Kauai: Full-Day Waimea Canyon & Wailua River Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Kauai’s most breathtaking landscapes, from the awe-inspiring Waimea Canyon to the lush beauty of the Wailua River. This full-day adventure showcases the island’s diverse natural wonders and rich cultural heritage.

Your tour begins with a scenic drive along State Road 550, ascending toward Waimea Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Spanning 14 miles and plunging more than 3,600 feet deep, its vibrant red and green cliffs create a stunning panorama. Along the way, your guide will point out several scenic lookouts where you can see the island of Niihau, also known as the Forbidden Island, as well as Poipu Resorts, Queen Victoria’s Profile, and Nawiliwili Harbor.

Next, we’ll make a stop at historic Old Koloa Town, a charming plantation-era village that played a key role in Hawaii’s sugar industry. Take time to explore its unique shops and enjoy lunch on your own at one of the local restaurants.

After lunch, we’ll journey to Kauai’s east side for a scenic cruise along the Wailua River, Hawaii’s only navigable river. Lush greenery lines the riverbanks as we travel toward the Fern Grotto, a natural lava rock formation draped in ferns. You’ll step into this serene setting and experience its unique acoustics, often used for Hawaiian ceremonies and music.

The tour continues with a visit to Opaeka`a Falls, a breathtaking 151-foot waterfall framed by lush vegetation. Nearby, we’ll stop at the sacred birthstones of Hawaiian royalty, an important cultural site where Kauai’s chiefs were born.

By the end of this journey, you’ll have experienced the best of Kauai’s landscapes, history, and culture, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the Garden Isle.