Kauai · KAUAI WATERFALL HIKES & SWIMS
6 reviewed
Kauai is the wettest place many travellers will ever stand, and the waterfalls are the payoff. Here are the best waterfall hikes and swims ranked — short walks to a swimmable pool versus longer treks, guided safety versus go-it-alone, which turn to mud after rain — each with distance, difficulty and price.
A small-group helicopter safari over Kauai’s Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and waterfalls—learn from your pilot, grab great photos, and save time.
“The ride was super amazing so glad we did it. We wished our pilot would have narrated a bit more, but overall I recommend this ride.”
Experience Kauai from above on a 1-hour waterfall safari helicopter tour from Lihue, with Na Pali, Waimea Canyon, Jurassic Falls, and more.
“Great had a blast and the single best thing we did during our 15 days in Hawaii.”
A small-group Kauai tour packing Wailua legends, waterfalls, and Spouting Horn into one 6-hour loop, with comfy transport and stops for photos.
“This was a great way to learn the history of the Island. Coco Maria was the coolest guide for our trip. I even got to celebrate my birthday with a free Lava Cake with our new friends😀”
Private Kauai jungle waterfall adventure with Charlie the Hawaiian Dundee: safe rappelling, secluded swims, and wild fruit tastings for up to 4.
“Charlie is a great guide and person! We loved experiencing Kauai in its most natural state and through a local’s point of view. Swimming and jumping off the waterfall were definitely highlights. We also enjoyed getting a taste of repelling and ascending. Charlie, your love of and care for animals is unparalleled. Wishing the best for you and all the ones you care for! (Worth noting—if mosquitos love you (and they love me), wear long sleeves and pants and heavy duty repellant while on the tour. You will also want to reapply it while on the tour.)”
Kauai guided hike to Bamboo Falls and Papakolea Falls with private access, jungle views, and a swim behind the waterfall.
“Exactly what I was looking for! Our guide Mitchell was great! And swimming in the waterfall was glorious! One of the best things we did on the island!”
Small-group private waterfall hike near Lihue on Kauai. See Bamboo and swim at Papakolea Falls. Short hike, real payoff, 18 max.
“The hike was manageable (distance and terrain) even in water shoes, but maybe actual hiking shoes would’ve been better. The fist waterfall was shallow enough to get a picture in even if you didn’t want to take a full dip. The 2nd waterfall you had to commit to being fully immersed/swimming. Our tour guide was great, he offered to take pictures for all the different families and made sure everyone stayed together along the way.”
