Wailua

Wailua, located on the eastern coast of the island of Kauai, is a charming and picturesque town that offers visitors a taste of old Hawaii. Surrounded by lush greenery, towering palm trees, and sparkling blue waters, Wailua is a nature lover’s paradise that boasts a variety of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery.

Visitors to Wailua can explore the town’s rich history and culture by visiting the Wailua River, a sacred site that was once used for ceremonial canoe journeys and royal births. Today, the river is a popular destination for kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat tours, offering stunning views of the surrounding rainforest and waterfalls.

For those who love the outdoors, Wailua offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and swimming. The Sleeping Giant Trail, located just outside of town, is a popular hike that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The nearby Opaekaa Falls and Wailua Falls are also must-see attractions, offering visitors a chance to see some of the most beautiful waterfalls on the island.

In addition to its natural beauty, Wailua is also home to a variety of cultural and historical sites, including the Fern Grotto, a fern-covered lava cave that was once used as a royal wedding site. Visitors can take a boat tour of the Wailua River to see the grotto and learn about the town’s rich history and culture.

Despite its small size, Wailua offers a variety of dining and shopping options, from local seafood restaurants and farmers markets to souvenir shops and art galleries. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, including the annual Kauai Chocolate and Coffee Festival and the Wailua Heritage Festival.

Overall, Wailua is a charming and idyllic destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty and culture of old Hawaii. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing getaway, Wailua has something for everyone.

Flights To Wailua

Tips For Booking Cheap Flights To Wailua

  • Book in advance: Flights to Hawaii tend to go up in price as the departure date approaches, so it’s best to book your flight as early as possible.
  • Be flexible with your travel dates: Flights to Hawaii can vary greatly in price depending on the time of year, day of the week, and even the time of day. If you have flexibility in your travel dates, you may be able to save money by flying on less popular days or times.
  • Use flight comparison websites: There are many websites that allow you to compare prices from multiple airlines at once, making it easier to find the best deal. Some popular flight comparison websites include SkyscannerKayakEarlytripsTicketsawayMycityflights and Google Flights.
  • Set price alerts: If you’re not ready to book your flight yet, you can set price alerts for your desired route and dates. This way, you’ll be notified when the price drops or goes up, allowing you to book at the best time.
  • Consider alternative airports: There are several airports on the Hawaiian Islands, and some may offer cheaper flights than others. For example, flights to Honolulu may be cheaper than flights to Kauai or Maui. Consider checking prices for multiple airports and comparing the cost of transportation to your final destination.
  • Look for budget airlines: There are several budget airlines that offer flights to Hawaii, including Southwest Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Alaska Airlines. These airlines may offer cheaper fares than traditional airlines, but be sure to check for additional fees for things like checked bags and seat selection.
  • Use travel rewards: If you have a travel rewards credit card or frequent flyer program, you may be able to use your points or miles to book your flight to Wailua. This can help you save money and get a better value for your rewards.

Places To Visit

Beaches
  1. Lydgate Beach Park: A popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking, with a protected lagoon and lifeguards on duty.
  2. Kalapaki Beach: A long and sandy beach that’s perfect for sunbathing and water sports, with calm waters and a variety of amenities.
Waterfalls
  1. Wailua Falls: A stunning 80-foot waterfall that’s accessible by car, with a viewing platform and hiking trails.
  2. Opaekaa Falls: A 151-foot waterfall that’s surrounded by lush vegetation and hiking trails, with a scenic lookout point.
Cultural Sites
  1. Wailua River: A sacred site that was once used for ceremonial canoe journeys and royal births, with boat tours and kayak rentals available.
  2. Fern Grotto: A fern-covered lava cave that was once used as a royal wedding site, with boat tours and live music performances.
Outdoor Activities
  1. Sleeping Giant Trail: A popular hike that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, with several trails and lookout points.
  2. Wailua River (for kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat tours): A scenic river that’s perfect for water sports and sightseeing, with several rental options and tour companies.
Dining and Shopping
  1. Local seafood restaurants: A variety of restaurants that serve fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local specialties, such as poke bowls and shave ice.
  2. Farmers markets: A variety of farmers markets that sell fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs, with live music and cultural performances.
  3. Souvenir shops: A variety of souvenir shops that sell Hawaiian-themed gifts, clothing, and accessories, with a range of prices and quality.
  4. Art galleries: A variety of art galleries that showcase local artists and craftsmen, with a range of mediums and styles.
Events and Festivals
  1. Kauai Chocolate and Coffee Festival: An annual event that celebrates the island’s chocolate and coffee industries, with tastings, workshops, and live music.
  2. Wailua Heritage Festival: An annual event that celebrates the town’s history and culture, with food, music, and cultural performances.
  3. Kauai Marathon and Half Marathon: An annual event that attracts runners from around the world, with a scenic course and a variety of races and activities.

Best Vacation Spots

  1. Lydgate Beach Park: This beautiful beach park is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking. The park features a protected lagoon that’s perfect for families with young children, as well as a playground and picnic tables.
  2. Wailua River: The Wailua River is a scenic and serene spot that’s perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or taking a boat tour. Visitors can explore the river’s lush scenery and learn about the area’s history and culture.
  3. Fern Grotto: This natural wonder is a must-see attraction in Wailua. The fern-covered lava cave is accessible only by boat, and visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the cave’s history and legends.
  4. Sleeping Giant Trail: This popular hiking trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the ocean, mountains, and valleys. The trail is moderately challenging, but the views at the top are well worth the effort.
  5. Opaekaa Falls: This picturesque waterfall is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking. The falls are easily accessible by car, and there’s a viewing platform that offers a great view of the cascading water.
  6. Wailua Golf Course: This championship golf course is a great spot for golf enthusiasts. The course offers stunning views of the ocean and mountains, and it’s suitable for players of all skill levels.
  7. Kamokila Hawaiian Village: This living history museum offers a glimpse into Hawaii’s past. Visitors can learn about traditional Hawaiian culture and lifestyle, including hula dancing, weaving, and canoe building.
  8. Kauai’s Hindu Monastery: This peaceful and spiritual spot is a great place to relax and meditate. The monastery features beautiful gardens, a meditation pavilion, and a stunning view of the ocean.

Hotels

Top Hotels

  • Kauai Beach Resort: This 4-star resort is located on 25 acres of tropical gardens and features stunning ocean views. The resort offers a variety of amenities, including a lagoon-style pool, a spa, and several dining options.
  • Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay: This 3.5-star hotel is located on the beach and offers stunning views of the ocean. The hotel features a variety of amenities, including a pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant.
  • Courtyard by Marriott Kauai at Coconut Beach: This 3.5-star hotel is located on a beautiful beach and features a lagoon-style pool and a hot tub. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a fitness center, a restaurant, and a bar.
  • Waipouli Beach Resort and Spa: This 4-star resort is located on a beautiful beach and features a variety of amenities, including a pool, a spa, and a fitness center. The resort offers a variety of accommodations, including condos and villas.
  • Kauai Shores Hotel: This 3.5-star hotel is located on the beach and features a pool and a restaurant. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a fitness center, a business center, and a concierge service.
  • The Cliffs at Princeville: This 5-star resort is located on a cliff overlooking the ocean and features stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The resort offers a variety of amenities, including a pool, a spa, and a fitness center.
  • St. Regis Princeville Resort: This resort is a 5-star property that offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape. The resort features a variety of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and pool. St. Regis Princeville Resort is known for its luxurious accommodations, which feature private lanais and offer stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape.

Budget Friendly Hotels

  • Kauai Wailua Bayview: This budget-friendly hotel is located in the heart of Wailua and offers a pool, hot tub, and barbecue area. It is situated in a quiet residential area, offering a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The hotel’s rooms are spacious and feature private balconies with views of the surrounding mountains and the ocean.
  • Kauai Beach House: This budget-friendly hotel is located directly on the beach and offers a pool, hot tub, and restaurant. It is situated in a convenient location, close to many popular attractions and activities. The hotel’s rooms are comfortable and modern, with a relaxed and laid-back vibe.
  • Kauai Shores Hotel: This budget-friendly hotel is located on the beach and offers a pool, hot tub, and restaurant. It is situated in a stylish and contemporary setting, with a modern design and decor. The hotel’s rooms are comfortable and well-appointed, with a range of amenities and features.
  • Kauai Palms Hotel: This budget-friendly hotel is located in the heart of Wailua and offers a pool, hot tub, and barbecue area. It is situated in a tropical garden setting, offering a peaceful and serene atmosphere. The hotel’s rooms are comfortable and cozy, with a range of amenities and features.
  • The ISO: This budget-friendly hotel is located in the heart of Wailua and offers a pool, hot tub, and barbecue area. It is situated in a cozy and intimate setting, with comfortable rooms and a range of amenities.
  • The Palmwood: This budget-friendly bed and breakfast is located in the hills above Wailua and offers a pool, hot tub, and communal kitchen. It is situated in a peaceful and serene atmosphere, with comfortable rooms and a range of amenities. The bed and breakfast is known for its personalized service and attention to detail.
  • Wailua Bay View: This budget-friendly hotel is located on the beach and offers a pool, hot tub, and restaurant. It is situated in a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, with comfortable rooms and a range of amenities. The hotel is known for its friendly staff and excellent customer service.

Best Time To Visit

  • Weather: Wailua has a tropical climate with warm temperatures and high humidity year-round. The peak tourist season is from December to April when the weather is dry and the temperatures are slightly cooler. However, the rainy season from May to October can also be a great time to visit, with fewer crowds and lush green landscapes.
  • Crowds: Wailua can be quite crowded during peak tourist season, with higher prices and longer lines. If you prefer a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere, consider visiting during the shoulder season or off-season.
  • Activities: Wailua offers a variety of activities and attractions, from beaches and water sports to hiking and sightseeing. Some activities, such as surfing and snorkeling, are best during certain times of the year. Research the activities you’re interested in and plan your trip accordingly.
  • Budget: The time of year can affect the cost of your trip, with higher prices during peak tourist season. If you’re on a budget, consider visiting during the off-season or shoulder season when prices are lower.
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