A broad waterfall seen from a roadside overlook in the Wailua River valley. Its name refers to shrimp (ʻōpae) once seen rolling (kaʻa) in the turbulent water below. Poliʻahu Heiau, part of the Wailua Complex of Heiau National Historic Landmark, sits beside the same section of the state park.
Why we love it
One stop gives you a classic waterfall view and a short, respectful look at one of Kauaʻi’s most important sacred sites.
Current conditions: DLNR’s Oct. 19, 2026 notice reopened only the river and designated landing/trailhead areas of Wailua River State Park. The ʻŌpaekaʻa overlook isn’t named, so confirm with DLNR before visiting.
What to expect
Park at the ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls lot and walk a few steps to the railing for a straight-on view of the falls across the valley. Late morning sun lights it best. Poliʻahu Heiau, a temple site of the Wailua chiefs’ complex, is part of this same section of the park. Stay on the paths and off the stone walls, and don’t move or stack rocks. The informal trail to the falls’ base involves a deep stream crossing and steep slopes, so skip it. Your paid entry covers other Wailua River State Park areas the same day.
Know before you go
- Fees
- $5 per person plus $10 per car for nonresidents, card only. The day pass also covers Wailua Falls.
- Sacred site
- Poliʻahu Heiau is a place of worship. Don’t climb, sit or stand on the stones, and don’t move rocks.
- Safety
- View from the overlook only. Don’t try the unofficial trail to the base.
- Best time
- Late morning, in full sun.
- Status
- Confirm this section is open. DLNR’s post-Lowell partial reopening named only the river areas.
Photo: Christopher from Salem, OR, USA via Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 2.0
