100Ft Secret Falls on Kauai Island in Hawaii: Rare Opportunity in the Middle of a 100-foot Waterfall

Key Takeaways

• The Secret Falls (Uluwehi Falls) on Kauai is a stunning 100-foot waterfall accessible only by kayak and hiking trail
• The experience combines kayaking up the Wailua River with a moderately challenging jungle hike
• This video captures the falls during a rare opportunity in the middle of a rainstorm, when the water flow was dramatically increased
• The trail can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain, requiring appropriate footwear and caution
• The remote location and physical effort required make reaching the falls a rewarding adventure

Getting to Secret Falls

Uluwehi Falls, commonly known as Secret Falls, is located in the interior of Kauai along the Wailua River. Unlike most Hawaiian waterfalls that can be viewed from a road or a short walk, reaching Secret Falls requires a two-part journey: kayaking approximately two miles up the Wailua River, then hiking about a mile through tropical jungle to the falls.

This combination of water and land travel is part of what makes the experience special. The kayak portion takes you through a lush river valley surrounded by tropical vegetation, and the hike through the jungle passes through terrain that feels genuinely remote despite being on a populated island.

The Kayak Journey

The Wailua River is Hawaii’s only navigable river, and kayaking up it is a peaceful experience. The current is gentle, making the upstream paddle manageable even for novice kayakers. Tour operators at the river mouth rent kayaks and provide basic instruction. Most paddlers reach the hiking trail landing in about 45 minutes to an hour.

The river itself is beautiful, flowing through a valley flanked by steep green ridges. Along the way, you may see native Hawaiian waterbirds, tropical fish, and the occasional monk seal resting on the riverbanks.

The Jungle Hike

From the kayak landing, the trail winds approximately one mile through dense tropical forest to the falls. The trail is well-established but not paved, and conditions vary significantly based on recent rainfall. After rain, the trail becomes extremely muddy and slippery in sections, with stream crossings that may require wading. Proper footwear is essential — hiking sandals with good grip or waterproof hiking shoes are ideal. Flip-flops are a recipe for twisted ankles and muddy falls.

The jungle environment along the trail is spectacular in itself. Towering tropical trees form a canopy overhead, ferns and tropical plants line the path, and the sounds of birds and flowing water create a natural soundtrack.

The Falls in a Rainstorm

This video captures a rare and dramatic view of Secret Falls during heavy rainfall. Under normal conditions, the falls are a beautiful single-stream cascade dropping about 100 feet into a pool suitable for swimming. During a rainstorm, the water volume increases dramatically, transforming the falls into a thundering curtain of white water with spray reaching far beyond the normal splash zone.

The rainstorm conditions made the hike more challenging and the falls more impressive, creating a once-in-a-lifetime viewing opportunity. The increased water flow also made the swimming pool at the base too turbulent for safe swimming, demonstrating why checking conditions before your visit is important.

Practical Tips

Book your kayak rental in advance during peak season. Start early in the morning to avoid crowds and afternoon heat. Bring water, snacks, and a waterproof bag for electronics. Expect to get wet and muddy on the trail. Allow 4-5 hours for the complete round trip. Check weather conditions — moderate rain enhances the experience, but severe weather creates dangerous trail conditions.

For more Kauai adventures, see Wailua River kayak and mud hike and preparing for a Hawaii trip.