Kauai’s Wailua River – Water Activities & Land Adventures for Everyone

Home to Kauai’s Ali’i (Royalty) For Good Reason

Wailua River State Park is a great spot to launch a paddleboard or kayak and experience Wailua River.

The first migratory Tahitians, including the great chief Puna-nui, arrived in the 12th century and settled near the present coastal towns of Wailua and Kapaa. During the period of island kings, only royalty (alii) could visit the area. (source: Encyclopaedia Britannica)

Today, you don’t have to be Ali’i to play and explore within the Wailua River State Park. Waterski, paddle board, canoe, kayak, swim, fish or simply float on this slow-moving fresh water river fed directly from Mt. Waialeale. Wailua River State Park offers a public ramp for launching your watercraft, whether it’s paddle powered or motorized. Don’t own a paddleboard, canoe, or boat? Kayak Kauai nearby makes it easy to get geared up and ready for a day of adventure, or you can take a guided tour and kick back and relax.

Things to do on Wailua River:

Kamokila Hawaiian Village – Here you can experience what a traditional Hawaiian village would have looked like. Open from 9 am – 6 pm, admission is $3 for kids (3-12) and $5 for adults. The village offers canoe rentals, guided tours and a market where you can stop for snacks and drinks.

Smith’s Paradise Kaua’i – Book a river cruise, see a luau, have a wedding, visit botanical gardens or fight one no teeth auntie in the parking lot. Smith’s Family Property is a hub for activities on and along the historic Wailua River. If you are Kama’aina, you can board the boat tour for free by showing your local ID. Reservations recommended.

Kauai Waterski Company – Offers “motorized” river experiences like water skiing, wakeboarding, kneeboarding, and even hydrofoiling!

Visit Secret/Sacred Falls, explore the caves at Fern Grotto or swim at the swimming hole. The Wailua River has much to offer.

Want to live close to the Wailua River? Here are a couple great options nearby:

• 155 Royal Drive
• 6885 Leimomi Street

If you would like more information on living near the Wailua River, contact us.