Paddling in Paradise

Kauai is unique in Hawaii for its navigable rivers, offering paddling experiences that are fundamentally different from the open ocean. This creates a beautiful duality for paddlers. You can choose a sacred, serene journey into the island's lush, historic heart, or you can test your mettle on an epic adventure against the world's most dramatic coastline.

River Journeys: The Heartbeat of the Island

Paddling Kauai's rivers is like gliding through the island's history. The waters are calm, the scenery is a tapestry of deep greens, and the feeling is one of profound peace.

Wailua River (The Royal River)

As Hawaii's only truly navigable river, the Wailua holds immense cultural significance. It was the home of ancient Hawaiian royalty, and its banks are lined with sacred sites. The classic journey for paddlers is the trip to Uluwehi Falls, more famously known as Secret Falls. This adventure involves a gentle four to five mile round-trip paddle and a moderate one and a half to two mile round-trip hike to a stunning one hundred foot waterfall where you can take a refreshing swim. The trail can be muddy, especially after rain, so sturdy water shoes or sport sandals are essential.

Hanalei River

The Hanalei River offers a different, but equally enchanting, experience. Here, you paddle through the tranquil Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge, surrounded by verdant taro fields (loʻi) and the magnificent, waterfall-draped mountains that frame Hanalei Valley. You have two choices: paddle upstream into the serene beauty of the refuge, or paddle downstream into the expansive Hanalei Bay for a beach break and a swim. A huge advantage here is that rental companies like Kayak Hanalei are located directly on the river and have private docks, meaning you can launch right from their shop without the hassle of car-topping a kayak.

Ocean Expeditions: The Ultimate Challenge (Nā Pali Coast)

This journey is rightly called the "Mount Everest of sea kayaking". It is one of the most physically demanding and rewarding adventures you can have in Hawaii. For about five to seven hours of intermittent paddling, you are treated to a perspective of the Nā Pali Coast that is simply impossible to get any other way. You'll glide at the base of four thousand foot emerald cliffs, paddle through sea caves and under waterfalls that plunge directly into the ocean, and share the water with pods of spinner dolphins and sea turtles.

To make the journey manageable, all tours are one-way, paddling downwind from the North Shore (typically Haʻena) to the West Side (Polihale), with the prevailing currents and trade winds at your back. A van is waiting at the end to shuttle you and the kayaks back to your starting point. Be prepared for rough open-ocean conditions and take preventative measures if you are prone to seasickness. This is a true expedition, and booking with a certified guide like Na Pali Kayak or Outfitters Kauai is essential for safety.

The Stand-Up Paddleboard Experience

The fast-growing sport of SUP is perfectly suited to Kauai's calm waterways.

Best for Beginners

The best places to learn are the same ones that are great for calm kayaking. The Wailua River and Hanalei River offer miles of placid water to find your balance. Anini Beach's protected lagoon is another fantastic spot, as is the sheltered Kalapaki Beach near Lihue.

Rentals & Lessons

Many of the same companies that rent kayaks also offer SUPs and lessons, including Kauai SUP and Kauai Beach Boys.