Wailua River Tours
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Wailua River (Attraction - Kauai, USA)
Protected by Wailua River State Park, the Wailua is the largest navigable river in the Hawaiian archipelago (a feature found only on the island of Kauai). As the 20-mile (32-kilometer) river meanders through a lush valley, it passes through jungle landscapes and past two notable waterfalls: Opaekaa Falls and Wailua Falls.
The Basics
The best way to soak in the natural beauty of the Wailua River is from the water itself, and there are several options to do so. Many travelers paddle the waters by kayak; these trips often include a short hike to a waterfall for swimming. It’s also possible to explore by stand-up paddleboard or outrigger canoe. More comprehensive island tours sometimes include an open-air boat trip along the Wailua River to the Fern Grotto, a spectacular lava rock cave surrounded by draping ferns. Those traveling by car can follow the north side of the river along Kuamoo Road (Highway 580).
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get There
The Wailua River enters the ocean on the island’s east coast, near the settlement of Wailua. Most visitors get to the river as part of a guided tour with included transportation from Kauai hotels.
When to Get There
The best time for outdoor adventure in Kauai is in fall (September to November) and spring (April to June) when the weather is at its best. Expect frequent showers during the winter peak season (December to March).
Cultural Significance of the Wailua River
The Wailua River is more than just a natural wonder. To ancient Hawaiians, it was considered one of the most sacred places on Kauai. At one time, seven different heiau (temples) dotted its shores. Visitors can learn more at the Wailua Complex of Heiau, a National Historic Landmark and former hub of chiefly power.
Protected by Wailua River State Park, the Wailua is the largest navigable river in the Hawaiian archipelago (a feature found only on the island of Kauai). As the 20-mile (32-kilometer) river meanders through a lush valley, it passes through jungle landscapes and past two notable waterfalls: Opaekaa Falls and Wailua Falls.
The Basics
The best way to soak in the natural beauty of the Wailua River is from the water itself, and there are several options to do so. Many travelers paddle the waters by kayak; these trips often include a short hike to a waterfall for swimming. It’s also possible to explore by stand-up paddleboard or outrigger canoe. More comprehensive island tours sometimes include an open-air boat trip along the Wailua River to the Fern Grotto, a spectacular lava rock cave surrounded by draping ferns. Those traveling by car can follow the north side of the river along Kuamoo Road (Highway 580).
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Wailua River offers outdoor recreation for a broad range of travelers.
- Don’t forget to bring along sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat, as not all portions of the river are shaded.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- All state park facilities are ADA accessible.
How to Get There
The Wailua River enters the ocean on the island’s east coast, near the settlement of Wailua. Most visitors get to the river as part of a guided tour with included transportation from Kauai hotels.
When to Get There
The best time for outdoor adventure in Kauai is in fall (September to November) and spring (April to June) when the weather is at its best. Expect frequent showers during the winter peak season (December to March).
Cultural Significance of the Wailua River
The Wailua River is more than just a natural wonder. To ancient Hawaiians, it was considered one of the most sacred places on Kauai. At one time, seven different heiau (temples) dotted its shores. Visitors can learn more at the Wailua Complex of Heiau, a National Historic Landmark and former hub of chiefly power.
Address: Wailua, Hawaii 96746, USA
Admission: Free
11 Tours and Activities to Experience Wailua River
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Wailua River Kayak and Hike Adventure
Explore the natural beauty of Kauai with a combo hiking and kayaking adventure on the Wailua River. Enjoy a leisurely paddle down this sacred river surrounded by lush tropical scenery, and then disembark for a guided nature hike to a waterfall. Refuel with a picnic lunch, and then take a dip in the refreshing waters of the pool at the base of the falls. No kayaking experience is necessary — just bring your sense of adventure! Choose from a morning or afternoon departure to suit your schedule.
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From
$95.00
From
$95.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Half-Day Kayak and Waterfall Hike Tour in Kauai with Lunch
Rainbow Kayak Tours has been providing guided tours of the Wailua River for 20 years. Our experienced guides are well versed in the flora and fauna of the area, as well as the history of this incredible place.
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From
$100.38
From
$100.38
Opaeka'a falls, Tree Tunnel, Poipu Coast, Spouting Horn, Historic Koloa Town
See some of the most stunning natural features of Kaui on this tour. You'll start at the Opaeka'a Waterfall and Wailua River Overlook, followed by a trip through a tea tunnel straight to the powerful Spouting Horn, a seafront geyser that shoots tall streams of water through the air. Your final stop is Koloa, a charming town founded at the beginning of the state's sugar cane industry.
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From
$80.00
From
$80.00
Island of Kauai Multi-Day Tour
There’s no need to pack a guidebook on this all-inclusive 7-day, 6-night Kauai adventure designed by a tour guide born and raised on the Garden Isle. Everything is arranged, from comfortable lodging and all meals to transport and a hand-picked itinerary highlighting Hawaii's most gorgeous scenery and essential adventures. Swim and snorkel at postcard-worthy beaches, hike the Napali Coast trail, kayak up the sacred Wailua River, and experience a traditional Hawaiian luau. Enjoy free time for island shopping, and upgrade to include an unforgettable helicopter ride or Napali Coast cruise.
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From
$1,800.00
From
$1,800.00
Private Kauai North Shore Tour
Discover Kauai’s highlights and hidden gems on a full-day private tour that offer a personal glimpse of the island’s local culture and history. Navigate the Garden Isle in a private minivan, and feel the mist from a pair of beautiful waterfalls. Look out to sea from the Kilauea Lighthouse and Hanalei Bay, and watch for whales and endangered geese at a wildlife refuge. Visit Kauai hidden beaches and ancient sites and learn about Kauai's history and local culture along the way.
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From
$231.74
Price varies by group size
From
$231.74
Price varies by group size
Waimea Canyon & Waterfall, Shopping & Local Food Tour
Get a taste of Kauai life on this half-day tour around the island. Travel to Waimea Canyon, a 10-mile, 3,000-foot-deep geographic feature known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, and ‘Opaeka'a Falls, a 151-foot-waterfall that flows over volcanic rock. Then visit Kapaa to check out NoKa Fair, the town’s one-of-a-kind boardwalk shopping center made from repurposed shipping containers.
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From
$113.32
From
$113.32
Cruise-ships*Kauai Island Tour
8 beautiful stops - 6 hrs Tour. Designed for All Cruise Lines docking on Kauai and on island guest.
Guided by the owner, Coco Maria, you will have the highest quality of service in a small group setting. Soak up the beauty of the South and East. We will visit waterfalls, ancient Hawaiian temples of worship, and beautiful beach parks. Bring your swim suits and towels as we will make a stop at Poipu Beach Park where you can dip in the warm Hawaiian waters (optional).
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From
$151.83
From
$151.83
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Kauai Shore Excursion: Waimea Canyon and River
Spend a delightful day exploring the natural and cultural wonders of Kauai on this shore excursion featuring the magnificent Waimea Canyon. Hike to the summit of this ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’ for spectacular views, and see many attractions along Kauai’s southern coast, including the Spouting Horn natural blowhole and historic Old Koloa Town. Cruise down the sacred Wailua River and soak up the serene beauty of Fern Grotto and Opaekaa Falls.
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From
$137.60
From
$137.60
Wailua Valley & Waterfalls Audio Driving Tour
Explore jungle forests and waterfalls while also connecting with the Hawaiian culture! This tour will take you on a trip back in time by visiting 3 ancient Hawaiian temples as well as visit 3 waterfalls and check out 3 hikes. The perfect mix of fun and education! Enjoy turn-by-turn directions, information on what to look for and where to explore. Plus all the interesting stories and legends that bring the beautiful sceneries to life!
Rated the #1 best GPS tour app for Hawaii with over 6,000+ raving reviews and 200,000+ downloads.
Why you need it:
✅ You don't need service because you can download the tours & use them offline
✅ Much cheaper than a tour bus at only $9.99 for lifetime access
✅ Save time planning your trip because we have the best stops lined up
✅ Freedom to stop and go as you please, unlike a tour bus where you are confined to the pre-determined route (no fun!)
✅ Hear cool and fun stories along the way (and some corny joke's that might make you laugh)
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From
$11.99
per group
From
$11.99
per group
60 Minute Private Vacation Photography Session with Local Photographer in Kauai
Forget using self-timer or trying to get random strangers to take a photo of your family and instead book a professional vacation photography session. A local photographer meets you at the scenic location of your choosing and captures high-quality photos you can’t get from your cell phone or point-and-shoot. Plus, it’s perfect for couples and families that are tired of always having one person left out of the vacation photos.
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From
$350.00
per group
From
$350.00
per group
Kauai: Waimea Canyon and Fern Grotto Kauai
Discover some of the Garden Isle’s most enchanting landscapes and cultural attractions on a full-day Kauai sightseeing tour by coach. Peer into the majestic, multicolored expanse of Waimea Canyon, be surrounded by the lush tropical paradise of the Fern Grotto and learn about sacred Hawaiian legends on a cruise down the Wailua River. See many of the island’s south shore highlights along the way, including old Koloa Town, the Spouting Horn natural blowhole, Captain Cook’s Landing and Coco Palms Grove.
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From
$129.00
From
$129.00