Wailua River & Waterfalls Kayak Tour: Expert-Guided Adventure

Exploring the natural wonders of Kauai’s Wailua River and Secret Falls has never been easier. This expert-guided kayak tour takes adventurers on a scenic paddle through the historically significant waterway, followed by a hike to a hidden cascading wonder. With top-notch equipment and knowledgeable local guides, visitors can enjoy the island’s lush landscapes and cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure or a peaceful escape, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. What secrets will you uncover on the Wailua River?

Key Points

• Tandem kayaking adventure along the historically significant Wailua River, culminating in a hike to the picturesque Secret Falls for swimming and lunch.
• Guided tour with expert staff, providing an immersive outdoor experience in Kauai’s natural beauty and cultural significance.
• Includes kayaking equipment, dry bags, and a freshly prepared lunch with gluten-free and vegetarian options available.
• Suitable for moderately fit travelers, with closed-toe shoes or Teva-style sandals recommended for the hike.
• Meeting point located behind the Coconut Marketplace in Kapaʻa, with free cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour.

Tour Overview

The Kayak Tour of Wailua River & Waterfalls offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural significance of Kauai, Hawaii.

This expertly guided adventure takes guests on a journey through the historically important Wailua River, allowing them to paddle in tandem kayaks.

The highlight of the tour is a refreshing hike to the Secret Falls, where travelers can take a dip and enjoy a provided lunch.

With 688 reviews and a 4.8-star rating, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an immersive outdoor experience in Kauai.

What to Expect

As participants embark on the Kayak Tour of Wailua River & Waterfalls, they’ll first gather at the designated meeting point behind the Coconut Marketplace in Kapaʻa.

There, they’ll be outfitted with tandem kayaks, paddles, and dry bags. Appropriate footwear like closed-toe shoes or Teva-style sandals is recommended, as the hike to Secret Falls requires some physical exertion.

Once on the water, you will paddle along the historically significant Wailua River.

After reaching the trailhead, they’ll hike to the refreshing Secret Falls for a swim and lunch.

The tour returns to the original meeting point at the end.

Inclusions and Gear

Tandem kayaks, paddles, and dry bags are provided for participants to use during the tour.

A refreshing lunch of fresh handmade turkey sandwiches, fruit, and water is included. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available with 48-hour notice.

Proper footwear such as closed-toe shoes, reef shoes, or Teva-style sandals is recommended. Flip-flops and Crocs aren’t suitable.

With these essential items covered, travelers can focus on enjoying the stunning scenery and seeing the rich history of the Wailua River during this expert-guided kayaking and hiking adventure.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Where’s the meeting point for this kayak tour? The tour meets at 440 Aleka Pl, Kapaʻa, HI 96746, USA, behind the Coconut Marketplace.

After your adventure, the tour returns to the same meeting point. Here are some key logistics to keep in mind:

• The tour runs rain or shine, and you’ll return to the original meeting location.
• Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the experience.
• The group size is capped at 24 travelers.
• This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation.

Health and Safety Considerations

Moderate physical fitness is required for this kayak and hiking tour.

This kayak and hiking tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness.

The route isn’t suitable for travelers with back problems, pregnancies, or serious medical conditions. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation.

Group sizes are limited to a maximum of 24 participants. Proper footwear, such as closed-toe shoes, reef shoes, or Teva-style sandals, is essential. Flip-flops and Crocs aren’t recommended.

Participants should be prepared for a moderate level of physical activity during the kayaking and hiking portions of the tour.

Traveler Experiences

Travelers have provided positive feedback on the tour guides’ knowledge and engagement. Specific mentions have been made of guides Sierra and Thomas, who are praised for their expertise and ability to engage the group.

Some key traveler experiences and recommendations include:

• The importance of wearing appropriate footwear and bringing water, as the kayaking and hiking portions can be physically challenging.
• Mixed reviews on the visibility of the waterfall, though the stunning views and natural beauty of the area are generally praised.
• The tour’s moderate fitness level, which may not be suitable for travelers with certain medical conditions.

Scenic Highlights

The Wailua River and its surrounding landscape offer a stunning natural backdrop for the kayaking and hiking portions of the tour. Paddling along the river, participants are treated to views of lush, verdant forests lining the banks.

As the tour progresses, the scenery shifts, and hikers are rewarded with a picturesque waterfall cascading into a refreshing pool. Though some have noted the visibility of the waterfall can be variable, the overall natural beauty of the region is consistently praised by travelers.

The combination of the serene river and the dramatic waterfall creates an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Preparing for the Adventure

To make the most of the Wailua River and waterfall adventure, participants should come prepared.

To make the most of the Wailua River and waterfall adventure, participants should come prepared.

The tour requires moderate physical fitness, so it’s essential to wear appropriate footwear like closed-toed shoes, reef shoes, or Teva-style sandals.

Bringing water is also crucial, as the hike can be physically demanding.

Travelers should also be aware of the tour’s group size limit of 24 people and the cancellation policy, which allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

By being prepared, guests can fully enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Kauai’s Wailua River and waterfall.

• Wear appropriate footwear
• Bring water
• Be aware of group size limit
• Review cancellation policy

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gratuity for the Guide Included in the Tour Price?

The tour details do not indicate if gratuity for the guide is included in the tour price. Travelers should expect to provide a tip for the guide at their own discretion based on the quality of service.

Can We Bring Our Own Snacks or Drinks on the Tour?

Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. However, a fresh handmade lunch with fruit and water is already included in the tour price. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available with 48-hour notice.

Are Children Allowed on the Tour, and if So, Is There a Minimum Age?

Children are allowed on the tour, but there is a minimum age of 6 years old. Younger children may be permitted at the tour operator’s discretion, but they’ll need to be accompanied by an adult.

Do We Need to Know How to Swim to Participate in This Tour?

No, participants do not need to know how to swim to take this tour. The tour provider supplies all necessary equipment, including personal flotation devices, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all skill levels.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Amount of Personal Belongings We Can Bring?

The tour provides dry bags for storing personal belongings. Travelers can bring a modest amount of items, but large or bulky bags are not recommended as space is limited in the kayaks. Participants should pack light and only bring essentials.

The Sum Up

The Wailua River & Waterfalls Kayak Tour offers an unforgettable adventure on Kauai’s stunning waterways. Paddle through the historic river, hike to the captivating Secret Falls, and enjoy a refreshing swim and delicious lunch. With expert guidance and excellent reviews, this tour provides an immersive connection with Kauai’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a must-do activity for adventurous travelers.