Wailua Falls in Kauai, Hawaii

This is an easy drive but well worth the time to see these dramatic falls. The Wailua Falls are located on the East side of the island and were made somewhat famous by being in the opening shots of the tv series “ Fantasy Island”.

If you are coming from the Kapa’a area, head south on Highway 56 ( Kuhio Highway). Approximately 5 miles past the Wailua River, turn right (e huli akau) onto Ma’alo Road. Ma’alo Road is also listed on maps as road 583. The drive up Ma’alo Road winds its way up to the falls in 2-1/2 miles and only takes a few minutes.

If you are coming from the Lihue area, head north on Highway 56 ( Kuhio Highway). The turn off to Ma’alo Raod is only a mile north of Lihue, if you see Hanama’ulu Bay on your right, you have gone too far. Turn left (e huli hema) onto Ma’alo Road and follow this up to the falls.

Government maps of these falls list their height at 80 feet. The staff from the Ultimate Kauai Guidebook has done hand measurements using fishing line and come up with a figure closer to 173 feet. When standing at the top and looking down at the dramatic fall, I think you will agree with the later measurement.

On occasion, ancient Hawaiian men would dive off of the top of the Wailua Falls as a method of proving their manhood. This was not a good idea and was often lethal. When you show up at the falls, you may see folks swimming in the pools below the falls. There are two trails to the bottom, neither are professionally maintained and both are potentially dangerous. The steepest trail starts off from the viewing area by the metal guard-rail. The more gentle trail is three tenths of a mile back down the road. This trail takes longer and the scenery is really pretty. Both trails have signs posted by the state telling you not to take the trails to the bottom.

Regardless, this drive yields spectacular pictures of the falls and surrounding scenery. It is well worth the short amount of time necessary to find it.

Have a fantastic journey to Wailua Falls! Hawaiian Discount Car Rentals provides Kauai car rental for your driving pleasure.

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