All 12 Waterfalls in Molokai (Only 2 Are Accessible!)

‘Oloʻupena Falls – 2,953 feet

‘Olo’upena Falls stands as the highest waterfall in Hawaii and fourth-tallest in the world at 2,953 feet.

It is a tiered, ribbon-thin stream that plunges over one of the tallest sea cliffs, located between the Pelekunu and Wailau valleys on Molokai’s northeastern coast.

The waterfall flows strongest during winter months after heavy rainfall. While inaccessible by foot, visitors can view Oloʻupena Falls through helicopter tours or boat excursions along the coastline.

Puʻukaʻoku Falls – 2,700 feet

Puʻukaʻoku Falls is among the tallest sea-cliff waterfalls in the world thanks to its at 2,700 feet height. It features a unique sliding effect as water cascades down nearly vertical basalt cliffs. It also ranks as the 8th tallest waterfall globally and is known for its continuous flow during the rainy season.

Puʻukaʻoku Falls is right next to Oloʻupena Falls, therefore the same applies here: Viewing is only possible via helicopter or boat tour, as it is extremely difficult to access by land.

Haloku Falls – 2,297 feet

Haloku Falls is another neighbour of Puʻukaʻoku Falls and Oloʻupena Falls. It descends an impressive 2,297 feet along Molokai’s north shore sea cliffs.

The cascade forms a dramatic white ribbon against the dark volcanic rock, particularly striking during winter’s heavy rainfall.

Due to the steep terrain, hiking to the base isn’t possible. I recommend experiencing this natural wonder via helicopter tour as there is no road or trail leading to its location.

Kahiwa Falls – 2,165 feet

Kahiwa Falls cascades 2,165 feet down Molokai’s dramatic northern coastline, a little further to East from the previously mentioned waterfalls.

This multi-tiered spectacle falls directly into the Pacific, creating a stunning display during heavy precipitation.

Viewing requires either a helicopter tour or boat excursion along the shoreline, as the surrounding cliffs make land-based observation impossible.

Wailele Falls – 1,903 feet

Wailele Falls descendes 1,903 feet down precipitous cliffs in the remote Pelekunu Valley along the same coastline as the top 3 waterfalls in Molokai.

Same as before, chartered helicopters provide the best vantage points, offering intimate views of the waterfalls.

Waimanu Falls – 1,804 feet

Waimanu Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall, ranking among Molokai’s most remote natural wonders. It is in total 1,804 feet high, coursing through lush vegetation and black volcanic rock formations in the Wai Aleia Valley.

Access is again not possible via land. Visitors can book a chartered helicopter to explore the valley and the falls from above.

Papalaua Falls – 1,250 feet

Papalaua Falls drops about 1,250 feet in five distinct drops along a steep fissure in Papalaua Valley near Hālawa. The most impressive single drop is roughly 1,115 feet and can be seen from the sea. 

During heavy winter rainfall, the waterfall’s volume intensifies considerably. The best things you can do is book an exclusively boat or helicopter ride during this time.

Hina Falls – 1,247 feet

Hina Falls, named after the Hawaiian goddess of the moon, drops from 1,247 feet in the Kamalo area of Molokai. There are several waterfalls in this area such as Haha Falls, but Hina Falls is the tallest of them all. Aerial tours is the only viewing options due to its remote location.

Haha Falls – 787 feet

Haha Falls descends a magnificent 787 feet right next to Hina Falls from the upper rim of Kamalo Canyon. The falls are in a remote area with no easy public trails. It is best viewed from a helicopter.

Mo’oula Falls – 591 feet

Mo’oula Falls is a two-tier waterfall on Moloka’i and finally one that is accessible by foot. In total, it drops 591 feet in two distinct tiers at the eastern end of Hālawa Valley.

The Hālawa Valley Falls Culture Hike is a guided, 3.5-mile round-trip tour along the Hālawa Valley Trail led by local residents, offering a unique opportunity to explore Molokai’s lush landscapes and rich Hawaiian heritage.

WHERE TO STAY – The closest eco-lodge is Pu’u O Hoku.

Hipuapua Falls – over 500 feet

Hipuapua Falls descends 525 feet into Molokai’s verdant Hālawa Valley. This is taller than Moʻoula Falls since it is a single drop waterfall.

However, it is more difficult to access since it requires a 4.5-mile roundtrip hike through private land. The terrain is challenging with the added risk of flash floods, I recommend booking a guided tour who has permit and local knowledge.

Despite it being close to Moʻoula Falls guided tours usually does not include both waterfalls. You can read more about how to get to Hipuapua falls here.

WHERE TO STAY – The closest eco-lodge is Pu’u O Hoku.

Nawaihulili Falls – 150 feet

Nawaihulili Falls is a lesser-known waterfalls, maybe due to it small height of only 150 feet. It is also in the Hālawa Valley, close to Hipuapua Falls and Moʻoula Falls, but most guided tours do not go here due to its remote location.

Waterfalls on Molokai with map