Honolulu: Manoa Falls Hike & Waikiki Shuttle

A 150-foot waterfall hidden in Oahu's rainforest, shuttle included so you skip the parking

You get picked up from your Waikiki hotel, driven to the trailhead, and walk a self-guided 2-mile rainforest trail to a 150-foot waterfall at your own pace. Water, bug spray, and walking sticks are provided. The shuttle returns you to your hotel at a set time, so you skip parking, directions, and the logistics of getting back.

Step-by-step itinerary

Manoa Falls Rainforest Hike with Shuttle

• Take round-trip shuttle from Waikiki
• Receive water, bug spray, walking sticks
• Hike 2-mile Manoa Falls Trail
• Cross footbridge and small stream
• Walk through eucalyptus groves
• Climb stairs and boulders on trail
• Reach base of 150-foot Manoa Falls
• Enjoy waterfall views and photos
• Return via shuttle to Waikiki

The experience

"You go up, you see the falls, you come back down: no stress," the shuttle driver told me before we left Waikiki. That's the whole thing, really. The round-trip transport from your hotel means you don't spend the morning hunting for parking or trying to figure out which turn you missed on the way to the trailhead. You just show up, get driven to Manoa Falls, and walk the trail at your own pace.

The hike itself is two miles through eucalyptus groves and over footbridges, with a small stream running alongside most of the way. It's not flat (there are stairs, boulder scrambles, and sections where the path gets muddy and steep), but it's the kind of moderate that feels doable even if you're not training for anything. Walking sticks are provided, which helps on the rocky bits. The trail is self-guided, so you move at whatever speed works for you, stop to take photos, sit on a rock and listen to the water. Bottled water and bug spray come with it, which matters because the rainforest is thick and humid, and the mosquitoes know where to find you.

The payoff is the waterfall itself: 150 feet of water dropping into a pool at the base, surrounded by cliff faces and dripping vegetation. It's the kind of view that makes sense why people hike to it, even on an island full of beaches. The shuttle picks you up at a set time on the way back, so you're not stranded figuring out how to get home, and the whole thing (hike, transport, gear) is done in a morning or early afternoon.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip shuttle service from your Waikiki hotel, bottled water, bug spray, a walking stick for support on rocky sections, and national park fees. Ponchos are available for purchase if rain is heavy.

Before you book

Days and timesMonday to FridayDepartures at 07:00, 09:00 and 11:00

Book up to1h before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (3 to 12 years) · Under 3: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 40

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 14 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Kaimana Tours

Is this one for you?Book this if you want a rainforest hike to a real waterfall without renting a car or navigating Oahu's roads. The shuttle handles the logistics so you just show up and walk.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 12 years). Under 3: they can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How long does the whole thing take, including the shuttle?

The hike itself is usually 1.5 to 2 hours depending on pace. Add shuttle time from Waikiki and you're looking at roughly 3 to 4 hours total.

Is the trail difficult?

It's moderate. There are stairs, boulder climbs, and muddy sections, but it's not technical. You need decent fitness and comfortable hiking shoes. Walking sticks help on the steep parts.

Can you swim in the waterfall pool?

No, swimming isn't safe at the base of the falls. The water is cold and the current is strong.

What's included in the price?

Round-trip shuttle from Waikiki, bottled water, bug spray, walking stick, and park fees.

Do I need to book the shuttle time in advance?

Yes, you arrange a pickup time when you book so the driver knows when to collect you from your hotel and when to meet you back at the trailhead.

Is this hike suitable for older travelers or people with injuries?

It's not recommended for travelers over 65, those with spinal injuries, or people with poor cardiovascular health. The stairs and boulder climbs are the limiting factors.

What should I wear?

Sneakers or hiking shoes with good grip. Comfortable, quick-dry clothes work best. The trail gets muddy and wet.