Waimea Bay is a fantastic beach on the North Shore that many people visit, but tucked just across the road from it and back in the woods is the gorgeous Waimea Valley. While we were on Oahu last year we got the chance to visit Waimea Valley and swim in Waimea Falls.
How to Get to Waimea Valley
Like most places on Oahu, Waimea Valley is not all that hard to get too. The key is to not miss the turn off into the valley.
Take Highway 83 out of Honolulu and follow it up the coast to the North shore. Once the road turns south (near Turtle Bay Resort) you are getting close. Once you pass Shark’s cove your are very close. The road will go left and you will see Waimea Bay on your right, you are looking for a left hand turn in to Waimea Valley. If you see it turn in and follow the road into the valley.
If you pass the main parking lot for Waimea Bay (as you are likely to do) you have gone too far. Turn in to the parking lot and turn around. Go back the other way, you will immediately cross the bridge over the Waimea River and just after that turn right into Waimea Valley.
As you follow the road you might at first think that there is nothing there. Just keep following the road, you will eventually get to a parking lot in the jungle next to the visitor center.
What You Will See at Waimea Valley
Waimea Valley has religious and historical importance for the Hawaiian people. You will be able to walk along an easy paved path through the forest that will take you all the way to Waimea Falls. Along the way you will pass by archeological sites, some which are restored, and see a wide variety of plant and animal life.
There are various signs around that talk about the history of the valley, what has been found at the archeological sites, and what plants are there. Depending on when you are there there will also be different native artisans at various points selling their craft.
The hike to the falls is really more of walk, although if you prefer you can buy a ticket for a shuttle that will drive you up.
Swimming in Waimea Falls
At the end of the walk you come to Waimea Falls which feed the Waimea River that you have been walking beside the whole time. At the base of the falls is a pool of cold water that you can swim in if you want to. Before you cross the bridge to the fall there are some restrooms where you can change into your swimming gear.
We did go swimming in the falls. The water was super cold but it was really fun. They have life jackets at the end of the trail and you are required to where a life jacket while swimming for safety. Lucy did get in the water but only for a short time before she wanted to get out and stay with Grandma.
Sum Up
Waimea Valley is a really cool place to visit. It is nice to break up some of your beach time in Hawaii with some other activities, and this awesome place happens to be located next to an awesome beach as well. So it is well worth the visit. It is cool to learn more about Hawaii’s history and see the different types of life on the island. Swimming at the Waimea Falls is a unique experience too that you should take advantage of while you are here.
