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Wailua River Valley
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Wailua River on the east coast of Kauai is Hawaii's longest navigable river. Backed by tropical valleys, this was an important agricultural region and location of royal settlements. There are several important heiau along this stretch facing the rising sun which have been designated a National Historic Landmark as well as the royal birth stones at Holoholoku and petroglyphs at the river mouth.
Apart from these historical sites, the Wailua River has some splendid scenic attractions. Foremost is the twin waterfalls of Opaekaa which was the film location for Fantasy Island. Opposite the falls on the banks of the Wailua river is the reconstructed Hawaiian village at Kamokila which sits on what was once a Hawaiian settlement. Owned privately, the village has a dozen thatch buildings showing how Hawaiians would have lived hundreds of years ago. The village also rent out kayaks to explore the Wailua River with easy access to a secluded waterfall - Secret Falls - with its excellent swimming pool, as well as one of Hawaii's most bizarre attractions - Fern Grotto. This much visited lava cave with overhanging ferns was glorified by Elvis Presley in his film South Pacific. Motorised sightseeing boats visit the Groto every hour from Wailua River Mouth where tourists are greeted in the natural amphitheatre by Hula Dance and musical song including the much awaited Wedding Song.
Search for Kauai Accommodation
Our top kauai travel attractions are:
1) - Na Pali Coast and Kokee State Park
dramatic coastline; hiking; scenic beaches
2) - Helicopter Sightseeing to Mt. Waialeale
wettest place on earth, waterfalls, spectacular views
3) - Kayaking
exceptional river and sea kayaking
4) - Waimea Canyon
river gorges; scenic lookouts; hiking trails
5) - Hanalei Bay and Valley
tropical mountains; taro plantations; kayaking
6) - Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge
sea birds and Hawaiian Monk seal colonies, coastal hike
7) - Sights of Wailua River
historical sights, Fern Grotto, river tours and waterfalls
Readers may also be interested in the following destinations:
Cook Islands Activities Guide
Fiji Activities Guide
Samoa Activities Guide
Tonga Activities Guide
Tahiti Activities Guide
Hawaii Activities Guide
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