Thinking about visiting Waimea Valley? This beautiful place on Oahu’s North Shore is home to a stunning waterfall, botanical gardens, and rich Hawaiian history. Here’s what to know before you go.
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Why you should visit Waimea Valley
If you're coming to Oahu, Waimea Valley is a must-visit. This sacred valley is one of the most peaceful and beautiful spots on the North Shore. Nature, culture, and history all come together here.
You’ve got a scenic walk through lush botanical gardens filled with native plants and birds, cultural sites that share Hawaii’s history, and, of course, the famous Waimea Waterfalls where you can jump in for a swim.
The Toa Luau also brings you a traditional Hawaiian Luau with local food and entertainment you can't miss.
Imagine hosting your wedding here! Waimea Falls Park has picture-perfect grounds, making it an incredible spot for special events and photoshoots.
It’s one of our favorite spots to bring friends and family when they visit. There’s something for everyone here! If you’re looking for a peaceful, nature-filled day, this is the place to be!
Quick note: As of 2025, the Waimea Valley Farmers Market has moved to Haleiwa Town and is no longer held at Waimea Valley!
Top things to see & do
Waimea Valley has so much to offer, we can’t cover it all here! For more details, check out the linked guides on these popular activities.
- Hike to Waimea Falls & Swimming: One of the valley’s top attractions is the easy, scenic hike to Waimea Falls through a lush botanical garden. Once at the falls, you can swim in the cool waters! Check out this Waimea Valley waterfalls hike guide for more info and tips.
- Botanical Gardens & Bird Watching: Waimea Valley's botanical gardens are among the most beautiful on the island. You'll see endemic and endangered Hawaiian plant species and native birds. Nature lovers and photographers will love it! Learn more about the botanical gardens.
- Visit Cultural Sites: Walking the trail to the waterfalls, you'll see several historical and cultural sites that offer a glimpse into Hawaiian traditions and the valley's history, from ancient agricultural terraces to spiritual areas. Learn about Waimea Valley’s cultural significance.
- Attend the Toa Luau: Experience a traditional Hawaiian luau in Waimea Valley with delicious food, hula dancing, and cultural performances. It’s a great way to dive into Polynesian culture. Book in advance to secure your spot. Here's a review of the Toa Luau.
More Things to Do
- Guided Tour: Take the Kipahele Tour, a small-group guided shuttle ride to the waterfalls and back, for a unique look at the valley’s plants, animals, and history.
- What's Blooming Botanical Tour: Join the valley’s botanical staff for a guided walk at 12:30 PM (Tuesday-Sunday) to check out rare and seasonal blooming plants from Hawaiʻi and beyond! Included with admission.
- Hula Dance (Kaʻaha Hula I Waimea): Watch live hula and chanting! Performances happen on Saturdays at 11 AM and 1 PM in the Amphitheatre or Upper Meadow.
- Dine at the Cafes: Relax and enjoy a meal or drink at one of the cozy cafes in Waimea Valley.
- Gift Shop: Stop by the gift shop for locally-made crafts and Hawaiian-inspired souvenirs.
- Waimea Valley Event Calendar: Stay up-to-date with monthly events, from cultural celebrations and live music to special programs. Check out the full events calendar.
- Book a Wedding Venue: With its lush gardens and iconic waterfall, Waimea Valley makes for a stunning wedding or event venue.
Admission, hours & map
Entrance Fees
Here’s what it costs to visit Waimea Falls and explore the beautiful botanical garden. You can pay at the entrance or book online in advance.
General Admission
Adult: $25
Senior: $20
Student: $20
Child (ages 4-12): $15
Group Rate (10 adults): $20
Hawaii Resident/Military
Adult: $10
Senior: $8
Student: $8
Child (ages 4-12): $6
Group Rate (10 adults): $8
- Every Thursday residents and military can enter for free!
- Shuttle Transportation: Shuttle transportation is available from the ticket booth to Waimea Falls starting at 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM. One-way is $10 for each person.
- Mobility Scooter Rentals: Need an easier way to get around? Rent a mobility scooter for a comfortable and accessible visit. Rentals are $19.99 per hour.
- Parking: There are no parking fees!
Hawaii Resident/Military Annual Passes
Individual Annual Pass: $40
Family Pass (2 Adults and up to 6 children under the age of 18): $80
Lifetime: $800
Hours of Operation
- Waimea Falls trail and shuttle service: Open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM.
- Gift shop: Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
- Cafés: Open from 10 AM to 4 PM, with Hale Kope Coffee House opening at 8 AM.
Waimea Valley Map
Here’s a handy map of Waimea Valley. It includes everything from the hiking trail through the botanical gardens to the falls, cultural sites, and all the facilities. Feel free to print it out to take along with you when you visit!
Visitor facilities & accessibility
Parking
Parking at Waimea Valley is super easy and free! The main lot near the entrance has a number of spaces, but if it’s full, you’ll be directed to another spot on the property, and it’s just a short walk to the entrance.
Restrooms & Changing Rooms
There are restrooms near the main entrance, with a few more along the botanical garden trail to the waterfalls. And if you’re planning to swim, there are changing rooms by the falls so you can change out of your wet clothes afterward!
Accessibility
Waimea Valley is super accessible for everyone! The main trail to the waterfalls is paved, making it easy for wheelchairs and strollers to get around.
While there are a few gentle inclines, it’s pretty smooth overall. If you prefer a little extra help getting around, there’s a shuttle service for $20 round trip, or you can rent a mobility scooter for $19.99 per hour.
Helpful tips & insights
One of the things we love most about the hike to the waterfalls is how shaded the trail is by tall trees. It keeps the walk cool and comfortable. Plus, it's great for families since the paved trail is easy for kids and strollers!
Cell Service & Wi-fi
Cell service is limited in the valley, but Wi-Fi is available in select areas of the park with no password required.
What to Bring & Wear
If you're walking to the waterfalls, bring comfy shoes for the trail, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, a swimsuit, towel, dry clothes to change into, and water shoes if you plan on getting in the water!
While you're at it, pack a picnic and stop at one of the shaded benches or grassy areas along the trail. It's the perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the views.
Attending the luau? Wear something comfy, like a casual dress or lightweight clothes.
Best Time to Visit
Our favorite time to walk to the waterfalls is right when the park opens or later in the afternoon. During these times, the park is less crowded and fewer people are swimming.
Must-do Nearby
- Waimea Bay: A beautiful beach right across from the valley, known for big-wave surfing in the winter and perfect for swimming in the summer. Check it out live on the Waimea webcam!
- Haleiwa Town: Stop by the historic town of Haleiwa and explore its local shops and restaurants.
Waimea Valley FAQs
Waimea Valley is about an hour’s drive from Waikiki or Honolulu, depending on traffic via the H1/H2 freeway. If you take the scenic route along the coast on the east side of the island, it can take about an hour and a half to get there without any stops along the way.
Waimea Valley address:
Waimea Valley Rd, Haleiwa, HI 96712
View on Google Maps
On average, you'll want to plan for about 2 to 3 hours at Waimea Valley. The walk to the waterfalls takes about 30 minutes each way, but you’ll probably want to take your time exploring the historical sites along the trail.
If you plan to swim in the waterfall, attend the Luau, check out the hula show, or shop at the gift shop, you’ll need a bit more time to enjoy everything fully!
You don’t need reservations at Waimea Valley to visit the botanical gardens and waterfalls. However, you can book general admission, the Toa Luau, Kipahele Tour, and mobility scooters online in advance if you'd like.
For weddings, photoshoots, or other events, it's best to contact them ahead of time.
Swimming at Waimea Falls depends on weather conditions, especially if it rains. Most days, it’s open! To be sure, call (808) 638-7766 in the morning. Lifeguards make the call by 9 AM.
We hope this guide helps you learn more about Waimea Valley! Got questions? Drop them in the comments below, or feel free to call them directly at (808) 638-7766.
Looking for more tips on exploring North Shore? Check out our other posts!
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