Maui: Waterfalls & Rainforest Hike with Hotel Pickup & Swim

Summary

East Maui rainforest hike swim under waterfalls basalt rocks lunch

You’ll hike through east Maui’s rainforest with a local guide, swim beneath waterfalls, and try climbing basalt rocks if you’re feeling brave. Enjoy a healthy lunch by the water before heading back — expect muddy shoes, new stories, and maybe a little more courage than you arrived with.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I didn’t expect to start my day in Maui by squishing my toes into red mud before 10am. The van picked us up right at our hotel — still half-asleep, I watched the Hana Highway blur past in that early light. Our guide, Kaleo, had this way of telling stories about the valley that made even the road feel alive. He pointed out wild ginger growing along the trail and showed us how to spot ripe guava (I tried one — tart and sweet at once).

The hike itself wasn’t hard, but it felt like we were sneaking into another world. There was this hush under the trees, except for water somewhere ahead. When we reached the first waterfall — honestly, it was taller than I’d pictured — you could hear it before you saw it. The air smelled green and cold. Some of us jumped straight in; I hesitated (cold water is not my thing), but then just went for it. Swimming under that waterfall felt weirdly peaceful, like everything else faded out for a bit.

Kaleo showed us how to climb up these black basalt columns next to another fall — he made it look easy. My hands slipped on the wet rock, but he waited and gave tips without making me feel dumb. A couple of people did jumps from higher up (not me). Lunch was simple but fresh — sandwiches and fruit eaten sitting on warm stones with our feet dangling in the stream. There was a moment when everyone went quiet except for the sound of water and birds overhead. I still think about that view sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Waterfalls and rainforest hike in Maui

• Pick up from hotel
• Drive to Hana Highway hiking start
• Hike 2.5 miles to waterfalls
• Visit three or more waterfalls
• Wade into pools under falls
• Climb basalt ledges and jump
• Enjoy healthy lunch
• Return to hotel by van

Top questions

How long is the waterfall hike in Maui?

The hike covers about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) through east Maui’s rainforest valley.

Is swimming allowed under the waterfalls?

Yes, you can swim in pools beneath the falls if conditions are safe; your guide will advise.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

Yes, round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you provide your hotel info at booking.

What should I bring for the Maui waterfall hike?

Wear a swimsuit under your clothes, bring sturdy shoes that can get muddy, and dress for changing weather.

Is lunch provided during the hike?

Yes, a healthy lunch and snacks are included after exploring the waterfalls.

How many people are on each tour?

The maximum group size is six passengers per booking; larger groups can contact the supplier directly.

Can kids join this rainforest hiking adventure?

The minimum age is 8 years old for this tour.

What happens if there aren’t enough people booked?

If there aren’t at least two passengers booked, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off along Hana Highway, all guiding from a local expert who knows every turn of the rainforest trails, plus snacks and a healthy lunch eaten beside one of Maui’s waterfalls before returning to your hotel in comfort.