Waikamoi Nature Trail

A half-mile past the 9-mile marker, a wide dirt pull-off provides space for a few cars to park below the Waikamoi Nature Trail. This peaceful 30-minute trail loops through tall trees with wonderful fresh scents and lots of birdsong. The grand reddish trees covered with climbing philodendron vines are Eucalyptus robusta. The ridge at the top of the trail provides a fine view of the winding Hana Hwy.

The next few sights come up quickly, so keep a keen eye out. Waikamoi Falls is at the bridge just before the 10-mile marker. The lower waterfall has a pool and it's possible to walk a short way up to a higher waterfall, but the rocks can be slippery, and the bottom waterfall is prettier anyway. Past Waikamoi, bamboo grows almost horizontally out from the cliffs, creating a canopy effect over the road.

Immediately after the 11-mile marker you'll pass Puohokamoa Falls, another zenlike waterfall. This one doesn't have public access, but you can get a view of it right from the bridge.

If you're ready for a dip, Haipua'ena Falls, half a mile after the 11-mile marker, provides a gentle waterfall with an Eden-like pool deep enough for swimming. Most people don't know this one's here, as you can't see the pool from the road. There's space for a couple of cars on the Hana side of the bridge. To reach the falls, just walk 100yd upstream.