Wailua River

Kauai Attraction Guide

Wailua River

Wailua River is Kauai's scenic east-side waterway, known for kayaking, boat tours, Fern Grotto and lush valley views.

Beautiful View
Beautiful View

Wailua River, Kauai

The Wailua River on Kauai is the only navigable river in the entire state of Hawaii. It is fed by two main waterfalls. Rains from Mount Waialeale, one of the wettest locations on Earth, with an abundant 480 inches (12,192 mm) of rain per year, also help to feed the river.

For those wanting a bit of a challenge on their Kauai vacation, a trip down the river to the legendary Fern Grotto is a wonderful way to see the beauty of the natural habitat of the "Garden Isle" up close. You can travel on the river by kayak or canoe.

Boat tours are also available and will take you to Fern Grotto as well. The boats are open-air and guarantee a 360-degree view of all the beautiful scenery. The luxuriant river valley once served as the capital of ancient Kauai. It was held to be a sacred place for the island’s "ali'i," or royalty.

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Leito

Sun Feb 19, 2012

You sepeptd on a sea urchin? Yikes, sounds like that would hurt :( But I do hope you're okay now Cat! And the photos are lovely as usual, especially the first cheesy one &lt3 Heehee it's so adorable! :)

Location, Parking and Directions

Wailua River is located on Kauai's east side in the Wailua area, with access points near Wailua River State Park and Wailua Marina off Kuhio Highway. Boat tours, kayaking trips and scenic lookouts use different starting points, so confirm your meeting location before visiting.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Wailua River located?

Wailua River is located on Kauai's east side in the Wailua area, near Wailua River State Park and Wailua Marina.

Can you kayak on Wailua River?

Yes. Wailua River is a popular place for kayaking and canoeing, with calm scenic sections through the valley.

Do boat tours go on Wailua River?

Yes. Boat tours travel along Wailua River and often continue to Fern Grotto, one of the river's best-known attractions.

Why is Wailua River important?

Wailua River and the surrounding valley have deep Hawaiian history and were important to Kauai's alii, or royalty.

What can you see near Wailua River?

Visitors can see lush river scenery, Fern Grotto, Wailua Marina, scenic lookouts, ancient sites and nearby east Kauai beaches.