Oloʻupena Falls, Towering waterfall in northeastern Molokai, United States
Oloʻupena Falls is a waterfall on the northeastern coast of Molokai where water drops from high volcanic cliffs directly into the Pacific Ocean. The cascade flows across multiple tiers of steep rock faces that descend between two valleys.
The falls formed over millions of years as water and weather carved through volcanic rock, creating deep channels between the Pelekunu and Wailau valleys. This slow erosion process continues to shape the steep cliffs that define this remote coastline.
These cliffs and falls hold deep spiritual meaning for Native Hawaiian communities, connected to ancestral stories passed down through generations. The place remains central to how local people understand their relationship with the land and sea.
Access is only possible by helicopter or boat tour, as no land routes reach this remote location. Visitors should be prepared for rough ocean conditions and variable visibility, especially during the rainy season.
The seasonal stream creates a cascade that ranks among the world's tallest waterfalls and is the highest in the United States. Many visitors do not realize how dramatically the flow changes depending on rainfall and season.
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