Oahu, with its breathtaking array of tranquil natural wonders, has firmly cemented its place as a crown jewel in the dreams and vacation culture of the human collective consciousness.
Glittering with culture and stunning landscapes, the Waimea Valley stands as a microcosm of all the great things about Hawaii.
Once the seat of Hawaiian chieftains in ancient times, the legacy of stewardship now continues through modern-day efforts to preserve the valley’s wildlife, indigenous culture, and pristine waterfalls.
The Waimea Waterfalls is a visual spectacle at the end of a rewarding hike, as water leaps off a cliff and falls 50 feet into a beautiful pool bed, beckoning you to float and relax.
The adventure commences at the entrance to Waimea Falls Park, where the air carries the fragrance of blooming flowers, and the melodious songs of birds serenade all those who wander through.
This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets to the Waimea Waterfall tour.
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What to expect at Waimea Waterfalls
Explore Waimea Valley, a hallowed and culturally enriched preserved park cherished by the people of Hawaii. Immerse yourself in the rich history and intricate stone terraces of Waimea, harkening back to its days as the ancestral domain of the Hawaiian Monarchy.
Witness an astonishing diversity of flora at the Waimea Botanical Gardens, where you’ll encounter unique landscapes hosting endemic plant species as well as those hailing from the Japanese Ogasawara Islands, Central and South America, Fiji, Guam, and the Mascarene Islands.
The vivid colors of exotic flowers, the towering canopy of ancient trees, and the delicate symphony of rustling leaves blend to create an oasis of tranquility.
Step on the trail leading to the Waimea waterfall, meandering along a gently flowing stream, through dense foliage, and across wooden bridges.
Take a refreshing dip and unwind in the serene pool beneath the captivating Waimea Waterfall. Here, the cascading waters tumble gracefully from rugged rocks, orchestrating a mesmerizing natural symphony of sights and sounds.
Let the lush green foliage and hanging mist around the waterfall gently rock you into a serene calm.
Drive along the perimeter or take a hike to the iconic volcanic crater, the Diamond Head State Monument.
Climb to the lookout point and feel the history of this scenic landscape seep into your bones as you stand at the point where bystanders gathered to watch Amelia Earhart make her first solo journey from Hawaii to North America.
Stand in reflection at the serene Byodo-In Temple, a stunning replica of a 950-year-old Japanese Buddhist temple with a beautiful pond, and feel free to relax and meditate.
Sunbathe at the Makapu’u beach and take a hiking trail to Makapu’u Lighthouse for panoramic views that will permeate deep into your heart for all eternity.
Witness the dramatic spectacle of nature’s power at the Halona Blowhole, where waves crash into an underwater lava tube, and water spurts up like a geyser.
The Halona Blowhole is located in a sandpit surrounded by cliffs called the Halona Beach Cove, which offers sumptuous views of the surrounding waters and is immortalized in the movie “From Here to Eternity.”
Gorge on tropical fruits such as pineapples, coconuts, and dragonfruit at the Dole Plantation and Kahuku Farms, or try macadamia nut and delicious Kona coffee tastings at the Macadamia Nut Farm.
Sit at the Nuʻuanu Pali lookout for stunning views of Oahu’s Windward Coast, and wonder at the duality of life as you realize this beautiful place was once the site of the bloodiest battle in Hawaiian history.
Try the best of Hawaiian culinary experiences with lunch at Fumi’s Kahuku Shrimp, and hot malasadas at Leonard’s Bakery.
Visit the Haleiwa Beach Park on North Shores’ world-renowned coastline, famous for its giant waves, turtles, and snorkeling.
You will also have a chance to visit Sunset Beach and Sandy Beach Park, which looks serene and calm but is widely infamous for its powerful shore breaks!
Where to book tickets
Tickets for Waimea Waterfall Tours are available online and at the Waimea Valley Visitors Center.
Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the venue.
When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the attraction’s ticket counters.
When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.
Because some attractions sell a limited number of tickets, during peak days they may sell out. Booking early also helps avoid last-minute disappointments.
How do online tickets work
Visit the booking page for the Waimea Valley Waterfall.
Specify your planned travel date and the number of tickets.
Once you complete the booking process, the tickets will be mailed to you.
You do not need to carry printouts.
Show the e-ticket on your smartphone to the staff at the pickup point and carry a valid ID.
Waimea Waterfall ticket price
For the Hidden Gems of Oahu – Circle Island Tour with Waimea Waterfall, the ticket cost for all ages above 12 is US$139.
Children aged between three and 12 can get access at US$109.
Infants under three are not charged anything.
For the All Inclusive Ultimate Circle Island Day Tour with Lunch and Waimea Waterfall, the ticket price for all ages is US$146.
For the Free Byodo-In Temple and Waimea Waterfall Circle Island Day Tour, the ticket price for all ages above 13 is US$129.
Children under the age of 12 can gain access at US$80.
Waimea Waterfall tickets
There is a range of options to choose from if you wish to tour the Waimea Waterfall Oahu.
Each tour comes with a different itinerary and attractions.
Hidden Gems of Oahu – Circle Island Tour with Waimea Waterfall tickets
A ticket to this tour will get you access to the Full Day Circle Island Day Tour with access to Waimea waterfall.
An air-conditioned van will pick you up at the Waikiki beach.
A professional guide will accompany you on your journey.
The tour will be inclusive of all admission ticket prices.
You will visit Diamond Head State Monument, Halona Blowhole, and Tropical Nut Farms.
The tour will continue further to Mokoli’i Island, Sunset Beach, Kahuku Farms, Waimea Valley, and Dole Plantation.
You will also pass by Makapu’u Point Witness Waimanalo’s dramatic sea cliffs.
This trip will last around 8 hours, including pick-up and drop-off.
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$139
Child Ticket (3 to 12 years): US$109
Infant Ticket (up to 3 years): Free
All-Inclusive Ultimate Circle Island Day Tour with Lunch and Waimea Waterfall
A ticket to this tour will get you access to the Full Day Circle Island Day Tour with entrance to Waimea Valley and a delicious Hawaiian Lunch.
An air-conditioned van will pick you up from your hotel near Waikiki.
A professional guide will accompany you on your journey.
The tour will be inclusive of all admission ticket prices.
You will visit Halona Blowhole, Sandy Beach Park, Nu’uanu Pali, and Byodo-In Temple.
The tour will continue further to Mokoli’i Island, Waimea Arboretum and Botanical Garden, and Dole Plantation.
You will also pass by Makapu’u Point, Sunset Beach, and Diamond Head State Monument.
This trip will last around 10 hours, including pick-up and drop-off.
Ticket Price: US$145
Free Byodo-In Temple and Waimea Waterfall Circle Island Day Tour tickets
A ticket to this tour will get you access to the Waimea Valley Waterfall Tour with added access to Byodo-In Temple, Diamond Head State Monument, and Halona Blowhole.
An air-conditioned van will pick you up from your hotel near Waikiki.
A professional guide will accompany you on your journey.
You will have to pay an entrance fee of US$20 per person at the Waimea Waterfall.
You will visit Waimea Waterfall, Diamond Head State Monument, Waimanalo Market, Halona Blowhole, and Byodo-In Temple.
The tour will continue further to Macadamia Nut Farm, Kahuku, King Kamehameha Statue, Iolani Palace, and Dole Plantation.
You will also pass by Makapu’u Point and Waikiki Beach.
This trip will last around eight hours, including pick-up and drop-off.
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$129
Child Ticket (up to 12 years): US$80
Save time and money! Explore Helicopter Tours in Hawaii and witness volcanoes, lush mountains, waterfalls, and pristine beaches from the sky. This bird’s eye experience is an opportunity to enjoy the thrill of your life. You might even land in the middle of a desert, winery, or snow!
How to reach Waimea Waterfalls
The Waimea Waterfall is located in the Waimea Valley in North Oahu, a unique botanical garden with a cultural and archaeological site.
It is accessible by public or private transportation.
By Bus
Kamehameha Hwy + Waimea Valley Rd bus station is just a minute away from the Waimea Valley entrance.
The trail to Waimea waterfall will lead you to the waterfall after a 25-30 minute walk.
The following bus lines will lead you to the Waimea Valley:
- 60, Honolulu – Ala Moana Center
- 88A, Express – N. Shore – Alapai Tc
By Car
You can put your starting point here to drive to the Waimea Valley.
Cars are available for rent, and taxis are available for hire in Honolulu.
There are parking spots near the Waimea Valley.
Waimea Waterfalls timings
The Waimea Valley is open for visitors all days of the week, all year round, from 9 am to 5 pm.
The round trip along the trail of Waimea Waterfall is 1.5 miles (2.4 km).
How long does the tour take
A tour of Waimea Waterfall and the Waimea Valley attractions takes around 2.5 hours.
If you are including the transportation back and forth from Honolulu, you should budget about 5 hours for the trip.
Best time to visit Waimea Waterfalls
The best time to visit Waimea Valley Waterfall is at 9 am.
It will allow you to be ahead of the crowds and soak yourself in the Waimea waterfall pool in serenity at your own leisure.
FAQs about the Waimea Waterfall
Here are some frequently asked questions about Waimea Waterfall.
Yes, swimming in Waimea Waterfall is allowed.
Yes, most surfaces are both wheelchair and stroller accessible.
The distance and travel time to Waimea Falls are roughly 3/4 of a mile (1.2 km) and 30 minutes, respectively.
The entire route is paved and has gentle slopes.
For more daring walkers who want to explore all of our botanical garden collections, there are many gravel pathways off the main corridor.
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