When nothing else will do but an East Side Kauai adventure of a lifetime, look to Rainbow Kayak Tours for all you need. On their six-hour trip, you’ll get to explore the Wailua River, Kamokila fishing village, and Secret Falls, just to name a few things. Throughout your explorations, you’ll kayak, hike, and swim to your heart’s content, ending up plenty tired out by the end. To add to the experience, your expert guide will share interesting facts about the island’s history, culture, and so much more.
Since they only offer their guided river tours on the weekdays, you need to book your spot as soon as possible, especially during the tourist season. It’s not uncommon to see their tour booked out a month or more at any given time. Fortunately, they let you reserve your spot well in advance through the online system on their website. If you need to make changes later on, you just have to give them at least 24 hours’ notice to get a full refund.
As your selected tour date draws near, get all your gear ready to go. The tour company provides kayaks and paddles, personal flotation devices, dry bags, and backpacks if needed. They even provide a picnic lunch, so you can get energized for the trip back. You’ll need to choose either vegetarian, turkey, or ham fixings for your sandwich. They’ll provide water with lunch as well.
You’ll need to prepare by putting your swimwear under light layers of clothing. Plus, wear comfortable footwear that’s suitable for hiking, yet able to get fully submerged in water. For most people, water shoes with excellent grip work best. Bring extra water, locally sourced bug spray, SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and a towel as well. Don’t forget your camera – and be sure to put it in a waterproof case before you head out.
On the day of your trip, you’ll travel over to their office near the Coconut Marketplace, and then check-in at their front desk. Then, they will shuttle you over to the riverside where you’ll get into your kayaks. After that, you simply follow your guide up the river while enjoying the amazing views all around. As you paddle up the river, you’ll pass by Kamokila Village, giving you a chance to learn about its history as a key location for fishing and farming. Then, you’ll paddle up the North Fork until you reach the trailhead beyond.
After you pull your kayaks ashore, your guide will lead the way to Secret Falls. The rainforest hike is moderately strenuous, but you’re welcome to take your time traversing the challenging sections. Once you reach the base of the waterfall, you’ll get to enjoy a delicious picnic lunch, complete with fresh pineapple. As your meal gives you a second wind, it’s time to swim around in the waterfall pool before heading back the way you came.
By the end of the tour, you’ll have paddled four full miles and walked another mile altogether. You will also end up with a wealth of knowledge about the history and culture of Kauai thanks to your knowledgeable guide. You’ll have a ton of interesting facts to share about the island geology, rainforest plants, and local wildlife as well. If you want to add to your knowledge base, even more, don’t hesitate to ask any questions that come to mind. Your guide will happily answer all the questions they can, ensuring that you learn all you want to know about paradise.
Insider Tips:
-Want to avoid the crowds? Choose the earliest tour of the day.
-Park in the Coconut Marketplace lot, and then lock up your vehicle. Do not leave any belongings in your car – not even in your trunk.