Wailua River Paddle Tour at a Glance…

Price: $95
Tour Time(s): Offered from November 16th to February 9th
Monday - Friday
  • 1:00 p.m.
Fitness Level:
Family Friendly: Participants should be comfortable in the water.
Rough Water:
Moderate: Except for the occasional boat wake, the Wailua River is very calm. Expect head-winds on the return paddle.
Duration (2.5–3 HRS.):
Afternoon Adventure: Time includes briefing, gearing-up, paddling, easy sightseeing and returning to the marina.
Distance: Approx. 4 miles (round trip)
Restrictions: 5 years or older. One adult per child 12 and under. 16 years or younger must be accompanied by an adult (no exceptions). 2 person minimum to consider this tour a go.
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Wailua River Paddle

Guided Leisurely River Adventure

Join us for a relaxed, guided paddle along the Wailua River, a sacred waterway steeped in history and natural beauty. Offered from November 16th to February 9th, this serene journey is perfect for families, senior adventurers, and anyone looking for a gentle yet enriching experience on the water.

As you glide through the river’s calm currents, your guide will share captivating stories of its cultural and spiritual significance. Learn how the Wailua River once served as a vibrant hub for life and community, while spotting native wildlife like the night heron or Hawaiian coot in their lush, tropical habitat.

This unhurried adventure is designed to immerse you in the tranquil beauty of Kauai’s storied landscapes, creating a connection to both its natural wonders and rich traditions. With your guide leading the way, even first-time paddlers will feel at ease, making this tour a delightful way to explore one of Hawaii’s most iconic rivers.

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Detailed Tour Info…

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What’s Included?

  • State certified guide(s). CPR, First-Aid, and Water Safety.
  • Double sit-on-top kayaks
  • Personal Flotation Devices (life preservers)
  • Water-resistant bags
  • Deli lunch + chips, tropical fruit and cookies
  • Variety of tropical juices and flavored sparkling waters

What to Bring?

  • Sun protection
  • Light, long-sleeve shirt
  • Shorts
  • Footwear: aqua, or tennis shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty and wet. No flip flops.
  • A water bottle (or two) to fill up at our purified water station — we also have reusable water bottles for sale
  • Towel and change of dry clothes (leave in vehicle for your return)

Frequently Asked Questions

Will we see the waterfall?

This tour does not go to Uluwehi Falls (known as Sacred Falls or Secret Falls) but instead explores the Wailua River by kayak.

Is kayaking hard?

Kayaking with our guides is not difficult and can be an enjoyable activity for people of varying skill levels and moderate fitness. This activity is rated “Family Friendly”.

Expect a challenging workout. There’s not much current in the Wailua River, but the head-winds blowing off the Pacific will push against us on the way back to the marina.

How long is the tour?

More or less, three hours of easy sightseeing and paddling.

What are the kayaks like?

We use sit-on-top style double kayaks. They are rated to carry up to 500 lbs.

Map / Location

Meeting Location

Kayak Kauai Headquarters at the Wailua River Marina :: Google Map

Tour Map

Unless safety dictates a change of plans, we’ll paddle about two miles to the confluence of the North and South forks of the Wailua River, then we’ll head back downstream to the Wailua Marina.

Wailua River Kayak Tour Map

Before You Sign Up

Cancellation Policy

We have a strict 24-hour cancellation policy. Parties of 6 or more required 48-hour cancellation. Inside of these windows there are no refunds.

Weather Cancellations

Cancellations made by Kayak Kauai due to inclement weather are 100% refundable.

Tours are Non-Refundable

This kayaking tour is doable by most people in average shape. There is a learning curve to kayaking which is short and grasped by most.

If for any reason the paddle portion is not accomplished by individuals (even if an individual is holding back a tour and is sent back by our guides), there is no refund.

Safety is First

Kauai weather can be mild or wild, and change quickly. If deteriorating conditions prevent us from completing our tour, depending on progress made, there may be a slight discount.

You Might Not Get to Paddle with Your Partner

Occasionally, in the interest of safety or tour-timing, our guides will assign a stronger paddler to partner with a weaker paddler. We paddle as a team so everyone has a good time.

Leptospirosis in Kauai’s Rivers

Leptospirosis is a harmful bacteria found in tropical ecosystems. While the risk for kayakers in Wailua is generally low, it is important to be aware that the risk is not zero, especially after heavy rains which can wash the bacteria into rivers and streams.

Pregnant women should be particularly cautious since an infection can have significant implications.

Kayakers can reduce their risk by avoiding swallowing water, covering any open wounds, and showering after exposure. Using anti-bacterial ointment on any minor scrapes or scratches is always a good idea.

Maximum Weight Per Kayak

Our double kayaks can comfortably handle up to 500 pounds. If participants surpass this weight limit, we encourage a motor boat alternative.

Kauai Gift Card

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