In short
- Never swim with open cuts or swallow river water.
- Check for flash flood warnings before entering the water.
- Do not dive from cliffs due to hidden rocks.
In this article
Many visitors cool off in the Wailua River system, especially after the 1.5-mile hike to Secret Falls. While swimming is allowed in specific spots, you must take precautions against waterborne bacteria and sudden weather changes.
Is it safe to swim in the Wailua River?
Yes, but you must protect yourself against leptospirosis by keeping cuts out of the water.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection present in Hawaiian freshwater streams. You can safely swim in the Wailua River if you take precautions. Never enter the water if you have open cuts or wounds. Keep your head above the surface and never swallow the river water.
How do flash floods affect Wailua River swimming?
Heavy rains on Mount Waiʻaleʻale can cause the river and side streams to rise rapidly.
The Wailua River originates at Mount Waiʻaleʻale, a 5,148-foot peak. It is one of the wettest places on Earth. Rain at the summit moves quickly downstream.
Always heed flash flood warnings before your trip. If the water suddenly turns brown or rises quickly, exit the river immediately. Winter months carry a higher risk of flash flood closures.
Can you swim at Secret Falls?
Yes, the pool at the base of the 120-foot waterfall is a popular swimming spot.
To reach this swimming hole, you must paddle 2 miles upstream and hike 1.5 miles. The water is refreshing, but the same leptospirosis rules apply here. Wear your bathing suit under your hiking clothes so you can easily enter the water after the muddy trek.
Can you dive or jump into the Wailua River?
No, you should never jump or dive from unauthorized cliffs along the river.
Water depths in the Wailua River vary greatly. Hidden rocks sit just below the surface in many areas. Jumping from cliffs is extremely dangerous and strictly prohibited. Enter the water slowly and carefully, preferably wearing water shoes with a strong grip.
When is the best time for swimming in the Wailua River?
May through September offers the calmest river conditions for paddling and swimming.
Summer months provide more stable weather and fewer heavy rainstorms. Winter brings unpredictable rainforest showers. These showers increase the likelihood of muddy trails, murky water, and temporary flash flood closures.
| Season | Conditions | Safety Risk |
|---|---|---|
| May - September | Calmer river water | Lower flash flood risk |
| Winter Months | Heavy rains and muddy water | High flash flood risk |
What should I do if I see wildlife while swimming?
Maintain a strict legal distance from protected Hawaiian marine life.
If you encounter wildlife near the river, stay back. You must keep a distance of at least 10 feet from sea turtles. If you spot a Hawaiian Monk Seal, stay at least 50 feet away at all times.
Questions travellers ask
Can you swim in the Wailua River?
Yes, but you must avoid swallowing the water. Stay out if you have open wounds due to leptospirosis risks.
How deep is the Wailua River?
The depth varies significantly throughout the 20-mile river. Because of hidden rocks and changing depths, never jump or dive from cliffs.
Are there crocodiles or alligators in the Wailua River?
No, there are no crocodiles or alligators in the Wailua River or anywhere in Hawaii.
