Wailua River Kayak & Waterfall Hike

Paddle Kauai's Most Famous River to Secret Falls

Paddle Kauaʻi's most famous river, hike two miles round trip through rainforest, and eat lunch at the bottom of ʻUluwehi Falls with your feet in the water.

A CLASSIC KAUAI EXPERIENCE

Few places capture the spirit of Kauai like the Wailua River.

Flowing from the island's interior to the sea, this historic waterway has long been a place of cultural significance and natural beauty. On the Wailua River Kayak & Waterfall Adventure, you'll paddle this scenic river, hike through tropical rainforest, and arrive at the breathtaking Secret Falls (Uluwehi Falls), one of Kauai's most beloved natural landmarks.

It's the perfect blend of gentle adventure, spectacular scenery, and authentic Hawaiian history, making it one of the island's must-do experiences.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Guided kayak tour on the Wailua River
• Rainforest hike to Secret Falls (Uluwehi Falls)
• Swim beneath a beautiful tropical waterfall
• Learn about the legends and history of the Wailua Valley
• Small group adventure led by experienced local guides
• Great for couples, families, and first-time visitors
• One of the most popular things to do on Kauai

WHAT TO EXPECT

Adventurous Paddle

Your day begins with a paddle up the Wailua River, Hawaiʻi's largest tropical river and one of Kauai's most culturally important landscapes.

As you float along, you'll pass beneath mountain ridges, tropical forests, and lush riverbanks while your guides share stories of ancient Hawaiian royalty, sacred sites, and the traditions that shaped this remarkable valley for generations.

Rainforest Hiking

After reaching the trailhead, you'll continue on foot through lush Kauai rainforest, following an adventurous trail through tropical vegetation, streams, and naturally rugged terrain. This is one of our more active hikes, with plenty of variety along the way and a real sense of adventure from start to finish.

Swimming Spot

The trail opens to reveal Secret Falls, where water cascades into a cool freshwater pool surrounded by towering cliffs and vibrant greenery. Take time to swim, capture photos, or simply soak in the peaceful surroundings before beginning the journey back downriver.

WHY CHOOSE THE WAILUA WATERFALL KAYAK ADVENTURE?

Secret Falls is one of Kauai's most visited natural attractions, but the experience is about much more than reaching the waterfall.

Choose this adventure if you want to:

• Explore one of Kauai's most scenic waterways
• Learn about Hawaiian history and culture along the Wailua River
• Enjoy a moderate paddle and rainforest hike
• Swim beneath a spectacular waterfall
• Experience one of the island's classic outdoor adventures with experienced local guides

Whether it's your first visit to Kauai or your fifth, this tour remains one of the island's most rewarding experiences.

THE OUTFITTERS KAUAI DIFFERENCE

We have been guiding on Kauaʻi since 1988, and it shows up in the boats we chose, the pace we set, and the fact that our guides can tell you what you are looking at. Your guide will share the stories, traditions, and natural history that make Kauai meaningful. Combined with small group sizes and decades of experience, you'll enjoy a more personal adventure from beginning to end.

EXPLORE MORE OF KAUAI

Want something gentler? Hidden Valley Falls is an easy paddle on private ranch land with a canoe ride home.

Want to add ziplines? The Kīpū Safari combines paddling, hiking, swimming, and flying in one day.

Want to be in the air instead? Try Nui or the FlyLine.

READY TO EXPERIENCE SECRET FALLS?

From the peaceful waters of the Wailua River to the refreshing pool beneath Secret Falls, this is one of those Kauai adventures that stays with you long after your vacation ends.

Whether you're visiting the island for the first time or returning to explore it in a new way, the Wailua River Kayak & Waterfall Adventure offers a memorable journey through one of Hawaiʻi's most beautiful and culturally significant landscapes.