Kauai: Kayak Rental Wailua River With Secret Falls Hike

Kauai’s Wailua River offers a serene kayak adventure leading to the stunning Secret Falls. This 4-5 hour trip combines a 5-mile paddle through lush jungle scenery with a 1-mile hike to the waterfall. Suitable for all ages and skill levels, the experience allows you to swim in the natural pool and capture memorable photos. But before embarking on this picturesque journey, there are a few practical details to consider.

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Key Points

Kauai’s Wailua River offers a 5-mile kayak adventure to Secret Falls, suitable for all ages and skill levels.
The serene, lake-like river journey provides lush jungle scenery and diverse wildlife before a 1-mile hike to the Secret Falls.
After the hike, visitors can swim in the natural pool beneath the cascading Secret Falls and explore the surrounding area.
The kayak rental package includes equipment, life vests, and a safety briefing, but participants need to provide their own transportation for the kayaks.
Reviewers have provided mixed feedback, with praise for the beautiful scenery and calm river conditions, but concerns about inconsistent staff support and kayak transportation challenges.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Kayak Rental Experience

Though the Wailua River kayak rental activity lasts 4-5 hours, it’s suitable for all ages and skill levels.

The 5-mile paddle on the only navigable river in Hawaii takes adventurers to the 100-foot Secret Falls. After a 1-mile hike on a boardwalk, visitors can swim in the waterfall pool and enjoy snacks and photography.

The rental includes kayaks, equipment, life vests, and a safety briefing. However, transporting the kayaks requires a personal vehicle.

Bookings are per person, with single kayaks reserved for odd-numbered parties. The river conditions are calm, like a lake, making it an accessible option for most.

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Exploring the Wailua River

The Wailua River, Hawaii’s only navigable river, provides a serene and picturesque setting for the kayak rental experience. Paddlers glide along the calm, lake-like waters, surrounded by lush, verdant landscapes. Along the 5-mile route, they’ll encounter a diverse array of flora and fauna, from towering coconut palms to graceful birds soaring overhead.

| Highlights | Description |

| — | — |

| Scenery | Lush jungle, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife |

| Duration | Approximately 2-3 hours of paddling each way |

| Difficulty | Suitable for all skill levels, no current or waves |

| Accessibility | Limited mobility options due to hiking requirement |

| Photography | Ample opportunities for capturing the natural beauty |

The journey culminates at the trailhead, where adventurers embark on a 1-mile hike to the stunning Secret Falls, a 100-foot cascading wonder.

Hiking to Secret Falls

After paddling the 5-mile stretch of the Wailua River, adventurers disembark at the trailhead and begin their 1-mile hike to the mesmerizing Secret Falls.

The newly-installed boardwalk guides them through the lush, verdant jungle. As they approach the 100-foot waterfall, the sound of cascading water grows louder.

Swimmers can relax in the refreshing pool beneath the falls, enjoying snacks and ample photo opportunities. The hike is suitable for all ages and skill levels, making it an accessible adventure for both experienced and novice outdoor enthusiasts.

Swimming in the Waterfall Pool

Upon reaching the base of the 100-foot Secret Falls, visitors can take a refreshing dip in the natural pool below. The clear, cool waters provide a serene swimming experience amidst the lush, tropical surroundings.

Swimmers can explore the waterfall’s cascade, relax on the rocky shoreline, or simply float and bask in the tranquility. Snacks and photography are also popular activities during this portion of the adventure.

Visitors should be mindful of water depth and slippery surfaces when entering and exiting the pool. The Secret Falls swimming experience offers a peaceful respite and chance to fully take in Kauai’s natural beauty.

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Photographic Opportunities

Numerous photographic opportunities abound during the Wailua River kayak adventure. The lush jungle landscape, serene river, and towering Secret Falls offer a visual feast for shutterbugs.

Key photographic highlights include:

Capturing the stunning 100-foot Secret Falls cascading into the crystal-clear pool below, framing the majestic Wailua River, and snapping portraits against the scenic backdrop.

Capturing the stunning 100-foot Secret Falls cascading into the crystal-clear pool below.
Framing the majestic Wailua River as it winds through the verdant jungle surroundings.
Snapping portraits of your group against the scenic backdrop of the river and rainforest.

With ample time allotted at the waterfall, adventurers can unleash their creativity and document their Kauai experience through the lens.

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Preparing for the Adventure

Before embarking on the Wailua River kayak adventure, there are several important preparatory steps adventurers should take.

First, ensure you have the appropriate attire – sun hat, swimsuit, towel, and water shoes. Bringing snacks, water, and insect repellent is also recommended. Since the activity may get messy, wear clothes that can get dirty.

Participants should also familiarize themselves with the meeting location and check-in procedures at the stand-up paddleboard shop.

Finally, it’s wise to call the operator to confirm tour details and provide emergency contact information.

With the right preparation, adventurers can maximize their enjoyment of the Wailua River kayak and Secret Falls hike.

Transportation and Legal Requirements

Due to state law, transportation of the kayaks for this Wailua River adventure requires participants to use their own vehicles. The kayak rental shop doesn’t provide transportation.

Participants must:

Bring a vehicle large enough to accommodate the kayaks, which are approximately 12 feet long.
Load and unload the kayaks themselves, as the rental shop staff can’t assist with this.
Arrive at the designated meeting point with the kayaks already loaded and ready to go.

This self-transportation requirement is an important consideration for those interested in this Wailua River kayaking experience.

Customer Feedback and Important Considerations

Customers have provided mixed feedback on their experiences with this Wailua River kayaking adventure. While the overall rating is 4/5, reviews mention inconsistent support from the operator and challenges with kayak transportation. It’s important to call and confirm tour details and provide emergency contact information.

| — | — | — | — |

| Overall Value | Great activity for the price | – | – |

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Age Restriction for Children?

The activity has an age restriction – it’s not suitable for children under 13. Individuals with mobility impairments also may not be able to participate in this activity.

Can We Book Multiple Kayaks Together?

Yes, you can book multiple kayaks together. Each booking is per person, and for odd-numbered parties, single kayaks are reserved. However, transportation of the kayaks requires a personal vehicle due to state law.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?

The activity doesn’t mention any discounts or package deals. Bookings are priced per person, though single kayaks are available for odd-numbered parties. It’s best to contact the operator directly to inquire about any special offers or bundled options.

Can We Bring Our Own Kayaks or Equipment?

Customers cannot bring their own kayaks or equipment for this tour. The tour provider supplies all necessary kayaking gear, including life vests and dry bags. Participants must use the provided equipment for safety and logistics reasons.

What Is the Cancellation Policy in Case of Bad Weather?

The cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If weather conditions are poor on the day of the tour, customers can contact the operator to reschedule or receive a full refund.

The Sum Up

The Wailua River kayak rental and Secret Falls hike offers a breathtaking Kauai experience. Guests can paddle through lush jungle scenery, then trek to the stunning waterfall for a refreshing swim. With its suitability for all ages and skill levels, this adventure provides an unforgettable opportunity to take in Kauai’s natural beauty. Just remember to plan for transportation and confirm booking details before embarking on this picturesque Kauai excursion.

You can check availability for your dates here: