In short
- No hiking is required to see the falls.
- The official viewing deck has stone walls and guardrails.
- Access for non-residents is $5 per person plus $10 for parking.
In this article
Visiting waterfalls on Kauai often involves long, muddy hikes. Wailua Falls is different. You drive straight to the viewpoint, making it an easy and safe option for children of all ages. Parking & Fees
Is Wailua Falls a kid-friendly activity on Kauai?
Yes, Wailua Falls is extremely kid-friendly because you do not have to hike to see it.
The viewing area is fully paved and located right next to the parking lot. You pull up, pay the fee, and walk just a few steps to see the 80-foot double-tiered waterfall. It is completely accessible for strollers and small children.
Is the viewing area safe for toddlers?
Yes, the official viewing area is enclosed by stone walls and metal guardrails.
These barriers prevent accidental slips over the edge. However, you should still keep an eye on young children and never lift them over the barriers to get a better view. Staying behind the walls is safe and required by the state.
Do kids have to pay the entry fee?
The $5 entry fee applies per person for non-residents, though infants are generally exempt.
The automated kiosk requires a credit card to pay the $10 vehicle parking fee and the $5 per person entry fee. Hawaii residents enter for free with a valid state ID.
Can my family hike down to the bottom?
No, hiking to the bottom is illegal and highly dangerous for anyone, especially children.
The state has fenced off the steep dirt path. The route is unmaintained, severely eroded, and prone to rockfalls. Several people have been seriously injured attempting the descent. Keep your family safe at the upper viewing deck. Hike to Bottom
How long will a visit take with children?
Most families spend about 15 to 20 minutes at the Wailua Falls lookout.
Since there is no trail to hike, you only need enough time to take photos and enjoy the view. It makes for a quick and easy morning stop before heading to other family-friendly spots in Wailua River State Park.
Are there bathrooms or food at the falls?
There are no bathrooms, facilities, or food vendors at the Wailua Falls lookout.
Plan accordingly when traveling with kids. Use the restroom in Lihue before driving up Highway 583. Bring a reusable water bottle and some snacks, but make sure to pack all your trash out.
What else can families do nearby?
Wailua River State Park offers several easy activities, including viewing 'Opaeka'a Falls.
Your parking and entry receipt from Wailua Falls covers admission to 'Opaeka'a Falls, which is another safe, roadside waterfall. You can also book a boat tour to Fern Grotto.
Questions travellers ask
Is the road to Wailua Falls paved?
Yes, Ma'alo Road (Highway 583) is fully paved all the way from Lihue to the waterfall's parking lot.
When is the best time to visit with kids?
Arrive early in the morning, between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, to secure parking easily and spot rainbows in the waterfall mist.
Are there picnic tables at Wailua Falls?
No, there are no picnic tables or facilities at the small lookout area.
