Manoa Falls, Honolulu

I found this hike to be much more challenging than the Diamondhead hike. The path was slippery and uneven, and rocky and climbed up over boulders. Be prepared for a good workout. We didn't see any mosquitos, so didn't use our Deep Woods Off towelettes. I had sore quad muscles the day after from climbing over big boulders. I am a 55 year old female who walks about a half hour a day...just to give you a level of intensity barometer. I was not as fit as some of the people who commented on this hike (I know now). My husband thought it was a peice of cake!

We booked a tour (Oahu Eco tours) and our guide was a nice bloke but not a good leader. He didn't keep the group (of widely varying abilities) together and charged ahead with the fittest hikers, he actually "lost" one of the group. Fortunately he met us back at the bus. I definitely recommend a strong mosquito repellent (supplied on the tour as were sticks) and take a stick as the trail was extremely slippery, especially on the way down. Lots of steps and the muddy ground made it quite trecherous and I would only recommend it to those of good fitness with no knee or ankle problems.

I went to see Manoa Falls with Oauh Nature Tours. Through Fun Hawaii, the tour cost me $37 plus tip. It lasted about 4 hours. Although she was a little young (22ish), my guide was competent. It was raining and she remembered to bring rain ponchos and walking sticks. She was very pleasant and informative. The falls were beautiful and the hike was moderately challenging in places. We did not rent a car in Honolulu so driving myself to the falls was not an option. If driving to the falls is an option for you, I would recommend doing that and saving $37.

Dont pay for the tour buses to take you on this hike! On a map, these falls are located near Lyon Arboretum. If you have a rental car just drive yourself, pay $5 for parking and do the hike! Make sure to grab a walking stick and plenty of bug spray. You may also want to take snacks and water. Its humid in the rainforest but the scent is awesome. If only I could bottle it and sell it...I'd be rich! This is an easy hike, about 1 mile each way. It can be muddy. I dont recomend swimming in the pool under the falls b/c of the bacteria thats been found in the water there. If you want to swim in a pool under a waterfall, go to Waimea Falls on North Shore Oahu.

A nice hike into the rain forest that is close to Wakiki and not very difficult. The views were really enjoyable and the falls at the end made for a good picture.

I am not the most physically fit, but in good overall health. I thought this was a nice "challenge" for someone from Wisconsin who is use to walking flat land and pavement! It was just breath-taking the entire hike. The sounds and fragrance of the tropics made this a very fulfilling adventure. There are signs posted at the trail-head stating "high crime area", so I was a little nervous starting out as I'm a middle aged woman who went alone on the trail. There was a little trash and grafetti at the beginning, but it paled in comparision of the rest of the trip. I have many beautiful photos for memories to share with others. Wear good shoes and bring water. You may want to also find a walking stick :) Oh, by the way, it's FREE!! Enjoy!!

This hike was quick, easy, close to Waikiki and fun. The hike is about a mile each way and really easy. The path is well maintained and a great way to see the rainforest of Hawaii for all ages.