Wailua Falls | Kauai, Hawaii Beautiful waterfalls can be found all over Hawaii, but most of them require a long hike to reach. To get to this one, you first go past a “Danger, do not enter” sign and continue downward. After that, you slowly make your way down using ropes that have been set up by other visitors. Many sections are very steep and extremely slippery, so anyone planning to go should be very careful and prioritize safety. I visited Wailua Falls on Kauai, Hawaii this time, and it was honestly one of the most fun and photogenic waterfalls I’ve been to in Hawaii. I think it might even be my favorite. The best part is that you can actually go behind the waterfall and feel its full power up close—it’s incredibly intense and exciting. Even better, there weren’t many people around, which made the experience even more special. Parking and route: Most people only view the waterfall from the lookout and leave, so even though the parking lot can look busy, you can usually find a spot after waiting a short time. Many people don’t realize that it’s actually possible to hike down to the base of the waterfall. Hawaii is full of informal “wild trails” like this. After parking, you cross a bridge and go over a fence to reach the trailhead. There is even a “hazardous cliff” warning sign. Difficulty: The difficulty depends heavily on conditions. You should definitely avoid going on rainy days or after heavy rain, because the trail becomes extremely muddy and slippery. This is something I learned from a previous visit to Queen’s Bath. There are also tangled tree roots everywhere, and in some sections you need to make big steps or climbs. Some ropes left by other hikers help with the steeper parts, and without them it can be quite difficult to descend. That said, there aren’t too many very steep sections, and it only takes about 15–20 minutes to reach the base of the falls. Because I hadn’t exercised much, my legs were sore for several days after the hike.
Wailua Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Wailua Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Wailua Falls famous?
Wailua Falls is famous for appearing in the opening credits of the 1970s television show 'Fantasy Island' and is one of Kauai's most photographed waterfalls. The dramatic 173-foot (53-meter) double-tiered cascade over a volcanic rock ledge is easily accessible and has deep cultural significance in Native Hawaiian tradition, where legends tell of Hawaiian chiefs proving their manhood by leaping from the top.
Can you swim at Wailua Falls?
No. Swimming is not allowed at Wailua Falls due to dangerous conditions and strong currents at the base. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Wailua Falls?
Dogs are generally allowed on-leash in the viewing area, but not permitted on unofficial trails to the base. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Wailua Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free. No entry fee or permit is required to visit Wailua Falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Wailua Falls?
Free paved parking lot is available at the Wailua Falls lookout on Maalo Road (Highway 583), with space for approximately 15-20 vehicles. The viewing platform is immediately adjacent to the parking area. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Wailua Falls?
Roadside viewing - no hike required. The waterfall is visible directly from the paved parking area and viewing platform. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Wailua Falls hike difficulty
Roadside (no hike). Fully accessible viewing from paved parking lot and platform with no hiking required. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Wailua Falls?
Early morning (before 9 AM) year-round for fewer crowds and better light, with winter months (November–March) offering higher water flow from increased rainfall. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Attractions near Wailua Falls
- •Opaekaa Falls - scenic roadside waterfall viewpoint about 10 minutes north on Highway 580
- •Wailua River - kayaking and boat tours to Fern Grotto, about 15 minutes away
- •Lydgate Beach Park - family-friendly beach with protected swimming pools, 20 minutes south
- •Sleeping Giant Trail (Nounou Mountain) - popular hiking trail with panoramic views, 15 minutes away
- •Kauai Plantation Railway - historical sugar plantation tour near Lihue town
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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