Wailua River Kayak & Hike: Is This Kauai Tour Worth it? (2025 Review)

Kauai, known as the Garden Isle, that too boasts a number of absolutely stunning natural wonders, yet finding that ideally suited way to experience them that is sometimes tricky. This Wailua River Kayak and Sacred Falls Hike, often called Secret Falls, promises a memorable adventure, that one that blends paddling, hiking, and that immersion into the island’s lush interior, so really, how great it is?

We took the tour in the spring of 2024 and are here, in fact, to offer our insights so you can make an ideally informed decision if it’s something for you. Read our full review: Wailua River Kayak Full Review and Details

The Allure of the Wailua River & Secret Falls

The Wailua River, once very sacred to ancient Hawaiians, is not only Kauai’s largest navigable river but also a spot rich with history and beautiful scenery. The kayak portion offers this seriously unique perspective as you peacefully glide past banks blanketed in greenery, almost like stepping back in time. So, why is this tour, in particular, that catches people’s attention?

The answer, of course, arguably lies at the end of the trail, that spectacular waterfall called Secret Falls (that’s really its nickname!), or more formally, Uluwehi Falls. To witness that cascade that plunges into a nice pool after a moderate hike feels just so rewarding. Yet, the hike can be very challenging in spots, that’s very much if it’s been raining recently, that makes some of the “adventure” a bit more than what some visitors were probably hoping for. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Wailua River Kayak)

What to Expect: A Detailed Look at the Tour

Alright, the Wailua River Kayak and Hike starts with a casual paddle up the Wailua River. Most tours will have guides provide basic instruction, making it even very suitable for beginners. You’ll paddle for a reasonable amount of time, soaking in the tranquil surroundings. The kayaks themselves can sometimes be singles or doubles, offering a bit of flexibility depending on your preferences and that group size.

Following the paddle, the real fun begins, which is the hike. Now, “hike” is used a bit lightly here – more on that shortly! The path that leads to Secret Falls isn’t precisely paved that, sometimes traversing muddy, rocky terrain. Good shoes are, of course, just so recommended! The total hiking distance, give or take, is only about a mile each way, but the conditions make it just a bit more challenging than one might expect from looking at the distances. Is that something you feel physically up for?

The Hike to Secret Falls: What it’s *Really* Like

So, listen, about that hike. A “moderate” hike might be how it’s described, but the mud can absolutely change the playing field completely. It’s more like a muddy slip-n-slide at points after any rain! Be prepared that too get dirty – embrace it! The trail that goes across a couple of stream crossings, that may require you that wade through knee-deep water. Those water shoes? Incredibly wise decision, or in any event just bring an old pair of athletic shoes that can dry easily.

Now, the reward that comes with that physical exertion is that breathtaking view of Secret Falls. It’s rather difficult to adequately describe just how beautiful it is that moment you first catch a glimpse. The waterfall tumbles into a natural pool where you can actually take a dip, that being quite refreshing after the hike. That’s right, you can take a swim here, that arguably makes all that mud completely worth it.

Lunch, Guides, and Other Things to Consider

Most tours of the Wailua River Kayak & Hike option include lunch. Often it’s rather basic sandwiches, fruit, and some sort of chips – not gourmet fare, but certainly perfectly adequate to replenish those calories burned during your adventure. That lunch arrangements often vary among tour operators, therefore be certain that double-check those details when you that book. Most tours will certainly cater to dietary restrictions if they know well in advance.

Those tour guides that go along are typically knowledgeable about the area’s flora, fauna, history and, perhaps arguably most importantly, safety. They offer valuable insights along the way, enhancing your overall experience, and will probably help you, should you wipe out, if things are very slick. Also, don’t be shy about asking questions.

Who is this Tour Good For?

Alright, let’s think about if this Wailua River Kayak & Hike, even that one with the included lunch, might just be right for you. Those are generally best for those individuals that also enjoy the outdoors and have a decent level of fitness, even though no intense athleticism is actually required. It’s actually fantastic for families with reasonably active children (maybe, say, age 8 and up), or that adventurous couples that might be looking to mix a bit of exercise with exploring.

It is, admittedly, perhaps not suitable for folks with major mobility issues because of the uneven terrain and the stream crossings involved, yet those can typically still enjoy many easier Kauai attractions. A fondness that is, of course, for getting a bit muddy is very helpful, too!

Pros and Cons of the Wailua River Kayak and Hike

Here’s a quick rundown to help you that weigh the positives and possible drawbacks of the Wailua River Kayak and Hike. This should make it very easy, basically.

Pros:

• Breathtaking scenery: It’s undeniably beautiful.
• Moderate Exercise: Good way to get some physical activity while exploring.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Adds value to your overall experience.
• Swimming at Secret Falls: A delightful reward.

Cons:

• Muddy Hike: Can be very challenging.
• Can get crowded: Some popular times might have increased traffic on that river and trail.
• Lunch Quality: The provided lunch may just be rather basic.

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