Private Waterfall Hike And Swim

Private Waterfalls Hike and Swim in Lihue runs through Da Life Outdoors. Rated 4.9 across 121 reviews. Runs 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours (approx.). From $93.19.

Overview

Two waterfalls on private land near Lihue, reached by a short downhill walk with ropes for support, then a swim in the pools below. That compressed length is one of its main draws: one reviewer said it left plenty of time to enjoy the rest of the afternoon.

The walk in is short but demanding underfoot. Reviewers describe mud, big steps and a climb that feels like eight flights of stairs coming back up, with ropes to grip on the steeper sections. At the falls, swimmers can cool off in both pools, and one reviewer described climbing up behind the curtain of water on the larger fall. Guides supply hiking sticks and water refills, and reviewers frequently mention the guides' knowledge of local plants and island history.

It suits reasonably fit travellers aged eight and up who want waterfalls and a swim without giving up a full day. It does not suit wheelchair users, pregnant travellers, people with back or heart problems, or anyone over 250 lb, per the listing. Groups run to a maximum of 18 people, and the tour starts and ends at the same meeting point on Hulemalu Road in Puhi.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet in PuhiArrive at the private property on Hulemalu Road, between Puhi Road and Halehaka Road. The listing gives GPS coordinates and says to look for a gate with a big orange rock next to it.
2. Hike down to the fallsWalk a short but steep and often muddy descent, using ropes on the steeper sections, with a guide leading the way.
3. Huleia National Wildlife RefugeSpend 30 minutes at the stop, admission ticket included, swimming in the pools below two waterfalls. Reviewers also mention climbing near and walking behind the larger fall.
4. Return to the meeting pointClimb back up the same trail, using the ropes and steps, finishing where the tour began.

What To Expect From The Tour

Here is what past participants and the listing say is worth knowing before you book.

• Footwear. Water shoes are not included and cost US$10.00 per person, per the listing. Multiple reviewers called them a must and warned that ordinary shoes get very muddy on this trail, unless they are easily washable.
• Fitness and terrain. The listing asks that participants handle slippery, muddy, uneven ground and the equivalent of at least eight flights of stairs. Reviewers agree the distance is short but the descent is steep and the climb back up is the harder half.
• What is included. A guide, hiking sticks and water refills are included. Hotel pickup is not, and nor are water shoes. Plan to make your own way to the gate in Puhi.
• Timing your day. At roughly an hour and a half to two hours, this tour leaves the rest of the day open. One reviewer picked it for exactly that reason, noting it did not drain the day the way some tours do.
• Bugs and mud. One reviewer's blunt advice was to bring and actually use bug spray. Mud is a recurring theme across reviews, so expect to get dirty and dress accordingly.
• Swimming and photos. Reviewers describe swimming in both pools and climbing near the falls, so a waterproof camera or phone case earns its space.

Common issues. The main complaints are practical: reviewers call the trail slippery and muddy, and the listing warns the terrain is uneven with a stair-heavy climb out. The listing excludes travellers over 250 lb, pregnant travellers, anyone with serious medical conditions, and children under eight. Water shoes cost extra and pickup is not offered. Weather can cancel the trip, and a minimum number of travellers is required, though in either case the listing promises a different date or a full refund. Changes or cancellations inside 24 hours of the start time get no refund.

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