Waipoo Falls Tour at a Glance…

Price: $146 per Person
Tour Time(s): Offered All Year
Monday: 8:00 a.m.
Thursday: 8:00 a.m.
Friday: 8:00 a.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m.
Fitness Level:
Family-Friendly: Participants should enjoy a relaxed pace with manageable distances, occasional uneven terrain, and scenic stops.
Distance + Elv.:
Moderate: 3 miles and 1,000 feet of elevation gain.
Duration (3-5 HRS.):
Half-Day Adventure: Includes hiking time, stops for sightseeing, lunch, and a chance to dip in the water.
Distance: 3 miles (out and back)
Trail Time: 3 to 5 hours
Restrictions: Children under 16 years need to be accompanied by an adult; if not, service will be denied with no refund.
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Waipoo Falls

Best views of Waimea canyon

Join us for a guided exploration of the breathtaking Waipoo Falls Trail, where expert insights bring the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” to life. This moderate hike takes you above Waimea Canyon’s vibrant landscapes, offering unparalleled views of its striking red and green cliffs and lush highlands.

Your guide will lead the way, pointing out the native koa trees and fragrant maile vines that line the trail, as well as the graceful whitetail tropicbirds soaring through the canyon. Along the way, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the area’s unique geology and natural history, with plenty of opportunities to pause and marvel at the stunning vistas.

The trail ends at the upper pools of Waipoo Falls, a ginger-lined haven perched at the canyon’s edge. Here, you’ll enjoy a peaceful lunch, a chance to cool off with a swim, and time to soak in the serene beauty of this hidden gem.

Guided stops at several canyon lookouts add to the experience, offering unique perspectives and photo opportunities of Waimea Canyon and the lush Kokee highlands.

This guided adventure is perfect for those seeking to experience Kauai’s dramatic landscapes with the added depth of local knowledge. Let us take care of the details so you can fully enjoy the wonder of Waimea Canyon.

Detailed Tour Info…

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What’s Included?

  • State certified guide(s)
  • Day packs
  • Walking sticks
  • Deli lunch + chips, tropical fruit and cookies
  • Variety of tropical juices and flavored sparkling waters

What to Bring?

  • Sun protection
  • Sweatshirt or light jacket
  • Shorts
  • Bathing suit
  • Rain gear
  • Footwear: light hiking boots, sports sandals, or athletic shoes
  • A water bottle (or two) to fill up at our purified water station — we also have reusable water bottles for sale
  • A camera and binoculars
  • Towel and change of dry clothes (leave in vehicle for your return)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this hike hard?

We rate this hike as “moderately” difficult. The hike is about 1½ miles each way and the trail is often muddy. You’ll encounter slick rocks and roots — and the trail can be steep in sections. Guests should be patient and sure-footed to enjoy this challenging hike.

How long is the hike?

From the parking area to Waipoo Falls and back is approximately 3 miles.

We’ll spend 3 to 4 hours on the trail. Total time depends on the trail conditions and the pace of our group.

Is transportation provided? Is hotel pick-up an option?

We do not provide transportation or hotel pick-up for this tour. Guests will meet our guide(s) at the designated time and trailhead. This gives you the option to do more exploring on your own after the tour.

Are there restrooms and water at the trailhead?

There are no facilities at the trailhead. However, many of the lookouts in Kokee State Park have restrooms and drinking fountains.

Map / Location

Meeting Location

The Waipoo Trailhead in Kokee State Park :: Google Map

Tour Map

Hiking Waipoo Falls Trail Map

Before You Sign Up

No Unaccompanied Minors

Children under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult; if not, service will be denied with no refund. Minimum age to participate in this hiking tour is 6 years.

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

If for any reason the entire hike 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 safely continuing our adventure, depending on progress made, there may be a slight discount.

The Trail can be Very Muddy

The trail can be muddy any time of the year, so make sure everyone in your party are up to the challenging potential of a slip or slide! Choose footwear that can get wet, has good traction, and you don’t mind getting muddy.

Leptospirosis in Kauai’s Rivers and Streams

Leptospirosis is a harmful bacteria found in tropical ecosystems. While the risk is generally low, it is important to be aware that the risk is not zero.

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

Reduce your 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.

Kauai Gift Card

Share the Adventure with a Kayak Kauai Gift Card!

Our digital gift cards are available in any dollar-amount and can be used for tours, rentals, or gear purchases.

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