Tucked in the mountains on Kaua’i’s east side is Makaleha Falls. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure that showcases the untouched beauty of Kauai, Makaleha Falls Trail belongs on your list. This hike isn’t as well known as other hikes on Kaua’i, so it offers a raw and untouched jungle experience. Step into natures playground and experience the wild and untamed side of Kaua’i on this magical hike. There are no manicured trails, just rugged terrain and natural obstacles that make every mile as rewarding as it is challenging.

There are much easier waterfalls to visit on Kaua’i, but if you’re up for the challenge, it’s an incredibly special and rewarding hike.

Unlike the more popular waterfall hikes on Kaua’i (Ho’opi’i or Hanakāpīʻai), Makaleha Falls feels like a true jungle expedition. This isn’t a maintained trail with mile markers or clear paths – it’s a rugged adventure that requires a willingness to embrace getting muddy. But that’s exactly what makes it so special. We’ve hiked to Makaleha Falls multiple times, it’s always a scramble climbing over and under logs and branches, but it feels like an outdoor jungle gym. The peaceful quiet in the bamboo forest, the sense of exploration and navigating, and the secluded swimming hole at the end make it an unforgettable experience.

Here’s everything you need to know about hiking to Makaleha Falls!

Makaleha Falls Trail

Distance: ~3 miles
Trail Type: Out + Back
Difficulty: Intermediate – rugged, technical terrain
Elevation Gain: ~1,000 ft
Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
Permit Required: No
Dog Friendly: Not recommended

Hiking Makaleha Falls: A Hidden Gem Jungle Adventure

Makaleha Falls trailhead is in Kapa’a, at the top of Kahuna Road. There is a small parking lot so parking is very limited. But it’s not a very popular trail so parking has never been a problem when we’ve gone. I do recommend going early though for multiple reasons:

The lighting will be better in the morning on the east side of the mountains
In case the hike takes longer than expected
Getting parking in case it does get busy

You truly step into nature’s playground, but it makes for an epic, memorable adventure. The hike is not marked, but you follow the stream and cross it at several points. Staying close to the stream will be your best guide for this hike. If the trail starts to disappear or seem impassable, try crossing to the other side and checking out if the trail picks up over there. There is almost no cell phone service out here, so download the map from AllTrails ahead of time.

I don’t think we’ve taken the same trail any time we’ve gone. Because it’s a less touristy hike, the trail isn’t travelled as often. It does seem to be gaining some popularity lately, so it’s gotten a bit easier. But there are some paths that go off that aren’t part of the actual trail.

Embrace that your shoes will get muddy and wet or wear water shoes. Be prepared to get wet and muddy as you climb over boulders, cross through the stream, step around roots, and duck under trees.

As you cross over some of the fallen logs, check for carvings of arrows to help point you on the correct path. They’re easy to miss though, we didn’t notice them until the return hike. Also look out for fire ants and centipedes on this trail.

Getting to Makaleha Falls Trailhead:

The trailhead is located at the top of Kahuna Road in Kapa’a. From Kapa’a, turn mauka (towards the mountains) onto Kahuna Road from Kuhio Highway. Follow Kahuna Road uphill through a residential neighborhood. The trailhead parking lot is at the end of the road next to a water tank.

There is a small dirt lot with space for 4-6 cars. There are homes across the street, so make sure you don’t block driveways or the road. Parking has never been an issue for us (less popular hike), but arrive early just in case.

Makaleha Falls Hike: What to Expect

First 0.5 miles: Wide, easy path on the right side of stream

The hike begins down the wide path next to a water tank. While the beginning of the trail is a wide path, it quickly turns into uneven terrain. You start out on the right side of the stream for probably the first quarter of a mile.

Miles 0.5-1.5: Trail becomes rugged – creek crossings, muddy sections, climbing over fallen logs and boulders

When you cross, embrace that you will be getting your feet wet. I wore hiking boots our first time and tried to cross by stepping on the rocks and almost immediately slipped and fell in.

Mile 1.5: Bamboo forest!

One of the highlights of the trail is walking through a dense bamboo forest. There are some very muddy sections heading through here, but it’s so peaceful and beautiful.

Mile 2-2.5: More creek crossings, watch for the fork in the stream! Stay Right!

Around 2-2.5 miles in, we ended up on the left side of the stream and took a left fork to follow the stream. Do not do this! If you notice the fork in the stream, stay to the right! I’m not sure where the left would have taken us, but Makaleha Falls are to the right.

Mile 2.5-3: Final approach to Makaleha Falls

Arrive at Makaleha Falls, a multi-tiered waterfall with a small swimming hole. You’ve navigated the jungle terrain and earned yourself some time relaxing at a secluded swimming hole.

One of the best parts of hiking to Makaleha Falls is the cliff jumping!

Important Safety Tips:

Always check the depth first by swimming down (water levels change – what was safe last month might not be safe today)
Look for submerged rocks before jumping
Start with smaller jumps to test depth
Never dive headfirst
The water is cold, so be prepared
Never stand directly under the waterfalls (risk of falling rocks)

The hike back down is much easier since you already know what to expect and where you’re going a little bit. We definitely have accidentally not taken the same path down as we did in.

Important Things to Consider

This is a more technical, strenuous trail that is difficult to navigate. It’s more remote and involves water so the trail presents different obstacles. There have been several recent rescues and injuries on the trail. Keep in mind the following:

A hiker was under the waterfall and hit in the head by a falling rock. So please use caution and do not swim or stand under the waterfalls.
A couple was lost and became stranded as the stream began to rise due to heavy rainfall.
Heavy rainfall can also create runoff into the stream which increases risks of leptospirosis.
Watch where you place your hands as you climb over boulders and tree branches, there are red ants and centipedes along this trail.

When to Go

While parking has never been an issue for us, we still like to start the hike early just in case other people have the same idea to hike there that day. Another reason we like to hike Makaleha Falls early is it allows us more time in case the hike takes longer than expected. The lighting is also better on the east side of the mountains in the morning. As the sun passes over the mountains, it gets dark and cool in there really quickly.

Makaleha Falls is beautiful to visit year round. Just remember that the water is cold, but it’s refreshing on a hot summer day. It might not feel as refreshing on a cooler, overcast day in the winter. Winter can also be rainier, making trail conditions muddier, creek crossings more dangerous, and increase the risk of leptospirosis. Avoid hiking to Makaleha Falls during or after heavy rain. Summer months (June – September) tend to have more consistent weather and better weather for enjoying a refreshing swim.

Best time of day: Early morning (7-9am)

Better lighting on the east side mountains
More time in case the hike takes longer
Better chance of parking

Best season:

Year-round, but avoid during/after heavy rain
Summer (June – September) tends to have more consistent weather
Winter can be rainier, making trail conditions muddier and creek crossings more dangerous

When NOT to go:

❌ During or after heavy rain (flash flood risk, rising creek levels)
❌ 24-48 hours after heavy rain (lepto risk from runoff)
❌ Late afternoon (risk of not finishing before dark)

What to Bring

Water shoes: I highly recommend wearing water shoes on this hike. You cross the stream multiple times and there is a lot of mud on this hike.
Plenty of water: The technical aspects of the trail mean you are moving around more
Bug spray
Downloaded map on your phone
Dry bag
Camera
Snacks/lunch: This is a great spot for a picnic!
Small towel

FAQ

How hard is the Makaleha Falls hike?

It’s rated as an intermediate/moderate hike. The technical challenges make it harder than the mileage suggests. And it can be more difficult depending on recent weather.

Can you swim at Makaleha Falls?

Yes! There’s a small swimming hole at the base of the falls that’s also perfect for some cliff jumping. Just make sure to check the depth of the water first and look for any unseen rocks at the bottom before jumping in. Never swim under the waterfall due to risk of falling rocks. The water is cool, but refreshing!

Is Makaleha Falls hike dangerous?

Not with proper precautions. The trail is unmarked and can be hard to navigate, but it can be followed on the AllTrails app. During and after heavy rainfall, creek crossings can be dangerous and there’s also a risk of leptospirosis. There are some fireants along the trail and other bugs (centipedes) so just keep your eyes open.

How long does it take to hike to Makaleha Falls?

Plan for a 2-3 hour round trip adventure. But know that it can take longer if you have trouble navigating the trail or spend more time swimming, cliff jumping, or hanging out at the falls.

Do I need a permit for Makaleha Falls?

Nope! You do not need a permit to hike to Makaleha Falls.

Where is Makaleha Falls on Kaua’i?

The trailhead is on the east side in Kapa’a at the top of Kahuna Road. There is a small parking lot near a water tank.

What should I wear to Makaleha Falls?

Water shoes are essential to hiking Makaleha Falls. You cross the creek multiple times, and your best bet is to wear water shoes and walk straight through. Don’t do as I did and try to walk across on the slippery rocks! Bring a dry bag/backpack for your phone, camera, small towel, keys, and water bottle. Don’t forget a bathing suit to swim!

You can also bring some lunch; it’s a beautiful spot to sit and enjoy a snack.

What else is nearby?

Kapa’a Town is 5 minutes away. Head down to grab an açaí bowl or some lunch or head to Lydgate Beach Park to rinse of the mud and relax on the beach.

Final Thoughts

Makaleha Falls is hands-down one of my favorite hikes on Kaua’i. Yes, it’s challenging. Yes, you’ll get muddy. But it’s an all-natural version of a jungle gym, perfect for adults!

Unlike the more popular waterfall hikes on the island, Makaleha Falls feels like a genuine jungle adventure. The bamboo forest, the creek crossings, the sense of exploration, and the reward of swimming and cliff jumping at the falls make it an unforgettable experience.

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure that showcases Kaua’i’s wild side, add Makaleha Falls to your list. For more incredible hikes, check out Awa’awapuhi Trail!

Have you hiked to Makaleha Falls? Share your experience in the comments below!