Fantasy Island Wailua Falls
Kapaa, Hawaii
Hike
Wailua Falls is a very large, 173 Foot, waterfall located on the Island of Kauai. The water from the falls feeds into the Wailua River. People often swim in the pools below the falls. There are two paths to the bottom of the falls, but they can be slippery due to large amounts of mud on the trail. The steepest trail begins at the viewing area by the metal guard-rail. The more gentle trail is 3/10 of a mile back down the road. Be very careful if you take this trail as it is fairly dangerous. Hikers will string ropes along the path, but when discovered by park employees, they are removed.
Be courteous, informed, and prepared. Read trailhead guidelines, stay on the trail, and don't feed the wildlife.
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- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel & camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
Directions
From Kapaa, Hawaii
- Head southeast on Kaapuni Rd (0.7 mi)
- Continue straight onto State Hwy 581/Olohena Rd (0.6 mi)
- At the traffic circle, take the 1st exit onto HI-5600/Kapaa Bypass (2.3 mi)
- Turn right onto HI-56 S (4.0 mi)
- Turn right to stay on HI-56 S (1.4 mi)
- Turn right onto State Hwy 583/Maalo Rd (2.6 mi)
- Turn left (0.8 mi)
- Slight left (2.9 mi)
- Turn right (1.3 mi)
- Continue straight (0.9 mi)
- Sharp left (131 ft)
- Slight rightDestination will be on the left(0.4 mi)
If you are coming from the Kapaa area, head south on Kuhio Highway (56). About 5 miles past the Wailua River, turn right onto Ma’alo Road (road 583). The drive up Ma’alo Road only takes a few minutes and winds its way up to the falls in about 2.5 miles.
If you are coming from the Lihue area, head north on Kuhio Highway (56). The turn off to Ma’alo Road is only one mile north of Lihue. Turn left onto Ma’alo Rd and follow this up to the falls.
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