Waimea Valley on Oahu
Rebecca Jones
7.27.21
Hawaii is known for several things – pineapples, surfing, leis, and beautiful scenery, among many other amazing creations, including waterfalls. On our vacation to Oahu, on a fairly drizzly day, we hopped in our rental car and took a drive around the island. Some of our plans had fallen through, but we still wanted to see the gorgeous landscape, so we took a drive.
On the northwest corner of Oahu, we spotted a sign for Waimea Valley. Knowing this was a popular location, we decided to stop in and check it out. I am so glad we did!
Immediately upon arrival, we were greeted by the cultural site of Hale o Lono (House of Lono). This religious place of worship is believed to have been built around 1470 AD, and is dedicated to the Hawaiian god, Lono. There are other cultural sites throughout the valley, including burial sites and shrines dedicated to the many gods of the Hawaiian people.
Walking along the 3/4-mile paved trail to the waterfall, you will encounter multiple botanical gardens, as well. Some are themed by type of flora, some are themed according to the region the plants are originally from. You can take a guided botany tour on Thursdays. During our visit in March, not a lot of the flowers were in bloom, but I’ll be it’s gorgeous in the summer!
Once at the waterfall, you can swim if you’d like. We did not do this, as we weren’t expecting to be here, but it is available, and we saw several people swimming. Life jackets are required (and provided), and there are changing locations at the waterfall, too. There are no showers to rinse off, however, and you must bring your own towels.
I found it interesting that the waterfall’s name changes, depending on the intensity of the water running through it. If the water is flowing heavily, the name is Waihī (purging water). However, if there is a gentle stream, the waterfall is called Waihe‘e (softly trickling water). On the day we visited, I think it was likely a Waihī day.
Lastly, there is a shuttle, really it’s a golf cart, that will take you along the path to the waterfall. It is $10 per person, but if you have someone who has difficulties walking uphill, this is a great way for them to be able to enjoy the scenery. There are two dining locations here, too, so ice cream is a great way to convince the younger hikers to finish the route!
A visit to Waimea Valley was a great, unexpected addition to our Oahu visit. I definitely recommend it for your family as well. If you have questions about a Hawaiian vacation, please reach out to me or your Wishes agent. Rebecca@wishesfamilytravel.com (325) 733-8399