In short
- Wailua Falls is an 80-foot double-tiered drop famous from 'Fantasy Island'.
- 'Opaeka'a Falls is a 151-foot cascade visible from a large roadside lookout.
- One daily parking and entry receipt covers admission to both sites.
In this article
Choosing between the wailua falls vs opaekaa falls is easy. Because they are close to each other and share the same entry fee, you should visit both on the same day.
What is the difference between Wailua Falls and 'Opaeka'a Falls?
Wailua Falls is an 80-foot double-tiered drop, while 'Opaeka'a Falls is a 151-foot cascading waterfall.
Wailua Falls sits at the end of Highway 583. It is famous for its appearance in the 1970s TV show 'Fantasy Island'. 'Opaeka'a Falls is located a short drive away off Kuamo'o Road.
Can I visit both waterfalls on the same day?
Yes, you can visit both waterfalls using the same daily park pass.
Non-residents pay a $5 per person entry fee and a $10 per vehicle parking fee at Wailua Falls. Your daily parking and entry receipt covers your admission at the 'Opaeka'a Falls lookout as well. Hawaii residents enter both for free with a state ID.
Do I need to hike to see these waterfalls?
No hiking is required for either waterfall.
You view both waterfalls directly from paved roadside lookouts. The trail to the bottom of Wailua Falls is heavily eroded, illegal to use, and extremely dangerous. Stay behind the stone walls and guardrails at all times.
How do I get to Wailua Falls?
Drive north from Lihue on Kuhio Highway, then turn onto Ma'alo Road (Hwy 583).
Follow the road for about 4 miles until it dead-ends at the parking lot. The drive takes 15 to 20 minutes from Lihue Airport. You need a credit card to pay at the automated fee kiosk.
What else can I see in Wailua River State Park?
The park also includes the Fern Grotto and the Wailua Complex of Heiau.
The Fern Grotto is a natural lava-rock cave covered in tropical ferns. You can only reach it via a guided riverboat tour from the Wailua Marina. The Wailua Complex of Heiau features ancient Hawaiian temples and royal birthstones.
When is the best time to see the waterfalls?
Arrive early in the morning from 7:00 AM onward.
Early morning is the best time to visit Wailua Falls to see rainbows in the mist. The parking lot is small and fills up quickly. Wailua Falls is open year-round from 7:00 AM to 7:45 PM.
Questions travellers ask
Which waterfall was in Fantasy Island?
Wailua Falls was featured in the opening credits of the 1970s television series 'Fantasy Island'.
How much does it cost to visit Wailua Falls?
Non-residents pay a $5 per person entry fee plus $10 per vehicle for parking. You must pay by credit card. Hawaii residents enter for free with a state ID.
How tall is Wailua Falls in Kauai?
Wailua Falls is approximately 80 to 85 feet tall, though some older sources incorrectly state it is 173 feet tall.
