Kauai Wailua River: Guided Kayak & Secret Falls Tour with Snacks

Summary

Wailua River paddle and rainforest hike to secret falls with snacks

You’ll paddle Kauai’s Wailua River with a local guide, hike muddy rainforest trails to Uluwehi Falls (Secret Falls), snack riverside, and soak up stories of ancient Hawaii along the way. Expect wet shoes, laughter, quiet moments by the waterfall—and a day that lingers in memory longer than you’d think.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the river smelled — sort of green and sweet, like wet leaves after rain. We met our guide, Kaleo, right under that old water tower at Coconut Marketplace (easy to find, even if you’re half-awake). He handed us these dry bags and pointed out where to stash our sandwiches. I’d brought peanut butter and jelly — not exactly Hawaiian cuisine but it did the trick. The kayaks were those double sit-on-top ones, which I was grateful for since my paddling skills are... let’s say “developing.”

Paddling up the Wailua River is quieter than I expected. There’s this hush except for paddle splashes and sometimes birds calling from somewhere in the trees. Kaleo started telling us about Kamokila Village as we drifted past — apparently people have been coming down this river for over 1,500 years. It’s hard to picture that when you’re dodging low-hanging branches or laughing because your partner keeps zig-zagging the kayak (sorry, Sarah). The sun broke through around the north fork and suddenly everything felt warmer — even my feet in soggy sneakers.

The hike to Uluwehi Falls isn’t long but it’s muddy in places (my shoes still haven’t forgiven me). The boardwalk bits are easy; other parts you’re stepping over roots or through puddles. At one point we stopped so Kaleo could show us wild ginger — he snapped a piece open and let us smell it. Spicy-sweet, almost citrusy. When we finally reached Secret Falls, the sound hit first: water pounding down like distant thunder. People just stood there for a minute without saying much. I didn’t expect that part — how everyone got quiet all at once.

On the way back we ate chips by the kayaks and tried to dry off in patches of sun poking through the trees. My sandwich was a bit squished but tasted better than usual — maybe because I’d earned it? We paddled back slower than before, arms tired but not really wanting it to end yet. Sometimes I still think about that view upriver, everything so green it almost looked fake.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak and hike to Secret Falls

• Check in at Coconut Marketplace kiosk
• Kayak two miles up Wailua River
• Pass Kamokila Village on kayak
• Hike moderate trail to Secret Falls
• Enjoy 120-foot waterfall view
• Kayak back to starting point

Top questions

How long is the guided kayak tour on Wailua River?

The tour lasts about 5-6 hours from check-in to return.

Is lunch included on this Secret Falls tour?

Snacks and water are provided; bring your own sandwich or light lunch.

Where does the tour start?

You check in at Coconut Marketplace beneath the water tower on Kauai.

What should I wear for hiking to Uluwehi Falls?

Wear hiking sandals or water shoes—your feet will get wet and possibly muddy.

Are children allowed on this Wailua River kayak tour?

Yes, children age 5+ can join if accompanied by an adult.

Do they provide life jackets for kayaking?

Yes, PFDs (life jackets) are included for all participants.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup; meet at Coconut Marketplace for check-in.

How difficult is the hike to Secret Falls?

The hike is moderate with some muddy sections depending on recent rain.

What’s included

Your day includes double sit-on-top kayaks with life jackets, water-resistant dry bags for your stuff, bottled water or fill-up stations if you bring your own bottle, plus snacks like chips or cookies—just bring your own sandwich if you want more lunch. State-certified guides lead throughout and coolers keep your food fresh until you’re ready for a riverside break.