Wailua Falls Kauai - Easily Accessible

Stunning Wailua Falls Kauai is a must-see for vacationers to the beautiful island.

When my sister planned to get married on the island of Kauai, my husband and I were a excited. When she chose to get married two days before our tenth wedding anniversary, we were ecstatic. Our trip to Kauai though brief (we left our then 3 and 6 year old children with our best friends), was in many ways our favorite vacation. Today I'm excited to share with you one of the special spots we visited.

Wailua Falls is unlike many other Hawaiian waterfalls because you can literally drive right up to the view area. If you're visiting Kauai, this stop definitely needs to be on your list. It's such a beautiful spot and so easy to access. The best time to visit Wailua Falls is early in the day before the parking lot is crowded. You'll be able to get some great photographs without other tourists in the way.

By the way, if you're looking for another fun thing to do in Kauai, be sure to check out this sunset cruise.

About Wailua Falls Kauai

Wailua Falls is approximately 85 feet high and drops into a pool over 30 feet deep, which that feeds into the Wailua River. From this view, you can sometimes see a rainbow near the base of the falls when the conditions are just right.

What you will see at the falls depends on the season and how much rain there has been. Sometimes there are two very distinct cascades, and at other times it appears to be one larger waterfall.

Can you hike to the falls?

Yes... and no. This is a very beautiful waterfall, however, it’s a treacherous hike there is no maintained trail. It is highly advised that the falls are best seen safely from above at the overlook. However, some do take the risk. (We did not).  The cliff is quite steep and muddy, which is the reason for the DANGER signs posted all around.

Wailua Falls Kauai

There's not really an address for this beautiful spot. Hawaii.com recommends: "If you’re traveling north, take Highway 56 (Kuhio Highway) toward Hanamā‘ulu and take a left at Ma‘alo Road (Highway 583). Drive down this road for a few miles all the way to the end."

How do you get to Wailua Falls Kauai?

In our experience, pretty much every road is a scenic one in Kauai! Wailua Falls is located near Lihue. There are gorgeous mountain views from both directions. Wailua Falls in Kauai is easily accessible, with no hiking required. In fact, the parking lot overlooks the falls. 

Another way to see the falls is from the air by booking a Kauai helicopter or airplane tour.

More Romantic Vacation Ideas:

• The Wentworth Inn
• Jackson Falls