Oahu: Manoa Waterfall Hike & Tantalus Lookout Lunch Pickup

Summary

Walk Oahu’s rainforest trails to Manoa Falls then lunch above Honolulu

You’ll follow a local guide into Oahu’s lush Manoa Valley for an easy hike to Manoa Waterfall, passing rare plants and bamboo groves along the way. After time by the falls, relax with a healthy sandwich lunch at Tantalus Lookout, taking in sweeping views over Honolulu before heading back to Waikiki—muddy shoes likely included.

What’s the experience like?

I’d always heard about the Manoa Waterfall hike — you know, that trail from Jurassic Park? — but seeing it in person was something else. The van picked us up right in Waikiki (I was still half-awake, honestly) and our guide, Kaleo, started chatting about the valley’s history before we even left the city. There was this moment when we turned off the main road and everything just went green and quiet except for the sound of rain on the windshield. I didn’t expect it to feel so different so fast.

The trail itself wasn’t tough, just a bit muddy in spots — my shoes are still recovering. We walked through these bamboo groves where the canes clacked together if you brushed them, and Kaleo stopped to show us a tiny red flower I’d never have noticed otherwise. He pointed out some birds I couldn’t pronounce (Li laughed when I tried), and explained how some plants only grow here in Hawaii. It smelled like wet earth and ginger, which I kind of wish I could bottle up.

When we finally reached Manoa Falls, everyone went quiet for a second. It’s tall — way taller than photos make it seem — and there’s this mist that cools your face if you get close enough. Some people took photos; I just stood there listening to water hit rocks for a while. Afterward, we piled back into the van (muddy legs and all) and headed up to Tantalus Lookout for lunch. The sandwiches from Andy’s were simple but fresh — mine had avocado and sprouts — and eating while looking out over Honolulu made me feel weirdly lucky. Not sure why that stuck with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Manoa Waterfall Hike and Lunch

• Pickup from Waikiki hotels
• Drive to Manoa Valley
• Introduction to area by guide
• Hike 1.6 miles through rainforest
• Explore bamboo groves and native plants
• Learn about Hawaii's ecology and culture
• Reach Manoa Waterfall base
• Take photos and enjoy surroundings
• Visit Tantalus Lookout viewpoint
• Enjoy healthy lunch at lookout
• Return to Waikiki by early afternoon

Top questions

How long is the Manoa Waterfall hike?

The guided hike is about 1.6 miles round trip through Manoa Valley rainforest.

Is transportation from Waikiki included?

Yes, round-trip transportation from select Waikiki hotels is included in the tour.

What do we eat for lunch on this tour?

You’ll have a healthy sandwich lunch from Andy’s Sandwiches at Tantalus Lookout, with options like pastrami, tuna or veggie.

How difficult is the hike to Manoa Falls?

The hike is moderate and suitable for all experience levels but can be muddy in places.

Do we visit anywhere besides Manoa Waterfall?

Yes, after visiting Manoa Waterfall you’ll stop at Tantalus Lookout for lunch with panoramic views of Honolulu.

Is this tour suitable for people with health issues?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health or during pregnancy.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from select Waikiki hotels, a guided walk through Manoa Valley rainforest to see Manoa Waterfall, a stop at Tantalus Lookout with a healthy sandwich lunch from Andy’s Sandwiches (pastrami, tuna or veggie), plus return transport back to Waikiki by early afternoon.