Top 5 Kauai Kayaking Tours

1.Secret Falls Kayak and Hike

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,403 reviews · 4 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $125Our pick

Paddle about 4 miles on Kauai’s Wailua River, then hike roughly 1.5 to 2 miles through muddy rainforest trails to Uluwehi Falls. Guides such as Cory, K-man, Kai, Lono, and Mana share local stories and help with river crossings. Kayaks, paddles, backrests, and life jackets are provided.

“I enjoyed kayaking and hiking to the falls. Our guide, Kahyman (not sure on the spelling), was very fun--charming and charismatic. I took one star off just because it was quite touristy with hordes of people at the "secret" falls. Also, you never know who will be in your group; ours had at least a few who were unathletic, slowing us down. I'd do it again, but I would book my own kayak so I can go at my own pace. Also, bring a bathing suit if you want to swim in the pool underneath the falls! There was no mention of that in the pre-tour communication, so we didn't…”

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2.Kayak & Hike to Secret Falls with Expert Guide

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,387 reviews · 5 hours (approx.) · from $140

Join Duke’s Kayak Adventures for a five-hour paddle and hike to Uluwehi Falls, better known as Secret Falls. You’ll kayak about four miles round trip, then walk roughly two miles over muddy, slippery ground and stream crossings. Guides such as Zach, Brian, and Makayla add local stories, safety tips, and plenty of encouragement.

“Zach aka the bird whisper was a wonderful guide. This was a great activity!!! We love kayaking and hiking and this did both! The views were stunning and the waterfall at the end of the hike, Just wow!!! Highly recommend!! 4 total miles of kayaking, about 1.5 miles of hiking.”

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3.Wailua River & Waterfalls Kayak Tour: Expert-Guided Adventure

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 790 reviews · 5 to 6 hours (approx.) · from $145

Paddle two miles up the Wailua River, then follow a muddy rainforest trail across four shallow river crossings to 110-foot Uluwehi Falls. Guides such as Thomas, Sierra, Ty, and Kay share local plant, animal, cultural, and geological details. Lunch, kayaks, paddles, backrests, and dry bags are included. Bring sturdy shoes that can get wet.

“Beautiful scenic float and a treacherous hike. Would have been nice to have some breaks from the 2 mile paddle fest. Can’t stop or relax very pushy, granted I’m 63, I made it! Wouldn’t do it again”

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4.Wailua River Kayak and Sacred Falls Guided Hike with Lunch

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 783 reviews · 5 hours (approx.) · from $155

Paddle a tandem kayak upstream on Kauai’s gentle Wailua River, then follow a state-certified guide through rainforest to Uluwehi Falls. The roughly 1.25-mile hike crosses mud, rocks, roots, and shallow water before lunch and a possible swim at the falls. Guides such as Annie, Harrison, Lindsey, and Anya are known for lively commentary and careful pacing.

“Beautiful 3 mile relaxing River Kayak through Wailua River. Then a 1 mile hike through the rain forest and ended at a magnificent waterfall where we found a boulder to sit on and had lunch. Best time to go is before the rainy season as its very muddy and slick walking on planks and literally traversing boulders, waste deep river and shallow tree roots. Walking stick a must and I suggest gripping type shoes like boat shoes. Its kinda like the infamous road to Hana, you gotta try it at least once, you will not regret it.”

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5.Hanalei Bay Morning Kayak and Snorkel Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 567 reviews · 5 hours (approx.) · from $160

Paddle from a private dock along the Hanalei River, then kayak into Hanalei Bay with guides such as Gabe and Kolo sharing island stories. After spotting turtles, snorkel for 45 minutes, enjoy a deli lunch on the beach, and return to Hanalei by 1pm.

“We LOVED this kayak tour! The guide were incredibly helpful and informative on Hawaiian cultural, plants, and tips about the town of Hanalei. Such a beautiful experience to kayak the river, and end in the bay to snorkel and have lunch. 13/10!”

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