KAPAA HIKING FIELD GUIDE
Paddle Up the Wailua, Wade Through Rainforest Mud, and Reach a 120‑Foot Curtain of Water
A 4.5‑hour Alii Kayaks eco‑adventure: a 2‑mile paddle on the Wailua River followed by a rainforest hike to 120‑foot Uluwehi (Secret) Falls — this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Paddle Up the Wailua, Wade Through Rainforest Mud, and Reach a 120‑Foot Curtain of Water.
Adventure brief
Paddle Up the Wailua, Wade Through Rainforest Mud, and Reach a 120‑Foot Curtain of Water
The Secret Falls Kayak & Hike Tour threads a quiet route through Kapaa’s Wailua Valley: a leisure paddle upstream, then a muddy, stream‑crossing hike through rainforest that culminates at the 120‑foot Uluwehi (aka Secret) Falls. Guides point out native flora and fauna along the way, turning a short day into an intimate introduction to this corner of Kauai.
Embark on the Secret Falls Kayak & Hike Tour in beautiful Kapaa, Hawaii, for an unforgettable adventure that combines tranquil water exploration with scenic hiking. Starting with a guided kayak trip along the lush coast, you'll discover hidden coves and secluded waterfalls that are inaccessible by land. The journey offers a perfect blend of calm paddling and exciting encounters with local marine life, making it ideal for all skill levels. After kayaking, the tour transitions to an invigorating hike through tropical forests, where you'll see native flora and perhaps spot some colorful bird species. What makes this experience truly special is the chance to explore lesser-known spots that aren't crowded with tourists, giving you a genuine taste of Hawaii's natural beauty. The knowledgeable guides from Alii Kayaks provide insights into the area's history, ecosystem, and conservation efforts, enriching your adventure even further. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a memorable day on the island, this tour offers a perfect escape into Hawaii's pristine landscape. Dress comfortably, bring your sense of curiosity, and prepare for a day filled with discovery, relaxation, and stunning scenery.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic
Key stops and moments along the kayak-and-hike route.
Check‑in at Alii Kayaks
Participants check in 30 minutes prior to departure at the operator’s Kapaa location before equipment distribution.
Wailua River paddle
A leisure, approximately 2‑mile upstream paddle through the scenic valley aboard tandem kayaks.
Shore the kayaks on the North Fork
Kayaks are secured on the North Fork shoreline to begin the hike into the rainforest.
Rainforest hike with stream crossings
A moderate to strenuous roughly 1.5‑mile hike that includes wading multiple streams and traversing muddy trail sections.
Uluwehi (Secret) Falls
The trail ends at the 120‑foot Uluwehi Falls — the primary destination and photo stop for the tour.
Trail conditions can be extremely muddy and require secure footwear; the tour has physical restrictions—no pregnancies, no recent surgeries, and no participants with bad backs or knees; basic swimming skills are required and children under 5 are not permitted.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A scenic 2‑mile paddle up the Wailua River
The tour begins with a relaxed upstream paddle through the valley on the Wailua River — a calm, scenic stretch that sets the tone for the hike to come.
Moderate to strenuous rainforest trek
After beaching the kayaks, expect about 1.5 miles of trail that can be moderately strenuous: muddy sections, multiple stream crossings, and dense rainforest undergrowth as guides interpret the local ecology.
120‑foot Uluwehi — the so‑called Secret Falls
The hike finishes at Uluwehi Falls, a dramatic 120‑foot waterfall that provides the visual reward for the day’s paddle and trek.
What the day feels like
How the day unfolds
The rhythm is simple: arrive and check in, slide into tandem kayaks for roughly a 2‑mile upstream paddle along the Wailua, secure craft on the North Fork shoreline, then follow a 1.5‑mile trail that alternates muddy stretches and stream wades through tropical forest before arriving at the 120‑foot cascade. Expert guides narrate the natural history throughout, making the outing both active and educational.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should sit this one out.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Wear a swimsuit under light clothing; bring secure‑strapping footwear (no flip‑flops or Crocs), food and beverages, towel, camera, sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat), and mosquito repellent.
Choose clothing that dries quickly and footwear that straps securely to your feet; trail and stream crossings can be muddy and slippery.
Operator provides tandem kayaks, paddles, and backrests as part of the tour.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What days does the tour operate and when should I arrive?
Tours run Monday through Friday; check in 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure.
How long is the Secret Falls tour?
The advertised duration is 4.5 hours (the tour is described elsewhere as approximately 5 hours).
Where do I meet and how can I contact the operator?
Check in at Alii Kayaks in Kapaa at 180 Wailua Rd.; for more information call or text Alii Kayaks at 808‑639‑2544.
What equipment is included with the tour?
The tour includes tandem kayaks, paddles, and a backrest.
Are reservations required?
Yes — reservations are required for this tour.
Are there health or age restrictions?
Yes — no pregnancies, no individuals with bad backs, bad knees, or recent surgeries; no children under 5; participants must have basic swimming skills.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-10T12:43:21.394Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.