Kauai: Secret Falls Kayak & Hike with River Paddle

Four miles of paddling, two miles of mud, one waterfall that makes it worth it.

You paddle the Wailua River for four miles through rainforest, beach your kayak, then hike two muddy miles to a 120-foot waterfall where you can swim and rest. Your guide handles all gear setup and navigation, so you focus on paddling and hiking. Expect five to six hours total, moderate-to-strenuous effort, and the reward of reaching Uluwehi Falls with time to soak in the natural pool.

Step-by-step itinerary

Kayak and hike to Uluwehi Falls

• Arrive at riverside location
• Receive kayak setup and gear
• Paddle 2 miles up Wailua River
• Beach kayak at riverbank
• Hike 1.5 miles through rainforest
• Cross streams and muddy trails
• Explore and relax at Uluwehi Falls

The experience

The moment your guide hands you the paddle, you realize you're not dealing with a rental-lot situation. Everything's already set up at the riverside (kayak, flotation device, backrest), so you just show up and go. The Wailua River opens in front of you, and the paddling starts easy, almost meditative, with jungle walls rising on both sides and the water so calm you can hear birds calling from the canopy. Two miles of this, and your shoulders start to know they're working, but the scenery keeps you from thinking about it too much.

Then you beach the kayak and the real hike begins. The trail into the rainforest is exactly what they told you (muddy, uneven, stream crossings that soak your feet), and it climbs about 465 feet over the next mile and a half. Your guide points out native plants, talks about the island's history, and moves at a pace that lets you catch your breath without stopping constantly. The air gets thicker, the sound of water gets louder, and then you round a bend and there's Uluwehi Falls dropping 120 feet into a pool so clear you can see the rocks underneath. Most people spend twenty minutes or so swimming, taking photos, just sitting on the rocks and letting the mist hit their face. It's the kind of moment that justifies every muddy step.

The whole thing takes about five to six hours from start to finish, and you need to be honest with yourself about fitness. This isn't a casual walk. You're paddling four miles roundtrip and hiking two miles on terrain that doesn't care about your knees. Wear shoes that strap to your feet (no flip-flops or Crocs), bring water, and know that you'll be wet and dirty by the end. But that's also why you're going, right? If you're comfortable in the water and ready for a physically rewarding day, this is the easiest way to see one of Kauai's most sought-after waterfalls without spending half your morning hunting for parking or renting equipment from three different places.

What’s included

• Your day includes use of a kayak, paddle, backrest, and personal flotation device for the river paddle.
• a knowledgeable local guide who leads both the paddling and the hike.
• and access to the rainforest trail and Uluwehi Falls. Parking hassle and equipment rental logistics are handled, so you arrive at the riverside location ready to start.

Before you book

Days and timesMonday to FridayDepartures at 09:00, 10:00, 11:00 and 12:00

Book up to2h before

AgesAdult (5 to 74 years) · Under 5: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 12

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Demanding physical levelNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Alii Kayaks, LLC

Is this one for you?Right for adventurers in good physical condition who want to reach Secret Falls without arranging their own transport, kayak rental, or parking. The 4-mile paddle and 2-mile hike are the whole point. Expect to be wet, muddy, and tired in the best way.

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How long is the paddle on the Wailua River?

Two miles each way, four miles roundtrip. The water is calm and the pace is manageable for most paddlers, though your shoulders will feel it by the end.

What's the hike to Secret Falls like?

Moderate to strenuous, 1.5 miles one way (2 miles roundtrip), with stream crossings, muddy paths, and about 465 feet of elevation gain. It takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour depending on pace and fitness level.

What's included in the tour?

Kayak, paddle, backrest, personal flotation device, knowledgeable local guide, and the guided hike to Uluwehi Falls. You don't arrange parking, equipment rental, or logistics.

How long is the whole tour?

About five to six hours total, including paddling, hiking, and time at the waterfall.

What should I wear?

Shoes that strap to your feet: no flip-flops or Crocs. You'll be wet and muddy, so wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty.

Is this tour good for beginners?

Not really. You need to be comfortable in the water, capable of paddling a kayak with proper coordination, and fit enough to hike a moderate-to-strenuous trail. Poor cardiovascular health or spinal injuries are contraindications.

Can pregnant people do this tour?

No. Pregnant individuals are advised not to participate due to potential exposure to Leptospirosis and the physical demands of the activity.

What if I'm not a strong swimmer?

You'll wear a personal flotation device the whole time, so you're supported in the water. But you should still be comfortable in the water and capable of moderate physical activity.