Have fun out there, but please stay safe! The Kuamoo Trail begins just beyond Opaekaa Falls with an elevation gain of 680 feet. (That bit where you backtracked 20 yards upstream? Thanks. I think it’s probably best to be respectful, and skip this one. Ōpaekaa Falls is a waterfall located on the Ōpaekaa Stream in Wailua River State Park on the eastern side of the Hawaiian island of Kauai. There is ample parking and restrooms. Paul writes to ask: We were also hoping to hike to the bottom of Opaeka’a Falls via the short, standard trail/route that starts just upstream of the falls. Wailua Falls is as picturesque as Hawaiian waterfalls get. a trail. I hope my travels give you the motivation to set off on an epic adventure of your own.

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*Please use the link in your confirmation email to download the app*, Is this a must-do if you are travelling with a, Is this a place or activity you would suggest for, Are the prices for this place or activity, Is this attraction a good place to visit on a. Kaua’i is gorgeous but it is a wild place that will bite the unwary without any warning at all. Opaekaa Falls: A very nice place for a visit - See 498 traveller reviews, 397 candid photos, and great deals for Kauai, HI, at Tripadvisor. The Hilton has a beautiful pool, has private beach access and hot tubs so you are still getting awesome value and the resort experience. There is ample parking and restrooms. Translated, “`Opaeka`a” means “rolling shrimp” alluding to its one-time abundance and images of `opae tumbling over in the cascade of the waterfall. I think the warnings for the Opaeka’a hike are reasonable and appreciated. Get a FREE $40 Airbnb Coupon by using my code when you book! The name dates back to day… There are several lightly trafficked trails from this point onwards. I found it a timid adventure. There are several other roadside waterfalls, like Wailua Falls, but the combination of size, crowds, ease of getting to, and overall scenery makes Opaekaa Falls Lookout the best on Kauai. Opaeka’a Falls. We opted to stay safe and just use a longer focal length. This time he just stood there and watched until I drove away. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. It is part of the Wyndham Autograph collection and has the LARGEST pool on all of Kauai with beautiful, natural-style landscaping throughout the pool areas. You are taking a crazy risk by ducking behind the county fence — those are pig trails, and they go right over the drop with no warning — and trespassing across private property. It is a 151–foot waterfall that flows over basalt from volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. This is a great choice if you do want a high-end hotel for your stay in Kauai but you still want to keep things reasonable and not blow thousands and thousands on your getaway. Places WeGo Exploring 181 views. It is a 151–foot waterfall that flows over basalt from volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. I had visited the falls 3 times before he confronted me, not knowing I was trespassing, as I just went over the fence on the side of the road. This is my Journey Era. To reach the falls drive south on Highway 560 until you reach the town of Wailua, and then turn inland on Kuamoo Road and drive for approximately two miles. Plus, five of the resort’s 11 restaurants have children’s menus at The Grand Hyatt Resort. Koloa Landing Resort – Luxury (high-end): I was lucky enough to spend three nights reviewing Koloa Landing Resort and honestly the place is just phenomenal. From the parking lot to view the falls, it is maybe 20 steps. All five of these spots are in great locations but each one is a little different. Uluwehi Falls. ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls is a waterfall located on the ʻŌpaekaʻa Stream in Wailua River State Park on the eastern side of the Hawaiian island of Kauai. This hike is quite difficult, has steep and dangerous drop-offs and was very, very slippery. From the parking lot to view the falls, it is maybe 20 steps. Very easy location to stop and take a few pictures. On the other side of the road you can view the Wailua River. Do not try to climb down in, In first visiting the Princeville area and then going to Poipu we decided on making a stop here as it didn’t seem like it was out of the way. Another easy-access waterfall you can enjoy from the car, is the Opaekaa Falls. However, I recently found out that the state closed this trail because two women fell to their deaths from the top late last year. Driving here was about a ten minute ride off of the main road and it was worth it as you have access to view the falls without walking on. Following the road, we kept walking until a green fence began. It’s been a wild ride. We hung out here for a while, peering over the edge of this powerful waterfall. Palm trees surround the pool and restaurant areas on what is one of the most luxurious properties on the island. We were now on the opposite side of the river than when we had begun the Opaekaa Falls Hike. Thank you so much for sharing! A long time ago, freshwater shrimp could be seen rolling and jumping around in the waters at the base of the falls. If you’re caught it’s a $500 fine for each of you, with a mandatory in-person court appearance, because the county was successfully sued for fifteen million dollars after two tourists fell to their deaths in 2006. I thought it was a great spot for a dip . The best way to see these 150-foot cascading falls is from the convenient lookout, complete with picnic tables and restrooms. Are folks still […] Other’s may find it very dangerous. Opaekaa Falls is a beautiful, easy, and convenient stop to make on your island vacation. After enjoying the top of the falls we backtracked about 20 yards up the stream and then crossed the river. Almost from the back of the stream? Hotels near Pali Ke Kua Beach (Hideaway s Beach), Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing in Kauai, Princeville Botanical Gardens: Tickets & Tours‎, Waimea Canyon State Park: Tickets & Tours‎, From snorkel to surfing—no expertise necessary, Flexible itineraries and personal experiences, Take to the skies for one-of-a-kind views, All ashore for easy trips straight from port, Sample the local scene with in-the-know guides, Bundled tickets and extras for smart savings. Waipo’o Falls Trail. Private property.). The entire hike to the bottom of the falls took about 30-minutes if you didn’t stop. The trail from the road down to the top of the falls is very steep and it’s hard to find any good footing. Opeakaa Falls is located in Wailua, the land of the ali’i (kings) . Opaekaa Falls. It looks as if you can hike out down the stream, maybe all the way to the beach. By this stage, you would be level with the falls and you are actually going to hike down the hill to the top of the falls. Everyone is entitled to their opinion. If you’ve paid a “local guide” to help you down the falls, be aware that they will bug out immediately if cops show up or you get hurt. The trail has been closed indefinitely. It is 140 feet of whitewater eye candy. This waterfall was real easy to see from a distance because it had an official overlook and car park that was well signposted. This hidden eastside Kauai gem which is tucked away behind the Kalepa Mountain Forest Reserve in Hanamāulu is a great place to stop and soak in all the glory that the lush Garden Isle has to offer. Opaekaa Falls is a beautiful, easy, and convenient stop to make on your island vacation. The water feeding these falls is dirty. I’m going to recommend five places to stay on Kauai. Opaekaa Falls is one of the most popular spots for tourists to visit when they come to Kauai. That is something to determine for yourself. The property owners will call the police instantly if they see you walking in or your rental car parked on the side of the road, because they are potentially liable if you hurt yourselves after crossing their land. Don’t take this part of the trail lightly. There are several lightly trafficked trails from this point onwards. Opaekaa Falls (or Opaeka’a Falls) is a segmented waterfall said to tumble at a height of 151ft. I’ve seen lots of ducks in the stream at the top of the falls. I’m Jackson, an Australian adventure traveler who has been on the road for eight years now. Just stay up at the turnout to see them. $200 USD is a bargain. There’s no cellphone reception of any kind at the bottom of the falls; you will wait a long time for help if you get in trouble. Save money on Kauai by staying at an Airbnb! So he new of ways to the bottom of the falls.Going over the falls is not that bad, you have to wtch your stepping because rocks are slimy. (January 2007 Update) It's, unfortunately, this warning (from us and others) did not go headed by two visitors. Kauai Shores Hotel – Luxury (but value also): Okay so Kauai is expensive that is just a fact. This trail, which travels laterally along the Nounou Forest Reserve and intersects with the Nounou West trail, is considered easy with a gentle elevation gain until just before the top. Opaekaa Falls is a waterfall located on the ʻŌpaekaʻa Stream in Wailua River State Park on the eastern side of the Hawaiian island of Kauai. more, Browse our largest collection of experiences, Shaka Guide is an audio tour app that gives you the benefits of a guided tour with the freedom to explore on your own terms. Hanakapiai Falls. One of the most popular waterfalls in Kauai, Opaeka’a Falls is a 151-foot-tall and 40-foot-wide waterfall located near Wilaua River State Park. After enjoying the top of the falls we backtracked about 20 yards up the stream and then crossed the river. Used in the movie “Blue Hawaii”, you can see these lovely falls from a distance at the viewing area just off Kuamo’o Road. 11. When we last visited Opaekaa Falls on Kauai, I wondered if it was possible to hike down there and swim in the freshwater pool at the bottom. The trail can be a little steep in some sections but is suitable for all ages who are in moderate level physical shape. Once again, it is very slippery and not a section to take lightly. The Grand Hyatt Resort – Best Family Resort: With the best kids’ club on the island, wildlife talks in the lobby, and a five-acre pool complex that includes an enormous lazy-river pool, a waterslide, and a saltwater lagoon big enough for kayaking, the Grand Hyatt is unbeatable for keeping kids busy and parents happy. Unlike easily accessible Wailua Falls, Uluwehi Falls, or Secret Falls, is best visited as part of a tour, and unless you’re game for a 50-minute kayak journey followed by a 30-minute hike through some dense rainforest, you may want to leave this one to those a bit younger and fitter. The waterfall drops from a stunning 1,000 feet into a peaceful pool far below. We are talking $700+ a night at many hotels. Look for a small path at the south end of the parking lot. This scenic beauty is where the Wailua River cascades into double falls that, if youre lucky enough, will also bestow upon you a fairytale-like rainbow. Enjoy the view from the road, and move on. In particular, I was hiking all of the trails and made several guides for the best hikes and easiest hikes so you can enjoy the trails of the island. If I was on a honeymoon or with a family, this is where I would stay and spend the saved money and helicopter tours, rental cars and experiences! Follow the stream to the right and you will find the top of Opaekaa Falls. As a local on Kauai and a property owner where you are telling visitors to walk over my property, or going behind a county green fence, which was put up due to people dying on this cliff, this isn’t a trail this was from wild animals. We were now on the opposite side of the river than when we had begun the Opaekaa Falls Hike. The hike in itself is arguably one of the most beautiful hikes in America, covering 22 miles round trip. There is ample parking and restrooms. Opaeka’a Falls, by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett 9. Google “opaekaa falls deaths” to learn more. Leave this beautiful place better than when you found it. A little variety and intensity in the rain, I’ve seen these falls lots of times but seeing them in the rain can give you a different view. After graduating with a journalism degree, I set off to explore the world while creating adventure travel guides featuring hikes, waterfalls, beaches & adrenaline activities. The, 4 AWESOME HIKES ON THE NORTH SHORE OF KAUAI, 1 Week in Kauai - Hiking, Beaches, and Waterfalls - Ruhls of the Road, THE WEEKLY #196: IT’S BEEN 4 YEARS AS A TRAVEL BLOGGER, MY TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR: WHAT’S IN MY BACKPACK. OPAEKAA FALLS. At several points during this section of the hike, there is a rope to help you find your way safely down the hill. Opaeka’a Falls. Have loved all your blogs especially the Kauai ones I’ve been on the island for two months now. Make sure you take LOTS of water for this strenuous 6 hour hike. Le sentier longe une cascade et sa difficulté est évaluée comme facile. The Sleeping Giant Hike is an easier alternative, which is also nearby. Opaekaa Falls is located just outside of Wailua on the east side of Kauai. Thanks!! You can't get as close to these ones without taking what is apparently a dangerous hike through steep and slippery terrain. Opaekaa Falls and Moalepe Trail in Kauai Island, Hawaii zxmccary. There is ample parking and restrooms. Don’t get me wrong, it isn’t cheap it is still over $200 USD but this is Kauai. August 27, 2019 By travellikebrad. The is a great family friendly adventure for children that don’t mind paddling up the river and getting a little dirty on the trail. The best part about this hotel is that it is right on the beach. I agree with the Sambal… The risk of bacterial infection including leptospirosis is most likely very high here. I would recommend it for experienced hikers only. I hiked all over Kauai for over a month and documented all of my adventures. The ‘Opaeka’a Falls hike is such a special place because it is secluded from everyday tourists and is your own little private oasis. Also worth seeing: the Kamokila Hawaiian Village, just after the Wailua River lookout, on the left side as you’re going uphill. Another thing to consider is that the owner of the adjacent property told me there is no way to access the falls without crossing on to his property. To get to Opaekaa Falls, from Kuhio Hwy, turn at the intersection where the former Coco Palms Resort resides across from Wailua Beach and head up the hill. As someone who has hiked different trails all over the world, I wouldn’t put this in the difficult category. Opeakaa Falls is part of the north branch of the Wailua River, the 151 foot falls span 40 feet wide and are easily observed at the Opeakaa Falls overlook off of Kuamoo Road. Where we crossed was not that close to the edge of the falls.We got to the bottom but we did not get in the water, just the sight fom below and the hike is … At the bottom of the falls, we enjoyed a peaceful rest as we took in the natural beauty of Opaeka Falls. Located in Wailua on Kauai’s east side, Opaeka’a Falls is known as one of the most accessible waterfalls on the island. It was also not far from the town of Kapaa (or Kapa’a). The short, makeshift hike to the falls is well worth the effort – this is one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the island of Kauai. I suggest a visit here. We stepped over the railing of the road and walked behind this green fence. What an amazing view from just a drive by view point. There are many nicer spots to take a dip. As a local, I would never do this hike or recommend it to anyone! There are houses, cow and horse pastures and some farming activity and all drainage from these places drain into the stream. The restaurant literally looks out to the waves, which is an awesome spot to start your day with breakfast. This is a safe and easy one. Book your tickets online for Opaekaa Falls, Kauai: See 499 reviews, articles, and 397 photos of Opaekaa Falls, ranked No.71 on Tripadvisor among 253 attractions in Kauai. We parked in the main parking lot and began walking along the road towards the falls. The Hilton Garden Inn is where you go when you want to enjoy the hot tub, pool and beach access but don’t necessarily care about all of the trimmings at the resorts that are 4 figures or more per night. It is a 151–foot waterfall that flows over basalt from volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. We will save that adventure for another day. Rains are often heavy on Kauai so you can see the red waters in many of the falls. For these falls, I preferred how my images looked in… The falls allows you to hear nothing else but the splashing of water and maybe a couple birds chirping in the trees. Opaekaa Falls. Remember you will want to do lots of activities and get a rental car as well maybe so saving a couple of hundred a night by staying at the Kauai Shores Hotel compared to the Marriot will give you the resort vibe but not be extravagant on your budget. Your email address will not be published. Hi! Most people view it from a lookout off of Kuamoo Road, as it is a difficult and tricky hike around its top and pool. Once you reach the bottom of the hill you will come to a stream. Not too far from Wailua Falls is another waterfall called Opaeka'a Falls. So luxury on Kauai is REALLY expensive. Please know if anyone was to get hurt on this trail you would also be held responsible also people who are using this trail and getting caught are getting arrested and fined. The top if Opaekaa Falls Hike. I set out on an Opaekaa Falls hike mission in the middle of the day. If you want a really great hike from Kuamo’o Road, take the trail to the top of the Sleeping Giant. We bounced from tree to tree and both slipped multiple times onto our backs. Waipo’o Falls Trail is a great way to experience the Waimea Canyon on one of the best easy hikes on Kauai. Kauai Shores Hotel has the luxury feel with the resort style property, palm trees, and a beautiful pool area. This is the top crown for advanced hikers and ambitious travelers. Below the ridge down into the ravine through which the water falls can be seen the vertical dikes of basalt that cut through the horizontal Koloa lava flows. I spent an entire month exploring the island of Kauai. I wouldn’t make a special trip here but definitely stop if you are passing by. The rooms had all of the trimmings and it was definitely an amazing experience to spend a few nights at Koloa Landing Resort. Hilton Garden Inn – Value Pick: The Hilton Garden Inn is your number one choice if you are on a budget but still need comfort. 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