Today we travel all the way across the street from our Hilton Garden Hotel, for a sacred adventure on the Wailea River. Our guide, Izzy, at Kauai’s Kayak is a knowledgable nature loving “bird whisperer”. Join us as Izzy unravels the tapestry of Kauai’s past and present, while discovering the essence of this enchanting destination.
Traversing the Wailea River
As our kayak glides through the serene waters of the Wailea River, the overcast skies create an intimate ambiance. The light wind ripples the water’s surface, and the rhythmic paddling becomes a soothing soundtrack. The river, historically significant to Kapa’a, unravels tales of a bygone era, where it served as a lifeline for the community.
A Kayaking Duo
The two-man ocean kayak fosters a sense of camaraderie as we navigate the gentle currents. It’s not just a physical journey; it’s a shared experience, forging a connection with both the environment and my wife sitting up front. The river becomes a liquid pathway, guiding us towards the heart of Kauai’s natural wonders.
We paddle up the river for about 45-minutes. We find a nice rhythm as I match her cadence from the back seat. The wind at our back helps push us upriver. It’s not a race, but we’re in second place behind the brother/sister team that rockets ahead of us.
Unearthing the Sacred Falls
We take a right at the river’s split, and find a bend in the river that looks like a watering hole for kayaks. Unmounting our vessel is a coordinated act to prevent taking an unplanned dip in the river prior to the hike.
Our next journey takes a terrestrial turn as we disembark for a hike into the heart of the island’s interior. The trail, though muddy, is a testament to the raw, untouched beauty of Kauai.
As we weave through the tropical terrain, our guide Izzy starts a low whispering chant, “pspspspsp…here baby, here baby”. The anticipation builds, and out of the trees a small bird flutters to a nearby branch. Izzy offers her handful of dug up worms to our new friend. Gleefully, he accepts and eats.
History Flowing Through the River
The Wailea River has been a witness to the ebb and flow of Kapa’a’s history. Once a bustling hub for transportation and agriculture, it now stands as a testament to the island’s resilience and the delicate balance between progress and preservation. Understanding this history adds a layer of depth to our journey, making every paddle stroke and muddy step a tribute to the spirit of Kauai.
Sacred Falls: A Closer Look
Arriving at the Sacred Falls, the journey feels like a pilgrimage. The 1132-foot cascade descends from the cliffs with awe-inspiring grandeur. This sacred site holds spiritual significance for the locals, and standing in its misty embrace feels like connecting with a piece of Kauai’s soul.
Kauai’s Kayak: Guiding the Experience
The expert guides from Kauai’s Kayak weave stories into our adventure, enriching our understanding of the river and its surroundings. Their passion for the island’s history and commitment to preserving its natural wonders elevates the experience from a mere tour to an immersive journey.
Our day with Kauai’s Kayak, navigating the Wailea River and hiking to the Sacred Falls, is more than an excursion—it’s an exploration of history, nature, and the soul of Kauai.
@canUcopeAVIATION
Check out our the other things we did while in Kauai
