Manoa Falls (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Manoa Falls?
What makes it 70% Kids-Friendly: Children up to 12 usually love the muddy vines and pool, and route length is under 2 hours, yet parents must monitor slips, bring water, and note no playground or ranger programs.
Positives:
- Easy access: Trail start is close to parking lot. Kids can join the full 1.6-mile loop.
- Free entry: No fee to hike the trail. You can park for free further down Manoa Road.
- Interactive nature: Kids can spot guava fruit and forest birds along the stream.
Challenges:
- Trail conditions: Path is muddy and slippery after rain. Wear good shoes and watch young kids.
- Limited facilities: Restrooms near parking have no changing tables. Bring portable supplies.
What is Manoa Falls?
- A 150-foot perennial waterfall set within a lush tropical rainforest in Manoa Valley on the island of Oahu
- A natural cascade fed by a mountain stream and framed by native ʻōhiʻa, koa, and verdant ferns
- A prominent landmark along the Mānoa Falls Trail, adjacent to the University of Hawaiʻi’s Lyon Arboretum
What is so special about Manoa Falls for with kids?
- Family-friendly 1.6-mile jungle trail with low difficulty
- 150-foot waterfall pool great for a cool swim
- Photo ops at shipping-container tunnel and tropical vines
- Picnic spots at the Paradise Park parking area
- Nearby Lyon Arboretum offers easy garden paths
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives time to hike the trail, swim at the falls, and explore nearby arboretum without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Manoa Falls
Hike Manoa Falls Trail:
Follow a 1.6-mile round-trip path through lush forest to reach a 150-foot waterfall.
Tip: Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and bring at least one water bottle per person.
Splash in the waterfall pool:
Cool off in the shallow pool beneath the falls.
Tip: Rinse mud off shoes before entering the pool to protect the ecosystem.
Explore the shipping-container tunnel:
Spot the ivy-covered steel tunnel and banyan-root arches along the trail.
Tip: Use this spot for fun family photos with natural movie-set vibes.
Picnic at Paradise Park:
Use picnic tables near the parking lot for a snack or lunch break.
Tip: Bring your own food and a lightweight blanket to reserve tables early.
Stroll Lyon Arboretum gardens:
Walk the nearby arboretum paths to see orchids, tropical palms, and bromeliads.
Tip: Download a garden map at the entrance and hunt for kids’ activity stops.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Manoa Falls
- Beat the crowds: Arrive before 9 a.m. to find easy parking and avoid peak hikers.
- Save on parking: Park for free on lower Manoa Road and walk 0.4 mile to the trailhead.
- Pack essentials: Carry snacks, water, and reef-safe sunscreen. There are no shops on the trail.
Reviews of Manoa Falls
Alex Lapointe
Great hike with children, you just had to pay for parking. The trees are beautiful, the hike is very easy. Our 5 y/o had a lot of fun. It’s great to walk in untouched nature. Be careful if you easily twist ankles, it’s muddy with roots and rocks. We saw people in flipflops, I don’t recommand it 😅 the fall was dried because it didn’t rain the 6 days prior, but still beautiful. We couln’t go down t...
Mady
Manoa Falls is a breathtaking destination and a must-see for anyone visiting Oahu. The trail offers a relatively easy hike that meanders through a lush, tropical rainforest, reminiscent of a scene from a movie. As you walk, you'll be surrounded by stunning scenery, including towering bamboo groves that sway gently in the breeze, enormous ferns that create a lush canopy, and vibrant green foliage t...
Roselyne Frelinghuysen
The falls were a bit dry today since there hasn't been much rain but still worth the treck. The whole trail of rain forest is beautiful and and full of native flora and fauna. My mom has arthritis in her knees so it was kind of tough for her to go up through the trails since there are steep steps, slippery muddy trail and uneven rocks but totally worth it!
S K
Manoa Falls is absolutely stunning and a must see if you’re visiting Oahu. The hike is relatively easy and winds through a lush tropical rainforest that feels like something out of a movie. The scenery is breathtaking from towering bamboo groves to huge ferns and vibrant green foliage everywhere you look. The trail is well maintained and accessible for most people though it can get muddy so wear g...
Darryl Silver
Everybody told us what an amazing place this was and to be honest with you. It was just average. If you wanna go for a muddy hike only to find out that the pool at the bottom of the waterfall is not allowed to swim in this is your place. Having said that it is a gorgeous hike if that’s what you’re looking for.
When is the best time to visit Manoa Falls (Hawaii, United States)?
From October to April, rain can flood sections of the trail. Check weather before hiking. Mornings are drier and less crowded.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Parking fee | USD 5 |
| Snacks & drinks | USD 20 |
| Total Estimated | USD 25 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Manoa Falls
Address: Manoa Falls, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
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