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.

The listed beaches are downhill along the coast near Wailua and Kapaʻa, about a 10-minute drive back from the falls. Lydgate Beach is along that route and has family facilities, but check its current DOH status above and posted signs before water entry.

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.

For family facilities: Lydgate Beach (pools, playground). For a scenic stop: Kealia Beach (15 min). For South Shore amenities: Poipu Beach. For a quieter setting: Anahola Beach. These planning differences do not override current advisories above.

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
• Check each named location: Poipu Beach is on the South Shore, but geography does not clear a current DOH advisory or visible runoff.
• Check the Kauaʻi live advisories page for current conditions