When one thinks about Hawaii, there are a few things that undoubtedly come to mind: gorgeous white sand beaches, crystalline turquoise waters, lush jungles, and some of the world’s most magnificent waterfalls. And while we love hanging out under short waterfalls easily accessible via hiking trails as much as the next person, there’s something incredibly humbling about waterfalls that tower above the world like this secret gem, a colossal and secret waterfall in Hawaii, on the island of Molokai that not many people know about, and even fewer have witnessed in person.

Nestled deep within the Papalaua Valley on the northern side of the wild and beautiful island of Molokai near Halawa is perhaps one of the Aloha State’s greatest natural wonders.
Forest and Kim Starr/Flickr
This is Papalaua Falls, and you absolutely won’t believe your eyes when you see this beauty in real life.
Tim Durkan/YouTube
Though if you can't visit for yourself, the photographs are pretty impressive on their own.
Surrounded by lush, emerald-green scenery and some of the world’s tallest sea cliffs, Papalaua cascades more than 1,250 feet down a steep fissure created from the sheer force of the Kawai Nui Stream.
Forest and Kim Starr/Flickr
The surrounding valley is as lush as can be, and the crystalline waters of the nearby Pacific Ocean will mesmerize you.

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Papalaua features five drops, the most tremendous being its middle section, which measures in at an astounding 1,115 feet.
Tim Durkan/YouTube
The other four drops are tiny in comparison — but just as beautiful!
This jaw-dropping cascade flows year-round, but is especially powerful during the rainy season, from November through March, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.
Forest and Kim Starr/Flickr
Unfortunately, this remote slice of paradise is difficult to see and is only viewable via helicopter or boat.
Tim Durkan/YouTube
It doesn't get much more beautiful — or remote — than the surreal Papalaua Falls.
Tim Durkan/YouTube
For a quick, fly-by tour of Papalaua Falls, check out this video from YouTube user Tim Durkan:

Have you ever heard of this secret waterfall in Hawaii or, better still, visited the unparalleled Papalaua Falls? What are your favorite Hawaiian waterfalls? Share your opinions and experiences with us in the comments below, then click here to discover one of our favorite waterfall swimming holes.

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