potential charges or to check local advisories before you go.
Hiking at night is generally not recommended due to safety concerns and potential trail condition issues. Stick to daylight hours for the best and safest experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a permit is required to hike the Laie Falls Trail. You must fill out an online permit before your visit.
Permits for the Laie Falls Trail are obtained online. It's crucial to complete this process in advance of your planned hike.
While a permit is required, specific entrance fees beyond the permit cost are not commonly mentioned. It's best to confirm any associated costs when applying for your permit.
The trail is typically open during daylight hours. It's advisable to start early to make the most of your hike and avoid the afternoon heat.
No, permits for the Laie Falls Trail must be obtained online in advance. On-site purchase is not an option.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Laie Falls Trail is approximately a 7-mile round trip hike. It can take around 3-4 hours to complete, depending on your pace.
The Laie Falls hike is considered moderate to difficult. While some sections are easy, others are steep, technical, and can be very muddy and slippery, especially the final descent to the falls.
Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes with good grip. Lightweight, quick-drying clothing is also recommended, as you'll likely encounter mud and humidity.
Restroom facilities are not typically mentioned at the trailhead or along the Laie Falls Trail. Plan accordingly and use facilities before you begin your hike.
The Laie Falls Trail can be challenging for young children due to its length, steep sections, and slippery terrain. It's best suited for older children or those experienced with hiking.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for openings along the ridgeline offering panoramic views of the valley and ocean. The waterfall itself and the lush surrounding foliage also make for beautiful shots.
The final descent to the falls can be slippery and technical, so exercise caution when taking photos. The surrounding jungle offers many opportunities for vibrant nature shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and dense forest. A waterproof camera or phone case is advisable due to potential mud and mist from the waterfall.
Early morning light can be beautiful for the ridge views, offering softer light. The waterfall area is shaded, so midday can work, but be mindful of potential harsh shadows.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check current local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in protected natural areas before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families: Start very early to avoid the heat, pack extra snacks and water, and be prepared for a longer day than anticipated. The reward of reaching the secluded waterfall can be exciting, but the journey requires careful consideration of your children's abilities and comfort levels. Consider a shorter, less strenuous hike if you have very young children.
💰 Budget Travelers
Tips for budget travelers: Pack all your own food and drinks to avoid purchasing them at inflated prices. Utilize free parking if available, or factor in minimal costs for parking. The main investment is your time and effort, making it a highly rewarding and cost-effective adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Laie Falls Trail Experience
As you ascend, the trail opens up to expansive ridgeline views, offering glimpses of the distant Pacific Ocean and the town of Laie. These scenic overlooks provide a welcome respite and a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the island. The air is often perfumed with the sweet scent of wild ginger and guava. The final approach to the waterfall involves a steep, technical descent, often aided by ropes, requiring careful footing.
The culmination of the hike is Laie Falls, a modest yet beautiful cascade that tumbles into a cool, inviting pool. While not a towering waterfall, its secluded setting makes it feel like a hidden oasis. It's the perfect spot to cool off, rinse off the trail dust, and reflect on the rewarding journey. The relative lack of crowds means you might have this serene spot all to yourself, enhancing the feeling of discovery.
Permitting and Preparation
Footwear is crucial for this hike. Sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes with excellent grip are essential due to the often muddy and slippery conditions, particularly on the technical sections leading to the waterfall. Wearing appropriate clothing, such as lightweight and quick-drying fabrics, will also enhance comfort. Bringing snacks is also a good idea to maintain energy levels during the hike.
It's also wise to check the weather forecast before you go. While the trail offers plenty of shade, heavy rains can make the path more challenging and increase the risk of slips. Being prepared for these conditions will contribute to a safer and more enjoyable Laie Falls hike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit