In short
- Wailua Falls is the famous waterfall from the TV show.
- The 80-foot double-tiered falls are located on Kauai.
- You can view the waterfall directly from your car today.
In this article
- What is the Fantasy Island waterfall?
- Where is the Fantasy Island waterfall located?
- Do you have to hike to see the Fantasy Island waterfall?
- How much does it cost to visit Wailua Falls?
- How tall is the waterfall from the show?
- How can you see Wailua Falls from the air?
- Can you visit other waterfalls nearby?
The television series Fantasy Island made Wailua Falls internationally famous in the 1970s. The sweeping shots of the cascading water became an iconic image of Hawaii for viewers around the world. Today, it remains one of the most accessible natural attractions on Kauai.
What is the Fantasy Island waterfall?
The waterfall shown in the opening credits of Fantasy Island is Wailua Falls.
This 80-foot double-tiered waterfall is located on the South Fork of the Wailua River. The river originates from Mount Wai'ale'ale. During heavy rainfall, the two separate tiers can merge into a single massive drop.
Where is the Fantasy Island waterfall located?
Wailua Falls is located in Lihue on the Hawaiian island of Kauai.
You will find the waterfall at the end of Ma'alo Road, also known as Highway 583. It is situated about five miles from Lihue Airport. The site is part of the larger Wailua River State Park.
Do you have to hike to see the Fantasy Island waterfall?
No, you do not need to hike to see Wailua Falls.
Visitors can view the cascading water directly from a paved roadside lookout next to the parking lot. The trail to the base is officially closed, unmaintained, and strictly illegal to use.
How much does it cost to visit Wailua Falls?
Non-residents pay a $5 entry fee per person and a $10 parking fee per vehicle.
You must pay this fee by credit card at the automated kiosk at the lookout. Hawaii residents get free entry and parking with a valid state ID.
How tall is the waterfall from the show?
Wailua Falls drops approximately 80 to 85 feet.
Some older sources incorrectly report the height as 173 feet. You can clearly see the true scale from the upper viewing deck right beside the parking lot.
How can you see Wailua Falls from the air?
You can book a scenic flight to view the waterfall from above.
Airplane and helicopter tours frequently fly over the falls. This provides an aerial perspective similar to the sweeping camera shots used in the television series.
Can you visit other waterfalls nearby?
Yes, 'Opaeka'a Falls is another accessible waterfall within the Wailua River State Park system.
Your daily parking and entry receipt from Wailua Falls covers your admission to 'Opaeka'a Falls on the same day. Both waterfalls feature convenient roadside lookouts.
Questions travellers ask
Can you swim at the Fantasy Island waterfall?
No. Hiking down to the base of Wailua Falls is illegal and extremely dangerous. You must stay at the paved upper viewing area behind the stone walls.
When is the best time to see Wailua Falls?
The best time to visit is early morning. Arriving early helps you secure a parking spot and gives you the best chance to see rainbows in the mist.
What are the opening hours for Wailua Falls?
The lookout is open year-round from 7:00 AM to 7:45 PM.
