Kauai: Wailua River Kayak & Secret Falls Hike with Lunch

Summary

Kayak the Wailua River and trek to Secret Falls for a swim and picnic

You’ll paddle your own kayak along Kauai’s Wailua River with a local guide, trek through real rainforest (yes—your feet will get wet), then reach Secret Falls for a swim beneath the cascade. Enjoy a fresh sandwich lunch by the water before hiking and paddling back—muddy shoes totally worth it.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect my arms to start burning so soon, but honestly, paddling up the Wailua River is more hypnotic than hard. The water’s this glassy green, thick with reflections of palms and those wild bursts of ginger flowers. Our guide, Kaleo, kept us moving at a chill pace — he pointed out where the first Hawaiians landed after crossing from the Marquesas (which sounded impossible to me) and told us how “Wailua” means two waters. I tried repeating some Hawaiian words and just got laughed at — in a nice way. I liked that everyone was barefoot or in those muddy sandals; no one here’s trying to look cute.

The hike started right after we beached our tandem kayaks. It wasn’t long before my shoes were soaked — you cross the river four times on the way to Secret Falls, stepping over loose rocks that shift underfoot. There’s this sticky warmth in the air, and everything smells like wet earth and guava leaves crushed under boots. At one point I slipped (not gracefully), but Kaleo just grinned and said it happens to everyone. The rainforest felt alive — birds yelling somewhere above us, ferns brushing against my legs.

Secret Falls isn’t really secret (there were other groups), but it still hits you when you see it: 110 feet of water dropping into a pool that’s cold enough to shock your skin awake. We all waded in anyway — even if you’re not a swimmer, just standing under that spray feels like some kind of reset button for your brain. Lunch was simple: turkey sandwiches wrapped tight in wax paper, fruit that tasted sweeter than usual, probably because we’d earned it. Sitting there with wet hair, eating next to strangers who suddenly felt like friends… I still think about that view sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak and hike to Secret Falls

• Paddle 2 miles each way on Wailua River
• Learn about local legends and flora
• Hike 1.5 miles through rain forest
• Cross 4 river crossings with loose rocks
• Swim at 110-foot Secret Falls
• Enjoy lunch at the waterfall
• Hike 1.5 miles back to kayak

Top questions

How long is the Wailua River kayak tour?

The tour covers about 4 miles round trip by kayak plus 3 miles hiking.

Is lunch included on the Secret Falls kayak tour?

Yes, a fresh turkey sandwich lunch with fruit and water is included.

Do I need special shoes for the hike?

You’ll need closed-toe or sturdy sandals as your feet will be fully submerged during river crossings.

Can vegetarians or gluten-free travelers get meal options?

Yes—just contact the office at least 48 hours before your tour date for special requests.

Are there age or health restrictions?

This tour is for ages 5-70; not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with recent surgeries or poor mobility.

How difficult is the hike to Secret Falls?

The hike is moderate with river crossings on loose rocks; trail conditions vary depending on weather.

Is swimming at Secret Falls safe?

You can swim at Secret Falls’ pool; always follow your guide’s advice for safety.

What’s included

Your day includes tandem kayaks with paddles and backrests, dry bags for your stuff, plus a handmade turkey sandwich lunch with fruit and water—all guided by someone who actually knows Kauai’s stories as you paddle and hike together through rainforest trails.