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Wailua Falls, Lihue

4.4

#3 of 31 in Nature in Kauai

Waterfall · Nature / Park

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Although Wailua Falls once served as a jumping point for proving manhood, today the natural wonder is a popular destination for hikers and photographers. Normally, the falls split into two streams, and occasionally break into three; they can become one wild stream during particularly rainy periods. A short walk from the parking area will deliver you to a view from above. A longer hike down through the forest gives you a view from the bottom up. This hike is steep, muddy, and slippery, so it is usually discouraged. If you decide to give it a try, take plenty of water and bug spray. Plan trip to Lihue with our itinerary maker to find out where to go and what to do.

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Wailua Falls reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating

3,553 reviews

Google

4.6

By 658evelynf

Beautiful waterfall! I would highly recommend making a stop here. Parking is very tight as it’s pretty much one tiny one way lane and you have to try to park on the sides. DO NOT HIKE TO THE BOTTOM...

Beautiful waterfall! I would highly recommend making a stop here. Parking is very tight as it’s pretty much one tiny one way lane and you have to try to park on the sides. DO NOT HIKE TO THE BOTTOM... more »
By dzoucha

Worth the 15 minute drive up the mountain. The parking lot is small, but people come and go quickly. For those 50 and older, you can almost hear Ricardo Montalban saying "Welcome to Fantasy Island."

Worth the 15 minute drive up the mountain. The parking lot is small, but people come and go quickly. For those 50 and older, you can almost hear Ricardo Montalban saying "Welcome to Fantasy Island." more »

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Google

By Adrian Chang

Really nice waterfall view from the top, there are many signs indicating not to hike down as it is very dangerous conditions and steep. Speaking to a local merchant there he had mentioned that just last week someone had passed away slipping while trying to climb down. I had looked up some news articles and it indeed did happen. Please be careful! An amazing picture isn't worth your life especially if you don't make it to share it...

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By Fran Kuhia

This was a more difficult hike for some. Still worth it. Definitely swim in the water then hike to the left to walk behind the falls.

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