If you’re seeking a peaceful and scenic getaway, the Six Tons Waterfalls area in Pepeekeo, Hawaii, is the perfect destination for nature lovers, hikers, and adventurers alike. This hidden gem offers a serene environment with cascading waterfalls, hiking trails, and opportunities for a refreshing swim when the water is calm. Interestingly, the name “Six Tons” refers to a nearby historic wooden bridge, adding a touch of local history to your visit.
Whether you’re interested in swimming, exploring, or just soaking in the beauty of the Hawaiian landscape, Six Tons promises a memorable experience away from the crowds.
Quick Information for Six Tons Waterfalls
Are you planning on seeing the Six Tons Waterfalls? The location has the following activities and amenities available:
- swimming (when the water is calm)
- quiet spot
- scenic driving
- hiking
Six Tons: It’s Actually the Name of the Bridge
Funnily enough, the name “Six Tons” or “6 Tons” that some people use for the waterfalls and Kawainui Stream area actually refers to the wooden bridge itself, which was built around 1900. All the same, many people and visitors still refer to the general area as Six Tons.
The two nearby waterfalls are known locally as Kawainui Mauka (with mauka meaning toward the mountain) and Kawainui Makai (with makai meaning toward the sea), which can be found a little further downriver. One of the waterfalls is actually an old manmade tunnel that was used to help irrigate the nearby sugar plantations in the early 1900s.
Fun Fact: One of the action scenes in the 2017 movie sequel Jumanji was filmed in the Six Tons area.
How to Get to Six Tons Waterfalls
The waterfalls near the Six Tons bridge aren’t too hard to get to or see, and there are usually few other people in the area, which makes the area for a perfect semi-private getaway. Located in Pepeekeo, Six Tons is just a short drive from Hilo and Hamakua. The best route to take is the Old Mamalahoa Highway, which offers its scenic and breathtaking views of the island’s lush landscape. Along the way, you’ll pass by other majestic waterfalls and a few small villages.
Once you get to Pepeekeo, there are signs pointing you in the right direction. You can access the falls via the Kawainui Stream. A short but rugged hike will take you to the waterfall’s entrance where you can take in its beauty and enjoy a refreshing swim in its pool — but beware, as the water tends to be colder than most visitors expect!
Driving Directions to Six Tons Waterfalls
Below are some directions on how to reach Six Tons and Kawainui Stream. YouTuber StepByStepHowTo has a video outlining how to get there, and these directions are taken from that video. The video is also linked below.
- From Hilo, you’ll head north on Highway 19 around for around 7 miles (11.3 km).
- Turn right on Kulaimano Road and drive for around half a mile (0.8 km).
- Turn right on Old Mamalahoa Highway, and drive for just about a mile (1.6 km), at which point you will reach a bridge that crosses Kawainui Stream.
- Before crossing the bridge, park on the left side of the road. There’s usually room for about four or five cars there.
- The access trail point is on the left side of the road near the guardrail. Note that the access trail can be slippery when wet, so please use caution!
Additionally, here is a link to Six Tons on Google Maps to make navigating there even easier for you.
Kenzie’s Tips for Visiting the Six Tons Area
If you’re planning a trip to the Six Tons area, I’ve included some tips below to ensure you have a safe and fun experience:
- Bring Bug Spray: Unsurprisingly given the fresh water and a tropical climate, the area can have mosquitoes. Bring some bug spray if you’re prone to getting bit and plan on staying for longer than a little while.
- Wear Appropriate Footwear: I wouldn’t recommend wearing flip flops to visit this area. Strap-on shoes, water shoes, or sneakers are probably your best bet for safety and comfort. Remember that you’ll be walking on mud and rocks to get down to the water!
- Monitor the Weather: While swimming in freshwater streams and rivers can be fun, it can also be dangerous if there have been recent deluges of rain.
- Stay Away from the Waterfalls: Don’t get too close to the waterfalls themselves as the last thing you want to do is get sucked over the edge, fall down on some rocks, and injure yourself. Although some people jump off the waterfalls, I would not recommend this. Injuries are possible and the last thing you want to do on your Hawaiian vacation is to spend any time at the local hospital.
- Wear Sunscreen: I know, I know… I say this in just about every outdoor activity’s tip area, but I can’t say it enough! The Hawaiian sun is not anything like the sun you’re used to back home. Yes, I know you “never wear sunscreen and are always fine,” but please understand that I’m trying to make sure your trip is safe and fun. Yes, the Six Tons area has a good deal of shade thanks to the lush trees nearby, but is it really worth risking a painful burn that makes it hard to sleep at night? Wear reef-safe sunscreen!
Things to Do Nearby
Near Six Tons, there are a number of outdoor activities to enjoy. The area is perfect for a scenic drive, and you can also take a short hike up or down the river. Swimming is also possible when the water is calm.
For those looking for a bit more adventure, Boiling Pots is located nearby and offers plenty of opportunities for exploration. Additionally, there are other waterfalls nearby that can be accessed with a map of Hilo, Hamakua, and the Kohala Coast.
Conclusion: Is Six Tons Worth Visiting?
The Six Tons area is definitely a destination worth checking out for anyone who loves nature, photography, hiking, or swimming in freshwater rivers. It’s relatively easy to access and you can see the large waterfall with spectacular scenery. With its narrow back road and eponymous bridge, it’s easy to find and well-worth the visit.
However, families with small children might find the area lacking in activities and amenities. Those with small children might want to visit ‘Akaka Falls instead as the area has parking, a paved short hike to see the waterfall, and available restrooms.
Good For: Nature lovers, hikers, photographers, and adventurers.
Not Good For: Families with young children or those with mobility issues.
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