Nature & Scenic Attractions
Kaua‘i’s Eastside is home to some of the island’s most breathtaking natural wonders. From the cascading beauty of Opaeka‘a Falls to the serene waters of Wailua River, this region offers endless opportunities to explore and connect with nature. Whether you’re paddling through lush jungle waterways, hiking scenic trails, or marveling at panoramic coastal vistas, the Eastside’s diverse landscapes showcase Kaua‘i’s untamed beauty at every turn.
Wailua River
The Wailua River winds through lush tropical landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and sites rich in Hawaiian history. Flowing for about 20 miles from Mount Wai‘ale‘ale—the second wettest place on Earth—the river provides an unforgettable mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re paddling through its calm waters, taking a guided boat tour, or exploring the ancient temples along its banks, the Wailua River is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the heart of Kaua‘i.
A Journey Through Nature and History
The Wailua River has long been considered sacred in Hawaiian culture. It was once home to the island’s royalty, who built important heiau (temples) and places of worship along its shores. Today, visitors can explore remnants of this history, including the Poli‘ahu Heiau, a revered structure that overlooks the river and offers breathtaking views.
The river’s path takes travelers through a landscape of lush greenery, towering cliffs, and hidden waterfalls. One of the highlights of the journey is ‘Opaeka‘a Falls, a picturesque waterfall easily accessible from a scenic lookout. Further upstream, the river branches off to Secret Falls (Uluwehi Falls), a stunning 100-foot waterfall reached by a short hike after a kayak trip.
How to Experience the Wailua River
There are several ways to explore the Wailua River, depending on how adventurous you feel:
- Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding – Rent a kayak or paddleboard and journey up the river at your own pace, stopping at secret swimming spots and waterfalls along the way.
- Smith’s Fern Grotto Boat Tour – This relaxing guided tour takes visitors upriver to the Fern Grotto, a beautiful lava-rock cavern covered in lush ferns, where Hawaiian musicians perform traditional songs.
- Hiking to Secret Falls – After kayaking about two miles upriver, a short but muddy trail leads to the stunning Secret Falls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the cool water.
- Exploring the Heiau – Visit the historic Poli‘ahu Heiau and other sacred sites to gain insight into Kaua‘i’s ancient past.
- Kapaa (19.2 miles from Poipu)
Smith’s Botanical Gardens
Nestled along the lush Coconut Coast within Wailua Marina State Park, Smith’s Tropical Paradise is a breathtaking 30-acre botanical and cultural garden offering a serene escape into Kauai’s natural beauty. While known for hosting the renowned Smith’s Luau and the only boat tour to the hidden Fern Grotto, this privately owned garden is a destination in its own right, inviting visitors to explore its vibrant landscapes and peaceful pathways.
Step away from the crowds and immerse yourself in a mile-long stroll through tropical foliage, bamboo groves, and fruit orchards bursting with breadfruit, starfruit, and macadamia nuts. Along the way, you’ll encounter colorful peacocks and native birds, Polynesian and Filipino hut replicas that offer a glimpse into the island’s cultural history, and a beautifully manicured Japanese garden, a popular site for intimate weddings. Whether you’re looking for a quiet picnic spot, a scenic walk, or a photography haven, Smith’s Botanical Gardens provides a tranquil retreat from the island’s more bustling attractions.
If you’re planning a visit to the Smith Family Garden Luau or embarking on a Fern Grotto boat tour, consider arriving early to explore this hidden gem. Once you set foot in this tropical paradise, you might find yourself lingering a little longer—because, after all, this is Kauai, and every moment is meant to be savored.Location:
Kapaa (19.2 miles from Poipu)
Phone: 808-821-6895
Sleeping Giant Trail
Rising above the lush Wailua Valley, the Sleeping Giant Trail (Nounou Mountain Trail) is one of Kauai’s most popular and rewarding hikes. Offering panoramic views of the island’s east coast, this moderately challenging trek takes you through scenic forests, switchbacks, and open ridgelines before reaching a summit with breathtaking 360-degree vistas.
Why Is It Called the Sleeping Giant?
Legend has it that the mountain’s silhouette resembles a giant lying on his back. According to Hawaiian mythology, a once-hungry giant feasted at a luau, became too full, and fell into an eternal slumber, forming the ridgeline visible from the coast.
Trail Options & What to Expect
There are three access points to the Sleeping Giant Trail, each offering a different experience:
- East Trailhead (2 miles one way) – The most popular route, starting from Haleilio Road in Wailua, this trail winds through ironwood forests and provides steady elevation gains before reaching the ridge.
- West Trailhead (1.5 miles one way) – A shorter, steeper ascent from the Wailua House Lots neighborhood, ideal for those looking for a quicker but more strenuous climb.
- Kuamo‘o Trail (3.5 miles one way) – The longest route, offering a more secluded trek through lush jungle terrain before meeting the main ridge trail.
No matter which route you take, the final stretch to the summit is worth every step. At the top, you’ll find a natural rocky outcrop with stunning views of Wailua, Kapa‘a, and the Pacific Ocean. On a clear day, you can even glimpse Mount Wai‘ale‘ale, one of the wettest places on Earth!
Tips for Hiking the Sleeping Giant
✅ Go early – The trail can get hot and crowded by midday.
✅ Bring water – There is no shade near the summit, so staying hydrated is essential.
✅ Wear sturdy shoes – Parts of the trail can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain.
✅ Respect the trail – Stay on marked paths and avoid climbing further onto the giant’s “face,” as the cliffs are unstable.
Why You Should Hike It
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a rewarding outdoor adventure, the Sleeping Giant Trail offers an unforgettable mix of local legend, lush scenery, and stunning views. It’s an excellent way to experience Kauai’s rugged beauty while getting a great workout in the process.
📍 Location: Wailua (15 miles from Poipu)
⏳ Duration: 2-4 hours round trip (depending on route)
🥾 Difficulty: ModerateLocation: Lihue (13.4 miles from Poipu)
Opaeka’a Falls
This 151-foot waterfall is one of the island`s most accessible major waterfalls since it can be viewed from the road. At mile marker 6, Route 580 heads inland for three miles (5 km). Route 580 is called Kuamoʻo Road at this point, and it is 1.5 miles (2.4 km) to the Opaekaa Falls parking lot and overlook (on the right-hand side). Route 580 goes through a notch in the ridge that the Wailua River has eroded.
The waterfall is located on the Opaekaa Stream in Wailua River State Park. Opaekaa means “rolling shrimp,” opae means shrimp, and kaa means rolling, which were once abundant in the stream. Walk uphill from the Opaekaa lookout and across the road for another great view of the Wailua River valley and the interior plains beyond. From this vantage point, you can get a good look at where Raiders of the Lost Ark was filmed, along with Jurassic Park and Outbreak. If you look to the right, you can also get a good look at Kamokila Hawaiian Village.
The falls flow year-round. Most of the time, it falls in a double cascade but the two sides may become one after a heavy rain. The falls are at their best in full sunlight (late morning usually).
Note: You may hear about a “hidden” trail to the falls that begins beyond the overlook, right around the two-mile marker past the guardrail. There are no state-maintained trails to either the top or the bottom of the waterfall from the Kuamoo Road overlook.
Location: Kapaa (20.8 miles from Poipu)
Lydgate Beach Park
Located on Kauai’s scenic Coconut Coast, Lydgate Beach Park is one of the most family-friendly and versatile beach destinations on the island. With its calm, protected swimming areas, golden sands, and shaded picnic spots, it’s the perfect place for visitors of all ages to enjoy a relaxing beach day.
Why Lydgate Beach Park Stands Out
Lydgate Beach Park is unique because of its two man-made ocean pools, created by a rock barrier that shelters swimmers from strong waves. These pools provide a safe and calm environment, ideal for young children and beginner snorkelers. The inner pool is shallow and great for wading, while the larger outer pool allows for gentle swimming and snorkeling.
Things to Do at Lydgate Beach Park
🌊 Snorkeling & Swimming – Thanks to the protected pools, the water is typically calm and clear, making it a great place to spot colorful reef fish. Even on days when the surf is rough elsewhere, these pools remain safe for swimming.
🏖️ Beachcombing & Relaxing – The long stretch of golden sand is perfect for walking, sunbathing, or enjoying a scenic picnic under the shade of ironwood trees.
🛝 Kamalani Playground & Bridge – One of the park’s highlights is the Kamalani Playground, a massive wooden structure with slides, swings, and climbing areas—an exciting stop for families with young children. Just a short walk away, the Kamalani Kai Bridge offers a scenic viewpoint and a place to take beautiful photos.
🎣 Fishing & Walking Paths – The beach is a popular spot for shore fishing, and the adjacent Ke Ala Hele Makalae coastal path allows visitors to walk, jog, or bike along a breathtaking oceanfront trail.
🛶 Wailua River Access – The park is close to the Wailua River, where you can embark on a kayaking or paddleboarding adventure to the famous Fern Grotto and Secret Falls.
What to Know Before You Go
✅ Lifeguards on Duty – Lydgate Beach Park has a lifeguard station, offering additional peace of mind for families and swimmers.
✅ Facilities – The park includes restrooms, showers, picnic tables, BBQ areas, and plenty of parking.
✅ Best Time to Visit – Mornings are usually the calmest for swimming and snorkeling, while the afternoons are great for picnics and beach games.
✅ Watch for Driftwood – Due to its location, the beach sometimes accumulates driftwood, especially after storms, but county crews regularly maintain the area.
📍 Location: Wailua (19 miles from Poipu)
⏳ Best For: Families, swimming, snorkeling, picnics, beach walks
🏊 Lifeguard on Duty: Yes