Kauai: Secret Falls Kayak and Hike
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the hidden beauty of Uluwehi Falls (Secret Falls), Kauai’s most sought-after waterfall destination. Skip the hassle of parking, equipment rentals, and crowded state park lots—simply arrive at our convenient riverside location and let the adventure begin. Guides handle all kayak setup and gear so you can focus on the journey.
Paddle up Hawaii’s legendary Wailua River through lush rainforest scenery, then trek, splash, and explore your way to a spectacular 120-foot waterfall. Adventurers should be comfortable in the water and ready for a physically rewarding outing—expect a 4-mile roundtrip paddle and a moderate 2-mile hike with stream crossings and muddy, uneven trails. This is the easiest way to unleash your inner explorer and experience Kauai’s most iconic waterfall, with all logistics handled for you.
Available options
Kauai: Secret Falls Kayak and Hike
What's included
Guided group kayak tour on the Wailua River
Knowledgeable local guide
Use of kayak, backrests, personal flotation devices and paddles
Guided rainforest hike to Secret Falls
What's not included
Meals, snacks or beverages are NOT provided on this tour.
Roundtrip Transportation
Proper footwear (guests must bring closed-toe shoes/sandals suitable for hiking and water)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
744 reviews
5★
638
4★
61
3★
25
2★
8
1★
12
Tripadvisor
4.8
659 reviews
5★
588
4★
39
3★
19
2★
7
1★
6
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
Total distance is 4 miles by kayak and 2 miles hiking roundtrip
For health and safety reasons, pregnant individuals are advised not to participate in this tour due to the potential risk of exposure to Leptospirosis.
Participants that are physically not capable to paddle a kayak with proper coordination.
Participants who are not physically fit to walk moderate to strenuous trail with an elevation increase to 465 feet in under 2 miles.
Footwear that secures or straps to your feet are required (for safety crocs or flip flops are not allowed).
Participants should be comfortable in the water and capable of moderate physical activity
Meeting point
**PLEASE CHECKIN 30 MINUTES PRIOR**
About Kauai
Kauai, known as the Garden Isle, is the oldest and fourth largest of the main Hawaiian Islands. It is renowned for its lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. The island is less developed than its neighbors, providing a more secluded and tranquil experience.
Top Attractions
Waimea Canyon
Known as the 'Grand Canyon of the Pacific,' Waimea Canyon offers breathtaking views and hiking trails through its vibrantly colored cliffs and lush valleys.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to enter, parking fees may apply
Na Pali Coast
The Na Pali Coast is famous for its dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and secluded beaches. It can be explored by hiking, boat tours, or helicopter tours.
Nature
Full day
Free for hiking, boat tours and helicopter tours range from $150 to $300 per person
Wailua River State Park
This state park offers access to the Wailua River, with activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and visiting the Fern Grotto and Opaekaa Falls.
Nature
Half day
Free to enter, activities have separate fees
Must-Try Local Dishes
Poke
A Hawaiian dish made with raw fish, usually tuna, marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Served over rice or as a salad.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish, gluten-free if soy sauce is replaced
Loco Moco
A Hawaiian comfort food made with white rice, topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains beef, can be made vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Ziplining
Beachcombing
Spa treatments
Sunset watching
Hula performances
Cultural tours
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is warm but not too hot, and the island is lush and green.
22-29°C
72-84°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Japanese, Tagalog
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Hawaii-Aleutian Time Zone (HST, GMT-10:00)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Kauai is generally safe, but travelers should be cautious of natural hazards and take precautions to ensure a safe visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of strong ocean currents and rip tides
- • Carry enough water and sunscreen when hiking
- • Secure valuables in rental cars
Getting there
By air
- Lihue Airport • 3 km (2 miles) from Lihue
By bus
Lihue, Kapaa, Princeville
Getting around
Public transport
The Kauai Bus system connects major towns and attractions but has infrequent schedules. Plan your trips accordingly.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Lihue
Kapaa
Princeville
Day trips
Niihau
18 miles (29 km) from Kauai • Full day
Known as the 'Forbidden Island,' Niihau is a privately owned island with a rich Hawaiian cultural heritage. Visitors can take guided tours to experience the island's traditional way of life.
Hanapepe
12 miles (19 km) from Lihue • Half day
A charming town with a rich history and a vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore art galleries, historic sites, and enjoy local dining.
Festivals
Kauai Moolelo Festival • June
Kauai Coffee Festival • May
Pro tips
- Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace
- Visit the Waimea Canyon and Na Pali Coast for stunning landscapes and hiking trails
- Try local dishes like poke and loco moco for an authentic Hawaiian culinary experience
- Respect the island's natural beauty and cultural heritage by following the 'Leave No Trace' principle
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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