Manoa Falls (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Manoa Falls?
What makes it 83% Solo-Friendly: The 1.6-mile trail is free, safe in daylight, and easy to reach by bus, so a solo hiker can enjoy jungle scenery and a 150-foot waterfall without needing special gear or companions.
Positives:
- Easy Access: Trailhead is a short bus ride or drive from Waikiki, with free street parking nearby.
- Budget-Friendly: No entry fee and minimal parking cost make it ideal for solo travelers.
Challenges:
- Slippery Sections: Mud and stream crossings can be slick; bring waterproof, grippy footwear.
- Limited Facilities: Restrooms and snack kiosk are only at the parking area; trail has no benches or shade.
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 solo trip?
- Solo-friendly 1.6-mile rainforest hike to a 150-ft waterfall
- Low-cost visit with only a small parking fee
- Chances for wildlife spotting and nature photography
- Optional swim in the clear waterfall pool with quality checks
- Close to Waikiki and accessible by bus or car
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time for the 1.6-mile trail, photos, pool visit, and short stop at Lyon Arboretum.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Manoa Falls
Hike to Manoa Falls waterfall:
Follow the 1.6-mile RT trail through rainforest to the 150-ft waterfall and clear pool.
Tip: Wear grippy shoes to handle mud and avoid the water after heavy rain.
Swim in the waterfall pool:
Cool off in the shallow pool beneath the falls.
Tip: Check water quality advisories at the trailhead before wading.
Photograph jungle tunnel and arches:
Capture shots of the ivy-covered shipping container bridge and natural banyan arches.
Tip: Use a wide-angle lens and shoot in soft morning light to reduce glare.
Explore Lyon Arboretum:
Stroll the adjacent botanical garden to see native orchids and palms.
Tip: Enter from the Manoa Falls Parking lot and follow marked paths; donations are welcome.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Manoa Falls
- Start Early: Arrive before 9am to find parking and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Park Lower Down: If the lot is full, park on lower Manoa Road for free and walk 0.4 mile to trailhead.
- Pack Light: Carry only water, snacks, and a rain jacket to keep your backpack manageable.
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)?
Expect muddy and slippery trails after winter rains (Dec–Mar). Start hikes early to avoid summer showers.
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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Parking fee | USD 5 |
| Bottled water | USD 3 |
| Arboretum donation | USD 0 |
| Total Estimated | USD 8 |
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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