There are dozens of waterfalls on the island of Kaua'i. Many can be seen from the comfort of your car while others offer adventure for all skill levels. Get ready to explore 4 waterfalls, embark on an epic (but short) hike, and eat at some of the best local spots on the island's East side.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
water, bug spray, sunscreen, towel, backpack
WHAT TO WEAR
hiking shoes, darker hiking clothing (it is typically extremely muddy!), and a bathing suit under clothes
ITINERARY
STEP 1: BREAKFAST & COFFEE
Location: Sunrise Coffee & Donuts @sunrisecoffeekauai
Distance: 25 mins from Poʻipū
Why you need to visit: what started as a small food truck on the side of the road has now expanded to include a donut shop. People flock to this fun and charming local spot to get coffee, acai bowls, donuts, and some very delicious avocado toast. There are some tables to enjoy your food, but there are no restrooms. One note of caution: you will need to make a left when leaving. It can be pretty tricky as people fly down this 25mph strip of road—you can always make a right and turn around at the first traffic light about 30 seconds down the road.
How to get there: Google Maps
STEP 2: WATERFALL #1
Location: Wailua Falls
Distance: 10 mins from Sunrise Coffee & Donuts
Why you need to visit: known as the Twin Falls, Wailua Falls is an impressive 85ft high, plunging into a 30ft deep pool. It can best be seen from the lookout point, but it is possible to hike down to see it in all its glory. Hiking down is illegal and there are police there often giving out fines to unexpecting hikers. See the below tips if you are thinking about risking it—this is a difficult and steep path down (20 mins roundtrip).
Do not attempt to jump off from the top of the falls—several people have died doing this.
How to get there: Google Maps
Hiking Down to the Falls:
From the parking lot, walk past the rock wall overlook/waterfall until the wired fence starts. Here is where you want to jump over the fence to start the "trail". Hold onto the wired fence for support for a few minutes until you see the path to your left where some ropes are to help you down. There are a bunch of false trails, like the one labeled below—they are much more difficult. Swimming in the falls is amazing. It is very cold and has a slight current going away from the falls. Avoid going too close to the falls as rocks and debris could fall and hit you. You can go behind the falls by walking alongside the water's edge on the left side.
STEP 3: WATERFALL #2
Location: 'Opaeka'a Falls
Distance: 20 mins from Wailua Falls
Why you need to visit: One of Kauai's most accessible major waterfalls, this 151ft high and 40ft wide waterfall disappears into a hidden pool. There is a large parking lot with restrooms. You can park at the lookout and walk a short distance to the lookout platform. Use the pedestrian crosswalk to the other side of the road to see a stunning view of the Wailua River valley.
How to get there: Google Maps
STEP 4: PICK UP SOME SNACKS
Location: Kauai Juice Co. | @kauaijuiceco
Distance: 10 mins from 'Opaeka'a Falls
Why you need to visit: hands down one of my favorite places on Kaua'i. With locations in Kapa'a, Koloa, and Kīlauea this juice shop offers fresh juice, grab-n-go salads, and chia seed puddings, along with healthy local products. Pick up a juice and something to snack on for when you reach the waterfall. My go-to green juice is the Glow, if I want super healthy I go for the Selfie, if I want something sweeter then the Avatar is always a fav. My kids love the Starburst.
How to get there: Google Maps
STEP 5: WATERFALL ADVENTURE
Location: Ho’opi’i Falls
Difficulty: kids and/or beginner
Distance to trailhead: 10 mins from Kauai Juice Co.
Hike Distance: 2 miles roundtrip
What to expect: Ho’oip’i Falls trail is a short hike that takes you through dense jungle to two waterfalls. The first waterfall (and the most popular) is a great place to cliff jump. Ask a local before jumping as there are specific spots that are deep enough and unobstructed. The second falls was the backdrop of the Jurassic Park mining scene. Here you can explore the falls and go on a rope swing! The trail is very muddy, heavily trafficked, and slippery, and with several false trails, it can be a bit challenging. The first time I hiked it I went right past the first falls! Best to ask fellow hikers as you go.
How to get there: Google Maps
The first falls:
The second falls:
if you want to see the top of the waterfall go left at the split (seen in the second picture below)
STEP 6: LUNCH
Location: Java Kai | @javakaikauai
Distance: 10 mins from Ho’opi’i Falls
Why you need to visit: Oh Java Kai, how I love you! One of my favorite spots to get some food and a chai latte in Kapa'a. This is a local place featuring coffee, smoothies, salads, acai bowls, breakfast sandwiches, and pastries. Did I mention they serve breakfast all day?! Doesn't matter the time of day I always go with the Feta Mo' Betta Bagel sandwich and a Kai Chai latte. Be sure to pop next door into their retail store Shipwreck for some fashionable finds. TIP: you can order online before noon and pick it up at the back of the building counter next to Kauai Juice Co.
How to get there: Google Maps
STEP 7: CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE
OPTION 1: SHOPPING & SHAVE ICE
Shopping: From clothing to gift shops to local gourmet nuts there is plenty to explore on the main road through Kapa'a. Below are some of my favorites.
KIKO, high-end gift shop with clothing
Atelier Kauai, one-of-a-kind eccentric clothing and jewelry
Sunrise Emporium, packed with a lot—you can find some real gems
Work it Out, a fun collection of local and fan-favorite fashion brands
Shipwreck, high-end clothing store—local favorite!
Orchid Alley Kauai, fun to pop in and see all the different flowers
Kaua'i Gourmet Nuts, nuts roasted to perfection with unique tropical flavors
Deja Vu Surf, typical surf shop
Salt & Sea, clothing and swim store, local favorite!
Shave Ice: Hee Fat General Store, great local spot with syrups made from real fruit
OPTION 2: BIKING & DINNER ON THE WATER
Bike Rental: Hele On Kauai Bike Rentals
They have e-bikes and kid's trailers for rent as well as traditional bikes.
Bike Path: Ke Ala Hele Makālae
Why you need to go: This is a 4-mile (Phase 3 from the below map) in/out path right along the coast that takes you to two beaches Kealia and Paliku (Donkey Beach). It is pretty flat, very well taken care of, paved, and separate from the road making it great for kids. Restroom facilities, picnic tables, tree swings, surf spots, safe swimming areas, and scenic lookouts are scattered throughout the 4 miles. There are also lots of signs along the way that highlight local archeology and animals, cultural and historic sites. The path ends after Donkey Beach at ʻĀhihi Point.
The Kapaa Bike Path from above. Photo courtesy of Kauai Path, Inc.
Dinner: Right on the water and at the end of Kapa'a's main drag is a handful of food trucks. From shrimp tacos, and BBQ to Creole soul food, you will surely find something for everyone. See my top recommendations below:
Chicken in a Barrel: features BBQ-style meats cooked in a steel drum barrel.
Da Melting Pot: Serving seafood dishes – ahi katsu, kauaʻi shrimp plate, soft shell crab sando, and burgers.
Tony's Catch: fish + shrimp tacos, ahi tostadas, burritos, quesadilla/mac n cheese/chicken tenders for the kids
K&K Island Eats: serving local style BBQ – kauaʻi shrimp, ahi katsu, beef short ribs, fried chicken, burgers, ahi melt
Kauai Thai Food: serving fresh authentic Thai food
Al Pastor Tacos: tradional Mexican tacos. Garlic shrimp and chicken tacos are a favorite.
Koropo’s Kitchen: specializing in organic, vegan, and African-inspired food. They also serve chicken and fish. Heart & Soul Again: Featuring traditional Creole Soul food.
Traveling without kids and want a more adult option—> try Fish Bar Deli. Super cute little bar with really good cocktails and bites to eat.
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