Chill & Thrill: Discover Hawaii's Cold Ponds, Hiking Trails, and Waterfalls
Oahu's Top Attraction:
Cold Ponds:
1. Maunawili Falls: While not a traditional cold pond, Maunawili Falls offers a refreshing pool at the base of the waterfall, perfect for cooling off after a hike. Located near Kailua, the trail to the falls takes you through lush rainforest and streams.
2. Waimea Valley: Waimea Valley, located on the North Shore, features a beautiful botanical garden with a natural swimming pond at the end of the valley. The water is cool and inviting, surrounded by tropical foliage.
3. Kawela Bay: This secluded bay on Oahu's North Shore offers calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The bay is surrounded by lush vegetation and is a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.
Hiking Trails:
1. Diamond Head Summit Trail: One of Oahu's most iconic hikes, the Diamond Head Summit Trail offers panoramic views of Waikiki and the southeastern coastline. The trail leads to the summit of Diamond Head crater, where you can enjoy breathtaking vistas.
2. Manoa Falls Trail: Located near Honolulu, the Manoa Falls Trail takes you through a lush rainforest to the base of a picturesque waterfall. The trail is relatively easy and suitable for all skill levels.
3. Ka'ena Point Trail: This scenic coastal trail follows the westernmost point of Oahu, offering stunning views of the ocean and rugged coastline. It's a great spot for birdwatching and whale watching during the winter months.
Waterfalls:
1. Manoa Falls: As mentioned earlier, Manoa Falls is a popular waterfall located in the Manoa Valley near Honolulu. The waterfall cascades over 100 feet into a tranquil pool below, surrounded by lush greenery.
2. Waimea Falls: Also mentioned earlier, Waimea Falls is located in Waimea Valley on Oahu's North Shore. The waterfall is accessible via a scenic hike through the botanical garden and ends with a refreshing swim in the pool below.
3. Likeke Falls: Tucked away in the lush hills of the Ko'olau Mountains, Likeke Falls is a hidden gem accessible via a short hike from the Pali Lookout. The waterfall cascades into a small pool surrounded by tropical vegetation, offering a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
4. Lulumahu Falls: This hidden waterfall is located in a bamboo forest near the Pali Highway. The hike to reach the falls can be muddy and slippery, but the reward is worth it as you're greeted by a stunning waterfall cascading into a serene pool.
Maui's Top Attraction:
Cold Ponds:
1. Seven Sacred Pools (Pools of Ohe'o): Located in the Haleakalā National Park along the Hana Highway, the Seven Sacred Pools are a series of tiered pools fed by waterfalls cascading down from the lush rainforest above. While swimming may be restricted at times due to flash flood risks, the pools offer a refreshing spot to cool off and enjoy the natural beauty of Maui's eastern coastline.
2. Ohe'o Gulch: Also located in Haleakalā National Park, Ohe'o Gulch is home to several freshwater pools and waterfalls that flow into the ocean. The pools are surrounded by lush vegetation and offer a serene setting for swimming and picnicking.
3. Waioka Pond (Venus Pool): Tucked away along the Hana Highway, Waioka Pond is a hidden gem with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. The pool is surrounded by rocks and cliffs, creating a secluded and tranquil atmosphere.
Hiking Trails:
1. Pipiwai Trail: Located in the southeastern part of Haleakalā National Park, the Pipiwai Trail is a scenic hike that takes you through bamboo forests, past waterfalls, and ends at the breathtaking Waimoku Falls. The trail offers stunning views of Maui's lush landscapes and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
2. Haleakalā Crater Trail: For a unique hiking experience, explore the otherworldly landscapes of Haleakalā Crater. Several trails descend into the crater, allowing you to explore its volcanic terrain and unique flora and fauna. The Sliding Sands Trail and Halemau'u Trail are popular options for exploring the crater floor.
3. Waihe'e Ridge Trail: This moderate to challenging hike offers panoramic views of Maui's northwestern coastline and the West Maui Mountains. The trail winds through native forests and grasslands, offering opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting along the way.
Waterfalls:
1. Waimoku Falls: As mentioned earlier, Waimoku Falls is the highlight of the Pipiwai Trail in Haleakalā National Park. The waterfall cascades over 400 feet down a sheer lava rock wall into a tranquil pool below, surrounded by lush vegetation.
2. Makamaka'ole Falls (Twin Falls): Located along the Hana Highway, Makamaka'ole Falls is a popular stop for visitors exploring the road to Hana. The waterfall consists of two separate cascades that flow into natural pools, offering a refreshing spot to cool off.
3. Upper Waikani Falls (Three Bears): Also known as the "Three Bears" waterfall, Upper Waikani Falls is located along the Hana Highway and is easily accessible from the roadside. The waterfall consists of three parallel streams cascading down a lush mountainside into a pool below.
Kauai's Top Attractions:
Cold Ponds:
1. Queen's Bath: Located in Princeville, Queen's Bath is a natural tide pool formed by lava rock. It's a beautiful spot for a refreshing dip, but be cautious as conditions can be dangerous during high surf.
2. Kīpū Falls: While not a traditional cold pond, Kīpū Falls offers a refreshing plunge into its cool waters after a short hike. It's located near Lihue and is a popular spot for cliff jumping.
3. Ho'opi'i Falls: These twin waterfalls near Kapa'a feature cool pools at the base where you can take a refreshing swim. The hike to the falls is relatively easy and offers lush scenery along the way.
Hiking Trails:
1. Kalalau Trail: This iconic trail along the Na Pali Coast offers breathtaking views of the coastline and passes through lush valleys, towering cliffs, and secluded beaches. It's challenging but incredibly rewarding.
2. Waimea Canyon Trail: Explore the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" with various trails offering different perspectives of this stunning natural wonder. The Canyon Trail offers fantastic views of the canyon and surrounding landscapes.
3. Sleeping Giant Trail: Located near Wailua, this trail takes you up Nounou Mountain, which resembles a sleeping giant when viewed from a distance. The hike offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and is moderately challenging.
Waterfalls:
1. Wailua Falls: Easily accessible from the roadside, Wailua Falls is one of Kauai's most famous waterfalls. It plunges over 80 feet into a picturesque pool below.
2. Opaeka'a Falls: Another easily accessible waterfall, Opaeka'a Falls is located near the Wailua River. It cascades into a lush valley and is surrounded by dense foliage.
3. Hanakapiai Falls: Only accessible via the Kalalau Trail, Hanakapiai Falls is a stunning 300-foot waterfall nestled deep within the Na Pali Coast. The hike to reach the falls is challenging but offers incredible scenery along the way.
4. Secret Falls (Uluwehi Falls): Accessible via kayak or a guided tour along the Wailua River, Secret Falls is a hidden gem tucked away in the jungle. The waterfall cascades into a refreshing pool, perfect for swimming and picnicking.
Big Island's Top Attractions:
Cold Ponds:
1. Ahalanui Park: Located on the Puna coast, Ahalanui Park features a geothermal-heated pool with temperatures around 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius). The pool is surrounded by palm trees and offers beautiful views of the ocean.
2. Champagne Ponds: Also located in the Puna district, Champagne Ponds is a series of geothermal pools fed by natural hot springs. The pools are surrounded by lava rocks and offer a unique swimming experience in warm, mineral-rich waters.
3. Punalu'u Black Sand Beach: While not a traditional cold pond, Punalu'u Beach is famous for its black sand and cool waters. The beach is frequented by sea turtles and offers opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in a unique volcanic landscape.
Hiking Trails:
1. Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park: Explore the diverse landscapes of the Big Island's most iconic national park with a variety of hiking trails. The Kīlauea Iki Trail takes you across a crater floor surrounded by steaming vents and lush rainforest, while the Devastation Trail offers views of the stark volcanic landscape left by past eruptions.
2. Pololū Valley Trail: Located on the northern coast of the Big Island, the Pololū Valley Trail offers stunning views of the coastline and the lush Pololū Valley below. The trail descends steeply to a black sand beach where you can relax and take in the scenery.
3. Waipi'o Valley Trail: Explore the "Valley of the Kings" with a hike into Waipi'o Valley, located on the Hamakua Coast. The trail descends into the valley, offering breathtaking views of towering cliffs, waterfalls, and taro fields.
Waterfalls:
1. Akaka Falls: Located in Akaka Falls State Park on the Hamakua Coast, Akaka Falls is a stunning 442-foot waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest. A short loop trail takes you through the park, offering views of both Akaka Falls and the smaller Kahūnā Falls.
2. Rainbow Falls: Located just outside of Hilo, Rainbow Falls is named for the rainbows that often appear in the mist created by the waterfall. The falls cascade over a lava cave into a natural pool below, surrounded by tropical vegetation.
3. Waipio Valley Falls: Several waterfalls can be found within Waipi'o Valley, including Hi'ilawe Falls, which is one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. The valley is accessible via a steep road or by hiking, and offers stunning views of lush landscapes and cascading waterfalls.