If you’re planning a trip to Kauai and love a mix of paddling and trekking, the Guided Kayak and Hike to Secret Falls might just become a highlight of your visit. This tour invites you to glide along the calm waters of the Wailua River and then trek through lush Hawaiian jungle to a stunning 100-foot waterfall. With reviews rating it an impressive 4.9 out of 5 from 128 travelers, it’s clearly a well-loved experience.
What makes this tour appealing? First, the combination of kayaking and hiking offers a well-rounded adventure that’s not just about sightseeing but also about actively engaging with the landscape. Second, the expert guides frequently earn praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make everyone feel safe and included.
However, a word of caution: This outing requires a reasonable level of physical fitness, and the trails can be slippery after rain. It’s best suited for those comfortable with light to moderate exertion and who enjoy outdoor activities in tropical environments. If you’re looking for an authentic, active day that blends adventure with natural beauty, this is a tour worth considering.
Key Points
- Balanced adventure of kayaking and hiking suitable for most active travelers
- Expert guides provide insightful commentary and safety oversight
- Beautiful scenery including lush forests, waterfalls, and tranquil waterways
- Early morning tours tend to be less crowded for a more peaceful experience
- Value for money with included gear, dry bags, and safety equipment
- Not suitable for pregnant women, children under 6, or those with certain health issues
Contents
- Key Points
- An Overview of the Tour Experience
- The Kayaking Segment – Gentle, Scenic, and Educational
- The Hike – Easy, Beautiful, and Accessible
- Reaching the Waterfall – A Showstopper
- Practical Details and Value
- What Travelers Love About This Tour
- Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?
- FAQ
- More Hiking & Trekking Tours in Wailua
- More Tour Reviews in Wailua
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Wailua we have recnetly reviewed
An Overview of the Tour Experience
The Kauai Guided Kayak and Hike to Secret Falls begins with a gentle 5-mile kayak along the Wailua River, one of Kauai’s most historic and sacred waterways. This river, once linked to ancient Hawaiian royalty, offers a peaceful paddle through jungle scenery where waterfalls and green canopies continually frame your view. The absence of strong currents makes it perfect for beginners or anyone who just wants a leisurely kayak.
Once you arrive at the trailhead, the journey continues on a one-mile hike on a newly-installed boardwalk. The boardwalk makes what could have been a muddy, tricky trek into an easy, scenic stroll through tropical forest. The trail leads you to Uluwehi Falls—also called Secret Falls—a spectacular 100-foot cascade that drops into a small pool. Here, travelers can swim, take photos, or simply relax soaking in the natural beauty.
The entire trip takes about 4 to 5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that balances adventure with enough time for a relaxed lunch or exploring nearby spots afterward.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Wailua.
The Kayaking Segment – Gentle, Scenic, and Educational
Most reviews emphasize how the kayaking is beginner-friendly. The calm, wide waters of the Wailua River mean paddlers don’t need advanced skills, and the scenic surroundings keep the mood light and enjoyable. Guides often share interesting facts about native plants and Hawaiian culture, enriching the experience beyond just paddling.
One traveler notes, “Our guide Zach was amazing! He was enthusiastic and very entertaining, and he helped anyone with less experience as much as they needed. He taught us a lot about native plants and wildlife.” This shows how guides go beyond safety instructions—they make the experience engaging and educational.
The inclusion of a dry bag and safety gear makes it accessible and worry-free. Some guests mention that equipment conditions are generally good, though a few noted that one kayak seat was faulty, which slightly marred their experience. That’s a reminder that equipment reviews are worth considering, but most guests seem satisfied.
The Hike – Easy, Beautiful, and Accessible
After the kayaking, the hike on the new boardwalk is straightforward—about a mile through a lush, tropical forest. Reviewers consistently describe it as a “legitimate” trek, with some noting it’s physically tiring but manageable, especially with proper footwear. Participants should bring hiking shoes or water shoes and be prepared for potentially slippery conditions after rain.
Guests often mention how guides make sure everyone stays safe and keeps the group together. Mikayla, one guide, “was fun, informative, and made sure we were all safe.” The trail’s beauty and the chance to see native flora make the hike worthwhile even if you’re not a seasoned trekker.
Reaching the Waterfall – A Showstopper
The highlight? The spectacular 100-foot Secret Falls. As you approach, the sound of rushing water grows louder. When you arrive, many guests dive into the refreshing pool for a swim or linger to photograph the scene. One reviewer describes it as “100 percent spectacular,” a sentiment echoed by several others.
Guides often assist with photographs, and some even provide snacks or water for a quick break before heading back. The waterfall’s remote location means fewer crowds, especially if you opt for an early tour start, which many reviews recommend for a more peaceful experience.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details and Value
The tour costs $119 per person, which includes kayak rental, dry bags, and safety equipment. Considering the experience—paddling, hiking, swimming at a waterfall, and the guiding—it’s a solid value. Most reviews mention that they felt the price was fair, especially given the quality of guides and the scenery.
The tour lasts around 5 hours, usually scheduled in the morning or afternoon, allowing flexibility for your itinerary. Note that food and drinks are not included, so bringing water and snacks is advised. The tour is family-friendly for children aged 6 and up, but it isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with heart problems, bad knees, or backs, given the physical nature of the hike.
The small group size, often praised in reviews, means more personalized attention and less crowding. Guides like Zach, Mikayla, and Brian are repeatedly lauded for their friendliness, humor, and knowledge.
What Travelers Love About This Tour
Reviewers agree that the guides make the trip special. Zach, Brian, and Mikayla are singled out for their engaging personalities and helpfulness. Many describe their guides as “top-notch,” “entertaining,” and “informative,” which makes the adventure feel personal and relaxed.
The scenic beauty of the river and waterfall consistently impresses visitors. Photos of Secret Falls often get shared afterward, with travelers remarking on how beautiful and untouched the site feels. Several guests mention the early start time helps avoid crowds, making the experience even more memorable.
Most consider the tour good value for money given the variety of activities and the high quality of the guides. Some mention minor equipment issues, but overall, guests leave satisfied, often planning to recommend it to friends.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?
This guided kayak and hike tour is perfect for active travelers eager to see Kauai’s natural wonders up close. It’s especially suited for those comfortable with light physical activity and eager to learn about Hawaiian culture and nature from knowledgeable guides. Families with children over 6 will find it manageable, but those with very young kids or mobility challenges may want to consider other options.
If you’re looking to combine outdoor adventure with stunning scenery, and don’t mind getting a little wet or muddy, you’ll find this experience rewarding. The scenic kayak, the lush hike, and the awe-inspiring waterfall make for a well-rounded day packed with authentic Hawaiian beauty. Just be sure to wear good shoes, bring plenty of water, and prepare for a bit of physical exertion.
Kauai: Guided Kayak and Hike to Secret Falls
“The whole day was perfect from start to finish, it was a wonderful day on the water in the kayak to walking thru river beds and navigating the boar…”
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the kayak portion is quite gentle and suitable for beginners, especially with provided safety gear and a calm river. The hike is also on a new, easy-to-navigate boardwalk, making it accessible for most fit individuals.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable hiking or water shoes, plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen. A dry bag is provided, but you may want to bring a waterproof camera if you’re keen on capturing the waterfalls.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 4 to 5 hours, including kayaking, hiking, and swimming at the waterfall.
Is transportation included?
No, transportation to the meeting point is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transport or check if your hotel offers a shuttle service.
Are there age restrictions?
Yes, participants must be at least 6 years old. The activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with heart issues, bad knees, or bad backs.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent, and rain can make trails slippery. If rain affects the trip, some guests have experienced limited kayaking or hiking. In such cases, the company offers a full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.
To sum it up, if you’re eager for an adventurous, educational day in Kauai’s incredible landscape, this guided kayak and hike to Secret Falls provides a well-organized, scenic, and memorable experience. It’s especially rewarding for those who appreciate active outdoor pursuits and are ready to explore one of Hawaii’s most iconic natural treasures.
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