Opaeka’a Falls

Explore Opaeka’a Falls, a captivating 151-foot waterfall in Kapaa, Kauai, offering scenic views, photo opportunities, and nearby hiking trails in the historic Wailua River Valley.

Opaeka'a Falls is a Waterfall located in the city of Kapaa on Kauai, Hawaii
Home ยป Explore ยป Opaeka’a Falls

Waterfall Gallery


Things to Know About Opaeka’a Falls


  • Overview: Opaeka’a Falls is a stunning 151-foot waterfall located in the lush Wailua River Valley of Kapaa on Kauai, Hawaii. This breathtaking natural wonder is a must-see for anyone visiting the Garden Island.
  • Highlights: The main highlight of Opaeka’a Falls is its impressive height and year-round flow, making it one of the most accessible and consistently beautiful waterfalls on Kauai.
  • Activities: Visitors to Opaeka’a Falls can enjoy a scenic viewpoint with ample photo opportunities, as well as nearby hiking trails that lead to other waterfalls and cultural sites in the Wailua River Valley.
  • Information: Opaeka’a Falls is open to the public year-round with no entrance fees. The best time to visit is in the morning when the sun illuminates the waterfall, and during the rainy season (November to March) when the falls are at their fullest.
  • History & Significance: Opaeka’a Falls is part of the historically significant Wailua River Valley, which was once the home of Kauai’s ancient royalty. The name “Opaeka’a” means “rolling shrimp” in Hawaiian, as the native freshwater shrimp were once abundant in the stream below the falls.
  • Tips & Insights: To make the most of your visit to Opaeka’a Falls, consider stopping at the nearby Wailua River State Park to explore more of the valley’s cultural and natural attractions. Also, be mindful of the slippery terrain around the viewpoint, and always stay behind safety barriers for your own protection.

Getting to the Waterfall


Share:

Join Hawaiians.

Get discounts, trips ideas, exciting news, and much more. Delivered right to your inbox, for free.

Discover More Kauai Waterfalls

Marvel at Kauaiโ€™s waterfalls: majestic Wailua Falls, scenic Opaekaa Falls, and secluded Hanakapiai Falls.



Discover More of Kauai

Savor Kauai’s golden sands, Wailua Falls’ allure, Waimea Canyon’s grandeur, unwind in exquisite resorts, and more.



Explore the Islands of Hawaii

Discover your perfect escape – from Oahu’s lively cities, Maui’s picturesque shores, Kauai’s verdant landscapes, to Big Island’s volcanoes.



Join Hawaiians.

Get discounts, trips ideas, exciting news, and much more. Delivered right to your inbox, for free.