About Pūwainui Falls
Pūwainui Falls is a named waterfall in Kauai County, Hawaii, located about 7.6 miles southwest of Princeville. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Haena 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 22°08′09″ N, 159°33′28″ W (22.13578, -159.55779). Historical sources also record the name Puwainui Falls. Named features close by in the federal gazetteer include Wainiha Pali (cliff, 1.0 mi), Lāʻau Ridge (ridge, 1.2 mi), and Puʻukamaha (summit, 1.5 mi). The nearest other waterfall in this directory is Hinalele Falls, 4.2 miles to the southeast.
Weather at Pūwainui Falls
Full NWS forecastForecast for the waterfall's exact location, not the nearest town. Mountain weather can change quickly.
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Source: National Weather Service.
Conditions at Pūwainui Falls
Sun and Daylight Today
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Times in Honolulu time. Canyons and steep valleys lose direct sun earlier.
Elevation
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At the mapped waterfall point, from the USGS 3D Elevation Program. Expect cooler temperatures than in nearby towns at lower elevation.
Nearest Stream Gauge
Checking for USGS gauges within about 8 miles...
Live discharge in cubic feet per second (ft³/s). The gauge may be on a different stream than the falls; use the trend as a rough guide to how much water is running in the area.
Map and Directions
The marker shows the USGS-recorded position of Pūwainui Falls. Trailheads and parking can be some distance from the falls themselves, so plan your route with an up-to-date trail map.
Named Landmarks Nearby
These named features from the USGS Geographic Names Information System lie within two miles of Pūwainui Falls. Stream positions mark the stream's mouth as recorded by USGS.
- Wainiha Pali — cliff, 1.0 mi
- Lāʻau Ridge — ridge, 1.2 mi
- Puʻukamaha — summit, 1.5 mi
- Kamakeanu — summit, 1.6 mi
Before You Visit
- Water levels change quickly. Flow is usually strongest after rain and during snowmelt; see the best time to visit waterfalls.
- Stay back from the brink and off wet rock. Our waterfall safety guide covers the most common hazards.
- Check land ownership and access before you go. Some named falls sit on private property or in areas without a maintained trail.
- Download offline maps and save the coordinates 22.13578, -159.55779. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near Pūwainui Falls
- Wai‘alae Falls, HI5.2 mi southwest
- Waiʻalae Falls, HI5.2 mi southwest
- ʻĀwini Falls, HI5.6 mi southwest
- Waikaka Falls, HI6.1 mi south
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Pūwainui Falls located?
Pūwainui Falls is in Kauai County, Hawaii, about 7.6 miles southwest of Princeville. Its coordinates are 22.13578, -159.55779 (22°08′09″ N, 159°33′28″ W).
What town is closest to Pūwainui Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Princeville, HI, about 7.6 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near Pūwainui Falls?
The closest is Hinalele Falls (4.2 mi southeast). Others within reach include Hanakāpīʻai Falls (4.2 mi), Mōhihi Falls (4.3 mi), and Moeloa Falls (4.7 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows Pūwainui Falls?
Pūwainui Falls appears on the USGS Haena 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.