Wailua Falls Tours and Activities

Wailua Falls which includes a cascade and forests
Wailua Falls featuring a waterfall


Admire the tropical scenery engulfing this double waterfall that flows into a large basin surrounded by mossy cliffs and forests.

Wailua Falls is a charming double waterfall that runs over a green cliff in a secluded area. The cascade, which can be seen from the highway, drops down a height of 173 feet (53 metres) and splits into two separate chutes. Snap photos of the spectacular falls, as it flows past the forested cliffs.

Visit on a sunny morning for an opportunity to see a rainbow in the spray of the waterfalls. Follow a path to the bottom of the falls, taking care not to slip on the muddy surface. The falls are spectacular with a scenic backdrop of green cliffs and forests.

Swim in the pool at the base of the falls to cool down on a hot day. Stay clear of the swift currents close to the cascades. Later in the day, crowds begin to gather around the waterfalls.

Hiking boots are not necessary for viewing these waterfalls, as they can be accessed easily from the roadside. Wander through the trails in the forest to appreciate the range of tropical plants. Spot wild pigs around the parking lot area. Visit the nearby Opaekaa Falls just off the highway.

The scenic waterfalls have been used in television sets, such as the series Fantasy Island. It is said that Hawaiian men once jumped from the summit of the falls as a testament to their virility. Today, jumping is certainly not recommended as it is also illegal.

Wailua Falls is in its namesake park in the eastern part of Kauai. Find it just north of Lihue at the southern end of the Wailua River. Visit the landmarks of the area, such as Kalepa Mountain Forest Reserve, Wailua Municipal Golf Course and Lydgate State Park. Leave your car in the parking lot near the highway, from which the waterfalls’ trails commence.

Tours & day trips

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Food, drink & nightlife

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Top Wailua Falls Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay, HI

Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay, HI

3.5 out of 5
3-5920 Kuhio Hwy, Lihue, HI
Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay, HI
OUTRIGGER Kauaʻi Beach Resort & Spa

OUTRIGGER Kauaʻi Beach Resort & Spa

4 out of 5
4331 Kauai Beach Dr, Lihue, HI
OUTRIGGER Kauaʻi Beach Resort & Spa
Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort

Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort

4 out of 5
650 Aleka Loop, Kapaa, HI
Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort
Kauai Shores Hotel

Kauai Shores Hotel

3.5 out of 5
420 Papaloa Rd, Kapaa, HI
Kauai Shores Hotel
Castle Kaha Lani Resort

Castle Kaha Lani Resort

3 out of 5
4460 Nehe Rd, Lihue, HI
Castle Kaha Lani Resort
2BD/2BA Oceanfront Condo with Beach Access

2BD/2BA Oceanfront Condo with Beach Access

Lihue
2BD/2BA Oceanfront Condo with Beach Access
Fern Grotto Inn

Fern Grotto Inn

3.5 out of 5
4561 Kuamoo Road, Kapaa, HI
Fern Grotto Inn
Kauai Beach Villas

Kauai Beach Villas

4 out of 5
4330 Kauai Beach Drive, Lihue, HI
Kauai Beach Villas
The Royal Sonesta Kaua'i Resort Lihue

The Royal Sonesta Kaua'i Resort Lihue

4 out of 5
3610 Rice Street, Lihue, HI
The Royal Sonesta Kaua'i Resort Lihue
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Wailua Falls

Exploring Wailua Falls offers a delightful blend of activities, including kayaking in the stunning surroundings. This picturesque waterfall is a must-see during your trip, providing breathtaking views and a perfect backdrop for memorable photos. For an unforgettable experience, ensure you follow travel tips for visiting, such as arriving early to avoid crowds and bringing plenty of water for your adventure.

Shopping

The nearest shopping options are Coconut Marketplace and Kukui Grove Shopping Center, both 6.4km away, offering a lively mix of businesses and family-friendly vibes. If you're up for a drive, check out Hawaii Trading Post, located 17.7km from Wailua Falls for unique souvenirs.

Recreation

Wailua Golf Course, located 3.2km from Wailua Falls, offers a stunning outdoor experience with its lush greens. Vidinha Stadium, 6.4km away, is perfect for sports enthusiasts, while The Ocean Course at Hokuala, 8.0km from the falls, combines breathtaking views with a challenging game of golf.

Adventure

Embark on an adventure at Wailua Falls by hiking the Sleeping Giant Trailhead, located 4.8km away, offering breathtaking scenery. Explore the Kamalani Playground, also 4.8km away, perfect for outdoor fun. For more hiking, the Kuilau Ridge Trail, situated 4.8km away, invites you to enjoy the lush landscape.

Nightlife

Experience the laid-back vibe at the Wailua Falls Lookout, where you can enjoy stunning sunset views. For a lively night, visit the nearby bars in Kapaa, like the local favourite, Hukilau Lanai, for tropical cocktails and live music in a relaxed atmosphere.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Wailua Falls

Wailua Falls, located in Kauai, Hawaii, offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore nearby beaches, national parks, and preserves while enjoying outdoor activities along the Wailua River. Don't miss the iconic Wailua Falls, a must-see attraction that showcases the region's breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture, perfect for those seeking adventure and relaxation alike.

  • Lydgate Beach: Located 4.8km from Wailua Falls, Lydgate Beach is a stunning national park offering adventure and outdoor activities. With its scenic views, it's perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and picnicking amidst lush landscapes.
  • Kalapaki Beach: Just 8.0km away, Kalapaki Beach boasts a relaxed beach vibe. This picturesque stretch of sand is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and indulging in water sports while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery.
  • Grove Farm Homestead: Also 8.0km from Wailua Falls, this historic site immerses you in Hawaiian culture. Explore the homestead’s rich history and learn about the traditional plantation lifestyle through guided tours and exhibits.

Best time to go to Wailua Falls

The best time to visit Wailua Falls is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain (dry). February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January72.3°F (22.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February71.6°F (22.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March71.8°F (22.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May75.0°F (23.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June76.6°F (24.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
July77.5°F (25.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August78.1°F (25.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
September78.4°F (25.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October77.5°F (25.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
November75.7°F (24.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December73.6°F (23.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Wailua Falls

When visiting Wailua Falls, consider travelling between September and November for lower accommodation prices. Booking about a month in advance often yields the best rates, but check Expedia for last-minute deals. Saturdays typically offer the cheapest stays, while Wednesdays are pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and location, and look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for extra savings. Additionally, explore free activities around the falls to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Wailua Falls are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Wailua Falls is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Wailua Falls is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Wailua Falls is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences such as budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Wailua Falls hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.