Places WeGo Exploring 181 views. Save money on Kauai by staying at an Airbnb! All five of these spots are in great locations but each one is a little different. 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. It is a 151–foot waterfall that flows over basalt from volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. 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 agree with the Sambal… The risk of bacterial infection including leptospirosis is most likely very high here. (That bit where you backtracked 20 yards upstream? Kaua’i is gorgeous but it is a wild place that will bite the unwary without any warning at all. This hike is quite difficult, has steep and dangerous drop-offs and was very, very slippery. Opaekaa Falls is located just outside of Wailua on the east side of Kauai. Make sure you take LOTS of water for this strenuous 6 hour hike. There is ample parking and restrooms. The water feeding these falls is dirty. 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. 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. Opaekaa Falls. Leave this beautiful place better than when you found it. From the parking lot to view the falls, it is maybe 20 steps. There are several lightly trafficked trails from this point onwards. 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. Hi! Although watching Opaekaa Falls from the lookout is a safe option, it may not be enough for the adrenaline loving folks out there. I hope my travels give you the motivation to set off on an epic adventure of your own. Opaekaa Falls is a beautiful, easy, and convenient stop to make on your island vacation. In my opinion, these are the 15 best hikes on Kauai! I spent an entire month exploring the island of Kauai. At several points during this section of the hike, there is a rope to help you find your way safely down the hill. 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 … The trail from the road down to the top of the falls is very steep and it’s hard to find any good footing. Opaekaa Falls is one of the most popular spots for tourists to visit when they come to Kauai. The trail can be a little steep in some sections but is suitable for all ages who are in moderate level physical shape. Opaeka’a Falls, by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett 9. Very easy location to stop and take a few pictures. We ran into some locals and they explained It like it’s a camel hump.. any suggestions!? It is a 151–foot waterfall that flows over basalt from volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. I suggest a visit here. 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. So luxury on Kauai is REALLY expensive. Another easy-access waterfall you can enjoy from the car, is the Opaekaa Falls. The hike in itself is arguably one of the most beautiful hikes in America, covering 22 miles round trip. After enjoying the top of the falls we backtracked about 20 yards up the stream and then crossed the river. Get a FREE $40 Airbnb Coupon by using my code when you book! This waterfall was real easy to see from a distance because it had an official overlook and car park that was well signposted. 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. This is amazing hiking on a fall.I heard about this for the first time but I am sure that it will be amazing.The pictures above are describing the whole scenario and are assuring that this place is worth to visit. To each their own. Following the road, we kept walking until a green fence began. As a local, I would never do this hike or recommend it to anyone! I think it’s probably best to be respectful, and skip this one. Almost from the back of the stream? 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. Used in the movie “Blue Hawaii”, you can see these lovely falls from a distance at the viewing area just off Kuamo’o Road. The Wailua Falls is a must-see waterfall when visiting the East side of Kauai. Hilton Garden Inn – Value Pick: The Hilton Garden Inn is your number one choice if you are on a budget but still need comfort. 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. 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. Opeakaa Falls is located in Wailua, the land of the ali’i (kings) . Aloha, From the parking lot to view the falls, it is maybe 20 steps. 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. After enjoying the top of the falls we backtracked about 20 yards up the stream and then crossed the river. 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. I suggest a visit here. Just stay up at the turnout to see them. I would recommend it for experienced hikers only. 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. It is a little steep and slippery but stays right next to the fence. This is the top crown for advanced hikers and ambitious travelers. One trailhead is half a mile past the green fence on the right side, after some pasture. It is 140 feet of whitewater eye candy. This attraction may get lost in the many natural wonders of the beautiful island of Kauai, but it's easily accessible and really nice. Question about this hike..we had a hard time time finding where to start the decent we made it across the stream but then we couldn’t find where to go down.. seems like from your picture from when you first seen opaeka falls you have to go up and around? Opaekaa Falls, Kauai. We were now on the opposite side of the river than when we had begun the Opaekaa Falls Hike. I would recommend it for experienced hikers only. Private property.). Look for a small path at the south end of the parking lot. The ‘Opaeka’a Falls hike is such a special place because it is secluded from everyday tourists and is your own little private oasis. 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. We are talking $700+ a night at many hotels. There are houses, cow and horse pastures and some farming activity and all drainage from these places drain into the stream. It’s possible to trek down to the bottom and swim in the pool below the falls along a trail, although it is a very steep trail with a high level of difficulty. 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. As someone who has hiked different trails all over the world, I wouldn’t put this in the difficult category. Follow the stream to the right and you will find the top of Opaekaa Falls. Opaekaa Falls is a beautiful, easy, and convenient stop to make on your island vacation. Don’t get me wrong, it isn’t cheap it is still over $200 USD but this is Kauai. Loading ... Chasing the Waterfalls - Opaekaa Falls - Kauai, Hawaii - Duration: 3:00. 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. {2} `Opaeka`a Falls `Opaekala`ole are native fresh water shrimp that were once plentiful in the mountain streams throughout Kaua`i. From the parking lot to view the falls, it is maybe 20 steps. Le sentier est principalement utilisé pour la randonnée. This time he just stood there and watched until I drove away. Waipo’o Falls Trail. We opted to stay safe and just use a longer focal length. There is ample parking and restrooms. 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. 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