Kayak Wailua
Kayak Wailua
5
Monday
7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday
7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday
7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Full view
About
Our kayaking/hiking guided tour adventure is one of the few activities which can be enjoyed by all members of your family including grandma and grandpa. We invite you to read our 3975+ reviews; then check availability and reserve space at our website linked here on Trip Advisor.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
4,436 reviews
Excellent
4,011
Very good
320
Average
60
Poor
26
Terrible
19
Joe L
Grass Valley, CA4 contributions
Jan 2020
We enjoyed a 3 generation kayak and hiking trip with family ranging from 2 to 61. Our guide Brandon was fantastic; he was easy going, informative, and most of all attentive with his focus on both safety and having fun. The kayaking is fairly easy, with very little current, although the occasional wind and rain can add to the adventure. The hike is quite level, but there is serious red mud that you will not avoid that will be six or more inches deep during the rainy season. The river crossing will wash most of it away at the end, but we did take home some of that amazing hawaiian mud that caked in (people pay serious money for this kind of mud bath). The most important part is to wear shoes that can both get wet and muddy, and have good traction (or take advantage of their free loaner collection). Picking up a good bamboo hiking stick from the plentiful supply at the start of the hike is highly recommended to help avoid wearing a full body mud paint job.
Brandon ensured even our slowest hiker made it safely and enjoyably as well as keeping an eye on our toddler, while filling in the rest of us with his wealth of knowledge about his life-long home of Kauai. The trip was one of the highlights of our trip and we highly recommend Kayak Wailua without reservation!
Brandon ensured even our slowest hiker made it safely and enjoyably as well as keeping an eye on our toddler, while filling in the rest of us with his wealth of knowledge about his life-long home of Kauai. The trip was one of the highlights of our trip and we highly recommend Kayak Wailua without reservation!
Written February 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
NateB
1 contribution
Jan 2020 • Family
We had a group of 11 - 2 families with 7 kids. Andrew was such a great guide. He was engaging and had fun joking around with the kids as well as the adults. The kayak ride was beautiful and was very enjoyable during the morning. We did the “early bird” 8am departure and the weather was impecable. The hike to the falls was just as enjoyable. The scenery is amazing. Once we got to the falls, we took a quick break and ate some lunch (you pack your own and they provide insulated packs to keep your food cold. They worked very well. We added an ice pack that we brought with us as well). We enjoyed swimming in the falls pool and then headed back downtown the trail to the river to get paddling back to the marina.
We highly recommend you request Andrew for tour guide. He made the trip even more fun than it would have been if the guide was just some dud that didn’t engage everyone. You won’t be disappointed!
We highly recommend you request Andrew for tour guide. He made the trip even more fun than it would have been if the guide was just some dud that didn’t engage everyone. You won’t be disappointed!
Written January 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mark M
6 contributions
Dec 2019
Kayaking the Wailua River with this group is great way to feel connected to Kaua'i. Darren was a guide and he had a terrific spirit and showed great ability to work with a diverse group of adventurers. We traveled as a couple along with another couple and their very young daughter, a single woman and two groups of friends. We each had a different pace and level of fitness, but Darren kept us moving together and supported exploration with a clear sense of responsibility for our well being and enjoyment. The kayaks were in great shape and Mark provided easy transport to and from the operations meeting spot and the dock. We enjoyed the great "christmas present" of a recent heavy rain which filled in much of the trail and clear a lot of the mud that slowed previous day's journies. The falls are spectacular and give a strong sense of the power of nature to shape the form of the island. I highly reccomend this trip for families who enjoy a range of activity. The Wailua river is open to the pacific so some swells run up the river and provide extra experiences. Total time is a little over 5 hours which can be a great afternoon activity. Our trip was in December which is on the stormy side of weather for the island, but allowed a strong flow of water in the falls. We got to the start point in under 30 minutes from the Poipu Beach area on the south side of the island. Others came from Princeville and had a similar travel time.
Written January 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hau'oli Makahiki Hou, Mark!
Thank you for your review of your kayak/hike adventure. We only offer one activity and strive to provide the best possible experience for all participants. Please let us know how we can improve our service in order to earn a 5 star review the next time you choose us as your outfitter.
Mahalo nui loa,
Pete, mgr.
PS While it is sometimes possible to drive to Kayak Wailua in 30 minutes from Poipu and Princeville, it can often
take one hour due to heavy traffic and many traffic lights. We are grateful when kayakers arrive early which can
allow tour groups to spend more time at the waterfalls.
Written January 3, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Yuku
1 contribution
Feb 2020 • Solo
I was a bit worried to john the tour, but it turned out as the greatest experience in Kauai. Our guide was Andrew, he was so natural to support and guide people. I was so relieved we had him as our guide. The families went with me were also nice to me (though they might think I was peculiar coming alone). The kayaking was so smooth and fun, that was my first time to do it, and the hiking in mud was not bad as I thought, since others wrote already in their review how muddy it is. The length of time for kayaking and hiking, and also relaxing time at the waterfall was just rlght, since the guide stopped us and gave some moment to rest as really good timings. The waterfall was truly great, and I am sure that waterfall was a sacred place for the ancient people. Just be just careful for the slippery rocks in the pond of waterfall. Highly recommended. Kayak wailua is less expensive and the service and staff are great. I am thinking to come back next year and recommend to others in my country.
Written February 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
sakogan
Boston, MA6 contributions
Feb 2020
We had an amazing time kayaking, walking in the mud and swimming at the falls. Our guide Andrew was very patient with our kids, helping them all along the tour. That did not interfere with his ability to actually guide the tour, and answer numerous questions from everyone in our group. Overall, we spent an unforgettable afternoon on the tour, and would recommend this company to anyone visiting Kauai. One more point: unlike some previous reviews, we did not feel at all pressured or otherwise to tip the guide, which I greatly appreciated.
Written March 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ryan C
2 contributions
Jan 2020
We had a group of 14, including four children, two of which were under the age of five. It was the only tour we could find that would allow children under five.
The kayak was a nice trip, and not too strenuous, but still took our group about an hour to get to the hike. The hike itself was amazing, and really muddy, which made it a lot of fun for the whole group.
The waterfall was a highlight, and we would highly recommend anyone who goes on this excursion take time to go underneath the falls.
Our tour guide, Austin, was very knowledgable and encouraging. He was a wonderful guide for us, very kind and encouraging. He was also great with the kids.
This was an absolutely highlight of our week-long trip, and we would recommend this trip to anyone.
The kayak was a nice trip, and not too strenuous, but still took our group about an hour to get to the hike. The hike itself was amazing, and really muddy, which made it a lot of fun for the whole group.
The waterfall was a highlight, and we would highly recommend anyone who goes on this excursion take time to go underneath the falls.
Our tour guide, Austin, was very knowledgable and encouraging. He was a wonderful guide for us, very kind and encouraging. He was also great with the kids.
This was an absolutely highlight of our week-long trip, and we would recommend this trip to anyone.
Written January 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Stacia M
San Diego, CA5 contributions
May 2021
We booked an early bird kayak trip along the Wailua River with our guide Lisa. With several other couples in our group, Lisa engaged us in introductions early which enhanced the trip- we were all best of friends paddling down the river in no time. The river is just gorgeous, quite, peaceful, cool, beautiful. And after two miles it was perfect to get out and stretch our legs on the hike. The hike was a smile down an easy path through water and along 'the boardwalk'. It was shady and cool and the birds chirping were all an added effect. The waterfall is really gorgeous at the end and SOOO refreshing. If you feel like you're going to chicken out and NOT GO IN, reconsider!!!! You'll likely not be here again any time soon and it's not often you can get UNDER a gorgeous waterfall like this. You bring your own lunch on this tour which was perfect. Great exercise, friendly tour guide, and a GORGEOUS river! I will do it again next time just to see all the things I missed on the first go around.
Written May 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KnB RTW
48 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
We had a great half-day tour yesterday. We took the early bird tour to save a few pennies but are glad we did and recommend it. It's much quieter at 8am and we had the waterfall nearly to ourselves. On our way out many other tours started joining.
The kayaking part is great for beginners and has lovely views.
Our tour guide Lisa was really nice and chilled, happy to answer any questions and let the group set the pace. She also played some drums for us.
Take shoes that you can do a proper hike in and that you don't mind getting wet. Don't forget your swimwear! You can borrow dry bags.
We were also lucky enough to see a sea turtle close to the river mouth.
Thanks for a great day and for recommendations of places to eat. We ate at one of the restaurants you spoke about and don't regret it :)
The kayaking part is great for beginners and has lovely views.
Our tour guide Lisa was really nice and chilled, happy to answer any questions and let the group set the pace. She also played some drums for us.
Take shoes that you can do a proper hike in and that you don't mind getting wet. Don't forget your swimwear! You can borrow dry bags.
We were also lucky enough to see a sea turtle close to the river mouth.
Thanks for a great day and for recommendations of places to eat. We ate at one of the restaurants you spoke about and don't regret it :)
Written January 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kishan P.
3 contributions
Feb 2022
If you are visiting Kauai, you definitely have to kayak, especially on the Wailua River. I think Kauai is the best of the Hawaiian islands to kayak.
In terms of kayaking on Kauai, Kayak Waliua is probably the best choice in terms of experience and value. My group of 3 had the option to do either a triple kayak or 1 single/1 double kayak, and I know other kayak companies on Kauai do not offer a triple kayak option. We did the 8am tour (which I highly recommend 8am/early morning time because the weather would be cool and nice by afternoon, and you avoid the afternoon crowds cuz it does get crowded at the falls and on the kayak trip back).
Kyle was our guide, and he was phenomenal. He made sure everyone was having a good time and no one was left behind at all during the entire trip. He cared about safety, and ensured the entire tour ran on time (which it did!). The entire tour group only consisted of max approx. 12 people, which is a good tour size imo. It was great being able to have 1.5 hrs of kayak time, 1 hr hike time, 45 mins at the secret falls (which was so worth it! You can go under the waterfall once there!). Lunch is not provided and is BYOB, which is honestly fine because you can pack your own snacks on this trip (they give you enough water bags) and you just spend most of your time enjoying the waterfall. This aspect definitely helps keeps the cost of the tour very affordable/much cheaper compared to other tours that include lunch.
I would 100 percent recommend this tour/company as well as Kyle as a guide for those looking to kayak in Kauai.
In terms of kayaking on Kauai, Kayak Waliua is probably the best choice in terms of experience and value. My group of 3 had the option to do either a triple kayak or 1 single/1 double kayak, and I know other kayak companies on Kauai do not offer a triple kayak option. We did the 8am tour (which I highly recommend 8am/early morning time because the weather would be cool and nice by afternoon, and you avoid the afternoon crowds cuz it does get crowded at the falls and on the kayak trip back).
Kyle was our guide, and he was phenomenal. He made sure everyone was having a good time and no one was left behind at all during the entire trip. He cared about safety, and ensured the entire tour ran on time (which it did!). The entire tour group only consisted of max approx. 12 people, which is a good tour size imo. It was great being able to have 1.5 hrs of kayak time, 1 hr hike time, 45 mins at the secret falls (which was so worth it! You can go under the waterfall once there!). Lunch is not provided and is BYOB, which is honestly fine because you can pack your own snacks on this trip (they give you enough water bags) and you just spend most of your time enjoying the waterfall. This aspect definitely helps keeps the cost of the tour very affordable/much cheaper compared to other tours that include lunch.
I would 100 percent recommend this tour/company as well as Kyle as a guide for those looking to kayak in Kauai.
Written February 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jonathan R
San Diego, CA4 contributions
Aug 2021
What a great find! We were lucky to get reservations after someone cancelled a day prior. It seems they stay pretty well booked, so best to book as far in advance as possible. The kayaking was quite enjoyable on a very calm river, and the hike (about 1 to 1.5 miles) through the jungle to the waterfall was a pretty easy one. The waterfall was gorgeous, with a large pool that we had plenty of time to bath and splash around in. Our tour guide, Mike, was outstanding. Very easygoing, friendly, and safety-minded. He was extremely willing to help with anything, and was very patient with the most novice of kayakers in our group. He was good about giving us clear descriptions of the route on the river and on the path in the jungle (about half of which was boardwalk), so that we could proceed at our own pace and meet up at checkpoints. There was no stress, and no hurry for any part of this trip. Mike stayed towards the back of the group on the river to make sure everyone made it to the meeting point safely. This was an all-around great kayak/hike combo trip, and a really good value for the amount of time we spent out there. To top it off, Mike had some excellent recommendations for dinner and cocktail venues in the area.
Written August 27, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I suggest you call them. I did before I bought my voucher. Keep in mind the time change.
Written March 6, 2022
Hello, I am heading to Kauai in December, how soon do I need to book? Do you offer any senior discounts or AAA. Thanks in advance. I did this tour with you years ago and it was the highlight of our trip.
Written August 25, 2019
Greetings! We are looking forward to your return to the Garden Island of Kauai. The 1st two weeks of December are always very slow; therefore, booking a day or two in advance would be adequate. After mid December tours fill up well in advance so booking in November for the December holidays would be advisable. Unfortunately, our markup is razor thin so discounts are not possible except for the "Early Bird Special" which is offered at 8am during the off seasons.
Written August 25, 2019
Alan J
Los Angeles, California
Is anyone else aware of the two (at least) deaths that have occured on Kayak Wailua's watch? One in 2016, the other in 2010.
Written August 13, 2019
I’m not aware. If it is true, unfortunately death can happen even if one is sitting at a bus stop. Kayak Wailua has a very good orientation and offers safety precautions, procedures and life vests. Everyone who goes on this wonderful adventure is giving the education they need to have a fun and enjoyable time. Sadly, some people ignore directions and suffer consequences because of it. I wouldn't avoid this company... just like I wouldn't avoid flying on an airplane to get to Hawaii. 👍🏼
Written August 13, 2019
Some folks like the discounted price.
Written May 10, 2019
Is this kayak/hike safe for someone 26 weeks pregnant?
Written January 27, 2019
I strongly suggest posing this question to the company! For what it’s worth, the kayaking is mild. However, the hike can be somewhat “treacherous” if the path is very muddy (which it was when I visited). I slipped several times. Exhilarating for me, not so much for you! There is also a bit of climbing (using tree roots) and you do cross the river on foot using a line to hang on so there is definitely potential to lose your footing at several points. This tour/hike is absolutely safe for the average visitor and our guide assured that we all remained safe but if I were in your position (congratulations, by the way) I would err on the side of caution and choose a different way to experience Kauai. Hope this helps!
Written January 27, 2019
Do you need a guide for this trip or can you go by your self?
Written July 9, 2018
We used a guide because we have a 3 year old and my wife is pregnant so we wanted someone with us just in case but you can definitely do it alone. Just rent a kayak anywhere at the river entrance or if you don’t want to kayak that much, rent it at the “Hawaiian Village”
Written July 19, 2018
so the trip was only 90 mins in? and then 90 way back?
mahalo
Written May 29, 2017
The kayak paddling is about 45 minutes upstream and 45 minutes downstream with a round trip hike to and from the waterfalls in between the paddling segments. Total duration is about 4.5-5 hours depending upon the fitness of the group and the length of time spent at the waterfalls. The condition of the trail from dry to very muddy also impacts the length of time to complete the adventure.
Written May 29, 2017
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