Papalaua Falls

Papalaua Falls is a year-round waterfall on Molokai’s north shore in Papalaua Valley, fed by the Kawai Nui stream and dropping 501 meters through a steep fissure in the valley wall. It consists of five drops, including a dramatic middle plunge visible from the sea, making it a well-known feature on boat and aerial tours along this remote coast. The falls are especially powerful during the rainy season from November to March and are often confused with nearby Kahiwa Falls. The surrounding valley also preserves agricultural terraces used first by Native Hawaiians and later by Chinese taro growers. Its name comes from the Hawaiian word pāpala-ua, meaning “rain fog.”

Ualapue, Hawaii · United States