Nearer the falls, the trail becomes more rocky, requiring more patience and effort. Wailua Falls Source: Mohamed Selim / shutterstock Wailua Falls If by some stroke of bad luck you've only got time to visit one of Kauai's many waterfalls, then making it Wailua Falls would be a wise choice. READ MORE:The 20 Best Things To Do in Kauai, Hawaii (for Nature Lovers), READ MORE: Exploring Polynesian Culture: Food, Music, History & More. Waterfall Swim and Hike - Kauai.com However, this slope is easily managed by most all visitors to the falls. Below youll find 11 of what I feel are the best Kauai waterfalls youll find on the entire island. Several cascading waterfalls on Kauai are absolutely picture-perfect and postcard-worthy. This is arguably one of the most beautiful hikes in America, covering 22-miles round trip. For those individuals who are able to obtain a Na Pali Coast camping permit for the full Kalalau Trail (Kalalau Valley), two other waterfalls are reachable from this trail. Located over the Wailua River, Opaeka'a drops more than 150 feet (45 metres) into the secluded green depths of the pool below. Book your Wailua River and Secret Falls Kayak and Hiking Tour. Trek onward along the Kalalau Trail for about 4 miles (6.4 km) and cross the Hanakoa Stream to get to the turnoff for the falls. Just amazing! Lone Creek Falls. Also, the trail becomes somewhat steeper near the falls. Home Activities 8 Best Waterfall Hikes on Kauai. 'Opaeka'a Falls 5. is one of the most accessible and thus most popular waterfalls. Waterfall height: At least 2,950 feet (900 metres), Access: Keahua Stream, Highway 580, Kauai or via chopper, Time taken: Minimum 50 minutes by chopper tour. Bring lots of water. This hike will leave you covered in mud but with no regrets. Kalihiwai Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall that can be seen from the highway. (808) 338-9980 Difficulty of hike: 2.6 miles (4.2 km), Moderate to Difficult. To reach it, take the Waialeale Blue Hole Falls Trail, which is 4.9 miles round-trip. Waterfall Rappelling in Kauai; Kauai Waterfall Hike & Swim; Surf Lessons; SUP Lessons; Kauai Outrigger Canoe Ride; Sunset Catamaran Cruise; Private Kauai Boat Cruises; Buy Photos DA LIFE OUTDOORS (808) 246-6333 info@dalifeoutdoors.com 3500 Rice St, Lihue, HI 96766, United States. Phone +1 808-464-0840. The Canyon Trail, aka. We are proud to offer the most unique and exciting adventures on Kauai! Around the halfway mark, youll see an 8-foot waterfall before the path opens up to reveal the beautiful 15-foot waterfall flowing into the refreshing tidal pool. There are a number of river crossings and you can cross them how you would prefer. Most of the hike is on raised wooden walkways. Be sure to check them out. The breathtaking Uluwehi Falls is on the lower Wailua River. In Kauais north-central region between Kilihiwai Bay and Princeville, Kalihiwai Falls offers a scenic, multi-tiered waterfall that can be reached only with a guided tour starting at the, The island of Kauai is truly a gem. Even if you have amazing hiking shoes with strong grip, its too risky to do this. READ MORE:The 30 Most Comfortable Hiking Shoes for Women. One of my all-time favorite things to do on Kauai is check out the waterfalls. 2. WOW. And if you want to take a refreshing dip, head toward the lower falls. This is especially true during and after heavy rains. Plenty of room to wade/submerge yourself in the pool at the base and under the fall itself. Nudity is common with locals in the area! But the good news is that you can view this waterfall from Highway 550. At the end youll be rewarded with the sight of the beautiful rushing waters of the 100-foot Hoolea Falls, which flows down a volcanic rock wall. Get hiking permits before beginning from the Kalalau trailhead near the Ke'e Beach Parking Lot and trekking towards Hanakapiai Beach. 11 Amazing Waterfalls on Kauai - The Crazy Tourist While there are hundreds of features that make Kaua'i special, there is one particular aspect that beats them all - waterfalls. While you can see the falls from the parking lot, the best way to see Opaekaa Falls is by going on a 30-minute hike. The views from the top of the Na'Pali Coast are so beautiful. This 2.6-mile trail follows a stream almost entirely, leaving you covered in mud but fully energized. Step on mossy rocks and slippery mud, weave in and out of vines and roots, cross innumerable river crossings, wade through the stream water, and boulder across the whole way up to the two-tiered falls. There are many reasons why most people choose Kauai over the other Hawaiian Islands. Secret Falls Kayak Hike in Kauai. Lisbon Falls. Youll find lots of new hotels, and a ton of hipster vegan restaurants. Mahalo . The island of Kauai is known as the Garden Island. I cant think of a better description for this beautiful Hawaiian island. A long time ago, freshwater shrimp could be seen rolling and jumping around in the waters at the base of the falls. Our pilot Brody was so professional and knowledgeable! After a while the trail gets pretty tough, at times it felt more like rock climbing than hiking. You have to rent a kayak, paddle the river for about 45 min, then beach the kayak (take your valuables with you) and hike about 20 minutes alongside the stream to get to the waterfall. One of the best things we did on Kauai. The trail isn't very well marked at times and we had to backtrack a few feet a couple of times, but it was pretty easy to find where we went wrong and where the trail actually went. Waipo'o Falls in Northwest Kauai, with a nearly 800-foot-drop (244 metres), is hard to miss. READ MORE:The 15 Best UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the USA. The falls are a bright contrast to the dry, rough canyon rock all around it. 823 shares Wondering where to find the most beautiful places on Kauai? Make sure you pack a few sandwiches and snacks and you can rest at a picnic area thats close to the trailhead parking lot. Hikers can reach it by taking a 1-mile loop trail from the lodge or the 7.2-mile . To reach the Waipo'o Falls hike you must travel up Rt 550 a narrow and winding road the climbs several thousand feet in elevation over about 11 miles and is the gateway to several amazing overlooks and hikes. the Blue Hole (or locally, Wailua Headwaters). The gorgeous falls can be seen from various outlooks all along the main Waimea Canyon road. Another easy-access waterfall you can enjoy from the car, is the Opaekaa Falls back on Kauais eastern coast. What are the best places for waterfalls in Kauai? Waipoo Falls is located on the rugged Na Pali Coast. Sit at a spot nestled in a narrow canyon and jump off cliffs into the wonderful pool at the end of the hike. Super impressed with our experience that completely exceeded our expectations. Get your camera, hiking shoes, raincoats, water, sodas, and sandwiches, and make a day of it. The falls are often viewed from a distance from the parking lot. Look for Kuamoo Road (Hwy 580), and continue straight for about 2 miles until you see the pullout for Opaekaa Falls on your right. If you're one of the many people who venture onto these Kauai trails in Crocs, Tevas, or spanking brand new white runners, I would advise you not go. Experience a thrilling hiking adventure visiting two hidden waterfalls and enjoy an exciting opportunity to swim and climb into the waterfalls. More than a waterfall, the entire side of the mountain streams with water at a place that is considered the wettest spot on Earth. Christina is a recent graduate at Kennesaw State University, where she is studying Journalism and Emerging Media. Half-Day Kayak and Waterfall Hike Tour in Kauai with Lunch 9 Best Waterfall Hikes on Kauai That Will Take Your Breath Away, 7 Reasons to Choose Makana Charters for your Na Pali Coast Cruise, The Honu (Sea Turtle) and Its Importance to Hawaii, 6 Tips for Photographing the Na Pali Coast, 5 Interesting Facts about the Na Pali Coast. The Canyon Trail, aka Waipoo Falls Trail, provides views of the textures, colors, and patterns of Waimea Canyon. Makaleha Falls Hike is a jungle waterfall adventure on the island of Kauai. Opaekaa plunges more than 150 feet deep into the secluded pool below over the Wailua River. All things to do. Keep driving, and Kalihiwai Falls will be the next waterfall you see. What makes the trail intermediate instead of easy are some canyon ledges with precipitous drops near the end of the trail. Check it out. Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Kauai Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Its an extremely difficult hike and its on private property, so its at your own risk. Hoopii Falls Trail: 3812 Reviews, Map - Kaua'i, Hawaii | AllTrails It's a tough hike, but totally worth it! Nene Goose). 580, Kuamoo Road. Directions Activity Difficulty Length Suitability More filters 1 Top trails ( 14) Hard 4.8 (5237) The base of the 1000-foot, multi-tiered Hanakoa Falls can be reached via the Kalalau Trail, which runs along the Napali Coast of Kauai. After 25 minutes of hiking, a 5-minute detour on the right fork in the path will get you your first glimpse of the Waimea Canyon. We brought a picnic lunch to eat there and had a really good time. Wailua Falls 3,566 Waterfalls A quick quarter mile (one way) hike is a great opportunity to visit two secluded waterfalls in the Lihue area. Opaeka'a Falls is one of Kauais most accessible, and thus most popular waterfalls. If you choose to do the difficult hike, youll need a permit from the government office in Lihue, and plan on it being an all-day affair. Be sure to take pictures of what will be one of your most memorable times in Hawaii. The Manoa Falls hike is a popular trail located in the Manoa Valley on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. The first is Hanakoa Falls, with a somewhat similar experience as Hanakapiai Falls. Now theres a Costco and a Ross Dress for Less. After hiking 1 1/4 miles through the rain forest our guides will take clients to Secret Falls also known as Uluwehi Falls. Beware of flash flooding in the area. Which places provide the best waterfalls in Kauai for adventurous travelers? Distance 2 miles each way Features Beach, Cave, River, Views, Waterfalls, Wildlife Difficulty Moderate Parking at Hena State Park is limited to 100 stalls, so we recommend taking the Kaua'i North Shore Shuttle. Secret Falls (Uluwehi Falls) Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included. 4516 Alawai Rd. The trail continues along the Hankapiai Stream through dense bamboo forests. 11 Awesome Waterfall Hikes on Oahu, Hawaii - Territory Supply READ MORE: Top 20 National Forests in America for Camping & Hiking. Unfortunately, it is no longer able to be seen up close without trespassing on private property. You will cross the stream multiple times as you head towards the falls. Sort of. The 19 Best Waterfalls in Kauai to Visit in 2023 (+Map) ideal activity for active travelers in Kauai. The trail continues on away from the beach with bathrooms off to the right. In comparison with Hanakapiai Falls, Hanakoa Falls is not only more immense but also more scenic. The pool beneath the falls is believed to contain an overpowering whirlpool that has unfortunately taken several lives over the last decade. The waterfall drops from a stunning 1,000 feet into a peaceful pool far below. Located in one of the wettest spots on the planet, Mount Waialeale Falls cascades down the magnificent and massive Mount Waialeale. The trail does not have bathrooms or potable water. The falls is great for Kauai visitors of all abilities due to the easy accessibility and great views afforded from the roadside overlook. A waterfall named Hanakoa Falls is the second of two that line the Napali coast. Some people have said that you can get glimpses of the falls from Kahili Quarry Road, which is the road that was previously used to get down to the Kilauea Falls trailhead. At a massive 800-feet tall, Waipo'o Falls can be seen from pretty much anywhere you look in Waimea Canyon on the northwestern side of Kauai. 1. Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 1.7 miles Elevation gain: 633 feet Among the most accessible waterfalls on all of Oahu, Manoa Falls is popular among tourists and locals alike. It was an intimate group (nine people with Makai and one other crew member). Waipo'o Falls Waimea Canyon is one of the most iconic landmarks on Kauai, and for good reason! They are one of the reasons why Kauai is so spectacular. The World's Most Beautiful Waterfallsand the Scenic Hikes That - MSN Nov 2020. I don't know what days they do it, but we hiked on a Tuesday and there was a Farmer's Market at the shuttle dropoff location that we perused around after the shuttle ride back. Kilauea Falls is located in a residential area of Kauai, and the Kilauea Falls Trail leading down to it is no longer accessible. We are open to discussing advertising, sponsorships, brand ambassadorships, freelance work, speaking/teaching engagements, and consulting opportunities. But for those who persevere, the destination is truly epic with a two-tiered waterfall and cliff-jumping opportunities into the plunge pool below. Follow University Avenue as it turns into Oahu Avenue. The water is surprisingly cold, and swimming in it is a great way to cool off and refresh after the hike out there. Please note this hike requires prior reservations. So the name Opaekaa combines Opae (the Hawaiian word for shrimp) and kaa (meaning rolling). You can also view this multi-tier falls by horseback riding or set out on foot. We had 4 total who helped us get in and out of the rappel, but she stood out with a shining, charismatic personality. Kuamoo Road, 580. Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. 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We are proud to offer exclusive access to two private waterfalls in the heart of Lihue on the island of Kauai. Which places provide the best waterfalls in Kauai for couples? Plus, the hike there is very dangerous with steep and slippery rocks. Since first visiting the Great Smoky Mountains with her family as a child, she has always admired the beauty of the Blue Ridge region and spends as much time as she can hiking north Georgia. Waipo'o Falls Source: Photo by user Robert Linsdell used under CC BY 2.0 Explore the Kokee Rain Forest and Waimea Canyon which leads you to the beautiful Waipo'o Falls. Click here to Learn more about frequently asked questions, Click here to Learn more about our playground, Click here to Learn more about giving back, Click here to Learn more about buy photos, Click here to Learn more about contact us, Click here to visit our Google My Business Profile, Click here to email info@dalifeoutdoors.com, Click here to view location 3500 Rice St, Lihue, HI 96766, United States, We use cookies to enable the proper functioning of our websites. Only accessible by water. The Hanakpiai Falls Trail is 4.5 miles in and 4.5 miles out. There are great places for swimming and exploring behind the cascade! Hiking to the falls requires a two-mile hike on the Kalalau Trail (Hanakapiai Trail) from Kee Beach to Hanakapiai Beach, then another two-mile hike on the Hanakapiai Falls Trail from the beach to the falls. Protected by the Nature Conservancy, the 7,050-acre preserveincludes majestic mountains, one of Kauais largest river systems, and part of the gorgeous Alakai wilderness. A guide is highly recommended for this hike. Dundee Falls is the highlight of the 1,912-acre Beach City Wildlife Area. From Waimea, head north on Highway 550 into Kokee State Park. Uluwehi Falls is located along a side creek coming in from your left-hand side off the main river. He presented us with a superb narration as he skillfully maneuvered the helicopter over the magnificent island that is Kauai. Easy parking and restrooms. The hike starts on a wide dirt path which can get pretty muddy after it rains, so watch your footing as you go! At $129, the experience is pretty pricey, but also comes packed with adventure. Take this into consideration and plan accordingly. The trail is perfect for beginners to intermediate hikers. info@MakanaCharters.com READ MORE:List of US National Parks by State (An Epic Guide). Rappelling is absolutely addicting and these ladies know their stuff! Taking in nearly 800 feet of drops, Waipoo Falls is hard to miss in Northwest Kauai. Overall, it was an incredibly fun hike. So be prepared for the possibility of seeing more skin than youre used to on a hike! The Mount Misery Loop Trail in Lincoln, Massachusetts is an easy 2.5 mile hike that leads to the summit of Mount Misery and the western portion of the property. From Kilauea, take Highway 56 west towards Princeville. 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Questions? The nearby town of Hanapp also inspired by the town in the Disney animated film Lilo & Stitch. by Christina Maggitas, with additional reporting by Bret Love; lead image via Pixabay, Filed Under: Ecotourism & Green Living Blog, North America. On Highway 550, view the falls from the Waimea Canyon Overlook near mile marker 10, or from Pu'u Ka Pele lookout about 3 miles further. Located in the Wailua River Basin, the Secret Falls are actually relatively eassy to access. Click here for step-by-step Kauai travel planning help. Red Dirt Waterfall 8. Hoopii Falls Trail. Or you can play it safe (as we did) and simply fly by the incredibly massive drop on a helicopter tour! Often, a variation of this question adds that children will also be going on the hike. Access: Princeville Ranch, 4520 Kapaka St, Princeville, Hawaii 96722, Difficulty of hike: 4 miles (6.4 km); Easy. And not to worry, while you can certainly hike to most of these waterfalls by trail, several of them can be seen in the comfort of your own car. Tandem kayaks, paddles, back rests, dry bags. After hiking the loop of Mount Misery . First, the Canyon Trail takes hikers to the top of Waipoo Falls, the waterfall that is visible from the lookouts at Waimea Canyon. After reaching Hanakapiai Beach, you head inland and upstream on a trail that follows Hanakapiai Stream. Waterfall height: 1,000 feet (305 metres), Difficulty of hike: 6 miles (9.6 km); Difficult. The Hawaiian word Waialeale means rippling seas. At 914 meters high. Kalihiwai Falls is located on the North Shore of Kauai, and are accessible by car. One of the best views on the island. As a Kauai resident, its important to note that kipu is permanently closed and has been for over 8 years. If you enjoy trekking to see waterfalls, the Hanakapiai Falls Trail is one of the more challenging and popular hiking trails in Kauai you can tackle. READ MORE: Hawaiian Monk Seal (Endangered Species Spotlight). Serious injuries and deaths have occurred here. Just be sure to explore with caution, as the rocks here can be especially slippery! When you finally reach the waterfall, reward yourself with a swim! , then the Makaleha Falls Hike is for you! While a simple dip is usually okay, we advise against jumping off the cliffs. Access: Halemanu-Koke'e Trailhead on Halemanu Drive, Difficulty of hike: 5 miles (1.6 km), Moderate. This tour provides insight into the areas wildlife, geology, history, and stunning views. This 1.5-2 hour guided tour takes place on our private property that overlooks the Hule'ia watershed and Ha'upu Mountain range and has two secret waterfalls. It can be found at the end of the 11-mile Kalalau Trail discussed above, whichcrosses various beaches, sea caves, and verdant valleys, offering jaw-dropping views all along the way. The Kalalau Trail is one of the adventurous hiking trails in the world. 993 Reviews Want to find the best trails in Wailua River State Park for an adventurous hike or a family trip? Begin at the top of Puu O Henui with stunning, all-around views of the entire north shore, before hiking into the lowland rainforest and descending a 10-foot (3 metres) rock wall to Kalihiwai Falls. After 25 minutes of hiking, a 5-minute detour on the right fork in the path will get you your first glimpse of the Waimea Canyon. Waipo'o Falls - This 800m towering falls is set amongst the colorful backdrop of Waimea Canyon. There will be a trailhead past the last house on your left. Located on the northern side of the island west of the town of Hanalei, Wainiha is the most remote and untouched area of Kauai. TRAIL: Mnoa Falls Trail. WeveThey have been providing tours of the Na Pali coast in custom-built touring catamarans for over 20 years, and theyre the ultimate touring experience. From Wailua, head west on Kaumoo Road. The 2.6 miles out and back trail follows a stream for the entirety of the hike with a reward of multiple epic waterfalls at the end. This hike is a great fit for those . In almost all our answers to this question, our reply is Hoopii Falls in Kapaa. Keep scrolling for all the info! After the 4-mile trek to Hanakapiai Falls, you must walk two more miles on the Kalalau trail to reach the Hanakoa falls. Kauais Opaekaa Falls is one of the most accessible and thus most popular waterfalls. Wailua Falls, a double-tiered waterfall, is located just north of Lihue and is the most easily accessible on Kauai. Manoa Falls Photo: David Schueller / Shutterstock Why you should go: Not far from Waikiki Beach and the University of Hawaii. The falls are often viewed from a distance from the parking lot. 8 Easy Hikes On Kauai, Hawaii: A Complete Guide - Journey Era As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. My wife and I took the 6:40 shuttle there, started the hike around 7:15, and we finished the hike at about 2:15, so took us 7 hours. Located near the eponymous Hakakapikai beach, the 4-mile-long (6.4 km) trails first stop is 2 miles (3.2 km) at Hanakapiai beach before it heads 2 more miles inward into the jungle along the Hankapiai stream. From the Hanakoa camping area at about mile marker 7 on the trail, head inland for a mile-plus trek through the lush tropical forest. Mt Misery Loop - Mt. Misery Trails, MA | MyHikes No, you cannot swim at Wailua Falls on Kauai. The second intermediate waterfall hike that we recommend is the trail to Hanakapiai Falls off the Kalalau Trail. Includes a delicious lunch to enjoy at the waterfall. More than a few deaths have occurred at Kauai waterfalls in this manner. So, travellers hiking here need to have hiking and camping permits and need to camp at Hanakoa, Na Pali, and the Kalalau Valley. This is because the fluctuating water levels of the river can make safety unpredictable when it rains, and the surrounding rocks are quite slippery. The trail will guide you on a scenic route along the picturesque rim of Waimea Canyon, where you can also catch views of the Kokee Rain Forest.

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