Hiilawe Waterfall

Hiilawe Falls drops approximately 442 meters across two tiers, ranking among the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. The cascade flows through heavily vegetated terrain in the remote Waipio Valley, creating a dramatic natural setting.

This waterfall is located in Waipio Valley, where King Kamehameha I. resided during his early years and where key moments of Hawaiian history unfolded. The valley's historical importance continues to shape how people understand this part of the islands.

The waterfall carries a name rooted in Hawaiian legend about a couple whose love story is said to have transformed into this natural feature. Such stories shape how local people and visitors understand the place and its role in the wider landscape.

Reaching this waterfall requires a vehicle with good clearance or a guided tour, as the road into the valley has steep grades and rough sections. Plan accordingly if you decide to explore this area on your own.

What makes this waterfall unusual is how its flow changes dramatically depending on upstream water management systems. On some days the cascade appears powerful and full, while on others it becomes a thin thread of water.