Wailua Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Ke Ala Hele Makalae East Shore Beach Path which includes general coastal views and hiking or walking as well as a couple
With towering waterfalls, perfect beaches and the state’s only navigable river, this eastern Kauaʻi town is a top destination for adventurers and dreamers alike.

Located on the east coast of Kauaʻi, Wailuā is famous for its close proximity to some of the island’s most popular outdoor attractions. The town is divided into two sections, separated by Nounou Mountain, nicknamed the "Sleeping Giant" because of its distinctive shape. Take the Nounou Trail up to the peak to enjoy panoramic views of Wailuā and the surrounding landscape, before exploring the area’s many other outdoor attractions.

Much of the area’s outdoor fun revolves around the Wailuā River, the only navigable river in Hawaiʻi. Rent a kayak and paddle along a shoreline dotted with ruins and archaeological sites that provide a glimpse into Hawaii’s ancient past. Take a boat tour to explore Fern Grotto. With ferns hanging overhead and waterfall mist hanging in the air, it’s easy to see why this lava cave is a popular filming location. 

Nearby are Wailuā Falls, a towering 80-foot (25-metre) high triple waterfall that creates a dramatic effect in its heavily forested setting. Adventurous visitors can walk down a short trail to the base of the falls. If you’re travelling by car, admire the view from an overlook along the road. Pack a picnic lunch and head to Opaekaʻa Falls, another natural wonder that sits along the Wailuā River. 

After exploring the lush rain forest landscapes of the inland, head to the coast to enjoy the attractions of the Pacific. Lydgate Beach Park features clean shores and prime oceanfront access. The calm waters make it a popular snorkeling spot for beginners. Head a little bit further out to surf the area’s waves. Rock walls were built into the beach, creating small swimming pools that are ideal for children. 

After enjoying the sun for the afternoon, ride along the bike path to coastal Wailuā, where you can enjoy a fresh-caught seafood dinner. Bars often feature live music and offer a relaxed nightlife setting. 

Wailuā is about a 10-minute drive north of Lihue Airport. Public transportation is limited, so renting a car or motorbike will ensure you get the most from your visit.

Where to stay in Wailua

Sleeping Giant Trailhead showing general coastal views

Wailua House Lots

If you're spending some time in Wailua House Lots, Lae Nani Beach and Sleeping Giant Trailhead are top sights worth seeing.

Wailua House Lots
The ISO. Island. Sky. Ocean.
The ISO. Island. Sky. Ocean.
3.5 out of 5
4-796 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa, HI
The price is ₹14,471 per night from 28 May to 29 May
₹14,471
per night
28 May - 29 May
Stay at this 3.5-star beach resort in Kapaa. Enjoy a beach locale, a garden and snorkelling on-site. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in their ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews)
"Love that they have a complimentary breakfast!"

Reviewed on 16 May 2024

The ISO. Island. Sky. Ocean.
Kauai Shores Hotel
Kauai Shores Hotel
3.5 out of 5
420 Papaloa Rd, Kapaa, HI
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is ₹19,071 per night from 29 May to 30 May
₹19,071
per night
29 May - 30 May
Stay at this beach hotel in Kapaa. Enjoy free parking, 2 outdoor pools and a beach locale. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant in their reviews. Popular ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,042 reviews)
"They were so nice to me and my family."

Reviewed on 22 May 2024

Kauai Shores Hotel
Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort
Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort
4 out of 5
650 Aleka Loop, Kapaa, HI
The price is ₹28,272 per night from 5 Jun to 6 Jun
₹28,272
per night
5 Jun - 6 Jun
Stay at this beach hotel in Kapaa. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in their reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (665 reviews)
"Absolutely incredible experience! Rooms are clean, spacious and comfortable. The food is excellent. Staff service is impeccable. Im so glad I chose this hotel over other options."

Reviewed on 23 May 2024

Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Plantation Hale Suites
Plantation Hale Suites
3 out of 5
525 Aleka Loop, Kapaa, HI
Stay at this family-friendly aparthotel in Kapaa. Enjoy 3 outdoor pools, 2 hot tubs and Wi-Fi (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,458 reviews)
"It was good for our one night stop over. Steep on price for an old hotel… but the people working here are nice, rooms, rooms were clean and the pools were nice. Hate carpet in old hotels and the pull out was beyond uncomfortable."

Reviewed on 22 May 2024

Plantation Hale Suites
Fern Grotto Inn
Fern Grotto Inn
3.5 out of 5
4561 Kuamoo Road, Kapaa, HI
Stay at this 3.5-star cottage in Kapaa. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and free bicycles on-site. Popular attractions Kalapaki Beach and Nawiliwili Bay are located ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (37 reviews)
"Beautiful and peaceful cottage on the river and 5 minutes from the beach. Very comfortable bed and woke up to a palm tree breeze every morning along with a rooster reminding us it was time to get up 😊"

Reviewed on 10 May 2024

Fern Grotto Inn
Lae Nani Kauai
Lae Nani Kauai
3 out of 5
410 Papaloa Rd, Kapaa, HI
Stay at this beach condo in Kapaa. Enjoy free parking, a beach locale and a garden. Popular attractions Lae Nani Beach and Coconut Marketplace are located ...
7.6/10 Good! (95 reviews)
"Nice place for the price"

Reviewed on 10 Apr 2024

Lae Nani Kauai
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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