Lihue and East Side Region of Kauai, Hawaii
A challenging Wailua Falls hike or an easy Kuilau Ridge Trailhead hike, a relaxed evening in Kaapa town or just kayaking on the Wailua river, this region like other regions is not going to disappoint you.
The good thing is that all these attractions are within half an hour drive of each other. We found that a day was enough for exploring the area, which involved some major hikes.
1. Wailua Falls
A beautiful double-tiered waterfall awaits you just 12 minute north of the Lihue airport. Go there early because of limited parking space. The fall is more than 80 feet high. Most of the people enjoy it from above near the parking lot.
But if you are feeling adventurous, there is a trail by the guard rail at the end of the parking lot. You will see warning signs posted there. The trail can be dangerous during the wet season. It is steep, muddy, slippery and certainly not an easy hike even when it’s dry. Some part of the trail, you have to navigate over exposed tree roots while other require 90 degree climbs by holding on to the same roots for which you may need a hand for. So, do it very carefully, with proper shoes and with someone, if you do decide to do it. As you start your hike, you will find ropes tied to the trees to help you navigate.
The trail will end with a beautiful view of the fall making the hike worth it.
2. Wailua River and Opaeka'a Falls
Just 20 minute drive north of Wailua Falls is Opaeka’a falls. The word opaekaa means “rolling shrimps”. Apparently, they were once abundant, hence the name. There is a parking space along Hwy. 580. Park the car there and enjoy the almost 150 ft tall falls.
As you walk across the road, you will enjoy beautiful views of the wailua river, which feeds Wailua and Opaeka’a waterfalls. If you have time, you can explore the river by kayak or canoe.
3. kuilau ridge trail
Further 10 min drive west of Opaeka’a falls on Hwy. 580, will take you to Kuilau ridge trailhead. It’s located in Lihue-Koloa Forest Reserve.
Length: 2 miles (3.22 km). Round trip hike is almost 4 miles (6.5 kms).
Time: 1-2 hours for hiking, relaxing, taking shots.
Difficulty Level: Easy -> Moderate -> Easy
Elevation Gain: 500 ft -> 1140 ft (@1.5miles). 640 ft.
Restrooms: There are no restrooms along the trail. There are some facilities at the Keāhua arboretum.
Features: Beautiful views of lush valleys, Käwï and Keāhua streams. Large grassy fields and wide variety of plants and trees, which you might have never seen before. Picnic shelter located almost halfway, at the top.
