By: UpStreamPaddle
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Kauai’s natural wonders? Join us on an eco-adventure kayak and hiking tour with Alii Kayaks and discover the hidden gem of Secret Falls! Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of the Wailua River as you embark on a leisurely paddle upstream through the majestic valley. Then, get ready for an invigorating 1.5-mile hike, where you’ll cross streams, venture through lush rainforests, and conquer muddy trails, all while learning about the fascinating local flora and fauna from our friendly and knowledgeable guides. Your journey culminates at the awe-inspiring Uluwehi Falls, standing tall at 120 feet and known as Secret Falls.
Key Takeaways
Highlights of the Wailua River Kayak Tour
- Delve into a captivating 4-hour experience, combining a scenic 4-mile kayak and a breathtaking 1.5-mile hike roundtrip.
- Perfect for families, this adventure welcomes guests aged 5 and above.
- Immerse yourself in the rich history of the royal Wailua Valley as our expert guides share their extensive knowledge during the tour.
- Embark on a tranquil 2-mile paddle up the Class 0 (calm) Wailua River, surrounded by serene beauty.
- Traverse through the dense jungle, crossing multiple streams, and conquering muddy trails on your way to the magnificent Secret Falls.
- Please note that tours are subject to cancellation if the minimum requirement of 4 guests is not met.
Caption: Our family really enjoyed this tour. From the kayaking to the hike to the waterfall swim, it was non-stop fun for our 5-year old.
Unveiling the Secrets of the Secret Falls Kayak and Hike Tour
With Alii Kayaks, embark on an extraordinary eco-adventure that will leave you in awe. Start your guided kayak adventure with a tranquil 2-mile paddle upstream in the scenic valley of the Wailua River. As you secure your kayaks on the shores of the North Fork, prepare for an invigorating 1.5-mile moderate hike. Wade through crystal-clear streams, meander through lush rainforests, and conquer muddy trails, all while our friendly guides enchant you with fascinating stories about the local flora and fauna. Your hiking trek reaches its pinnacle at the majestic 120-foot Uluwehi Falls, a true hidden gem.
Alii Kayak’s Wailua kayak/hike tour is tailored for families and guests aged 5 and up. Even if you’ve never kayaked before, worry not! We provide basic technique and safety training at the beginning of each tour to ensure your comfort and enjoyment. What sets us apart from other tour companies are our experienced guides. With their Water Safety Instructor, CPR, and First Aid certifications, they guarantee a fun, informative, and memorable exploration of Kauai’s remarkable Wailua river valley.
Witness the Magic – Wailea River Kayak Tour Video (our experience)
To catch a glimpse of the captivating beauty and thrilling hike that awaits you, watch our exciting video below! Prepare to be amazed as our son fearlessly explores the trail, guided by our informative tour guide. From enchanting boardwalks to the immersive rainforest experience, he was captivated every step of the way, especially when a bird (known as “manu” in Hawaiian) ate a worm from his hand!
Essential Details for Your Trip
When and where?
Our tours operate daily, except on Sundays. Please check in 30 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time at the parking lot of Smith’s Tropical Paradise. Reservations are required, and you will receive detailed information via email upon booking.
What does the tour include?
Your tour includes the kayak and all necessary equipment.
What should I bring?
To make the most of your adventure, we recommend bringing the following items:
- Wear a swimsuit under light clothing.
- Footwear that securely straps to your feet (flip flops and Crocs are not allowed).
- Food and beverages to keep you energized.
- Towels for the ultimate day of exploration.
- A camera to capture the memories.
- Sun protection essentials such as sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and mosquito repellent.
What should I expect on this tour?
Prepare for approximately 4 miles of kayaking and a moderate 1.5-mile hike, where parts of the trail can be muddy at times. The tour duration is approximately 4.5 hours.
Restrictions:
For safety reasons, we kindly request that individuals who are pregnant or have bad backs, bad knees, or recent surgeries refrain from participating in the tour. Additionally, children under 5 years of age are not permitted to join. Please be aware that tours are subject to cancellation if the minimum requirement of 4 guests is not met.
Caption: The hike to the waterfall crosses a large stream and multiple small streams. The guide will talk story about Kauai and the fauna as you go.
Introducing Ali’i Kayaks – Your Guided Tour Experts
Alii Kayaks is a premier guided kayak tour operator located on the pristine Wailua River in Kauai. Our rich history traces back to 1946 when Walter Smith Sr. and his wife Emily established the Smith’s Motorboat Service, pioneering riverboat tours to the renowned Fern Grotto. Today, Kaleo Smith and his business partner Keone Garma, together with their wives, carry on the family legacy, sharing their profound love for Kauai and its vibrant cultural heritage.
As affiliate partners with Alii Kayaks and Watersports, we ensure that each completed booking made through our site helps us provide free information and videos to aid you in planning your perfect Hawaii vacation. Rest assured that we only recommend tour operators we know and trust. Your positive experience and trust mean more to us than any affiliate commission. Join us on our journey, and thank you for your amazing support!
Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on an extraordinary adventure to discover the captivating beauty of Secret Falls. Book your tour today at UpStreamPaddle and create memories that will last a lifetime!
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