Kayaking & Hiking Adventures
Paddle the sacred waters and hike to hidden waterfalls on Kauaʻi's legendary river
Written by a Local Expert
Kalani MillerYour Wailua River Adventure: A Complete Activity Overview
Now that you know the stories of the land, it's time to get on the water. The Wailua River offers an experience for every type of traveler. Whether you're feeling adventurous and want to paddle yourself to a hidden waterfall, or you'd rather sit back and let a boat guide you through the valley's history, here's everything you need to know to plan your perfect day on the Wailua.
Paddling the Sacred River: Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
There is no more intimate way to experience the Wailua River than by the power of your own paddle. The river is wide, calm, and has almost no current. This makes it ideal for both beginners and experienced paddlers. You can choose a guided tour, where an expert will share stories and ensure your safety. Or you can choose a self-guided rental for the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Renting Your Gear
Several excellent local companies offer kayak and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals. A key decision is whether you want a company that delivers the kayak to the river for you or if you're comfortable with a "car-top" rental. With car-top rentals, you transport the gear on your vehicle. Delivery is more convenient, while car-topping is often more affordable and offers more flexibility.
Here are some trusted rental options:
Wailua Kayak Adventure (Kapaʻa)
Offers delivery to the river and optional car-top. Delivered half-day rentals typically cost around $130 for a double kayak or $70 for a single.
Includes: maps, PFDs, dry bags, seats, paddles, soft racks
Kauai Kayak Rental (Kapaʻa)
Car-top required, but all gear is included for transport. They provide comprehensive equipment packages for self-guided adventures.
Includes: full equipment packages
Kayak Kauai (Wailua Marina)
Car-top rentals with full equipment packages including maps, PFDs, seats, paddles, and car racks.
Includes: maps, PFDs, seats, paddles, car racks
Scotty's Surf Co. (Kapaʻa)
Car-top or walk with cart options. They include maps, dry bags, coolers, and even trekking poles for the hiking portion.
Includes: maps, dry bags, coolers, trekking poles
A Self-Guided Tour Map: Paddling to Secret Falls
For those venturing out on their own, the journey to Uluwehi Falls (Secret Falls) is the classic Wailua adventure. Here's a narrative map to get you there:
Mile 0: The Launch
Your journey begins at the Wailua River State Park boat ramp at the Wailua Marina. Pro Tip: Look for the small sandy area just to the right (west) of the concrete boat ramp. It's a much safer and easier place to launch your kayak or SUP, avoiding the slippery concrete.
Mile 0-1.8: The Main Channel
As you paddle upstream (away from the ocean), be sure to hug the right (north) bank of the river. This keeps you safely out of the way of the larger, motorized tour boats that use the center of the channel. Enjoy the views of the lush riverbanks and the silhouette of Nounou Mountain, also known as Sleeping Giant, in the distance. You'll pass the reconstructed Kamokila Hawaiian Village on your right, offering a glimpse into the past.
Mile 2.0: The Fork in the River
After about 45 minutes of steady paddling, you will arrive at a crucial navigation point where the river splits. You must veer to the RIGHT to enter the North Fork. This path leads to the Secret Falls trailhead. Taking the left fork will lead you toward the Fern Grotto.
Mile 2.2: The Landing
Continue up the North Fork for another 5-10 minutes. You can't miss your destination: on the right bank, you'll see a small beach area that serves as a "parking lot" for a fleet of rainbow-colored kayaks and paddleboards. Find a spot and pull your vessel completely onto the shore.
Hiking to Uluwehi (Secret) Falls: A Step-by-Step Experience
Once you've landed your kayak, the second part of your adventure begins. The name "Secret Falls" is a bit of a misnomer these days, as it's one of the most popular hikes on the island. But its beauty is undeniable.
The Trail
The hike is approximately two miles round-trip and is mostly flat, though it does have a gradual elevation gain of about 465 feet. The trail is a simple dirt path that winds through a stunning tropical rainforest. Be prepared: if it has rained recently, the trail will be extremely muddy and slippery. In recent years, a boardwalk has been installed along some sections, making the walk a bit cleaner and easier.
The Stream Crossings
⚠️ Critical Safety Warning
You will have to cross a stream at least once. The water can be anywhere from knee to thigh-deep. Often, a rope is strung across the stream to help you keep your balance. The risk of flash floods is real. If the water is brown, murky, or rushing powerfully, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CROSS. Turn around and go back. The beauty of the waterfall is never worth risking your life.
The Reward
Your muddy efforts are rewarded when you arrive at the base of Uluwehi Falls. This is a breathtaking 120-foot cascade that tumbles down a black lava rock cliff into a large, inviting plunge pool. You can take a refreshing swim in the cool water. But for your safety, stay away from the immediate base of the falls, as rocks can sometimes become dislodged from the cliff face.
Essential Packing List
👟 Footwear
This is non-negotiable. You need sturdy, closed-toe water shoes or secure hiking sandals (like Tevas or Keens) that you don't mind getting soaked and caked in mud. Do not wear flip-flops or Crocs. You will lose them in the mud or the stream.
👕 Clothing
Wear your swimsuit under clothes that can get wet and stained. A quick-dry shirt and shorts are ideal. Bring a small towel.
🎒 Gear
A dry bag is essential for protecting your phone, keys, and wallet (most rental companies provide one). Use bug repellent, as mosquitoes love the jungle. Wear mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreen.
🥤 Food & Water
Pack plenty of drinking water and high-energy snacks or a light lunch to enjoy at the falls. Many rental shops also offer trekking poles, which are a huge help on the slippery trail.
Continue Exploring Wailua River
Discover more ways to experience this sacred valley, from relaxing boat tours to spectacular waterfall viewpoints.
ℹ️ Activity Info
- Duration: 4-6 hours
- Kayak Rental: $70-$130
- Paddle Distance: 4.4 miles RT
- Hike Distance: 2 miles RT
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best Time: Early morning
🎒 What to Bring
- Water shoes (closed-toe)
- Swimsuit & towel
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Dry bag for valuables
- Water & snacks
- Bug repellent
- Trekking poles (optional)