Beaches Near Wailua Falls

About Wailua Falls

Wailua Falls is an 80-foot twin waterfall on the south fork of the Wailua River, famous from the opening credits of Fantasy Island. It is one of Kauaʻi's most accessible waterfalls — you can see it from a roadside lookout at the end of Maalo Road without any hiking. The area is inland and upland from the east shore.

After visiting the falls, the closest beaches are downhill along the coast near Wailua and Kapaʻa. The drive back to the coast takes about 10 minutes, putting you within easy reach of some of Kauaʻi's most family-friendly swim spots. Many visitors combine a morning trip to the falls with an afternoon at Lydgate Beach — they pair naturally and are along the same route.

From the Wailua Falls lookout, drive back down Maalo Road to Kuhio Highway (Hwy 56). Turn left (south) for Lydgate Beach, or right (north) for Kealia Beach and Anahola. For Poipu Beach, head south through Lihuʻe and take the Poipu Road turnoff — allow about 35 minutes total.

Best for families: Lydgate Beach (calm pools, playground). Best quick stop: Kealia Beach (15 min, scenic). Best all-day beach: Poipu Beach (south shore, sunny). Best for solitude: Anahola Beach.

After heavy rain, bacteria levels spike at beaches near streams and river mouths. If a brown water advisory is active near Wailua Falls, Kauaʻi:

• Wait 72 hours after rain stops before entering the water
• Avoid brown or murky water regardless of whether an advisory is posted
• Best rain-resistant option: Poipu Beach (South) — generally clearer after rain due to geography
• Check the Kauaʻi live advisories page for current conditions