It’s lucky that this river is the only navigable one in Hawaii, since it leads right through the gorgeous setting of Wailua River State Park, an area of trickling waterfalls, lush jungle and towering mountains. 9 centuries ago, the very first Tahitians, headed by their legendary chief Puna-nui, set up their villages in these lands, and for a period, only the highest of royalty could enter the terrain.

Named “Two Waters” because of a fork joining the main stream, this river feeds the majestic Opaekaa Falls and Wailua falls. For 20 miles, drift down the serene waters on kayak, canoe or river cruise – whatever floats your boat! At the end, reach the Fern Grotto, a natural lava rock cave where enamored couples flock to to say their vows and be forever joined in matrimony, under the romantic cover of delicate ferns that hang like many cat tails from the rocks. Keep your eyes peeled for the Nounou Mountains, or “Sleeping Giant”, lazily lounging on the mountain ridge between Wailua and Kapaa. Let the natural flow of the river take you through this wonderland of wild beauty, with new sights and sounds to steal your breath away waiting around every bend.