Manawaiopuna Falls

Manawaiopuna Falls is a 400-foot waterfall in Hanapepe Valley on Kauai that drops from a sheer rock face. Dense tropical forest surrounds the site in a remote valley that remains largely isolated and undeveloped.

The waterfall became widely known after appearing in multiple scenes of the 1993 film Jurassic Park. That movie appearance brought international attention to what had been a little-known natural feature.

The name Manawaiopuna comes from Hawaiian language and connects this place to indigenous heritage. The waterfall appears in local stories and reflects how the Hawaiian people have understood the natural world for generations.

Access is possible only by helicopter from Lihue Airport, with limited landing permits for authorized tour operators. Visitors should book in advance and be prepared for flight time and variable weather conditions.

The waterfall flows year-round because the valley sits in one of the world's wettest regions. This steady water supply is uncommon and makes the falls a reliable natural display regardless of season.

GPS coordinates: 21.98835,-159.52556

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:03