Plan your visit
Plan your visit
Everything you need to know about driving to Wailua Falls, paying the state park fees, and making the most of your time at the lookout.
Getting there
Getting to the falls
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive north from Lihue on Kuhio Highway, turn left (mauka) onto Ma'alo Road (Hwy 583), and follow it for about 4 miles to the dead end. | 15-20 minutes from Lihue | $10 parking + $5/person entry | The parking lot is small and can fill up quickly; a credit card is required for the automated fee kiosk. |
| Tour: Various guided bus and van tours of Kauai's east side include a stop at the Wailua Falls lookout. | Varies (usually half-day tours) | Helicopter tours also frequently fly over the falls, providing a unique aerial perspective, though they do not land. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
Wailua Falls is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:45 PM. The best time to arrive is early morning (between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM). The parking lot is very small and fills up rapidly later in the day. Morning light also gives you the best chance to see rainbows forming in the mist at the base of the falls.
What to bring
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Bring a credit card.
The automated fee kiosk at the parking lot does not accept cash.
How the day runs
Suggested itineraries
A fast, easy visit before exploring the rest of Kauai's east side.
- Arrive at the lookout
Secure a parking spot easily and pay the fee at the kiosk.
- View the falls
Take photos from the paved viewing deck and look for rainbows.
- Head to 'Opaeka'a Falls
Drive back to the highway and up Kuamo'o Road to see another waterfall using the same day pass.
Combine the easy roadside viewpoint with an active kayak adventure.
- Wailua Falls Lookout
Drive to the falls for a quick photo op before your tour.
- Wailua Marina
Meet your guide for the river kayak tour.
- Kayak and Hike
Paddle the river and hike to Secret Falls.
- Finish tour
Return to the marina.
Practical tips for the viewpoint
The viewing area is fully paved and located right next to the parking stalls. Keep a firm grip on your phone or camera when leaning over the stone wall; if you drop it down the cliff, you cannot retrieve it. Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunglasses to reduce glare. Parking & Fees
You will see a heavily eroded trail near the parking lot leading down the cliff. Do not attempt to use it. The state has closed this trail because it is extremely dangerous and illegal to access. Enjoy the spectacular views safely from the top. Hike to Bottom
Easiest way to do it
Kauai Wailua Valley & Waterfalls Audio Driving Tour
48 h 4.3 (26)
- Tours NEVER expire
- Freedom to explore at your own pace
- Offline map (no wifi or data needed)
- Turn-by-turn directions using GPS
From$20per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How much does it cost?
Non-residents must pay $5 per person for entry, plus a $10 per vehicle parking fee. This is payable by credit card at the automated kiosk.
How far is it from Lihue?
The falls are about 5 miles from Lihue Airport. The drive takes 15 to 20 minutes heading north on the highway and then inland on Ma'alo Road.
Are there bathrooms at the falls?
No, there are no restroom facilities at the Wailua Falls lookout. Plan accordingly before you drive up the road.