See the chutes of this glorious, accessible waterfall from the highway, before getting close to enjoy excellent picnic and photo opportunities.
Opaekaa Falls is a set of roaring cascades that fall past tropical cliff-side vegetation. The area is fairly easy to access, making it among the most popular sights on the island for vacationers. Gaze up at the awe-inspiring waterfall that tumbles into a secluded pool in the midst of lush, green vegetation.
Enjoy a picnic at one of the designated tables with a scenic backdrop of the waterfall, the name of which means “Rolling Shrimp,” in reference to the shrimp that once thrived in this stream. Snap photos of the picturesque falls on a sunny afternoon, when the water sparkles and rainbows form in the mist. From a distance, its chutes appear to sprout directly from the trees. See the falls after heavy rainfall, when the double cascade merges in the middle to become one.
Admire the sheer size of the falls; the water drops a distance of 151 feet (46 meters) with a span of 40 feet (12 meters). Due to its abundant water sources, it continues to flow year-round over the basalt rock formed by volcanoes millions of years ago.
Stop at the highway viewpoint for outstanding photo opportunities of the falls, with the Makeleha Mountains providing a scenic background. Enjoy the views of the Wailua River Valley and the sprawling green countryside that stretches beyond the horizon.
Opaekaa Falls is on the eastern side of the island of Kauai in northwestern Hawaii. Find the waterfall in the Wailua area, which is known for its stunning scenery. Explore the nearby Poliahu Park, Lydgate State Park and the Kalepa Mountain Forest Reserve. Leave your car in the parking lot beside the overlook near Kuamoo Road.