Hoopii Falls

Traveler Advisory: Ho‘opi Falls is located in a quiet residential neighborhood. In light of concerns from the local community, we kindly ask visitors to respect the area by avoiding illegal parking, minimizing noise, and packing out all trash. Please help preserve both the natural beauty of the falls and the peace of the neighborhood.

Ho‘opi‘i Falls, on Kauai’s lush northeast side, features two picturesque cascades along the Kapaa Stream—an upper, more tranquil fall and a larger lower one. Surrounded by greenery and tropical wildlife, the spot is undeniably beautiful, but access is complicated. There is no legal public trailhead, and much of the route crosses private land, with limited access only along the stream. If you do visit, park at Kapahi Park and walk quietly and courteously through the neighborhood—roadside parking near the trail is not allowed. Out of respect for residents, please avoid treating this as a casual tourist hike. The area is fragile, sacred, and under review due to overuse. Some community members advise avoiding Ho‘opi‘i Falls entirely until access concerns are resolved.

• Ho‘opi‘i Falls has two waterfalls along the Kapaa Stream—a smaller upper falls and the larger lower falls.
• The trail is informal, crosses private lands, and is not an official public path. Visitors should respect property boundaries and stay within the stream bed.
• Swimming is possible but should be approached with caution, especially after rainfall when water levels rise quickly.
• Cliff jumping has historically occurred here, but conditions can be dangerous—always check depth and flow before entering.
• Photography opportunities are abundant, though respectful behavior is paramount.

The name “Ho‘opi‘i” translates to “to be in the midst of” in Hawaiian. Waterfalls like Ho‘opi‘i often hold deep spiritual meaning for Native Hawaiians as sacred sites. The Kapaa Stream has long supported local communities through irrigation, fishing, and drinking water. While some locals historically used informal footpaths to access the stream, the route was never an official public trail.

Ho‘opi‘i Falls gained international recognition when featured in the 1993 film Jurassic Park. The lower waterfall appeared as the fictional “Mano de Dios Amber Mine.” This attention has fueled visitor interest but also contributed to access challenges and over-tourism.

The path is an informal route that passes through private land. Parking on nearby residential roads is prohibited—visitors must use Kapahi Park and walk in quietly if they choose to go. The community asks visitors to minimize noise, avoid trespassing, and respect the sensitive environment. Because of its fragile ecosystem and cultural significance, Ho‘opi‘i Falls is increasingly discouraged as a casual tourist hike. Community voices stress that the best stewardship may be to avoid visiting altogether unless you are committed to respectful behavior.

Those who make the journey respectfully will find two cascades: the upper falls, more intimate and calm, and the lower falls, larger and dramatic. Swimming is possible but risky. The stream and falls are considered sacred—please avoid leaving the stream bed, and treat the area with reverence.

Despite the increase in tourism following the exposure from Jurassic Park, Ho’opi’i Falls remain undeveloped, with no facilities nearby. Visitors should be self-sufficient and follow leave-no-trace practices. Misuse of the area could result in further restrictions or closure to public access.

• Trail Type: Informal, not an official public trail
• Distance: ~2 miles round trip (informal use)
• Duration: 2–2.5 hours
• Elevation Gain: 615 ft
• Highest Elevation: 261 ft
• Nearest Major City: Kapa‘a, Hawaii
• Best Time to Visit: Discouraged during heavy rains; visitors should reconsider visiting until disputes are resolved

At Ho‘opi‘i Falls, expect lush vegetation, muddy footing, and beautiful cascades—but also community tension over overuse. Swimming and photography are popular but should only be pursued if conditions are safe and if done with respect for the cultural and natural significance of the site.

• Parking: Only at Kapahi Park. Do not park roadside.
• Respect Neighbors: Keep voices down; avoid blocking driveways.
• Respect Culture: Recognize the stream and falls as sacred. Do not leave the stream bed.
• Safety: Trail is muddy and slippery; swimming can be hazardous.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and avoid damaging the environment.
• Consider Not Going: Many community members urge restraint until access issues are resolved.

If you do choose to go, mornings are quieter. But be aware: continued disrespectful behavior may lead to closures. The most responsible choice may be to admire Ho‘opi‘i Falls through photos and community-approved tours rather than attempting the hike.

After exploring Hoopii Falls, take some time to enjoy the nearby attractions. Head to Kapa’a town for local shops, art galleries, and great dining options, or relax at Kealia Beach, a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. For more adventure, explore the nearby coastal bike path or visit the scenic Opaekaa Falls and the Wailua River for kayaking and paddleboarding. These attractions make it easy to turn your trip to Hoopii Falls into a full day of fun and exploration on Kauai’s beautiful east side.

Ho‘opi‘i Falls remains a beautiful but contested place. To respect the community, culture, and land, we encourage responsible choices—whether that means following all guidelines strictly or opting not to go. Kauai has many waterfalls and trails that welcome visitors more sustainably.