Wailua River Kayak and Hike to Secret Falls
Explore Wailua River on Kauai’s east coast with a 2-mile guided paddle up the scenic river valley and then embark on a 1.5-mile rainforest roundtrip hike to the 120-foot Uluwehi Falls, aka Secret Falls.
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Activity Overview
Wailua River Kayak Tour Highlights
- Approximately 4-hour tour duration: 4-mile kayak and 1.5-mile hike roundtrip
- Perfect for families, ages 5 and above
- Learn about the royal Wailua Valley during the guided tour
- 2-mile leisurely paddle up the Class 0 (calm) Wailua River
- The 1.5-mile hike crosses streams, goes through the jungle, and ends at the 120-feet Secret Falls
- Note: Tours are subject to cancellation if the minimum requirement of 4 guests is not met.
About Secret Falls Kayak and Hike Tour
Take an eco-adventure kayak and hiking tour with Alii Kayaks and see a secret waterfall! Your guided kayak adventure starts with a leisure 2-mile paddle upstream through the scenic valley of the Wailua River. After securing your kayaks on the shores of the North Fork, your moderate 1.5-mile hike begins. Wade through multiple streams, lush rainforest, and traverse over muddy trails all the while learning about local flora and fauna from a friendly and knowledgeable guide. Your hiking trek concludes with the beautiful 120-foot Uluwehi Falls, a.k.a. Secret Falls.
Alii Kayak’s Wailua kayak/hike tour is perfect for families and guests ages 5 and up. If you’ve never kayaked before, no worries. Each tour starts with basic technique and safety training to get you comfortable in your kayak. Their experienced guides set them apart from other tour companies. They are Water Safety Instructed, as well as CPR and First Aid certified, and will ensure you have a fun, informative, and memorable time exploring Kauai’s unforgettable Wailua river valley.
Read more about Wailua River kayaking.
Wailea River Kayak Tour Video (our experience)
To learn more about this tour, see the river, and experience the hike, watch our video below! We were so impressed with our son hiking the trail. Between the informative tour guide, the boardwalks, and the rainforest experience, he was enthralled. Especially the part where the bird (manu in Hawaiian) ate a worm from his hand!
FAQ: Details to Know for Your Trip
When and where?
Daily, except Sundays. Check in 30 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time at the parking lot of Smith’s Tropical Paradise. Reservations are required. Details will be emailed to you upon booking.
What does the tour include?
Kayak and all equipment.
What should I bring?
- Wear a swimsuit under light clothing
- Footwear that straps securely to your feet, flip flops (slippers) and Crocs not allowed
- Food and beverages
- Towels
- Camera
- Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hats) and mosquito repellent
What should I expect on this tour?
Approximately 4 miles of kayaking, about 1.5 miles of moderate hiking (parts of the trail can be muddy at times). The tour duration is approximately 4.5 hours.
Restrictions:
No pregnancies, bad backs, bad knees, or recent surgeries. No children under 5 years of age. Tours are subject to cancellation if the minimum requirement of 4 guests is not met.
About Ali’i Kayaks
Alii Kayaks is a full-service guided kayak tour operator, conveniently located on the Wailua River on the island of Kauai.
In 1946, Walter Smith, Sr., and his wife Emily, started the Smith’s Motorboat Service on the Wailua River, pioneering the riverboat tours to the world-famous Fern Grotto. Four generations later, Kaleo Smith and his business partner Keone Garma, along with their wives continue the family tradition of sharing their love of Kauai and its rich cultural heritage.
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