Paddle the Wailua River and hike to 120’ Uluwehi Falls (Secret Falls)
4.5 Hours
Tandem kayaks, paddles, backrest
Kayak upstream on the Wailua River, then hike through rainforest and stream crossings to Uluwehi Falls (Secret Falls) with a guide. Expect about 4 miles of paddling plus a 1.5-mile moderate to strenuous hike that can be very muddy.
Ages 5+ with basic swimming skills required. Not allowed for pregnancies, bad backs or knees, or recent surgeries. Gratuity is not included; customary tip is 5–10%.
Cancel 48 hours or more before the event for a full refund minus a 10% cancellation fee. Cancel within 24 hours for any reason and receive no refund. Full 100% refund if Alii Kayaks cancels due to inclement weather conditions.
Wear a swimsuit under light clothing and footwear that straps securely to your feet (no flip-flops or Crocs). Bring food and beverages, towels, a camera, sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hats), and mosquito repellent.
Expect about 4 miles of kayaking and a 1.5-mile moderate to strenuous hike with stream wading. Trail conditions can be extremely muddy at times.
You must be age 5 or older and have basic swimming skills.
Alii Kayaks 180 Wailua Rd. Kapaa, HI 96746
Kayaking the Wailua River to Uluwehi Falls is one of Kauai's most popular adventures, and this outfitter makes it easy to pull off. Guides like K-man, Mana, and Sam consistently get called out by name for being knowledgeable, funny, and genuinely engaging, turning what could be a basic river trip into a trip highlight. Equipment is solid, dry bags and a cooler are included, and the self-guided rental option is a great fit for people who want to move at their own pace. A couple of reviewers noted that the guided tours can feel a bit rushed compared to other outfitters, so if a leisurely pace matters to you, it's worth keeping that in mind when you book. That said, the overwhelming majority of guests leave happy, and the aloha spirit from the staff comes up again and again as something that sets the experience apart.
Awesome tour! Kayaking the river was beautiful and the hike was pretty easy with the beautiful falls at the end. Wear appropriate footwear for a slippery and wet hike.
Chad Ortiz
July 2, 2026
Awesome tour! Kayaking the river was beautiful and the hike was pretty easy with the beautiful falls at the end. Wear appropriate footwear for a slippery and wet hike.
Chad Ortiz
July 2, 2026
Paddle Wailua River and hike to Secret Falls at your own pace
Paddle to Secret Falls at your own pace
Paddle the Wailua River and hike through rainforest to Uluwehi “Secret Falls”
Guided river paddle, rainforest hike, and optional waterfall swim
Paddle Wailua River your way with gear, a map, and local route tips
Kayak the Wailua River and hike to 120-foot Secret Falls, with lunch included