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Kauai Waterfalls It’s the abundance of waterfall that are partly the reason for Kauai being knwn as the Garden Island. Some of the more spectacular falls are easy to access, are the playgrounds of island residents and some even have a lengthy history of cultural significance and history. One thing is certain, no two of Kauai’s waterfalls are a like. Some are powerful and tall others are delicate and trickle but all are beautiful and unique.
Opaekaa Falls This delicate and broad waterfall is one of the easiest to find on Kauai. Located along the Coconut Coast, this waterfall does not require that you even leave the comfort of a car to enjoy. Located just off Kuhio Highway along Kuamoo Road in Wailua, the turn-off is well marked. The well marked lookout offers a large parking area, a generous vantage point and views not only of the waterfalls but of the ravine below. Many come to take that perfect family vacation photo, and some come to enjoy the beauty of such a gentle waterfall. The area surrounding Opaekaa was one a thriving village of ancient Hawaiians. Today, Religious temples, villages and burial sites are plentiful in an around the falls. Literally translated to mean rolling shrimp, it was a gathering spot for fresh water shrimp. Wailua Falls Located on the fringes of Lihue just a few minutes along Ma’alo Road. The turn off from Kuhio Highway is well marked. The two-lane road snakes through agricultural and pastureland and after a few turns end at the small parking lot at the top of the falls. The views from the road look across at the waterfall and down into the pool below. The Wailua River area is filled with legend and cultural significance, and Wailua Falls is no different. One legend tells of Pele tricking a river gatekeeper by throwing boulders across the top of the falls to allow free access to all. Other historical accounts say that the young and powerful alii or chiefs were known to dive off the falls to prove their royal worthiness. Rain from the mauka sections or interior of the island can have an immediate effect on the volume of water that passes over these falls. Flash flooding in the interior areas can result in a massive amount of water rushing downstream even on the sunniest of days. It is recommended that viewing be limited to the overlook. Kipu Falls One of the more overlooked falls on the island, this is not one that is tall, majestic, breath taking or jaw dropping. It is smaller and shorter than most, but it is a favorite because of the oversized fresh water pond. The waterfall is easily accessible by turning off Kaumuallii Highway onto Kipu Road and left on the dirt road before the bridge. Park near the gate and walk in along the dirt road. The falls are a popular spot for local kids that gather on the summer weekends in droves and families who bring children to cool off in the icy waters. The waterfalls are made up of a tall rocky outcrop where water from the Huleia River makes a journey toward Nawiliwili Harbor. Portions of the river were seen in the Raiders of the Lost Ark movies. Kipu Falls is not without its cautions. Stormy conditions bring agricultural run-off that sends large amounts of bacteria into the water. Therefore, people who have open cuts or blisters should not be swimming and never drink the river water. * * * * *
Na Pali Explorer Ocean Rafting
Na Pali Coast Tour & Niihau
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