Visit Waimea Valley Park

North Shore, Oahu

The rich fertile Waimea Valley on Oahu's North Shore is a step back in time. Traditionally this watershed supported many generations of Hawaiian Ali'i or chiefs. Hawaiian's continued growing food and supplying for their needs living off the land here until 1894. Over time the valley became overgrown and saw little use except for those walking through to hike to the waterfall. Through modern day stewardship, Waimea Valley now operates as a world class botanical gardens and cultural education area for visitors and residents alike. With 41 distinct planting zones, featuring thousands of plant varieties, this inland oasis is a must for plant lovers and highly recommended for those wanting a cool refreshing swim in a waterfall. At a glance: Highlights: A picture perfect waterfall borders the top boundary of this lush botanical garden, to get there you travel through plantings from all over the world mixed with Hawaiian cultural practitioners and rest areas with views. A shuttle is available for those in need for a small additional fee. Swimming in a waterfall! Activity level: Easy to moderate Hours of operation: Daily 9 am to 5 pm Options: Self-guided tour or audio tour options available. The price of admission gives you a map that highlights the many different areas planted by region, each area has plaques explaining plant species and origins. A shuttle ticket gets you a ride for the mile stretch to the waterfalls, it is available both directions for easy access. Hazards!: At the waterfalls life vests are required for your safety, and 2 lifeguards are on duty. They monitor the stream flow as well and swimming will be restricted if flooding is evident. Please greet the lifeguards before entering the water. Cost: $15 Adults, $7.50 for kids 4 to 12, and seniors over 60 years of age.   $6 audio tour in 5 different languages   $8 round trip shuttle, $5 one way shuttle. A swim in a Hawaiian waterfall is the dream of most visitors during their stay on the islands. This is not the easiest activity to under take due to the restricted, and often dangerous land accesses that one crosses to get to them. The Waimea Valley park has succeeded in making this activity easy and safe for people of all ages and abilities. With constant stream monitoring, lifeguards on duty, and required floatation vests this waterfall is a goal achievable by families, honeymooners or seniors. The added bonus being the optional shuttle carts that can provide safe passage for those preferring not to walk the distance. The mile journey through the park is on paved walkways on a gentle uphill grade winding through the botanical gardens. The rainforest environment here is shaped and sculpted by an array of grounds keepers and arborists that create a lush green environment worthy of many photographs. Give yourself a few hours to explore, as well as swim, and you won't be disappointed. Local's Tip: Fo…