If you want to enjoy a water activity that doesn't involve the ocean, then Wailua River is your jam. Next time we visit, we plan to rent kayaks and navigate this river either in a tour or on our own. There's so much to see and explore along this river. It's so lush and beautiful! We took the Smith's guided tour this time up to Fern Grotto and it was awesome! read more

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If you're vacationing in Kauai, Wailua River is the place to visit. My best friend booked an excursion for us ladies here to do some kayaking and hiking for the afternoon. It was about 5 and half hours long but so worth it. First you check in, listen to the tour guides instructions and then head out to the river. There was us 3 and several other groups that did this tour. We didn't know what to expect but that's what made this tour so fun! As soon as we unloaded the bus we parked our kayaks, packed up our belongings in water proof bags and set sail. Haha! If you're not a swimmer, they do provide life jackets. We kayaked along the River for about 45 minutes and then parked next to the hiking trail. Hiking sandals are a must need for this excursion by the way. I made the mistake of wearing hiking shoes which got all messed up in the mud. Yes, folks! When I say there is mud, be prepared to get your clothes wet and muddy. There is a part during the rocky hike where you will need to walk in the river waist deep to get to the other side. If you're not a strong hiker, a walking stick will help you keep your balance. I've seen a few people fall from the slippery rocks so make sure to keep a steady pace. With that in mind, you'll make your way to the beautiful waterfall that awaits you at the end. Picture worthy! For those who've never been here before, keep in mind of the time you'll spend here. As I mentioned earlier, it was about 5 and half hours long from start to finish. Kayaking there takes almost an hour. Hiking takes just as long. With all the slippery rocks and the mud, please don't wear your Sundays best. You will get dirty! Bring lots of water to stay hydrated and some snacks and a light lunch to keep your energy up. You will get tired hiking and kayaking back to base camp. Overall, this experience was pretty awesome! Definitely made some memories here that my friends and I will share forever. read more

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We spent a rainy day enjoying this state park on our first day in Kauai. We first took a boat tour to the fern grotto. While it was pretty and I enjoyed the scenery, the tour was a bit cheesy. The tour boat was cover though and did keep us dry. On a nice day, I would definitely rent kayaks and go to the fern grotto instead. The fern grotto is a short walk from the dock and it's gorgeous. We also drove to a couple of waterfalls: Opaekaa Falls and Wailua Falls. Both were just off the side of the road and worth stopping at. The river itself is the real attraction here in my opinion. Rent a kayak and spend some time exploring! read more

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The only navigable river in Hawaii. Pretty good place for water activities for those who don't want to venture in the ocean. I highly recommend the Smith's Waialua River tours. It's $30 and very informative and entertaining. read more

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Spending the day kayaking, trekking through mud to finally get to a beautiful waterfall fed pond was an abosolute highlight. There truly is nothing like feeling the mud squish between your toes. Be warned, the mud stains your clothes and don't get too close to the waterfall - watch for falling rocks. Bring water, snacks and lunch to keep the good times rolling. would absolutely return. read more

The Secret Falls are not really a well-kept secret, but they're off the beaten path and require a kayak trip and a hike to reach. That's good enough for me! We rented a kayak at Kamokila Hawaiian Village (which I wrote a separate review for). They gave us a map and a waterproof bag for our stuff. Then we paddled 15 minutes to the trailhead along the river where everybody parks their kayaks. From there, it was a 30 - 45 minute hike to the Secret Falls. The hike takes you through the dense jungle, trees towering above, with thick roots that one must be careful to not trip over. The path mostly follows the river, and at one point there is a river crossing where the water comes up to your knees. Best to wear a swimsuit and water shoes, as there is no avoiding getting wet. Along the way we saw chickens, a concrete lookout tower, and a mini waterfall where the stream was flowing over some large rocks. Finally, we made it to the Secret Falls. The weather had been a little dry, so the falls were less like a torrent of water and more like a heavy rain. We waited for other people to clear out before we took our picture in front of the falls, and we went for a short swim in the shallow pool of water in front. We even stood directly beneath the falls, letting the water fall around us like a cool, steady shower. This is a terrific Kauai activity if you're the outdoorsy type. I wouldn't say that the experience was mind-blowing, but both the destination as well as the journey were memorable and enjoyable, and I would definitely love to do this again. read more

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Take the tour to take you all the way to the fern grotto. The beauty of this place is being in touch with nature. As you walk you may hear the birds chirping. There are many plants that were introduced to the island, with beautiful flowers. Handicap accessible. Low intensity walking. read more

This was a fantastic kayak/hike for a family. Not only did we kayak the beautiful Wailua River, but we took a short hike to the "Secret" Falls. I wouldn't call this the most beautiful waterfall on Kauai, but its the whole experience of kayaking and hiking that make this experience 5 stars. Because we had little ones, we did a guided tour. Its about 5 miles round trip (doesn't include stopping for eating or hiking). Did this in November, so the weather was more moderate. I recommend packing the usual: water/snacks (because we did a tour, the guide had that for us), etc. You kayak the first portion and then hike, in the mud, the rest of the way to the "Secret" Falls. Although the entire family had aqua shoes, they kept getting stuck in the mud (Since then, I have purchased Keens and have never looked back.) When we reached the falls, we jumped in. Nice. However, the kayaking portion back is tiring; especially, when your kid falls asleep and cannot help paddle. To this day, the kids list this in their top 10 Explorations. read more

Wailua River - Not so "Secret" Falls; its all about the journey - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Wailua, Hawaii

The Wailua is another must stop if you are in Hawaii, even though it's not a place that comes to mind when you travel to Hawaii. What is pretty and special about this location is that there is the boat tours, but the scenery tend to be exotic and different from your local metropolitan, mainland destinations. The trees you see in The Lion King, are in this river, but sadly, they are not native to the area and are destroying the habitat. You should come see the river and the fern grotto before any of the other non-native plants destroy more of the native plants to the area. The reason it's a four star place deals with the plants as by the time you arrive, I cannot assure you that many of the native plants and trees will be in tact, though Hawaii is aggressively trying to preserve its natural locales. With the ability to kayak/canoe and take a tour there is plenty to do, but I just worry about its state due to the information I learned from one of the tour companies in the area. As a fun sidenote, a lot of movies are filmed in this river, so you get a kick out of knowing most movies were filmed here and not in South America, Africa, the Amazon, etc. If you have a good eye, you'll even be able to pick out areas that match scenes from movies with these backdrops. read more

It's a little odd to be reviewing a river, but there's a marina and state park associated with it that's much more apt for some kind of description and star rating. The marina is fairly simple, with a ticket booth and a couple of stores-- one where you can buy gear to go kayaking or fishing-- and another that's more souvenir and snack related. Four riverboats are docked there, all of which seem to be associated with Smith's Fern Grotto Tours, which seem to keep the marina populated. As you make your way through, there are hiking trails that you can take to the grotto or secret falls. There's also apparently an area where you can rent kayaks, but we didn't head down that way. We opted for the river boat tour, which was worth the price. There was a bit of a wait for the next tour, so my wife ended up roaming around chasing chickens while I grabbed snacks and a magnet for a keepsake. Prices were reasonable, though they didn't take credit at the sundries shop. read more

The Wailua river, Kauai's only navigable river & Secret Falls, a 1 mile hike into the forest. After renting our boat, we were handed a waterproof map of the river and hiking trails. Loaded with our booty recently purchased from the Big Save market, we loaded our cooler into the boat and headed for the center of the Island. Mt. Waialeale, also known as the wettest spot on earth, is visible in the distance. Indiana Jones was filmed near here, and we could feel the adventure coming our way. The goal was to reach Secret Falls, a water fall where you can swim and have a relaxing picnic. As we putt-putted in our little boat, we felt silly as the kayakers moved past us at an alarming rate. How were we to enjoy the seclusion of the waterfall in the forest if these schmucks and their kids were to get there first? A mildly arduous hike was made treacherous by the muddy terrain (did I mention the wettest spot on earth was visible from here?). The terracotta colored soil had covered my socks and legs to just below my knees! The map pointed us in the right direction, and the well worn path was only ambiguous in a few spots. And in more than a few spots I thought 'I can't believe they let us out here by ourselves!". I cursed my over ambitiousness of packing the perfect picnic... that heavy cooler was becoming a real nuisance. Once we reached our destination, the cumbersome cooler was worth its weight in gold (almost!). The dry towels we packed were worth even more. That fresh Hawaiian water is freezing! Brrrr. The best part of the trip was on the way back, those kayakers watched in envy as we glided past them effortlessly while they struggled up-stream. Who looks silly now? ================================================== That was about 16 years ago... I guess gone are the days of the putt-putt boats, and most of the kayak tours are guided now. I suppose that's good. At least there will be someone with you who knows where to turn at the fork in the trail, and someone to warn you to bring some bug spray and to leave that heavy cooler in the car... It's definitely an adventure to remember, and unlike me you won't have to remember it by the bug bite scars on your legs. read more

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I've not long moved to this island and yesterday was my first experience down the Wailua River. Absolutely beautiful and because it was a Sunday, it was serene! We rented a canoe and within fifteen minutes we were ready to hike to the falls. We felt comfortable enough to tie the canoe alongside others. The hike was through thick mud and low branches but, well worth the amazing jungle scenery. we ate our lunch, had a swim in the very cool water and hiked back to our canoe. next, was Fern Grotto. I believe, that was only another five minutes of canoeing. just a short jungle walk. The grotto was breathtaking. Back to our canoe and off down the river. I think our whole trip was about four hours. Needless to say, I'm ready to go again and paddle further. I say that because we spent more time hiking than canoeing. Mahalo read more

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Very peaceful to kayak or just float along the river. You can hear lots of wildlife. We have seen thousands of waterfalls in our lifetime so we did not do the 40 minute hike to Secret Falls (each way), which by the way is heavily populated with all the people who do kayak guided tours. We did not want that. But the river itself is a great way to spend a morning. read more

There are several kayak rental places right where the river meets the highway. And more further up the road. Do not take a tour. There is no need, and you will see others on tour as you go. There is no way to get lost on this high-traffic excursion. The rental place will give you a map, also unnecessary. The river has minimal current, but wind which picks up in the afternoon makes the return trip challenging, kayak 2 miles up river (about an hour) then hike 45 min to secret falls. The falls are nice, but not as majestic as some on the island. You can take a dip at falls, but nicer is to hop back in kayak, paddle further up river to swimming hole past where river boat docks. Past that it looks like the river is over grown with trees but you can get through on left and go another mile up river till gentle rapids pent passing unless you care to portage. This is the nicest area and very few venture to this part of river. Saw wild boars on the shore. Plenty of long silver fish (look like large trout) can be seen jumping and evidently large blue soft-shell crab proliferate the bottom (river can be 20 ft deep). There are single, 2 and 3 person kayaks. Oldest adventurer I saw at falls was an 82 yr old woman. Her daughters paddled on her behalf. Kids can navigate the hike, but it takes a strong teenage boy to kayak on his own. Trail to falls is over grown in some places and very muddy and slippery in others. If balance is an issue, bring a walking stick. Round trip to falls then up to rapids is 4 hours for active, fit person. read more

This place has been put on a MUST DO when visiting the Island and Kayaking is the only way to get through most of the River. From Wailua river opening, follow the path, going left at the fork will take you to the Amazingly beautiful Fern Grotto where fern is growing upside down at the mouth of a wet cave. The walk to the grotto from the dock is pure beauty with its natural wild plants which gives the island its beauty. Be sure to dock your Kayak away from the main dock with the tires. This was built by the Smith family and don't like it when Kayaks are there. If you continue going forward you'll end up at the swim hole, but at this point, we were too tired. We went back and ended up going right of the fork and onto secret falls. Note, there are two ways to get there, either park your Kayak at the first bed or continue left between a more narrow way to the next bed of rocks. Keep in mind, it is narrow and tree's tend to fall into the River. Whatever you do, DO NOT lean to the left or right if you take the path of the tree's, you are on a Kayak on water, leaning left or right will only cause you to tip the Kayak and into the cold water. I think I was the only one who was about to lean back, BF ended up leaning left. Oh what an experience. Anyhow, once you park the Kayak, its about a 25 min hike to secret falls, and the view is breathtaking. The pool isn't too deep, but you can swim, just be careful of the rocks below. What to bring: Water shoes Hiking shoes Water Food Snacks Camera- Water preferred Sunscreen Phones are useless but if you bring them, put them in a zip lock bag in case your Kayak tips.. You may want to follow a group if you are not part of a tour so you dont get a lost. There was a point where we took the wrong turn but luckily we found our way. read more

Wonderful trip up river with kayak. Rented kayaks at the village and rowed 30m to hiking place. Took another hour or so to hike to secret falls. Must wear water shoe or something similar as you have to thread through shallow water and rocks. Hike was well worth it upon reaching the falls. Can soak the cold water under the falls too. read more

We did the kayak thing, got to the beach point and hiked through mud that was slippery and deep at times. To say that the 'trail' was ambiguous is an understatement. When my friend (who finally gave up on shoes altogether and went barefoot most of the way) call it a trail, I laughed and say that I'm not willing to call it a trail - a 'way back' maybe, but not a trail. lol We were wrecked when we got back - very muddy and sore from all of the required tense and calculated footsteps to try to avoid falling on our behinds. Two of us were successful, one was not.... The falls are beautiful and going down the river is great, but this hike is not for the unadventurous right now. We understand that there were some storms and a lot of rain in December 2008 that caused the condition of the trail to be so bad. Would I do it again knowing what I now know? Probably. read more

So beautiful!!! You gotta kayak this river! It was so relaxing and therapeutic~ Bring some water, food, beer, flashlight (just incase), cell phone, and sunscreen. I wish we had the Wailua River in Maui!!! read more

Kayaking through the Wailua River is the only way you can get to the Secret Falls, which is a beautiful waterfall. If you're a kayaking newb like me, I couldn't tell that there was a current since the water looks so calm, but you're going upstream when you're trying to get to the falls. Coming back is definitely a lot easier, but still a workout. If you wanted to, you could probably just sit there and let the water bring you slowly down the river... until a water skier and his boat passes you, and then the waves start happening...and the nausea kicks in. Not fun. If you're looking for a guided kayak tour, go to Wailua Kayak Adventures! It's a family owned company that costs $40/person flat (with cash) and you get awesome tour guides. read more

Hawaii's longest navigable river. Home to the ancient Ali'i who lived on the flanks on the river and below Nonou. The kayak tours are cool, but try to go early morning before the wind kicks up coming back. A couple places let you go on your own 'yak and that's maybe more fun. The falls are amazing. The hike back there is typical Kauai hiking: muddy jungle. Definitely a good way to spend a half day unless you are really out of shape - then I think you'd be happier at the beach ;-) read more

Great kayaking spot with calm waters but gorgeous views of the forest bed. The hike itself to the waterfall is pretty muddy but doable and bring sandals because there are a few places where you will need to be half submerged. You can also jump into the waterfall for the perfect photo op! read more

Do it! I had never kayaked before and was intimidated until I got in. There is no crazy current and it's peaceful and wonderful. Especially the early morning hours! Follow the map carefully and then stop in to hike up to the waterfall (120ft). Be careful, the trail is not easy to stay on and if you find yourself among tall plants that have narrowed your path, keep going! It's the right way! (we found out the hard way) Water shoes are a great idea. Flip flops will make it less enjoyable. The hike feels like a rain forest, watch your step and pick up a hiking stick if you can find one. It's a moderate hike, bring water. You can even eat lunch at the waterfall. So wonderful. If you decide to kayak all the way till you just can't go anymore, pass the swimming bowl you'll just end up at a private entrance and come back. Lots of bug spray! read more

On our recent visit to Kauai, my daughter and I did the Secret Falls kayak and hike tour. It was hard work and I skipped the hike to the Secret Falls because quite frankly, unless you are in tip top shape, it is a very difficult hike -- lots of mud and falling involved. I have a bum foot, so I stayed with the kayaks and read a book...and hung out with the inevitable chickens that populate the island. The Wailua River is beautiful and I'd do the kayaking again. read more

The water is really really gross here, but I grew up waterskiing here, so I'm used to it. Swallowed enough water and I seem to be doing fine. Kayaking up the river to the not so Secret Falls is fun. I haven't been to the Fern Grotto since I was a kid and that used to be fun, but I hear it is roped off now, can't get close, so I don't know about that deal. read more

Thankfully I was traveling with someone who's quite active. So we kayaked and did the hike to the falls. For someone who isn't in the greatest shape, it was difficult at times, but I did it and am sooo glad. The river is so peaceful and the hike was a little daunting at times and yes, it's not super easy to see any trail. But you will be rewarded with a beautiful amazing waterfall. At the very least, do try kayaking or go with a tour/guide if you don't feel comfortable. read more

Secret Falls was the best hike of my life. No tour guide needed. The only way to get to Secret Falls is the river. I used Kamokila Hawaiian Village. Their price for the canoe was less than I expected (we paid 35 in March, I expect it would be a little higher during the summer because everyone raises their prices during the busiest season). The hike to Secret Falls was the best I've ever done. So beautiful. I was glad I went there because it was the shortest canoe ride up river to get there. Every other place was further so those people had to row up the whole river which, I'm not in shape for! The village included a walk through a museum of Hawaiian architect and culture that has been preserved. They included a free self guided map of the trail to get to Secret Falls (i saw other groups of tour guides and chuckled at how much they must've paid. You DON'T need that!) and a big water proof pack to put our packs in which I'm glad we used (we weren't going to) because my son flipped over our canoe and we tumbled into the river! It was muddy and slippery. I used their river shoes they rented for 5 bucks but I wished I'd worn my trail tennis shoes because I'm tender footed and the bottoms of my feet started to feel the rocks. Some people wore flip flops or were barefoot and they said they were fine. read more

great place to kayak! make sure to go hiking into the forest to see cool watering holes

What a great trip... Lisa was great!!!! She really took our family on a REAL adventure we really had a great time especially my 5yr son I would recommend this trip for any age..... read more

My review is to post an illness after kayaking upriver on Wailua River to Secret Falls. The tour company was great - good guide, safe trip, enjoyable kayak tour and hike. Someone else posted a review that the water is gross. My husband had remarked while kayaking that there were no visible fish.....no kidding. At the falls, he took a dip and stood under the raging waters. By evening, he was having chills and by this morning, less than 24 hrs post-dip in the falls, he has high fever, body ache, very flu-like symptoms. He's a doctor and thinks it's bacteria that got into sinuses. He's since on antiobiotics and hopefully will recover quickly. We are here on vacation. What a bummer to be bedridden in paradise! My rating is for the kayak experience and being up close to waterfall. The falls itself is to be treated with caution. If he gets even more sick, I will come back and change the rating. read more