Lua’alaea

Only minutes from busy downtown, this rustic trail escapes into the lush muddy rainforest and meanders up and down with multiple stream crossings among native plants and ancient water ditches. It eventually climbs uphill over and under logs to a delightful little waterfall, which is far more secluded and tranquil than her nearby over visited cousin, Manoa Falls.*

A $5 donation is requested for each non-member, age 18 or over.

Elevation Gain: 638 feet. 

Trail Conditions: muddy, multiple stream crossings, flash flood zone, slippery, tricky footing, boulder climbing and mosquitos. 

Trail Features: lush green forest, multiple waterfalls, towering trees amidst a tranquil setting.

Trail Route: out and back.

Native Flora & Fauna: mamaki and hapu’u. 

Moku & Ahupua’a:Kona & Waikiki.

Hawaiian Name & Meaning: lua’alaea = pit of red earth.

Interesting Note: HTMC Member Silver Piliwale developed the trail in 1981.

HTMC has a no-post social media (including GPS trail apps) hike policy on all trails that are not state trails in order to protect the trails from being “loved to death” and to discourage hikers from going on hikes for which they are not prepared or are beyond their experience level.

*The club takes no responsibility and disclaims any liability for the contents of hike descriptions including any inaccuracies, omissions, errors, misleading statements, incompleteness, or incorrect information. (click here to read our full disclaimer)