Wailua River Kayaking
Kayak Hawaii's only navigable river, then hike to a 120-foot hidden waterfall you can swim under. Paid, ages 5+. No kayaking on Sundays.
Kayak up the Wailua River, the only navigable river in Hawaii, through a lush jungle setting to a short trail that leads to Uluwehi Falls, universally called Secret Falls. The river paddle is about two miles each way and is calm and easy even for beginners, and the waterfall at the end drops 120 feet into a pool you can swim in. Guided tours and self-guided rentals are both available. Check the day before anything else: there is no kayaking on the Wailua on Sundays, for guided trips or private boats alike, and it catches out a lot of visitors. Since February 2026 Wailua River State Park also charges a state entry fee for non-residents and operates paid parking, both card only. The trail to the falls is muddy and involves a stream crossing, so expect everyone to come back filthy.
Pricing
Kayak rental from $50/person, guided tours from $80-120/person, plus a $5 per non-resident state park entry fee and paid parking, card only (verify)
Common Questions
- How much does Wailua River Kayaking cost?
- Wailua River Kayaking charges admission. Kayak rental from $50/person, guided tours from $80-120/person, plus a $5 per non-resident state park entry fee and paid parking, card only (verify)
- What ages is Wailua River Kayaking good for?
- Wailua River Kayaking is best for kids ages 5 to 18+.
- Is Wailua River Kayaking stroller friendly?
- No, Wailua River Kayaking is not considered stroller friendly.
- Can I bring my dog to Wailua River Kayaking?
- No, dogs are not allowed at Wailua River Kayaking.
- How hard is Wailua River Kayaking?
- The difficulty level is moderate. Plan for about 5 hours.
- Is Wailua River Kayaking free?
- No, there is a cost to visit Wailua River Kayaking. Kayak rental from $50/person, guided tours from $80-120/person, plus a $5 per non-resident state park entry fee and paid parking, card only (verify)
- What should I bring to Wailua River Kayaking?
- Swimsuit, water shoes, sunscreen, dry bag for phone, water, snacks
- How long does Wailua River Kayaking take?
- Most families spend about 5 hours at Wailua River Kayaking.
- When is the best time to visit Wailua River Kayaking?
- Morning for the calmest river. NOT Sundays - the river is closed to kayaking. Book ahead.
- Is there parking at Wailua River Kayaking?
- Kayak launch parking on the south bank of the Wailua River