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Add a Gift CardWailua Sacred Falls Tour at a Glance…
| Price: | $125 per person |
| Tour Time(s): |
Offered All Year
Monday - Friday
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| Fitness Level: |
Family Friendly: Participants should be comfortable in the water and enjoy moderate to challenging hiking along a river bed with uneven, slippery surfaces.
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| Rough Water: |
Moderate: Except for the occasional boat wake, the Wailua River is very calm. Expect head-winds on the return paddle.
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| Duration (5 hrs.): |
Half-Day Adventure: Time includes briefing, gearing-up, paddling, hiking to the waterfall and returning to the marina.
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| Distance (Paddle): | 4 Miles (round trip) |
| Distance (Hike): | 1 Mile (round trip) |
| Restrictions: | 6 years or older. 16 years or younger must be accompanied by an adult (no exceptions). |
River Kayaking View More
Wailua Sacred Falls
Guided Kayak and Hike Adventure
Join us on a five-hour guided adventure along the Wailua River, blending serene paddling with an unforgettable hike to one of Kauai’s most enchanting waterfalls. This tour is perfect for novice paddlers and adventurous families seeking a unique way to explore Kauai’s lush landscapes and rich history.
Your journey begins with a peaceful paddle up the Wailua River, surrounded by towering greenery and the soothing sounds of nature. As you glide through the calm waters, your guide will share fascinating legends of early Polynesian culture and the history of this sacred valley.
After docking your kayak, embark on a one-mile hike through a tropical forest teeming with flowers, ferns, and brooks. The trail, while often muddy and uneven, rewards the sure-footed with stunning scenery and culminates at Uluwehi Falls, a 120-foot cascade that varies from a tranquil trickle to a roaring torrent depending on the season. Cool off with a swim in the waterfall’s refreshing pool and enjoy a moment of tranquility surrounded by nature’s grandeur.
The return journey may test your stamina as you paddle against headwinds on the river, but with your guide’s support and the breathtaking experience behind you, it’s a challenge worth taking on.
This family-friendly tour is accessible to those with moderate fitness and a spirit of adventure, offering a perfect mix of activity, natural beauty, and cultural connection.
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
- Walking sticks
- Deli lunch + chips, tropical fruit and cookies
- Variety of tropical juices and flavored sparkling waters
What to Bring?
- Sun protection
- Light, long-sleeve shirt
- Bathing suit
- 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
Is Sacred Falls the same as Secret Falls?
Yes, both names refer to Uluwehi Falls which is located on the North Fork of the Wailua River.
How big is the waterfall?
At different times of the year the Uluwehi Falls can vary in volume from a trickle to a torrent. It cascades to the pool below from a height of 120’.
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.
What about the hike? Is it hard?
The hike is about one mile each way and the trail is often muddy. You’ll encounter slick rocks and roots. Guests should be patient and sure-footed to enjoy the challenging hiking portion of the tour.
How long is the tour?
More or less, five hours of easy sightseeing, paddling, and hiking.
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 two miles to the trailhead, then, we’ll hike one mile to the falls. After some time at the falls, we re-trace our route to the start.
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 and/or hike 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 safely reaching the falls, depending on progress made, there may be a slight discount.
The Hiking Portion 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! Guides will sometimes insist that guests use one of our walking sticks.
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.
