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Wailua River and Waimea Canyon Tour

During this combination tour, cruise down the Wailua River on a scenic boat ride amidst a lush rainforest jungle and take a relaxing stroll to the Fern Grotto. You will journey to one of the world’s most inspiring geological wonders, the Waimea Canyon and be amazed at the expansive peaks, valleys, and deep gorges.


What to Expect

Kauai has many natural wonders and unique adventures to offer - experience must-see highlights on this immersive tour experience. From a scenic lookout point, peer across the valley at one of Kauai's largest waterfalls, Opaeka'a Falls which is named for the opae (shrimp) that once inhabited the turbulent water below.

Board a spacious, open-air boat and cruise down Kauai's Wailua River encircled by miles of lush trees and tropical plants. Cool breezes lull you as the captain shares stories of ancient Hawaii when the river was flanked by multiple Hawaiian heiau (temples). Stroll on a paved path to the fern grotto, where ferns drip from a natural lava rock cave. A popular backdrop for weddings, talent entertainers sing the Hawaiian Wedding Song in your honor.

A full-service, dine-in lunch is included at Puakea Grill. Select from a pre-fixe menu that incorporates fresh, local produce.

Next, journey through the heart of Kauai’s countryside where you’ll ascend a vast mountain via a meandering road engulfed by trees and endless fields to reveal what Mark Twain aptly described as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” It’s hard to believe that the immense cliffs and deep gorges of the Waimea Canyon could exist on an island – you’ll be mesmerized by its scenic beauty long after your vacation.

We then visit sprawling Kauai Coffee Plantation and learn the coffee production process, from the initial blossoming and harvesting to the final roasting. Sample the exclusive line of estate‐grown Hawaiian coffees while relaxing in the warm sun.


Tour Highlights:

  • Waimea Canyon – nicknamed “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, this epic natural wonder is over 10 miles long, 1 mile wide and more than 3,000 feet deep. The Waimea Canyon Lookout offers scenic views of the deep valley gorges with it’s striking red soil covered in greenery.
  • ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls – This 151-foot-tall, 40-foot-wide waterfall is the most accessible major waterfalls on Kauai. ʻŌpaekaʻa” means “rolling shrimp,” which were once abundant in the stream.
  • Spouting Horn Blowhole – crashing waves propel majestic jets of salt water through lava rock. One of the most photographed sites on Kauai.
  • Hanapepe Valley Lookout – panoramic views of a valley covered in trees and wild green sugarcane. Hanapepe was one of the locations visited by famous explored Charles Wilkes in 1840 on his United States Exploring Expedition.
  • Wailua River – narrated two-mile ride on an open-air boat down a meandering freshwater river.
  • Fern Grotto – at the end of the Wailua River, walk through a tropical rainforest to a rock cave dripping in ferns. Listen to the melodious, live performance of the Hawaiian wedding song as you enjoy the verdant surroundings.

Included

  • Wailua River Open Air Boat Cruise & Fern Grotto
  • Lunch at local, favorite restaurant
  • Round-Trip Transportation
  • Expert, Live Narration
  • Waimea Canyon

Duration

10 hours

Address

Transportation included from Poipu, Lihue, and Kapaa hotels and resorts.


Cancellation Policy

48 hours notice of cancellation prior to tour departure is required for full refund; no-shows will incur a full charge.