💧 ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls
Hawaii
🚗 Check available routes: 🌺 Kauaʻi Scenic Road Trip
📍 Location: Wailua, East Side of Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi
🗓️ Best time to visit: Year-round; late morning often gives the best light
⏳ Recommended stay: 20–45 minutes
🌐 Official visitor information: GoHawaii — ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls
🏞️ About ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls
ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls is one of Kauaʻi’s most accessible major waterfalls.
The waterfall drops approximately 151 feet into a hidden pool surrounded by dense tropical vegetation. Its Hawaiian name means “rolling shrimp,” referring to freshwater shrimp that were historically found in the stream.
The falls can be viewed from a designated roadside overlook, making this an easy scenic stop without a hike.
✨ Why Visit
ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls is especially known for:
- 💧 A tall, year-round waterfall
- 🚗 Easy roadside access
- 📸 A clear panoramic viewpoint
- 🌿 Lush Wailua River valley scenery
- 🧺 Picnic tables and restrooms
- 🌊 A nearby overlook across the road with views of the Wailua River valley
📅 Best Time to Visit
Late morning often provides brighter light on the waterfall.
The falls flow year-round, but recent rain may create a stronger and more dramatic flow.
🚗 Access
ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls is located about two miles inland on Kuamoʻo Road, Route 580, from Highway 56.
Signs direct visitors to the roadside parking area and overlook.
The site is part of Wailua River State Park.
💵 Fees and Reservations
A timed-entry reservation is not normally required.
Current fees may include:
- Hawaiʻi residents: Free with valid Hawaiʻi ID
- Non-resident entry: $5 per person
- Children age 3 and under: Free
- Non-resident parking: $10 per vehicle
Check the official Wailua River State Park page before visiting because fees and hours can change.
⚠️ Safety
There is no official public trail to the base or top of the falls.
Visitors should:
- Stay inside the designated overlook
- Use the marked pedestrian crossing
- Never climb fences
- Avoid unofficial paths
- Follow all posted park rules
✅ Before You Go
Check current information before visiting: