Plan your visit
Plan your visit
Get the details right before you go. Learn when to arrive, where to park, and what to pack for a river adventure.
Getting there
Drive to the marina or state park boat ramp.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive to the Wailua River Marina or the state park boat ramp just off Kuhio Highway (Hwy 56). | About 15 minutes north of Lihue Airport. | Free parking | Arrive before 10:00 AM to easily secure a parking spot in the marina lots. |
| Boat: Rent a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or book a motorized open-air boat tour to navigate the river. | 2-5 hours depending on the chosen route. | $50-$95 | Motorized tours are the easiest way to see Fern Grotto, while kayaks are necessary to access the Secret Falls trailhead. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
The river is open year-round. The best months for calm water are May through September. Winter brings heavier rains, which can cause trail mud or temporary flash flood closures.
Always check conditions before paddling. Flash floods can cause river and stream levels to rise rapidly.
What to bring
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Hurricane Lowell caused some trail closures in late 2026.
The river remains fully open for paddling.
How the day runs
Follow these practical schedules to make the most of your time.
A 4 to 5-hour active morning trip combining paddling and a muddy hike.
- Arrive at the marina
Park your car early and meet your guides or pick up your rental gear.
- Paddle upstream
Kayak 2 miles up the Wailua River. Stay to the north bank to avoid tour boats.
- Hike the trail
Secure your kayak and start the 1.5-mile hike to Uluwehi Falls. Wear strong water shoes.
- Swim at Secret Falls
Enjoy the 120-foot waterfall and swim in the pool at the base.
- Hike and paddle back
Return via the muddy trail and paddle back to the marina before afternoon winds pick up.
An easy half-day seeing the highlights without a strenuous workout.
- Wailua Falls
Drive to the end of Maʻalo Road. View the 80-foot double-tiered falls from the parking area.
- ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls
Stop at the highway lookout on Kuamoʻo Road for a clear view of the 151-foot cascade.
- Wailua River Overlook
Cross the street from the ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls lot for elevated views of the river valley.
- Fern Grotto Cruise
Take a motorized boat tour from the marina to the historic Fern Grotto.
Packing for the river
Bring a waterproof dry bag for your phone and keys. You will need water shoes or hiking sandals with strong grip and ankle straps. Flip-flops are not safe for the muddy trails or stream crossings.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and at least 1 liter of water per person. Wear your bathing suit under your clothes to easily swim at Secret Falls. A light rain jacket is useful for sudden rainforest showers.
Easiest way to do it
Kauai: Secret Falls Kayak and Hike
4 h 30 min 4.8 (1,662)
- Guided group kayak tour on the Wailua River
- Knowledgeable local guide
- Use of kayak, backrests, personal flotation devices and paddles
- Guided rainforest hike to Secret Falls
From$135per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
What should I wear to kayak the Wailua River?
Wear a bathing suit under light, quick-drying clothing. Bring sturdy water shoes that strap to your feet. Do not wear flip-flops, as the trails are notoriously muddy.
Can you drive to Wailua Falls?
Yes. Wailua Falls is easily viewed from the roadside parking area at the end of Maʻalo Road. No hiking is required to see it.
What is the best time of day to kayak the Wailua River?
Launch early in the morning, before 10:00 AM. This helps secure parking and avoids afternoon trade winds that make the return paddle harder.