Is prior kayaking experience required?

No—this is a self-guided trip designed for beginners; staff will fit life vests and demonstrate basic paddling techniques.

How old do participants need to be?

Children must be at least 6 years old and remain with a parent or guardian throughout the trip.

When can I access Secret Falls?

Secret Falls access is available Monday–Friday only; weekend rentals are routed to alternative paddling areas.

What happens in bad weather?

Rentals are weather- and river-condition dependent; Pineapple Kayaks Kaua‘i may modify or cancel bookings for safety.

Are there additional gear options?

Yes—check-in offers add-ons like extra dry bags, waterproof pouches, ice coolers, and hotel delivery.

Self-Guided Secret Falls Kayak & Hike on Wailua River

Q: Do I need a vehicle to transport the kayak?

Yes, guests must have a vehicle capable of transporting kayaks unless hotel delivery service is arranged.

On Kaua‘i’s east side, the self-guided Secret Falls adventure launches from the Wailua River near Lihue. Pineapple Kayaks Kaua‘i’s pickup at The Pineapple Store, 3-4684 Kuhio Highway, Lihue, HI 96766, outfits small groups for a day that mixes river paddling, living cultural sites, and a rainforest waterfall hike. This is a beginner-friendly, six-hour outing that lets you set the pace: paddle through broad river bends, float past Fern Grotto and Kamokila Village, beach the kayak at the trailhead, then follow a short, sometimes muddy path to a 30–50-foot cascade commonly called Secret Falls.

The scene is uncomplicated and powerful. The Wailua River cuts through steep, jungle-lined banks of tropical hardwoods, wild ginger and towering guava; the waterfall drops over basalt and older lava flows that shaped Kaua‘i’s interior. Along the paddle you’ll pass Fern Grotto, a fern-draped limestone amphitheater that has long been a favorite photo stop, and Kamokila Village, a living-history reconstruction highlighting native cultural practices. The waterfall itself sits in a narrow bowl where spray creates a cool microclimate—bring a waterproof layer for mist.

Why book this experience? For families and small groups it’s one of the most accessible half-day kayak-and-hike loops on the island: no prior kayaking skills are required, Pineapple Kayaks Kaua‘i provides equipment and a self-guided map, and the package includes a dry bag and a free lunch. The flexibility is the selling point—you control the pace, linger at views, and choose how long to swim beneath the falls. The operation’s pickup and drop at The Pineapple Store simplifies logistics, and staff help mount kayaks on soft-top racks so you can drive to the launch.

Practical notes: Secret Falls access is offered Monday–Friday only; rentals are weather- and river-condition dependent. Guests must have a vehicle capable of transporting kayaks unless hotel delivery is booked. Families should note a minimum age of 6 and that children must be supervised. The hike to the falls can be slippery and uneven; wear sensible shoes.

Group pricing lowers the cost—the current group rate is $40 per person for groups of four or more—making it an economical choice for families. Optional add-ons at check‑in include dry bags, waterproof phone pouches, ice coolers, and hotel delivery. Respect local rules: stay on designated trails, avoid disturbing native plants, and pack out all trash. With straightforward logistics and a memorable waterfall finish, this self-guided loop delivers big payoff for a half-day investment. Always.

Self-Guided Secret Falls Kayak & Hike on Wailua River — Group Rate $40

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