Explore the lush rainforests of Oahu with a variety of Manoa Falls tours, ranging from guided hikes to electric bike adventures. Whether you prefer a simple self-guided shuttle drop-off or a full-day combo tour featuring Diamond Head, there are options to fit your schedule and activity level.
Free Cancellation Hike to the 150-foot Manoa Falls with round-trip transport from Waikiki and essential trail gear included.
Free Cancellation Explore Manoa Valley's rainforest on a guided waterfall hike with lunch at Tantalus and transport from Waikiki.
Free Cancellation E-bike from Waikiki to Manoa Valley for a guided hike through the rainforest to the famous Manoa Falls.
Free Cancellation Hike Diamond Head and Manoa Falls before exploring Oahu's scenic lookouts on a customizable private luxury tour.
Free Cancellation Ride pedal-assist e-bikes through Manoa Valley, hike to a jungle waterfall, and enjoy a local healthy meal.
Free Cancellation Ride 500-watt electric bikes from Waikiki to explore the lush trails of Manoa Falls and the local valley town.
Read what travelers share about their experience visiting Manoa Falls — from practical tips to personal highlights.
Manoa Falls offers a stunning escape into Oahu's lush rainforest, just minutes from the bustling streets of Waikiki. Whether you join a guided hike, take a convenient shuttle for a self-guided adventure, or ride an e-bike up into the valley, you will experience a vibrant jungle landscape culminating in a spectacular 150-foot waterfall.
The trail's ultimate reward is a breathtaking 150-foot cascade plunging down a sheer rock face into a mist-shrouded pool.
Walk through a dense grove of giant bamboo stalks that clack together in the breeze, creating a serene, immersive atmosphere.
Hike through the exact prehistoric-looking jungle landscapes used to film blockbuster movies like Jurassic Park and Catching Fire.
Encounter massive, sprawling banyan trees with dramatic aerial roots that form a stunning natural canopy overhead.
Breathe in the aromatic scent of towering Eucalyptus trees, whose straight trunks create a highly photogenic natural corridor.
Planning your Manoa Falls excursion is easy, but knowing the logistics of the different tour options will help you pick the perfect fit for your group.
Options range from simple round-trip shuttles for self-guided hikers to comprehensive guided tours. You can also find active e-bike combos or full-day itineraries that include stops at Diamond Head and Tantalus Lookout.
The hiking trail itself is completely free to enter. Booking a tour generally covers your Waikiki transportation, parking fees, and often includes helpful extras like bug spray, walking sticks, and sometimes lunch.
The 1.6-mile trail features an 800-foot elevation gain over rocky, muddy terrain. Guided tours require a moderate level of fitness and generally do not permit children under 4 or travelers over 65 for safety reasons.
Several tours combine a pedal-assist electric bike ride from Waikiki into the valley before you hike. This is a fantastic, active way to navigate local neighborhoods and transition into the lush rainforest.
Leave the sandals at home. Sturdy trail runners or light hiking boots with good grip are essential, as the path is notoriously muddy and slick year-round. Wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty.
Most tour operators offer a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure time. This gives you flexibility if the weather forecast looks unfavorable.
Don't plan on taking a dip at the end of your hike. Swimming in the waterfall pool is strictly illegal due to the high risk of Leptospirosis bacteria and dangerous rockfalls.
| Self-Guided Shuttle | Guided Hike & Lunch | E-Bike & Hike Tour | Multi-Stop Adventure | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 3.5 hours | 5 hours | 4 hours | 6.5 hours |
| Best for | Independent hikers wanting easy transport | Families and nature lovers | Active travelers | Maximizing sightseeing in one day |
| Includes | Waikiki shuttle, bug spray, walking stick | Guide, healthy lunch, Tantalus Lookout stop | E-bike rental, guided hike, helmet | Diamond Head audio guide, transport, multiple stops |
| Price from | $53 | $119 | $179 | $149 |
The Manoa Falls Trail is open to the public daily from sunrise to sunset, allowing for early morning hikes or late afternoon strolls.
If you are driving yourself, note that the trailhead parking lot (Paradise Park lot) is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. If you arrive before 8:00 AM, you will need to find street parking in the residential neighborhood and walk to the trailhead.
Note: Trail maintenance in early 2026 brought modified hours, but regular access was fully restored by April 11, 2026.
Manoa Falls is located about 5 miles from Waikiki, making it a very accessible half-day trip.
The absolute best time to see the waterfall in its full glory is during the winter rainy season, from November through March. During these months, the 150-foot cascade is gushing and majestic, rather than a thin trickle.
The summer months are drier, meaning the trail is less muddy, but the waterfall flow is often disappointing. Summer also brings hotter, more humid weather that can make the hike feel more strenuous.
Regardless of the season, try to arrive at the trailhead between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. This helps you secure a parking spot, beat the heavy midday crowds, and enjoy cooler temperatures.
The Manoa Falls Trail is not wheelchair or stroller friendly. The path is a rugged, natural wilderness trail featuring rocky areas, uneven surfaces, and steep steps.
For elderly visitors, the 800-foot elevation gain and slippery, muddy rocks can be quite demanding. While active seniors can manage it, using a walking stick for stability is highly recommended. Those with joint or balance issues should reconsider.
The trail is very family-friendly and suitable for children ages 4 and up. Kids will love the jungle atmosphere! However, children under 4 are generally not permitted on guided tours for safety reasons.
Facilities at the Manoa Falls trailhead are basic but sufficient for hikers.
To protect the sacred environment and ensure visitor safety, several strict rules are enforced at Manoa Falls:
The Manoa Falls trail itself is completely free to the public. When you book a tour, your payment covers round-trip transportation from Waikiki, parking fees, guide services, and often extras like walking sticks or lunch.
You do not strictly need a guide, as the 1.6-mile trail is straightforward and easy to follow. However, guided tours offer valuable insights into Hawaiian history and native plants, while self-guided shuttle tours save you the hassle of navigating Honolulu traffic.
No, swimming in the pool at the base of Manoa Falls is strictly prohibited. The water contains Leptospirosis bacteria, and the surrounding cliffs are highly prone to dangerous, unpredictable rockfalls.
You should wear sturdy trail runners or light hiking boots with good grip, as the trail is notoriously muddy and slick. Avoid sandals completely, wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty, and bring a light rain jacket.
The hike is great for active families with children ages 4 and up, but kids under 4 are typically not permitted on guided tours. It is not recommended for elderly visitors with balance or joint issues due to the slippery, uneven rocks and 800-foot elevation gain.
Most dedicated Manoa Falls tours take between 3.5 to 5 hours, including the round-trip transportation from Waikiki. The actual hike takes about 1 to 2 hours round trip depending on your pace.
Yes, almost all Manoa Falls tours include round-trip transportation from Waikiki. Depending on the tour you select, this could be an air-conditioned shuttle bus or even a guided electric bike ride.
Tours generally run in mild rain, which is very common in this rainforest environment. However, if heavy rains create a flash flood hazard or dangerous trail conditions, tour operators will cancel and offer a refund or reschedule.
Yes! The Manoa Falls trail winds right through the lush, prehistoric-looking rainforest that served as a filming location for Jurassic Park, Catching Fire, and the TV show Lost.
While some premium guided tours include bottled water and a healthy lunch, it is always highly recommended to bring your own refillable water bottle and light snacks, as the humid jungle environment will make you sweat.
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Skip the stress of navigating Honolulu traffic and finding a parking spot with our round-trip shuttle service from Waikiki. This self-guided experience drops you directly at the Manoa Falls trailhead, allowing you to explore the rainforest at your own pace. You will walk through eucalyptus groves and across footbridges as you make your way toward the 150-foot waterfall. To prepare you for the trek, we provide bottled water, bug spray, and walking sticks. The trail is moderately challenging and involves some stairs and boulder climbs, so sturdy footwear is recommended. We also have ponchos available for purchase if the weather turns. Once you reach the falls, you can take in the scenery and snap photos before heading back to the shuttle for your return trip.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English
This guided 1.6-mile hike leads you through the Manoa Valley rainforest, where you’ll pass through bamboo forests and see native plants and birds. The trail, which served as a filming location for Jurassic Park and Lost, offers a look at Hawaii’s inland ecosystem. Your guide provides context on the valley's natural history and cultural significance throughout the walk. Once you reach the waterfall, the group heads to the Tantalus lookout for a healthy lunch overlooking the coast. Unlike standard Manoa tours, this itinerary includes the scenic stop at Tantalus before returning to Waikiki. The hike is rated as moderate and is open to all experience levels, with round-trip transportation included.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English
This tour starts with an electric bike ride from Waikiki into the heart of Manoa Valley. You will navigate light city traffic before transitioning into the island’s lush interior. Once at the trailhead, we will lock up the bikes and set off on a guided hike through the rainforest, following the same paths seen in films like Jurassic Park and the TV series Lost. The hike culminates at the base of Manoa Falls. Throughout the experience, your guide will capture photos of your adventure, which are provided at no extra cost. Because this tour involves riding on public roads, participants should be confident and comfortable operating a bike in a city environment. Solo riders and groups larger than four are asked to contact us directly to arrange a booking.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English
Start your morning with a self-guided hike up Diamond Head. The roughly 90-minute round trip offers panoramic views of Waikiki and Oahu's southeastern coastline. An audio guide is included to provide historical context as you walk. Afterward, return to your air-conditioned vehicle and stop at a local spot for a to-go breakfast, which you can enjoy at a nearby beach or scenic lookout. The second half of the tour takes you to Manoa Falls Park for a 60-minute round-trip trek. This trail winds through bamboo forests and tropical landscapes, ending at a waterfall deep in the jungle. Since this is a private luxury tour, you have the flexibility to customize the itinerary. If time allows after both hikes, your guide can take you to your choice of over 30 additional locations across the island.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
German, Japanese, English, Italian, Spanish
This tour combines a scenic e-bike ride with a guided hike through the lush landscapes of Manoa Valley. You will start on a fitted pedal-assist bicycle, riding through local neighborhoods to reach a trailhead tucked away in the tropical jungle. From there, your guide will lead a one-mile hike to a waterfall, traversing a forest that has served as a filming location for several major movies. After the hike, you will cool down with a vegan Dole Whip soft serve followed by a healthy lunch at a local cafe. To help you remember the day, we provide professional photos and a video of your experience at no additional cost. Please wear sturdy shoes that you don't mind getting muddy, as the jungle trails can be damp and slick.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
German, Korean, Chinese, Japanese, English, Chinese (China), Italian, French, Spanish
Manoa Valley is a short ride from Waikiki, offering a cooler, rainforest environment compared to the busy South Shore. This tour uses 500-watt electric bikes to handle the inland terrain, making it easy to reach the trailhead for Manoa Falls. The valley is known for its deep connection to Hawaiian history and its distinct, lush scenery. Outside of the hiking trails, the area features a quiet residential community filled with local eateries and small businesses. The electric bikes allow you to explore these neighborhood spots and navigate the valley's hills without the physical strain of a traditional bicycle. It is a straightforward way to see one of Oahu’s most famous natural landmarks and its surrounding local culture.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.