Kahiwa Falls facts for kids

Kahiwa Falls is a breathtaking waterfall located on the northern coast of Molokai, an island in Hawaii. This incredible natural wonder is known for its many steps, or "tiers," as it cascades down the cliffs. It's truly a sight to behold, dropping directly into the vast ocean.

Discovering Kahiwa Falls

Kahiwa Falls is one of Hawaii's most impressive waterfalls. It's a "tiered" waterfall, meaning it falls in several distinct steps or levels, creating a stunning visual effect as the water tumbles down.

Where is Kahiwa Falls Located?

You can find Kahiwa Falls on the northern shore of the beautiful island of Molokai, Hawaii. It's nestled between two valleys called Wailau and Papalaua. This part of Molokai is famous for its dramatic sea cliffs and lush, green landscapes.

How Tall is This Amazing Waterfall?

Kahiwa Falls is incredibly tall! It reaches about 2,165 feet (660 meters) from top to bottom. Imagine a stack of many tall buildings – that's how high it is! While the full drop is impressive, often about 1,749 feet is considered the main part of the waterfall.

The falls have six main tiers, or steps, with the highest single drop being about 183 meters (600 feet) tall. Each tier adds to the majestic journey of the water as it makes its way to the ocean below.

Seeing Kahiwa Falls Up Close

Because of its remote location on Molokai's rugged coastline, Kahiwa Falls can only be seen from the sea or from the air. This makes a boat tour or a helicopter ride the best ways to experience its grandeur. Imagine seeing this giant waterfall from a unique perspective!

Sometimes, when the winds are very strong, the water from Kahiwa Falls can even be caught by the wind and appear to rise upwards. It's a rare and fascinating sight that shows the power of nature.

Kahiwa Falls vs. Papalaua Falls

It's easy to confuse Kahiwa Falls with another nearby waterfall called Papalaua Falls. However, there's a simple way to tell them apart. Papalaua Falls is located at the very end of a valley that stretches about 0.9 kilometers (0.56 miles) inland. Kahiwa Falls, on the other hand, drops directly into the ocean, making it unique and easy to identify from the sea.