Kamokila Hawaiian Vllage
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Kamokila Hawaiian Village

4.3
·441 reviews·Kapaʻa, United States

Experience traditional Hawaii with kayak rentals to Secret Falls and a cultural village tour on the scenic Wailua River.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Beat the crowds for kayaks

CrowdLow
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Kamokila Hawaiian Vllage

Kamokila Hawaiian Village

Best Time

Early morning

Beat the crowds for kayaks

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience traditional Hawaii with kayak rentals to Secret Falls and a cultural village tour on the scenic Wailua River.

4.3
(441 reviews)

"This kayak trip and hike to the Secret Falls was one of our most memorable days on the island."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Kayaks

Rent kayaks from Kamokila Hawaiian Village before 8 AM to secure one. They go fast!

👟 Wear Water Shoes

Essential for the muddy hike to Secret Falls. Tennis shoes also work.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Secret Falls Hike

Secret Falls Hike

From Kamokila Hawaiian Village

A rewarding, albeit muddy, hike to a stunning waterfall. Perfect for adventurers seeking a natural wonder.

Wailua River Kayaking

Wailua River Kayaking

Wailua River

Paddle along the scenic Wailua River, exploring its beauty and accessing hidden gems like Secret Falls.

Kamokila Hawaiian Village

Kamokila Hawaiian Village

Village grounds

Experience a re-created traditional Hawaiian village, offering cultural insights and a unique atmosphere.

Fern Grotto

Fern Grotto

Wailua River

A lush, verdant grotto accessible by boat or kayak, showcasing the island's natural beauty.

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Planning Your Visit

Kayak Early for Secret Falls

Rent kayaks from Kamokila Hawaiian Village for the best access to Secret Falls. Arrive before 8 AM, as canoes are often gone by 10 AM. Bring water, swimsuits, and water shoes for the muddy hike.

Village Exploration & Falls Hike

Kamokila Hawaiian Village offers a self-guided tour for a small fee, providing a glimpse into traditional Hawaiian life. Combine this with a hike to Secret Falls for a full day of adventure.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Beat the crowds for kayaks
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer visitors
Crowd
Medium
When
After rain
Why
Fuller falls, but muddy trails
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Going to Kauai, Hawaii? Check this place out! Kamokila Hawaiian Village Price: $40 for a double kayak At the Fern Grotto landing, you’ll enjoy a short nature walk through the rainforest to the lush Fern Grotto. They also have boat tours that will take you along the Wailua River.
wildtravelingsoul
208 likes • 2.9K views

🎯 Arrive Early for Kayaks

Rent kayaks from Kamokila Hawaiian Village before 8 AM to secure one. They go fast! Reddit

👟 Wear Water Shoes

Essential for the muddy hike to Secret Falls. Tennis shoes also work. Reddit

Connecting with my inner self 💚 📍 Kamokila Hawaiian village , Kauai (Fern Grotto) . . . . . #instablogger #travelbloggers #kauaihawaiitravel #travelblogging #indianblogger #fashionblogger #indianfashionblogger #traveling #picoftheday #bayareatravelblog #wanderlust #californiatravelblogger #bayareatravelblogger #featureme #collab #hawaiitravelblog #instastyle #lovefornature #styleblogger #bayare...
thestylelagoon
628 likes • 6.9K views
#kamokilahawaiianvillage #secretfallskauai #funtimesinwater #summerfunwithfamilyandfriends #canoeingadventures #wailuāriver #riverwading #watersports #wethairdontcare #hairinabunday #dheevara_prasara_shourya_bhara_uthsara_sthira_ghambheera
sarada79
18 likes • 1K views

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated, especially during the hike to Secret Falls. Reddit

🛶 Kayak Rental Value

Kamokila offers great value and access to the river, saving you paddling distance. Reddit

The not-so-secret Secret Falls because everyone knows about it and now you do too. To get there: 🛶Kayak 🏞️Cross a river 🥾Hike 🧗🏾Go over a small mound with a rope We used the Kamokila Hawaiian Village to rent our kayaks. ⚠️You get no guide. 🛟🛟They pretty much give you a life jacket, explain the route to you and then tell you don’t kayak towards the ocean.🚣‍♀️ 👭There were enough people head...
fullyliveandtravel
43 likes • 252 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Kayaks

Rent kayaks from Kamokila Hawaiian Village before 8 AM to secure one. They go fast! Reddit

👟 Wear Water Shoes

Essential for the muddy hike to Secret Falls. Tennis shoes also work. Reddit

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated, especially during the hike to Secret Falls. Reddit

🛶 Kayak Rental Value

Kamokila offers great value and access to the river, saving you paddling distance. Reddit

🌿 Village Entry Fee

A small fee grants access to explore the traditional Hawaiian village. Reddit

🥽 Life Jackets Provided

Life jackets are included with kayak rentals for your safety. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.3
(441 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the unforgettable kayak trip and hike to Secret Falls, calling it a 'must do' despite the mud. The value of kayak rentals from Kamokila is frequently highlighted. While the village itself is described as 'cute' and 'educational,' some find it a bit 'touristy.'

"This kayak trip and hike to the Secret Falls was one of our most memorable days on the island this year. A definite must do if your not afraid of a little (a lot) of mud. The 125 foot falls at the end of the trail are well worth the mud. The waters warm... come on in! ;)"

Cynthia LeBaron

"Very unique experience. I think it cost like five bucks each to do the self guided tour of the village. Would recommend to anyone maybe looking for a break from the more active adventures."

Daina Adams

"I really enjoyed kayaking the river it's a good full day trip. you can rent kayaks at the village, and explore the river, or just relax, and explore the village... there are many different types of activities in this area. there is a waterfall Wailua falls just before the village equipped with bathrooms, and great views of the waterfall, and the Wailua river there is a way to hike to the bottom of the river as well. if you decide to go kayaking you can hike into another water fall secret falls. it's a little over a mile hike from the river on a muddy trail, but worth the hike. there is also a beautiful fern grotto path you can hike on just down the river a bit. if you are handicapped or just don't want to kayak in there is a large boat that takes you directly up the river to the fern grottoes concrete pathway................."

J D

What People Like

Secret Falls hike
Wailua River kayaking
Kayak rental value

What People Dislike

Muddy trails
Village feels fabricated

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kamokila Hawaiian Village is located on the Wailua River. You can drive directly to the village to rent kayaks or explore the grounds. It's a popular starting point for kayaking adventures on the Wailua River. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available at the village. It's recommended to arrive early, especially if you plan to rent a kayak, as the lot can fill up quickly. Reddit

Yes, large boat tours are available that take you directly up the Wailua River to the Fern Grotto, offering an alternative to kayaking. Reddit

The most direct access to Secret Falls is by renting a kayak from Kamokila Hawaiian Village and then hiking approximately 1 mile on a muddy trail. Reddit

Yes, Wailua Falls is located just before the village and offers great views and bathrooms. You can also hike to the bottom of Wailua Falls. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is a small entrance fee, around $5 per person, to explore the self-guided tour of the Hawaiian village itself. Kayak rentals are separate. Reddit

Kayak rental prices can vary, but a double kayak typically costs around $40-$75 for the day. It's best to confirm current pricing upon arrival. TikTokReddit

While specific hours can vary, it's crucial to arrive early, especially for kayak rentals, as they often run out by late morning. The village is generally accessible during daylight hours. Reddit

It is highly recommended to arrive very early in the morning, as kayak rentals are on a first-come, first-served basis and can be completely gone by 10 AM. Booking in advance is not typically an option. Reddit

Yes, you can visit the Fern Grotto via boat tours that depart up the Wailua River. This is a good option if you prefer not to kayak or hike. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can rent kayaks to explore the Wailua River, hike to Secret Falls, take a self-guided tour of the traditional Hawaiian village, and relax by the river. Reddit

The hike is about 1 mile and can be very muddy, especially after rain. It takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour on the way in and less on the way back. Wear appropriate footwear. Reddit

While you can no longer go inside the grotto itself due to storm damage, the Fern Grotto area is still an impressive and beautiful sight accessible by boat or kayak. Reddit

Bring plenty of water, a swimsuit, water shoes or sturdy sneakers, a towel, and consider packing a lunch to enjoy by the falls. Reddit

Yes, families can enjoy kayaking, exploring the village, and the relatively easy hike to Secret Falls. The swimming hole is also a fun spot for kids. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no significant food vendors directly at Kamokila Hawaiian Village. It's recommended to pack your own lunch and snacks, especially if you plan to spend the day kayaking or hiking. Reddit

You'll find various dining options in nearby Kapa'a or Lihue. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy by the falls or on the river. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended, as there are limited facilities for purchasing them at the village or along the trail. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the lush scenery of the Wailua River, the traditional village structures, the cascading Secret Falls, and the vibrant greenery of the Fern Grotto. Instagram

It can be challenging to take photos while actively kayaking. Consider using a waterproof phone case or a GoPro attached to your kayak for action shots. TikTok

Early morning light can be beautiful for capturing the mist around Secret Falls and the serene river. Midday sun can be harsh, but offers good visibility. Instagram

Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in natural park areas before flying. TikTok

A waterproof camera or phone case is highly recommended due to the potential for getting wet. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive river and waterfall views. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kamokila Hawaiian Village is a great destination for families. The kayaking on the Wailua River is an adventure that kids often love, and the hike to Secret Falls, while muddy, is manageable for most children and rewarding with the waterfall payoff. Instagram The swimming hole near the falls is also a hit. The self-guided tour of the Hawaiian village offers a bit of educational fun, making it a well-rounded family outing. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and ensure everyone has appropriate footwear for the muddy trails. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Kamokila Hawaiian Village offers good value. The entrance fee for the village is minimal (around $5), providing an affordable cultural experience. Reddit While kayak rentals have a cost (around $40-$75), they offer a full day of exploration, making it a cost-effective way to see the Wailua River and access Secret Falls compared to guided tours. Packing your own lunch and water is key to keeping costs down. Reddit

💑 Couples

Couples looking for a romantic and adventurous day trip will find Kamokila Hawaiian Village ideal. Kayaking together up the scenic Wailua River offers a shared experience, followed by a muddy but rewarding hike to the secluded Secret Falls. Instagram The natural beauty of the Fern Grotto and the tranquility of the river create a perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy by the falls for an extra special touch. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Kayaking the Wailua River to Secret Falls

Kamokila Hawaiian Village is the premier spot for renting kayaks to access the Wailua River and its famous Secret Falls. Renting here means you start much closer to the falls, significantly reducing your paddling time compared to rentals further downstream. The rental process is straightforward: you'll receive a life jacket and a briefing on the route. The river itself is generally calm and scenic, offering beautiful views of the surrounding tropical foliage. TikTokReddit

Once you reach the landing point for Secret Falls, you'll embark on a hike. Be prepared for a muddy trail, especially after rain. The hike is about a mile long and takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour. Despite the mud, the destination is well worth the effort. The waterfall is spectacular, and there's often a refreshing swimming hole at its base. Remember to bring water shoes or sturdy sneakers, as the trail can be slippery. Reddit

Key Takeaways for Kayaking:
* Arrive Early: Kayaks are in high demand; aim to be there before 8 AM. Reddit
* Pack Smart: Water, snacks, swimsuit, water shoes, and a towel are essential. Reddit
* Enjoy the Journey: The river paddle is as much a part of the experience as the hike to the falls.

Exploring the Kamokila Hawaiian Village

Kamokila Hawaiian Village offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience a re-creation of a traditional Hawaiian settlement. For a small entrance fee, visitors can wander through the village, gaining insight into the architecture, lifestyle, and customs of ancient Hawaiians. While some visitors note it can feel a bit 'touristy' or 'fabricated,' it still provides an educational and visually interesting experience. Reddit+1

The village features various structures that would have been common in a traditional Hawaiian community, such as hale (houses), imu (underground ovens), and other functional buildings. It's a chance to appreciate the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the early Hawaiian people. The grounds are often adorned with tropical plants and flowers, adding to the ambiance. Instagram

Tips for Visiting the Village:
* Combine with Kayaking: Many visitors explore the village before or after their kayak adventure. Reddit
* Allow 30-60 Minutes: This is generally enough time to appreciate the exhibits and learn about the history. Reddit
* Look for Educational Signage: The village often has informative signs explaining the purpose of different structures.

The Fern Grotto Experience

The Fern Grotto is a natural wonder located along the Wailua River, accessible by kayak or boat tour. This lush, verdant cavern is characterized by its abundant ferns and the gentle sound of dripping water. While you can no longer enter the grotto itself due to past storm damage, the area remains a breathtaking sight and a testament to Kauai's rich biodiversity. Reddit

Boat tours offer a convenient way to reach the Fern Grotto, especially for those who prefer not to kayak or hike. These tours typically include narration about the area's history and natural significance. Kayakers can also paddle up the river to admire the grotto from the water. The sheer volume of green foliage and the unique atmosphere make it a memorable stop on any Wailua River excursion. Reddit

Fern Grotto Highlights:
* Stunning Natural Beauty: A vibrant display of ferns and tropical plant life. Instagram
* Accessible by Boat or Kayak: Offers options for different visitor preferences. Reddit
* Historical Significance: A place steeped in Hawaiian lore and natural wonder.