Hurricane season in Hawaii starts in May and ends in November, which means storm after storm bombards the Islands. This year (2015), with the help of El Nino, the Pacific set a record with three Category 4 Hurricanes simultaneously. At the time of writing this, all Hurricanes so far have dissipated or decreased to a “disturbance” – basically, a regular thunder storm with lots of rain.
Luckily for us, all this rain brings full flowing waterfalls. Many times, the small pools created at the bottom of a flow can be dangerous if it has not rained (it can be too shallow to jump in). With less water, it takes away the thrill of jumping in. The constant rain also liberates stagnancy, dirty, and debris filled water. It does however, get quite muddy with a lot of run-off from the surrounding mountains. The most opportunistic timeframe would be a few days after a storm, allowing the falls to clear most of the run-off.
That being said, the overcast day and gentle rain allowed for a cool (temperature) and relaxing hike. This waterfall hike we accomplished was by far the easiest we’ve visited. We love exploring our “backyard” and surprised we have not done this one sooner!
Malama The Aina – “Respect the land.”
This “hike” has to be the most manageable, almost effortless, trail on Oahu with the most promising reward. Literally looks like a walk in the park…and it is. The entire walkway is paved which allows you to enjoy the forest around you easily.
Abandoned ruins, providing perfect photo opportunities, are seen throughout the stroll.
Bring your kids, mother-in-law, or doggies! It’s a fun hike for everyone!
One can get to the top of the falls, for a better vantage point, by using the rope to the left, rocks to the right, or straight up the center! The force of the water is light compared to most waterfalls on Oahu making it feasible to scale up. It’s a wonderful feeling being able to “conquer” the falls by going straight up. Jumping off into the pool is also easily done: either on the side where the rope is located, middle of the falls where rocks protrude out as a small platform (barely enough to fit your feet), or to higher rocks by the forest brush (out of picture).
Disclaimer: Although undemanding for us, we highly encourage readers to be in at least a minimal physical shape in some fashion or another. All outdoor activities can be dangerous so be weary of the weather, your location, and ALWAYS bring water! – no matter how cold or hot.
Kalihi St.
Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
“We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm, and adventure. There is no end to the adventures that we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open.”
– Jawaharlal Nehru
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