Wailua

Travel Guide

Ke Ala Hele Makalae East Shore Beach Path which includes general coastal views, rugged coastline and a pebble beach
Ke Ala Hele Makalae East Shore Beach Path showing general coastal views and hiking or walking as well as a couple
Ke Ala Hele Makalae East Shore Beach Path which includes rugged coastline, general coastal views and a pebble beach
Ke Ala Hele Makalae East Shore Beach Path featuring surf, rocky coastline and general coastal views
Ke Ala Hele Makalae East Shore Beach Path showing rugged coastline, cycling and general coastal views

With towering waterfalls, perfect beaches and the state’s only navigable river, this eastern Kauaʻi town is a top destination for adventurers and dreamers alike.

Located on the east coast of Kauaʻi, Wailuā is famous for its close proximity to some of the island’s most popular outdoor attractions. The town is divided into two sections, separated by Nounou Mountain, nicknamed the "Sleeping Giant" because of its distinctive shape. Take the Nounou Trail up to the peak to enjoy panoramic views of Wailuā and the surrounding landscape, before exploring the area’s many other outdoor attractions.

Much of the area’s outdoor fun revolves around the Wailuā River, the only navigable river in Hawaiʻi. Rent a kayak and paddle along a shoreline dotted with ruins and archaeological sites that provide a glimpse into Hawaii’s ancient past. Take a boat tour to explore Fern Grotto. With ferns hanging overhead and waterfall mist hanging in the air, it’s easy to see why this lava cave is a popular filming location. 

Nearby are Wailuā Falls, a towering 80-foot (25-meter) high triple waterfall that creates a dramatic effect in its heavily forested setting. Adventurous visitors can walk down a short trail to the base of the falls. If you’re traveling by car, admire the view from an overlook along the road. Pack a picnic lunch and head to Opaekaʻa Falls, another natural wonder that sits along the Wailuā River. 

After exploring the lush rain forest landscapes of the inland, head to the coast to enjoy the attractions of the Pacific. Lydgate Beach Park features clean shores and prime oceanfront access. The calm waters make it a popular snorkeling spot for beginners. Head a little bit further out to surf the area’s waves. Rock walls were built into the beach, creating small swimming pools that are ideal for children. 

After enjoying the sun for the afternoon, ride along the bike path to coastal Wailuā, where you can enjoy a fresh-caught seafood dinner. Bars often feature live music and offer a relaxed nightlife setting. 

Wailuā is about a 10-minute drive north of Lihue Airport. Public transportation is limited, so renting a car or motorbike will ensure you get the most from your visit.

Where to stay in Wailua

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Waipouli

If you're spending some time in Waipouli, Coconut Marketplace and Waipouli Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Waipouli
Sleeping Giant Trailhead featuring general coastal views

Wailua House Lots

4.5/5(3 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Wailua House Lots, Lae Nani Beach and Wailua Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Wailua House Lots
Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort

Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort

4 out of 5
650 Aleka Loop, Kapaa, HI
The price is CA $424 per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
CA $424
CA $566 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star beach hotel in Kapaa. Enjoy free WiFi, 6 restaurants, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,003 reviews)
"I booked this property at the very last minute as our previously booked hotel did not work out. We were so happy to see the property when we arrived. The reception lobby is beautiful, each clerk was kind and helpful, we love the valet staff, and the rooms are easily accessible. A favorite is the ..."

Reviewed on Aug. 21, 2025

Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort
Kauai Shores Hotel

Kauai Shores Hotel

3.5 out of 5
420 Papaloa Rd, Kapaa, HI
The price is CA $228 per night from Aug 27 to Aug 28
CA $228
CA $318 total
Aug 27 - Aug 28
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Kapaa. Enjoy free parking, 2 outdoor pools, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant in our reviews. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,327 reviews)
"The beds were extremely soft and the food was incredible!!!"

Reviewed on Aug. 17, 2025

Kauai Shores Hotel
The ISO by Castle

The ISO by Castle

3.5 out of 5
4-796 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa, HI
The price is CA $289 per night from Aug 24 to Aug 25
CA $289
CA $391 total
Aug 24 - Aug 25
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star beach resort in Kapaa. Enjoy a beach locale, a garden, and snorkeling on site. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our reviews. ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,002 reviews)
"Very good location, easy to get food from Safeway and"

Reviewed on Aug. 16, 2025

The ISO by Castle
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Plantation Hale Suites

Plantation Hale Suites

3 out of 5
525 Aleka Loop, Kapaa, HI
Book a stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Kapaa. Enjoy 3 outdoor pools, 2 hot tubs, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,642 reviews)
"The view from the hotel was great and the aesthetic of the room was very welcoming. The beach was close by."

Reviewed on Aug. 19, 2025

Plantation Hale Suites
Fern Grotto Inn

Fern Grotto Inn

3.5 out of 5
4561 Kuamoo Road, Kapaa, HI
Stay at this 3.5-star cottage in Kapaa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and free bicycles on site. Popular attractions Holoholoku Heiau and Wailua Beach are located ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (54 reviews)
"Great area, easy parking. Safe, quiet. Adorable room. Very clean."

Reviewed on Jun. 29, 2025

Fern Grotto Inn
Steps to beach.Top floor ocean view, 2 bd 1.5 ba. New AC in living dining area

Steps to beach.Top floor ocean view, 2 bd 1.5 ba. New AC in living dining area

Kapaa
Stay at this condo in Kapaa. Enjoy laundry facilities, patios, and cable/satellite TV service. Popular attractions Coconut Marketplace and Waipouli Beach are ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (200 reviews)
"Great location. Instead of walking down the path to the beach take a right when leaving the area and go one street over. Less steep and swimmable. It’s Hawaii so we were really only there to eat breakfast and sleep. And speaking of sleeping, the prohibition against air conditioning IS an issue especially ..."

Reviewed on Jul. 31, 2025

Steps to beach.Top floor ocean view, 2 bd 1.5 ba. New AC in living dining area
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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