Guided Hike, Waterfall Swim

Kauai: Guided Hike and Waterfall Swim runs through True Blue Inc. dba Kauai Beach Boys. Rated 4.8 across 79 reviews. Runs 2 hours. From $93.19.

Overview

Two waterfalls on a private estate in the Lihue region are the whole point of this outing, run by True Blue Inc. dba Kauai Beach Boys. A local guide leads a short quarter-mile walk, one way, to Bamboo Falls, a 30-foot cascade that the listing pitches as the photo stop of the trip. From there the route continues to Papakolea Falls, which drops 60 feet and is the one you can actually get into.

The swim is the headline. Guests can swim in the pool and climb behind the falling water, which several reviewers described as the highlight, particularly for children and teenagers. One family with kids aged 16, 13 and 7 called the hike short and ideal for kids, while another reviewer with two teenage daughters said they loved it. The whole experience runs about two hours, and the scenery along the way takes in the Huleia National Wildlife Refuge and the Haupu Mountain range.

It suits reasonably active travellers who want a waterfall they can swim in, something reviewers note is rare on Kauai. Guides cover the local plants, history and wildlife during the walk. You meet at a point in Lihue, since hotel pickup is not part of the package, and walking sticks are provided.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet in LihueMake your own way to the meeting point in the Lihue area. Hotel pickup is not included.
2. Enter the private estateThe guide leads the group onto a privately owned estate with access to two waterfalls, with views toward the Huleia National Wildlife Refuge and the Haupu Mountain range.
3. Hike to Bamboo FallsA short quarter-mile walk, one way, brings you to Bamboo Falls, a 30-foot cascade and a good photo spot.
4. Continue to Papakolea FallsThe route continues to the 60-foot Papakolea Falls, the main swimming stop.
5. Swim and climbThere is time to swim in the pool and climb behind the waterfall.
6. Return to the startThe hike finishes back at the starting point, with the full outing lasting about two hours.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points shape how this tour goes, from footwear to the physical demands of the trail.

• Footwear matters. One reviewer called the hike steep and said it requires a good amount of physical activity, recommending hiking shoes and water shoes. Both types are worth packing since you walk a trail and then get in the water.
• Short but active. The walk itself is only a quarter mile each way, and the full outing lasts about two hours. Several reviewers found the length just right, with one noting the 90-minute version was enough to enjoy both waterfalls.
• Family friendly. A family with children aged 16, 13 and 7 said the tour was ideal for kids, and another reviewer's two teenage daughters loved it. Reviewers also mention guides who were patient with both young and old participants.
• Bring a camera. The listing specifically flags Bamboo Falls as a photo opportunity and tells guests not to forget their camera. The Haupu Mountain range and the refuge scenery give you more to shoot on the way.
• Knowledgeable guides. Reviewers repeatedly praise the guides' knowledge of the area, its vegetation and its wildlife. Expect commentary on plants and local history as you walk, with guides who answer questions along the way.
• Getting there. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport to the meeting point in Lihue. Gratuities for the guide are also not covered in the tour price.

Common issues. The trail is not for everyone. One reviewer described the hike as steep and physically demanding, so travellers with mobility limits or very young children should think carefully before booking. Hotel pickup and gratuities are not included. One reviewer also felt the price was high, though they considered it worth it given how few Kauai waterfalls are actually swimmable.

Which Tour Matches Your Plans