Alii Kayaks is a Full-service Guided Kauai Kayak Tour operator, conveniently located on the Wailua River on the island of Kauai. Grasshopper Point in Sedona is just about two miles south of Encinoso Picnic Area and a budget-friendly natural swimming hole. Stopped by this lovely gem while staying at the Hilton. Where do we park our vehicle? To get there just google search the Bullpen Day Use Area and you will get taken to the trailhead. The hike itself is a great distance for all fitness levels and it is definitely best for families out of any of the options in this article. They were great, gave us all the equipment and you just roll it down to the boat-launch nearby and you're off. We did the 7:00 tour and were the only ones there at first. This perennial spring-fed stream cascades down many waterfalls, including a few big ones that form perfect swimming holes at the bottom. Its about building relationships with the outdoors and each other. Great reports in the answers above. The waterfall and the hike was beautiful! Sign up to receive our newsletter packed with the best adventure guides, travel ideas, news, and articles. Its crazy but there are literally multiple storybook oases in the desert just outside of Phoenix, Arizona. The journey up Romero Canyonis well worth it when the stream is flowing and the pools are full. It is consistently shaded by trees and you cross the water every half mile or less making it constantly refreshing and cool. Check off your summer bucket list with these once-in-a-lifetime adventuresfrom paragliding in Interlaken to canyoning in Zion National Park. Wailua Secret Falls Kayak and Hike 4.5 Hour | Kauai.com It's a mile to row to the beach where you park your kayak. "dateModified": "2022-04-26", Take your time getting to the falls as there are all sorts of unique vantage points along the way. There are now a lot of warnings including not bringing dogs due to the length and heat. Lush river valley with riverboat cruise (fee charged) to Fern Grotto, an unusual fern-covered cave set in a tropical garden; scenic vistas of attractive waterfalls 'Opaeka'a Falls and Wailua Falls) and the Wailua River Valley. Havasu Falls, Supai, AZ. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. It isnt much of a hike to the falls and the hour of driving on the awful road from Camp Verde isnt ideal for lower profile cars. The new boardwalk covers about 70% of some of the most slippery and difficult parts of the trail. There are also some great springs at the beginning that you can cool off in instantly to start your trip off right. Thanks! We had a great day kayaking! If you want to discover one of the prettiest hikes in AZ and one with the pictured stunning blue water than follow my article by clicking here for the trek to the hanging springs and pool grande. It remains one of my favorite vacation memories yet. I did find Ali'i Kayaks on Google maps in that place, so maybe they took over from Smith's (they used to be located by Nawiliwili and take people to Wailua in a van). During our trip the hibiscus trees were shedding their buds into the River and we enjoyed traveling 2 miles on a kayak through the river with hibiscus floating around. There is cliff jumping, waterfalls, swimming holes, grottos, caves and the infamous toilet bowl! Well worth the beautiful waterfall at the end. For more Bob Bear Trail tips and to see my other best 5 hikes near Phoenix checkout this article. Kayaking down was nice, stay to the right for shade. Our guide Bryan was very helpful and entertaining throughout the experience. Hike was pretty easy, but prepare to get wet and muddy (which we loved). Beautiful ride in a double kayak through the Wailua River. Not to mention, if you have ever wanted to go behind a waterfall then you can check that off your bucket list because there is a little cave behind the falls. Uluwehi Falls, located in the lush Wailua River Basin, is often referred to as Secret Falls; however, thanks to its relatively easy access and stunning beauty there isn't even a modicum of "secret" left here. Im hoping that someone can offer some insight: is this an activity you recommend, we are not big on group tours-but do you suggest going with one of the groups, is it a difficult trip, how long is the hike to secret falls from the river, where do you suggest renting a kayak? A hike through pine forest leads to this hidden treasure, which is in easy proximity todowntown Prescott. Most of the water parts in Havasu Falls get to about five feet deep, an ideal depth for swimming and jumping in, and the surrounding beaches are perfect for getting some outdoor rays. Excuse me buttin gin herebut, is this something you can do in December too? There are several places in Wailua and (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? { This excursion is not for the faint of heart. You can rent kayaks at the Kamokila reconstructed Hawaiian village, and then you have less than 1/2 mile to paddle. Which one is your favorite? A wonderful place, a wonderful, time. Camp Verde, Arizona is most known for its wildlife attractions such as the Bearizona Park and the Out of Africa Park, however, it also has a sweet natural swimming pool that is one of the areas hidden gems. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Without a doubt, I would definitely recommend doing this tour with Zach as your guide. Bring bottled water and something a snack on. As mentioned above, the hike is easy to find though it can be muddy in places. But still easy enough for someone used to light to moderate physical activity. Then hop out of your kayaks and take a 45-minute hike to Secret Falls where you can cool off in the clear waters before returning to the Wailua marina the way you came. You can also do mini cliff jumping at the end from the random log. Bob Bear Trail Hike (formerly Fossil Springs trail). The overseer, Jon, was very knowledgeable and shared what he knew with us. Were in our late 50s in good shape the shady hike was super easy while the kayaking takes a little more effort. 2023Outdoor Project. Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information. Sounds like you'll be fine on your own, which does have advantages for exploring. Not to be confused with Fossil Creek, Bob Bear/Fossil Springs is my favorite hike in Arizona (aside from Havasupai) and it has the best water activities to spend a full day hanging out. We happen to stop at the right time, and were able to see the big river party barge coming up the river on it's trip to the Fern Grotto. It is an easy hike of which you can turn around at any time meaning any fitness level can do this one. Although many people cliff jump here, its discouraged due to the pools varying depths and possible hidden objects. Definitely recommend going behind the waterfall if you are able. Definitely take your time and enjoy yourself as when will you be back again? Wailua and Waimea were two royal centers on Kauai prior to Western contact. I'm working on our itinerary now so we have the majority of our plans set before arrival. "url": "https://www.tripstodiscover.com", As for December. In thisstate famous for giant cacti and triple-digit temperatures, there are actually many hidden canyons that flow with cold, clear water. Bring a towel to share and cold water put everything in the provided dry bag. Romero Pools: Another seasonal swimming hole can be found in Catalina State Park, but it is guarded by a steep and rocky hike through the desert. According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Wailua River State Park: Restaurants near Wailua River State Park: Attractions near Wailua River State Park: We decided to just rent our own kayaks and hike to Uluwehi Falls (. It was well worth it to see the waterfall at the end. Two hours from Phoenix and within Tucson city limits is another waterfall gem. Can anyone recommend a company that does this? Parking pass purchased there on site and it is 2 hours from Phoenix. "@context": "http://schema.org", West Clear Creek: From afternoon outings or a multi-day treks, West Clear . Hello: Cons: physical exertion, un even walking trails. Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, Not recommended for travelers with recent knee, ankle or back injuries, This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers. There are spiritual sites from Poli'ahu Heiau to Luakini Heiau. "headline": "8 Swimming Holes in Arizona You Need To Dip Into", We decided to just rent our own kayaks and hike to Uluwehi Falls ( Secret Falls). There is also a gift shop on the premises. If it's been raining hard, the river will likely be muddy and unpleasant smelling. " FUN!!! Wailua River and Secret Falls Kayak and Hiking Tour on Kauai 751 Reviews Badge of Excellence Kapaa, United States Share Save to Wishlist Likely to Sell Out From $125.00 Lowest Price Guarantee Select Date and Travelers Check Availability Reserve Now & Pay Later Secure your spot while staying flexible Free cancellation Up to 24 hours in advance. So have fun and be careful, the water can rise very quickly if the rain comes, I experienced this first hand when my tour got abruptly interrupted/cancelled with this issue. Maybe next time we will get to enjoy. The payoffs at the end are like nothing I have seen around the world in terms of all of the amazing activities and things to see near the end. 5 Hour guided kayaking and hiking tour to a secret waterfall on the Wailua River. Definitely a do over. Your experienced guide provides a paddling lesson and guided kayak tour in the Wailua River Valley, following gorgeous waterways through the lush Kauai landscape. Sorry. Staying indoors is always an option, however, if you need to get your fix of Mother Nature, here are some of the best swimming holes in the state! Own or manage this property? You will thank yourself for years to come. At least with a tour you have someone watching your back if something goes wrong. Great experience! Whats the cheapest and best company to use for the best kayak experience with my husband on our honeymoon in June? The water is usually fairly warm and the surrounding area is very picturesque, which means that this spot makes for an awesome summer days swim. I am by no means a river person, I am not a strong swimmer. Planning to visit in July and would love to know where to stay so that I can hit up your favorite hiking trails in this post? Our guide Brian was fun and energetic. Ziploc bags should be used for cell phones or cameras that are not waterproof. Unfortunately, it was raining up in the mountains making the river level rise to a point of being unsafe where we needed to cross over for our hike. Then there are some based in Nawiliwili Harbor (to cater to the cruise ships) and Poipu that bus you in and do guided tours only (I think). The waterfalls were spectacular! There are pools, streams, fish, crayfish and all sorts of flora and fauna along the way. He was 1/2 leader and 1/2 cheerleader, which makes an optimal guide. $2245+ Air & 11-Day Israel & Jordan Value Group Tour . I can already imagine myself exploring these scenic spots and feeling refreshed by their beauty. So we did not get to hike to the waterfall. These waterfalls and swimming holes near Phoenix look absolutely breathtaking! 2.5 hours from Phoenix. Stay on trails, pick up trash, don't disturb plants or wildlife, and respect other users and private property. . Read our. 2. Stop here as one of our stops on a van tour. A permit needed and it is 2 hours from Phoenix. The swimming hole at Bull Pen Day Use Areais easy to access and fun for the whole family, but it is fed by waters flowing from a remote wilderness area where further adventure awaits. Not to mention sewage laden, full of debris etc. Its about more than standing on the mountain top. There are multiple entrances to the stunning West Clear Creek Wilderness area that can take you to stunning crystal clear waters, the Bullpen swimming hole (mentioned below) and even to Iron Maiden Falls. Share. Dave, IIRC, the drownings happened on guided tours as well. The kayaking was relatively easy as the water is very still. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experiences start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded. may earn a commission for purchases made through our links. The creek itself is fun to swim in, but there are also some gorgeous waterfalls that are worth taking a dip under! Excellent tour guide, knew all the history about the island. } This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher.