Wailua River State Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Wailua River State Park?
What makes it 79% Kids-Friendly: School-age children can ride the stable riverboat, visit cultural village replicas, and try guided kayak trips permitted from age five, but there is no playground gear or lifeguard supervision.
Positives:
- Stroller-Friendly Spots: Paved lookouts at both falls are easy to navigate with a stroller or wagon.
- Shaded Picnic Areas: Coconut grove tables offer natural shade—great for snack breaks out of the sun.
- Free Water Fountains: Refill water bottles at fountains next to restroom buildings.
Challenges:
- Limited Parking: Lots fill by mid-morning—arrive by 8 AM to find a spot near the boat ramp.
- No Changing Tables: Restrooms are basic and lack dedicated diaper-changing stations.
- Slippery Paths: Trail sections and lookout stairs can become slick after rain—wear water shoes.
What is Wailua River State Park?
- A state park preserving the 32-kilometer Wailua River valley on the eastern coast of Kauai
- A protected riverine landscape encompassing tropical rainforest, ancient Hawaiian heiau temple sites and two notable waterfalls—Ōpaekaʻa Falls and Wailua Falls
- A terrain shaped by volcanic flows hosting a fern-laden grotto carved into lava rock along Hawaii’s only navigable river
What is so special about Wailua River State Park for with kids?
- Enjoy a live-music riverboat cruise through a fern grotto.
- Visit two easy waterfall lookouts with paved paths.
- Explore Kamokila Village for hands-on Hawaiian culture.
- Relax with a shaded picnic in the coconut grove.
- Easy restrooms and water fountains keep kids happy.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a Fern Grotto boat tour plus visits to Opaekaa and Wailua Falls without tiring kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Wailua River State Park
Fern Grotto Riverboat Cruise:
Board an open-air boat from Wailua Marina to a fern-covered cave with live Hawaiian music.
Tip: Book tickets in advance and sit near the front for best views and photos.
Opaekaa Falls Viewpoint:
Pull off Hwy 56 for a paved lookout over a 151-ft waterfall.
Tip: Arrive early to secure the small parking area and avoid crowds.
Wailua Falls Viewpoint:
Stop at the roadside turnout for a 2-minute walk to twin-drop falls.
Tip: Use sturdy shoes—rocky steps can be slippery when wet.
Kamokila Hawaiian Village:
Explore a replica Hawaiian village and learn traditional crafts.
Tip: Check the daily schedule for canoe paddling demos included with admission.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Wailua River State Park
- Pack Essentials: Bring hats, reef-safe sunscreen, and a light jacket for cooler river breezes.
- Reserve Tours Early: Book the Fern Grotto cruise online to secure morning slots and lower crowds.
- Enjoy a Picnic: Pack lunch to eat riverside—saves time and lets kids run free in the grove.
Reviews of Wailua River State Park
Nancy B
Beautiful and the waterfall was flowing! We even got a bonus rainbow!
Cynthia Vassar
We were on a tour and stopped to see Rainbow Waterfall. It was amazing.
Steve
This park has a great view of the waterfalls and the river. Scenic overlook worth stoping and getting a good picture. It was not crowded today and the weather was beautiful.
Jenn Capuzelo Kiel
Lovely place to take kayak or SUP out, challenging in some areas, overall beautiful, lush, tranquil
Jared Miller
So much rain. Beautiful area. Tour was very quick once we got to the fern grotto, as we were getting soaked. Dancers and songs on boat were wonderful.
When is the best time to visit Wailua River State Park (Hawaii, United States)?
Visit between April and October for drier conditions. In winter months, pack light rain gear and check boat tour schedules before you go.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Fern Grotto Cruise (per adult) | USD 35 |
| Fern Grotto Cruise (per child) | USD 18 |
| Kamokila Village (per adult) | USD 5 |
| Kamokila Village (per child) | USD 3 |
| Snacks & drinks | USD 20 |
| Total Estimated | USD 141 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Wailua River State Park
Address: Kapaʻa, HI 96746, USA
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About Wailua River State Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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