Wailua Falls is one of Kauai’s most popular attractions.
Wailua Falls is a 173-foot waterfall in Kauai, Hawaii that is a short drive down a country road from the town of Lihue. The falls can be seen from a roadside viewing point at the end of Maalo Road (583). The waterfall is featured in the opening credits of the television show Fantasy Island. The convenient location, combined with the waterfall’s grandeur, makes this one of the most popular waterfalls on the island.
There is a trail to the left of the viewing area that goes down to the top of the waterfall. There is also a hiking trail to the right of the viewing area that goes down to the bottom of the waterfall (plunge pool). It’s not the only hike in Kauai that leads to a waterfall by the way.
Both trails are behind fences and there are warning signs posted by the State of Hawaii to keep out, though a steady stream of visitors take the trails daily. There have been many serious injuries on the precipitous trail down, and there are hefty fines for those caught trespassing in these prohibited areas.
As a fun fact, if you ever watched Fantasy Island, the waterfall can be seen in an aerial view in the opening credits of the 1970s/1980s television show.
Aerial view shows the waterfall, viewing area and a section of the parking area.
The road to Wailua Falls is very scenic.
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