In short
- Park opens daily at 7:00 AM.
- Early mornings offer rainbows in the mist.
- Small parking lot fills up by mid-day.
In this article
Choosing the right time to visit the 80-foot waterfall helps you avoid parking stress and heavy crowds. Since the viewing area is right off the highway, mid-day traffic can cause the small parking lot to overflow.
Why visit Wailua Falls in the morning?
Arriving early helps you secure a spot in the small parking lot.
The state park opens at 7:00 AM. If you arrive before 9:00 AM, you will usually find a parking spot easily. The lot at the end of Highway 583 is small and fills up fast. Arriving early also means you share the viewpoint with fewer people.
When can you see rainbows at the waterfall?
Early morning sunlight creates rainbows in the mist at the base.
The angle of the morning sun shines directly into the waterfall gorge. When the sunlight hits the heavy mist created by the 80-foot drop, it often produces clear rainbows. By late morning, the sun moves higher and the rainbow effect fades.
Is it worth visiting Wailua Falls in the afternoon?
Yes, but you will likely face heavy crowds and full parking lots.
If you visit in the afternoon, prepare to wait for a parking spot. Vehicles frequently idle near the entrance while waiting for other visitors to leave. The waterfall is still visible, but the sunlight hits from a different angle. The park stays open until 7:45 PM.
What is the best time of year to visit?
The waterfall flows year-round, but heavy rains change its appearance.
During periods of heavy rainfall, the two separate tiers merge into one massive single drop. The water source comes from Mount Wai'ale'ale, one of the wettest spots on earth. During drier months, the falls maintain two distinct drops.
How long should you spend at Wailua Falls?
Most visitors spend 10 to 15 minutes at the upper viewing deck.
Because the viewpoint is directly next to the parking lot, you do not need much time. You can walk straight from your car to the paved viewing area. Plan for a 15 to 20-minute drive from Lihue each way.
Do guided tours go to Wailua Falls?
Yes, several bus and van tours stop at the roadside lookout.
If you prefer not to drive or deal with parking fees, book a guided half-day tour. These tours handle the transportation from Lihue and give you time to take photos at the wall.
Questions travellers ask
What time does Wailua Falls open?
The state park is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:45 PM.
How much is parking at Wailua Falls?
Non-residents pay a $10 vehicle parking fee plus a $5 entry fee per person. Hawaii residents park and enter for free with a valid ID.
Can you visit Wailua Falls at night?
No. The state park closes at 7:45 PM every day.
