Waterfalls, Honolulu

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Just a few short miles from Waikiki this 1.3 km hike is a great way to see some nature while on Oahu. The elevation is 800 feet. You're feet will definitely get muddy, so I'd definitely wear some shores instead of slipper or sandals. The trail can be quite slippery. Round trip took about an hour and a half. There is no fee and you can find free parking down the road in the close neighborhood, but there is a parking lot next to the trail entrance which was $5. They provided a trail map and can also provide lotion and bug repellant wipes if you need some. The waterfall isn't quite Niagra Falls, but it's a nice payoff at the end of the hike. No matter how hot you are and how refreshing it may seem, do not go swimming under the waterfall or take a drink. There is a bacteria in the water that could make you ill.

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Alapena Pool and Kapena Falls (sometimes called Alapena Falls) is in a lush jungle habitat just off the Pali Highway. You can actually get a glimpse of the crest of the falls while driving along the falls if you know where to look.
The falls itself is about 15 feet (5 m) and falls into a deep pool. Cliff jumping locations can be found above the pool. Be aware, however if you do decide to swim that their is a risk of encountering the Leptospirosis bacteria.
The area was once used as a royal bathing area in ancient Hawaiian times, it has sense been overrun by banyan trees with long cascading foliage. Although the falls are very picturesque, the Highway can constantly be heard just behind the falls. I was actually more interested in the lower falls (see next tip) found just downstream, than Kapena falls itself. It is more scenic, quieter, and provides a more relaxing atmosphere.

Directions:
From H-1 Exit on the Pali Highway (61) and drive 1 mile to Wylie street exit and turn around returning onto the Pali highway in the southbound direction. In .2 miles take a “Scenic Lookout” turnout on the right.
From this parking area walk back up the road to near where the initial “Scenic Lookout in 500 feet” sign is from there a path should be visible to your left. Follow this path to the falls.

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Alapena falls is found just downstream from Kapena falls and the Alapena Pool. This area is remarkably relaxing seeing at it is nestled between a highway and a cemetery. The cascades here are about 15-20 feet (3-6 m) over through a rocky gorge.
The banyan trees close in the amphitheatre and little sunlight makes it through so the lighting conditions are very good for photography. I don’t believe that the pool beneath would be deep enough for swimming but I may be incorrect. As is the case with most of the streams in Hawaii the Leptospirosis bacteria may be present so don't drink the water. There are also some ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs somewhere in the area. I didn’t see them though.

Directions:
From H-1 Exit on the Pali Highway (61) and drive 1 mile to Wylie street exit and turn around returning onto the Pali highway in the southbound direction. In .2 miles take a “Scenic Lookout” turnout on the right.
From this parking area walk back up the road to near where the initial “Scenic Lookout in 500 feet” sign is from there a path should be visible to your left. Follow this path to the falls. Find your way downstream for about 100 feet (30 m) to the other waterfall.

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Manoa Falls is probably the most visited Waterfall on Oahu. The falls is about 150 feet (45 m) although some sources inaccurately label it as much shorter.
I found the hike to be very nice aside from its heavy use. It is a very popular hike. The trail begins at the Lyon Arboretum and the plant life along the trail seems to be an extension of that. Bamboo and many other interesting foliage lines the trail.
The falls seem to be quite seasonal, when I visited the water was hardly flowing but I believe it would be much more impressive had there been more water. The end of the trail has cables set up to restrict access to the base of the falls. The fear is that a rockslide could come down as it has in the past. You should also be aware of the potential for encountering the Leptospirosis bacteria if you swim.
The parking area for Manoa Falls charges $5 just to park. I find this crazy since it is a trailhead that seems like it’s pretty far out. However if you drive back down the road until you stop seeing signs saying “No Parking” you should be able to find roadside parking for free.

Directions:
From H-1 take the University Street exit. Drive through UH campus and Turn right once you get to Manoa Road. Follow carefully follow until it dead ends at the trail head.

This BEAUTIFUL masterpiece of nature, a rainforest at it's best, are one of the hidden treasures of Oahu, Hawaii. "Manoa Falls Trailhead" It's about a one hour hike alongside Manoa stream.

Bring lots of H20 on this hike. The area can get very slippery so bring footwear that can really get a good grip on the rocks. Remember to also wear, and carry mosquito repellent. A good one is from Avon, called "Skin so Soft". It is a non-toxic and pleasant smelling repellent for mosquitos.

If you are looking for a waterfall and were thinking Waimea Falls - but you are put off by the $US24 price... then consider Manoa Falls near Waikiki. The walk to the falls is 100% more beautiful (not just a roadway.. an actual rainforest walk) and the waterfall itself is pretty. I don't think you can swim in the water area below, but the scenery more then makes up for it. Take the #5 bus from Ala Moana Center if you don't have a car, doesn't take too long.

This was supposed to be a big waterfall!!!! But I think that have to bee 100 years ago or something…