Discover the most beautiful waterfalls in the world – natural wonders from the US to Iceland, Costa Rica, and Hawaii, you must see to believe.
Chasing waterfalls isn’t just about the view — it’s about the thrill, the mist on your face, and the sense of awe only nature can deliver. From roaring giants to hidden jungle gems, here are 21 of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world you’ll want on your bucket list.
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💧 21 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in the World
If you’ve ever searched for beautiful waterfalls near me or dreamed of seeing the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, this list is for you. From Iceland to Costa Rica, Oregon to Kauai, here are 21 of the best waterfalls in the world worth adding to your bucket list.
🌊 Niagara Falls, USA/Canada
Niagara Falls remains one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the US and the world. Its thundering roar, misty spray, and iconic boat rides make it one of the best waterfalls to see anywhere. Millions visit yearly, drawn by this spectacular waterfall’s raw power.
🌴 Seljalandsfoss, Iceland
Seljalandsfoss, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland, allows visitors to walk behind the falling curtain of water. Its golden glow at sunset makes it one of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls. Travelers searching for real rainbow beautiful waterfalls will not be disappointed.
🏔️ Multnomah Falls, Oregon
Multnomah Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Oregon and among the most beautiful waterfalls in the US. Its iconic bridge and two-tiered drop make it one of the most photographed waterfalls to see in Oregon. A true Pacific Northwest treasure.
🍃 Ruby Falls, Tennessee
Ruby Falls, inside Lookout Mountain, is one of the best waterfalls in Tennessee. This underground marvel is lit dramatically, making it one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the US. For those searching for “waterfalls near me” in Tennessee, this is an unforgettable stop.
🌿 Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil
Iguazu Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, stretching across 275 cascades. Located in a lush rainforest, it’s a UNESCO site often listed among the 50 most beautiful waterfalls in the world. A must for anyone seeking natural, beautiful waterfalls in South America.
🌺 Wailua Falls, Kauai
Wailua Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Kauai, plunging into a lush green pool. Known for morning rainbows, it’s one of Hawaii’s most beautiful waterfalls. Perfect for travelers searching for waterfalls to see in Kauai or the best waterfalls in Hawaii.
🌞 Gullfoss, Iceland
Gullfoss, or “Golden Falls,” is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland and a highlight of the Golden Circle. Its double cascade into a canyon makes it one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, often crowned with shimmering rainbows.
🌳 Yosemite Falls, California
Yosemite Falls, among the best waterfalls in the US, plunges 2,425 feet, making it North America’s tallest. Spring is the best time to see this natural wonder in full force. It’s one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the US and a highlight of Yosemite National Park.
🌊 La Fortuna, Costa Rica
La Fortuna is one of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica, hidden in dense jungle. Hike to its turquoise pool for a refreshing swim. Often ranked among the most beautiful waterfalls in the world, it’s a dream spot for adventure seekers visiting Central America.
🌴 Waimoku Falls, Maui
Waimoku Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Maui, plunging 400 feet down a sheer cliff in Haleakalā National Park. Surrounded by bamboo forests, it feels like stepping into another world. For travelers searching for spectacular waterfalls to see in Maui, this hike is absolutely worth the effort.
🌲 Havasu Falls, Arizona
Havasu Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the US, known for its turquoise water against red canyon walls. This spectacular waterfall in the Grand Canyon is a bucket-list adventure and one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world.
🌋 Akaka Falls, Big Island, Hawaii
Akaka Falls, one of the best waterfalls on the Big Island, plunges 442 feet through lush rainforest. It’s one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Hawaii and a must-see for travelers searching for waterfalls to see on the Big Island.
🌳 Amicalola Falls, Georgia
Amicalola Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Georgia and the tallest cascade east of the Mississippi. At 729 feet, it’s one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the US Southeast. A top pick for hikers searching for waterfalls near me in Georgia.
🏞️ Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
Plitvice Lakes National Park is home to some of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls. Turquoise lakes and cascades connected by wooden walkways make it one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Europe, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
🌄 Bridalveil Fall, Yosemite, California
Bridalveil Fall, 620 feet high, is one of the best waterfalls to see in Yosemite. Its mist creates shimmering rainbows, making it one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the US and a favorite among photographers.
🌊 Manawaiopuna Falls, Kauai
Manawaiopuna, or “Jurassic Falls,” is one of the best waterfalls in Kauai, made famous by Jurassic Park. Accessible mainly by helicopter, this is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, hidden deep in the tropical jungle.
🌿 Dettifoss, Iceland
Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. Its immense force earns it a spot among the world’s most spectacular waterfalls. A must for those exploring Iceland’s northeast.
🌲 Hemmed-In Hollow Falls, Arkansas
Hemmed-In Hollow is the tallest waterfall in the Ozarks and one of the best waterfalls in Arkansas. At 209 feet, it’s a hidden gem for hikers. Often called one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the US Midwest, it’s worth the trek.
🌄 Arethusa Falls, New Hampshire
Arethusa Falls is the tallest in New Hampshire and among the best waterfalls in New England. Cascading 140 feet, it’s one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the US Northeast, tucked in White Mountain National Forest.
🏖️ Snoqualmie Falls, Washington
Snoqualmie Falls is one of the best waterfalls in the US Pacific Northwest. At 268 feet, it’s both spiritual and scenic, making it one of the most beautiful waterfalls near Seattle and a favorite for visitors searching for waterfalls near me.
🌞 Shoshone Falls, Idaho
Shoshone Falls, “Niagara of the West,” is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the US. Taller than Niagara, this spectacular waterfall is at its best in spring. It’s one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world, and you can visit it without leaving Idaho.
From iconic giants like Niagara to hidden gems in Hawaii and Iceland, the most beautiful waterfalls in the world remind us how breathtaking nature can be.
Whether you’re seeking the best waterfalls in the US or dreaming of spectacular waterfalls abroad, each destination offers an unforgettable adventure worth chasing.
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