Wailua Falls
Hawaii is filled with incredible waterfalls, but few compare to the raw power and beauty of Wailua Falls on the east side of Kauai. Many people stop at the overlook, snap a quick picture from the parking lot, and move on, but if you’re up to it, I highly recommend taking the hidden hike down to the base of the falls.
Since the trail is not an official, maintained hike, you’re really hiking down steep slopes with the help of tree roots and ropes that past hikers have tied up along the way. The entire descent is surrounded by thick, lush greenery, and the humidity, smell of damp earth, towering trees, and sound of birds makes it feel so surreal. Once passed, you’ll reach the river that you’ll have to carefully cross into, and before you know it, you’ll be standing in front of the 85-foot tall waterfall crashing into the pool below.
Seeing Wailua Falls from the base is a completely different experience from viewing it from above. Up close, you can truly appreciate its sheer force, as thousands of gallons of water pour over the edge every second, creating a powerful current below. The mist from the falls rises into the air, catching the sunlight, and forms tons of rainbows that are absolutely mesmerizing. The water feels almost like nature’s version of a cold plunge, and the second you step in, your body is jolted awake. It’s good to get your adrenaline pumping, and it becomes incredibly refreshing, especially after the humid hike down. The current near the waterfall will pull you, so unless you’re a confident swimmer, it’s best to stay where you can still touch the bottom.
As with most waterfall hikes in Hawaii, what goes down must come back up. Again, the trail is short, yet steep, but thankfully not too strenuous. You’ll likely be riding the high of the incredible experience you just had to push you though the incline up, however one thing to absolutely prepare for is the mosquitoes. I’m not exaggerating when I say these little bloodthirsty demons are out for vengeance. You won’t even realize you’re being attacked until you leave covered in red, itchy welts. The first time I did this hike, I walked away with 23 bites and counting. The second time, I convinced myself I had malaria because I was short of breath, until I remembered malaria doesn’t even really exist in Hawaii. Just wear a ton bug spray, and douse yourself in it.
Seeing Wailua Falls from the base, and swimming in the water feels like a complete immersion in nature. Don’t just settle for the parking lot view, take the jungle trail down and don’t forget the bug spray!
