You know that song, “Don’t go chasing waterfalls” by TLC?
Well, here at Tropikaia, we’d have to strongly disagree.
There are so many stunning waterfalls all around the world, and luckily, a lot of them are in tropical destinations. Waterfalls and a tropical vacation? Win-win!
In this article, we highlight the 15 best tropical waterfalls in the world.
14. Faarumai Waterfalls, Tahiti
Located on the east coast of French Polynesia is Tahiti and the Faarumai Waterfalls. The hike to these waterfalls is picturesque, as is the view of the waterfalls from Tahiti’s black sand beaches. The Faarumai Waterfalls are known for their massive size and beautiful surroundings.
13. Juan Diego Falls, Puerto Rico
El Yunque National Forest in Puerto Rico is home to Juan Diego Falls. They’re hidden falls that can be reached after a short hike through the forest.
Juan Diego Falls isn’t the only waterfall in El Yunque National Forest, but they’re the least popular and therefore the least populated. If you’re looking for beautiful waterfalls where you can play, swim, and enjoy without tons of other tourists – Juan Diego Falls are the ones for you.
12. Rio Celeste Waterfall, Costa Rica
The Rio Celeste Waterfall is an incredible, turquoise waterfall located in Costa Rica. You can access this waterfall through Tenorio Volcano National Park, which is on the northern side of Costa Rica. While the national park is known for Tenorio Volcano, the Rio Celeste Waterfall shouldn’t be overlooked. This waterfall is known for its sky blue color, unique to the river at the basin of the waterfall.
11. Diamond Falls, St. Lucia
In the oldest botanical gardens on St. Lucia you’ll find Diamond Falls.
The Diamond Falls are beautiful waterfalls set in an even more beautiful location – a tropical garden. St. Lucia island already offers you an amazing tropical vacation, but visiting this waterfall takes tropical to another level. You can swim in the basins of these waterfalls as well as walk around the surrounding gardens.
10. El Salto del Limon, Dominican Republic
After a 1.5 mile journey through the forest, you’ll reach the beautiful El Salto del Limon, or Salto El Limon, a waterfall in the Dominican Republic.
The journey itself is worth doing, either by foot or on a horse, as you’ll see a variety of plants and animals on the way there.
Or, you can canoe through the El Limon river to get to the basin of the falls. Once you’ve reached the waterfall, prepare to be impressed by its size, beauty, and strength.
9. Ngardmau Waterfalls, Palau
The Ngardmau Waterfalls are Palau’s largest waterfalls, flowing from Palau’s tallest peak. After taking a short, but tough, walk to the falls, you can cool off in the water basins or just relax while taking in the breathtaking views. If interested, you can take a tour, half-day, or full-day trek to the falls.
8. Tavoro Falls, Fiji
Located in Bouma, Fiji, is the Tavoro Falls. The Tavoro Falls has three main sections: an upper, middle, and lower section. Each with various natural swimming areas at the basins.
These waterfalls are located in the Tavoro Forest Park and Preserve, so expect some hiking with great views before reaching the impressive waterfalls.
7. Trafalgar Falls, Dominica
Trafalgar Falls are twin waterfalls located in Dominica, about a 20-minute drive from Roseau. The Trafalgar Falls are viewable by a viewing platform that can be reached after a short, easy walk.
If you visit these waterfalls, don’t miss out on the warm spring that flows through the walking trail. You can swim in the basin of the smaller waterfall or keep exploring through the hot springs of the bigger waterfall.
6. Mantayupan Falls, Philippines
Located in Barili, Cebu, in the Philippines are the Mantayupan Falls – Barili’s biggest tourist attraction.
A short and easy walk brings you to these stunning falls, which are some of the highest in the province. You can view them from two levels, a higher and a shorter, and swim in the basin at the bottom. The accessibility of the Mantayupan Falls makes them the perfect excursion destination for any age.
5. Waimoku Falls, Hawaii
Hawaii is known for its picturesque landscapes, including waterfalls.
Waimoku Falls, in particular, is one of the best waterfalls in Hawaii and is definitely worth a visit. Located in Maui, Waimoku Falls is a massive 400 feet tall (one of the bigger waterfalls you can find). To see the falls, you’ll hike up a trail, where you’ll pass the smaller (but still beautiful) Makahika Falls.
4. Millaa Millaa Falls, Australia
Millaa Millaa Falls is located in Queensland, Australia, and is even listed on the Queensland Heritage Register. These falls are plunge waterfalls, surrounded by green lush rainforest.
Millaa Millaa Falls is one of the most photographed falls in Australia, so don’t forget your camera!
3. Tinago Falls, Philippines
Located on the Agus River in the Philippines, Tinago Falls is a hidden waterfall with a stunning lagoon at the bottom.
After some winding stairs, you’ll reach Tinago Falls, where you can swim and basque in the turquoise blue waters. If interested, you can get on a bamboo raft and take a ride in the lagoon, getting close to the base of the waterfall. Whatever you choose to do, you won’t regret visiting the Tinago Falls.
2. Sekumpul Waterfall, Bali
Known as one of Bali’s most beautiful waterfalls, Sekumpul Waterfall is one that should not be missed. It’s hard to reach the waterfall up close – you’ll need to walk a bit and climb hundreds of stairs. Perhaps one of the coolest parts of Sekumpul Waterfall is that you can hear it, audibly, far before reaching it. Once you get there, prepare to be impressed by its size and beauty.
1. Dunn’s River Falls, Jamaica
A popular Carribean attraction, Dunn’s River Falls is a well-known waterfall near Ocho Rios in Jamaica. Dunn’s River Falls is special as it uses deposits of travertine rock to continuously regenerate itself. This makes it a unique waterfall to see, visually, and to visit as a whole.
While there are tons of beautiful waterfalls in tropical locations, these are the 15 best ones. If you’re a waterfall chaser (sorry, TLC), consider one of these tropical waterfalls for your next trip.
