Kauai: Hule‘ia River Kayak, Jungle Hike & Canoe with Waterfalls

Summary

Paddle the Hule‘ia River hike lush trails swim beneath falls and cruise home by canoe

You’ll paddle tandem kayaks along Kauai’s Hule‘ia River with a local guide before hiking through rainforest trails to secret waterfalls and natural swimming holes. Cool off with a dip or try the rope swing if you’re brave—then relax on a traditional Hawaiian canoe ride home. It’s equal parts adventure and quiet moments you’ll remember long after.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I was a little nervous when our guide handed me the paddle and grinned, “Don’t worry, you’ll get the hang of it.” The Hule‘ia River looked calm enough but there’s something about that first push off that makes your stomach flutter. My friend almost spun us in a circle right at the start (she blames me), but soon we were gliding under these tangled branches with birds calling overhead—one sounded like it was laughing at us. The air smelled green, if that makes sense. Wet leaves, river mud, sunscreen.

We pulled up onto this muddy bank and swapped paddles for sneakers. The trail was soft and kind of springy underfoot—our guide, Kaleo, pointed out some plant whose name I forgot instantly (I think it started with an ‘o’?), and told a story about ancient Hawaiians hiding upriver. He had this way of pausing so you could hear the water moving through the trees. Then suddenly you’re at these waterfalls—nothing dramatic or crowded, just water tumbling over black rock into a pool clear enough to see your toes. I didn’t plan to swim but ended up jumping in anyway because why not? Cold shock, then warm sun on my back while someone else tried (and failed) at the rope swing.

On the way back we all piled onto this twin-hulled canoe—motorized but still felt old-school somehow—and just drifted for a bit while everyone swapped stories or sat quiet. There’s something about floating downriver after all that noise from hiking and swimming; you catch yourself thinking about how far from home you are, in a good way. I can still hear Kaleo’s laugh echoing off the cliffs when I think about Kauai now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak, hike, and canoe adventure

• Paddle tandem kayak on Hule‘ia River
• Pull ashore and hike 3/4 mile
• Explore waterfalls and swimming holes
• Swim and use rope swing
• Return by twin-hulled motorized canoe

Top questions

How long is the kayak portion of this Kauai tour?

The exact distance isn’t specified, but you’ll paddle tandem kayaks along the Hule‘ia River before starting your 3/4-mile hike.

Is swimming included on this day trip?

Yes, there are natural swimming holes near the waterfalls where guests can swim or try a rope swing.

Are guides provided during the hike and kayak sections?

Yes, expert local guides lead both kayaking and hiking portions of the tour.

What should I bring for this Kauai kayak & hike tour?

You should bring swimwear, sturdy footwear that can get wet (like Tevas), towel, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a waterproof camera.

Is this adventure suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels according to tour info.

How many people per guide?

The ratio is approximately one guide for every 8-12 passengers.

Does this include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at the departure point.

What kind of canoe do we return on?

You return on a traditional twin-hulled motorized Hawaiian canoe for a smooth ride back downriver.

What’s included

Your day includes use of deluxe two-person kayaks and all necessary gear for paddling along Kauai’s Hule‘ia River. Expert local guides lead both kayak and jungle hike portions, sharing stories and pointing out rare plants as you go. Cold bottled water is provided throughout your adventure before returning by traditional twin-hulled Hawaiian canoe.