Wailua River Heritage is a scenic and historic area located on the Hawaiian island of Kauai. The Wailua River is considered one of the most sacred places on the island and is of great significance to the ancient Hawaiians.
The Wailua River is the only navigable river in the state of Hawaii and was an important transportation and trade route for the ancient Hawaiians. There are also many cultural and historical sites on the river, including the Wailua Complex of Heiaus, which is a national historic site.
We first drove to the viewing platform of Opaekaa Falls, which has a good view of the waterfall. The name Opaekaa means "rolling shrimp", which is appropriate because the waterfall is located in an area that was once inhabited by a large number of shrimp. The waterfall is about 150 feet (about 46 meters) high and is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.
Then we walked from the Opaekaa Falls viewing platform to a small viewing platform across the road, which has a better view of the North Fork of the Wailua River.
You can also take a cruise to explore the river and learn about its history and culture. The area also offers many recreational activities, including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and swimming.