10 Best Kauai Waterfalls: Swimming Holes & Directions

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When we play the Name Your Best Travel Experience game, a memory that pops to mind is kayaking up the Wailua River to Secret Falls. It isn’t just one of our 10 best Kauai waterfalls, but the perfect waterfall swimming hole.

The day we did the tour was action-packed. It didn’t dawn on us until we went to bed that we had just had one of our best days on Kauai. The weather was perfect for the leisurely kayak up the river, our son powered through the rainforest hike, and our guide got a bird to eat out of our son’s hand.

The highlight was the swim. The waterfall swim is what you would dream a Kauai waterfall swim would be. Watch our video below to see if kayaking to Secret Falls is the Kauai waterfall adventure you want on your trip!

Kauai is the island to visit for waterfalls. You can find a secluded waterfall that was in Jurassic Park, great for swimming, handicap accessible, and great for families.

We cover all these Kauai waterfalls below, as we always put a waterfall on our Kauai itinerary.

Here are our favorite Kauai waterfalls and how to see them:
– The best Kauai waterfall for swimming? We love going to Secret Falls on this Wailua River Kayak tour, as this is the best waterfall for swimming!
– Check out our friend Jeremiah’s Kauai hiking tours if you want stunning hikes with waterfall rewards. He can take you all over the island, including to lesser-known falls!
– If you do anything while visiting Kauai, see the Napali Coast by boat. This coastline is breathtaking by itself, and it has several waterfalls!
– To my hardcore waterfall and/or Jurassic Park lovers, hop on this helicopter tour to see the unbelievable 400 ft Manawaiopuna Falls (aka Jurassic Falls), and ask about landing at the base!

Map of Kauai Waterfalls

Click for directions and Google Map details on the best Kauai waterfalls in this article. We do our best to simplify your Kauai trip planning at The Hawai’i Vacation Guide!

FAQs on Kauai Waterfalls

Here are the frequently asked questions (FAQs) we receive about Kauai waterfalls. I share details and facts about these waterfalls below, plus directions to visit them!

What is the best waterfall for swimming in Kauai?

If you want to swim in a waterfall, book a tour to visit Secret Falls (Uluwehi Falls). It’s accessible by a 2-mile kayak trip and a 1.5-mile jungle trek.

The waterfall swimming hole is beautiful and worth the effort. While we can never guarantee safety, Uluwehi Falls (Secret Falls) has posted signs, a restricted area due to falling rocks, and local tour companies want to keep their guests safe!

The swimming hole at Secret Falls is large and deep. Walk across the rocks, dive into the water, and swim near the waterfall. You can stand near the base of the falls, making for great photos.

The drawback to swimming here is that it can get busy. Our tour group was small, about 10 guests, but other tour companies were there too. We had to work with the other visitors to get photos.

Pro Tip: When people arrive, they usually start with their lunch. We recommend jumping in if you want a good photo at Secret Falls.

What are the most accessible waterfalls to visit on Kauai?

You don’t have to take a full-day hiking trip to see some of Kauai’s best waterfalls.

Here are the most accessible waterfalls to visit on Kauai:

• Wailua Falls
• Opaeka’a Falls
• Red Dirt Falls in Waimea Canyon

For these Kauai waterfalls, you can park on the side of the road and take a few steps to the waterfall viewpoint.

Wailua Falls and Opaeka’a Falls are handicap accessible. Wailua Falls has a large guardrail and wall that one must look over, but the path to the viewpoint is well paved and flat.

Opaeka’a Falls has a large parking lot and a ramp for the viewing platform. The platform has railings that allow one to see through.

For more information, see our Guide to Hawaii Handicap Accessible Trip Planning.

What are the best Kauai waterfalls for families?

This question is similar to the most accessible Kauai waterfalls, but they are different! It depends on the age of your kids and their sense of adventure for finding these Kauai waterfalls.

You know your kids! Explore the best Kauai waterfalls for your family.

Here are the best Kauai waterfalls for families:

• Uluwehi Falls (Secret Falls) – kayak and hike are required
• Wailua Falls
• Opaeka’a Falls
• Red Dirt Falls in Waimea Canyon
• Waipoo Falls in Waimea Canyon
• Napali Coast Waterfalls on a boat tour

Related Kauai articles for families:

• Kauai with Kids Ultimate Guide
• 7 Best Resorts on Kauai for Families
• 9 Best Beaches on Kauai for Swimming

What Kauai waterfalls are accessible only with a tour?

Kauai is a wild and rugged place, with 70% of the island inaccessible by car. Therefore, several waterfalls, including many on the Napali Coast, can only be accessed with a licensed tour guide (either by boat, helicopter, or plane). 

Besides the ones along the Napali Coast, several other waterfalls are remote or situated on private lands. For example, Manawaiopuna Falls (Jurassic Falls) can only be reached via helicopter, while Kahili Falls must be visited with a licensed guide.

Book one of these tours to see Kauai’s best waterfalls:
5 of the Best Napali Coast Boat Tours
Helicopter Tour of the Napali Coast (doors on or off!)
Mountain Tubing Adventure
The Best Kauai Hiking Tours

Swimming Safely at the Best Kauai Waterfalls

Before you make the trip to one of the best Kauai waterfalls, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are a few safety tips we have learned from swimming and exploring waterfalls in Hawaii.

Leptospirosis in Kauai Waterfalls

Leptospirosis is a rare but serious bacterial disease that can be contracted by swimming in contaminated water at a waterfall.

However, we’ve spent years in Hawaii, swimming in different streams and rivers on all the islands, and have never caught anything. We’ve also talked with tour guides, swapped stories with locals, and never heard of anyone having leptospirosis. 

But to be on the safe side, you should avoid drinking the water or swimming in waterfalls with open cuts. If you are experiencing symptoms of leptospirosis (muscle aches, fever, jaundice, vomiting, etc.), seek medical care immediately.

Kauai Waterfall Safety

Swimming in Kauai waterfalls does not come without its risks. Even in busy places where swimming is allowed, you should always exercise extreme caution if you plan to go for a dip.

Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind when swimming in a waterfall:

• Avoid swimming or standing directly under the falling water. While this is the most thrilling part of swimming in a waterfall, there is a risk that rocks and other debris can fall without warning.
• If you want to jump into the pool, check the swimming hole for any rocks beforehand. If you aren’t sure of where to jump in and land safely, do not risk it.
• Waterfall conditions can change without warning. Although it may be sunny where you plan to swim, it can storm or rain further up the mountain. This could cause flash floods that can make swimming more dangerous. Therefore, check the weather conditions, especially during the wet season in the winter, before going in. If any flash flood warnings are issued, steer clear.
• Do not climb up on the rock face or along the ridge of a waterfall, as slipping, tripping, or falling can be very dangerous!

Visiting other islands, too? Don’t miss those waterfalls:
Maui Waterfalls
Big Island Waterfalls
Oahu Waterfalls

1. Wailua Falls for a View

If you’ve ever seen the TV show Fantasy Island (or at least the opening credits), you’ll recognize Wailua Falls. It can look strikingly different depending on how much water cascades down when you visit.

This stunning waterfall is located in Wailua River State Park, just a short 4-mile drive up Route 583 from Lihue. And because the overlook is right on the road (no hiking required!), It’s worth the short detour if you’re near Lihue.

The views of the falls are pretty spectacular, although don’t hop over the railing to trek down to the pool. While some people do this to go swimming, trespassing causes erosion, and this is not a safe place to swim. Please respect the closed-off area and the ‘aina (land) by staying at the observation area.

Parking at Wailua Falls is relatively easy, as a medium-sized parking lot is at the end of the road. It can fill up quickly, but as it’s a quick stopover, people don’t usually stay here for too long. 

Wailua Falls Statistics

• Waterfall Height: 80 feet
• Swimming Hole: No
• Cost: Free
• Restrooms: No
• Ease of Access: Easy
• Distance from the Trailhead: Directly by the road
• Directions to Parking: Click here
• Pro Tip: It can get busy at Wailua Falls, so visit in the morning or evening for easy parking.

2. Opaeka’a Falls Near Kapa’a

Opaekaa Falls is a must-see when visiting Kapa’a and the eastern side of Kauai.

You can park at the wayside park and walk to the observation platform for pictures. The park and the observation area make this one of the most accessible waterfalls on the island.

On the downside, you’re a reasonable distance from the falls, so it may be hard to see them. There are no allowed trails to hike to the base of the falls.

While parked at the wayside park, you can visit the Wailua River Overlook for stunning views of the Wailua River. Follow the sidewalk and crosswalk to cross the road to the Wailua River Overlook. The wayside park has picnic tables and restrooms where you can relax.

Or, drive back down the mountain about a quarter of a mile to the sacred Poliahu Heiau (temple).

Opaeka’a Falls Statistics

• Waterfall Height: 151 feet
• Swimming Hole: No
• Cost: Free
• Restrooms: Yes
• Ease of Access: Easy
• Distance from the Trailhead: Directly in the parking lot
• Directions to Parking: Click here

Check out the video below for views of this waterfall, and more to do around Kapa’a and things to do in Poipu!

3. Secret Falls on Wailua River

Getting to Secret Falls (Uluwehi Falls) can be quite an adventure. It’s located on the Wailua River and is only accessible by kayak!

After a two-mile kayak up the Class 0 river, you’ll need to hike through the jungle for roughly 1.5 miles to reach the falls. It’s a moderate hike, which can be muddy sometimes, but our 4-year-old did it and loved exploring the jungle trail. 

While you can rent a kayak for this trip alone, we strongly suggest booking a local guide, as they take care of everything. We did this kayak, hiking, and waterfall swim guided tour, and had a blast as it combined three different activities on one trip. You can check out the video of our experience below!

Despite its name, this waterfall is anything but secret.

It’s one of the more popular waterfalls on Kauai, so be prepared to share the swimming hole with others. But while it can be crowded, it’s still a beautiful place to swim and cool off after your jungle trek! Find a tour or learn how to DIY the kayak and hike to Secret Falls.

After your return, stay for the Smith Family Luau to keep the festivities going! You’ll be treated to a gourmet buffet dinner, an exhilarating show, and a narrated tram ride across the sacred Wailua River Valley.

Secret Falls (Uluwehi Falls) Statistics

• Waterfall Height: 120 feet
• Swimming Hole: Yes
• Cost: Free to visit, but you must rent kayak equipment or go with a tour
• Restrooms: No
• Ease of Access: Moderate
• Distance from the Trailhead: 2-mile kayak and 1.5-mile hike
• Directions to Parking: Click here

4. Hanakapiʻai Falls on the Napali Coast

If you’re up for a challenge, then make sure to add a hike to Hanakapiʻai Falls to your Kauai itinerary! This beautiful 300-foot waterfall is located in Haʻena State Park on the rugged Napali Coast, which is easily one of the most scenic parts of the island. But since it’s part of a state park, a permit is required to visit. 

I visited this waterfall in my 20s, doing the entire 22-mile out-and-back Kalalau Trail. However, you can reach the falls with a shorter and more manageable 8-mile hike from the start of the trail. This route takes you past the famous Hanakapiʻai Beach and then inland, where you will hike to the falls.

This is a dangerous hike to Hanakkapi’ai Falls. Lots of websites and visitor guides make this trail sound easy. It is not.

The trail is difficult because it crosses unmaintained and rocky terrain. We also don’t suggest hiking in the winter, as falling rocks and flash floods can make the journey dangerous. Being on the beach is also not advised during this time due to the high surf, rogue waves, and strong currents.

Hanakapiʻai Falls Statistics

• Waterfall height: 300 feet
• Swimming Hole: Yes
• Cost: $5 (entry permit), $10 (parking), $40 (shuttle + entry)
• Restrooms: Yes
• Ease of Access: Difficult
• Distance from the Trailhead: 2 miles
• Directions to Parking: Click here

5. Napali Coast Waterfalls

In our opinion, the best Kauai waterfalls can be found along the Napali Coast. But as we mentioned earlier, 70% of Kauai is inaccessible by car, so you’ll need to be prepared to do some adventuring if you want to go waterfall chasing in this area.

Hiking the Kalalau Trail can lead to beautiful falls and pools, but it’s long, steep, and not very beginner—or family-friendly. You can always book a helicopter or airplane tour instead, but these can be quite expensive.

We think the best (and cheapest) way to see the waterfalls on the Napali coast is with a boat tour. The views of the cliffs are jaw-droppingly beautiful from the water, and you’ll be able to get close to many of the falls (some boats will even dip their bow under them so you can get wet!).

Head out on one of our favorite Napali Coast Tours to check out the waterfalls below:

Best Napali Coast Waterfalls

• Paaiki Falls
• Ho’ole’a Falls
• Waiahuakua Fall (although this depends on tide conditions. Access is also possible by booking a rafting tour). 
• Pirates Cave Waterfall (also accessible on a rafting tour)

6. Manawaiopuna Falls (Jurassic Falls)

The 400-foot Manawaiopuna Falls is one of the most stunning sights on Kauai. As its name implies, it was used for several scenes in the Jurassic Park films, making it a must-see for nature lovers and movie buffs alike.

Movie buffs will love these tours:
Kauai Movie and TV Tour to Scenic Hanalei
Waterfall Triple Trail UTV Expedition (private waterfall)
Ultimate Kauai Off-Road Ranch Tour

The only way to visit Manawaiopuna Falls is on a local Kauai helicopter tour, as it’s completely inaccessible by foot. Not only will you get to see the falls from above, but many tours will also land at the base so that you can explore the area up close.

Manawaiopuna Falls Statistics

• Waterfall Height: 400 feet
• Swimming Hole: No
• Cost: Requires a helicopter tour
• Restrooms: No
• Ease of Access: Difficult (only because you have to book a helicopter tour!)
• Distance from the Trailhead: Direct access from the helicopter

7. Mountain Tubing Adventure Down a Waterfall

If you’re looking for a fun way to see Kauai, this mountain tubing experience is it! This adventure includes a ride through the jungle with an entertaining guide and a tube float down a 100-year-old, hand-dug plantation canal system.

You’ll navigate through dark tunnels and down little waterfalls, all while seeing the beautiful, lush landscapes of the Kauai countryside.

We loved this tour (check out the video below of our adventure), because it’s incredibly scenic and a unique way to experience Kauai. But as one of the more popular activities on the island, you’ll want to book far in advance as spots can fill up quickly.

Keep exploring the island:
The Best Kauai Hiking Tours
35 Best Things to Do on Kauai (Must Do + See)
Kauai Farm-to-Table Dinner in a Regenerative Food Forest

8. Red Dirt Waterfall in Waimea Canyon

At just 6 to 8 feet in height, Red Dirt Waterfall is far from the largest Kauai waterfall. But the vibrant red soil the stream flows down makes it one of the most unique! 

The fall is in Waimea Canyon State Park near the mile 23 marker. You can park your car on the side to get a closer look, but you likely won’t be spending too much time here. But it’s worth a quick stop if you’re visiting the park.

Red Dirt Waterfall Statistics

• Waterfall Height: 6 to 8 feet
• Swimming Hole: No
• Cost: Free
• Restrooms: No
• Ease of Access: Easy
• Distance from the Trailhead: Directly off the road
• Directions to Parking: Click here

9. Waipoo Falls in Waimea Canyon

There are two different ways to see Waipoo Falls in Waimea Canyon. The easiest is from one of the many lookouts along Hawaii 550, like the Waimea Canyon Lookout and the Pu’u Ka Pele Lookout. The falls are off in the distance, but you’ll get to see sprawling views of the entire canyon as well.

Another option is to hike the Waipoo Falls Trail. This 2-mile trail takes you along the canyon rim to the top of the waterfall. You won’t have a direct view because you are technically on top of the falls, but the hike is still lovely and doable for beginners or families! If you want a full view of the waterfall, you’re better off driving to one of the above lookouts.

Waipoo Falls Statistics

• Waterfall Height: 800 feet
• Swimming Hole: No
• Cost: $5 per person entry and $10 park for Waimea Canyon State Park
• Restrooms: No
• Ease of Access: Easy to Moderate
• Distance from the Trailhead: 2 miles
• Directions to Parking: Waimea Canyon Lookout or Pu’u Ka Pele Lookout

Related reads:
The 20 Best Things to Do in Poipu: Kauai’s South Shore
The 7 Best Beaches on Kauai in the Winter
7 Best Resorts on Kauai for Families: our kids approve!

10. Ho’opi’i Falls for Swimming

The hike to Ho’opi’i Falls is a short but scenic adventure for those looking for a fun swimming hole. There are two falls here – the upper and lower falls.

The trail takes you to the upper falls first, but you can continue for another 15 to 20 minutes to see the lower falls (although be extra careful as the trek is quite steep and slippery if it has been raining). For this reason, we’d rate this hike as moderate, although we did it with our 3-year-old and were fine. 

Once you reach the bottom, you’ll find a nice swimming area! Or if you’d rather stay at the upper falls, you’ll also find a pool for swimming there. 

The trailhead can be difficult to find, as parking is in a residential area. Respect the posted signs and do not park in front of a driveway! And don’t forget your eco-friendly bug spray (along with your other travel necessities), as mosquitos are quite a bit of a problem here. 

Ho’opi’i Falls Statistics

• Waterfall Height: 30 feet
• Swimming Hole: Yes
• Cost: Free
• Restrooms: No
• Ease of Access: Moderate
• Distance from the Trailhead: 1.8 miles
• Directions to Parking: Click here

Finish Kauai Vacation Planning with a Click

Whether you’re just starting the planning process for your Kauai vacation or you’ve already landed on the Garden Isle, our Kauai Itinerary has something for you. We take care of the logistics every step of the way.

If you’ve just started planning, this itinerary will help you decide where to stay, book a rental car, find tours, and take advantage of thoroughly planned excursion days. If you’re already on the island, you can follow excursion day routes for things you plan to do or take advantage of our Quick Hits section with many restaurants, the best beaches, and great activities (this is a lifesaver if plans suddenly change).