We have had some amazing adventures on our trip to Hawaii and we have seen some beautiful waterfalls. If the climax of our Kayak Adventures tour to Secret Falls had been just another waterfall that was saw from a safe distance behind a protective rail, it would be worth no more than 3 stars.
BUT THIS WAS THE ONLY WATERFALL THAT WE GOT TO SWIM IN! Every time we looked at a falls and thought “it would be cool to stand under that spray, THIS IS THE CHANCE TO DO THAT!”
That experience was amazing. We laughed as a family. We took pictures. We made memories that will be with me and comfort me as I’m taking my last breaths.
But … nobody was particularly thrilled about the work it took to get there. The paddling was hard. It rained a lot. Coordination was difficult.
The hike wasn’t that bad. (That said, we are a big hiking family.)
Some tips:
You will get wet. Your shoes will get wet. They will get wet on the boat, on the hike, and at the falls. I don’t know what they’re talking about suggesting boots … you would be miserable with wet boots in about 7 seconds.
They will give you a dry bag. We were going to buy one, but were glad we did not.
There is no drinking water on the trail. Bring your own. They say there is water to refill your bottles, but that is really just at the trailhead.
It was a good time and I’m glad we went. It wouldn’t be the first thing I recommended to another family if time or money were tight, but if you have the means, it’s worth doing. Just be prepared and be...
Read moreI know I’m in the minority here, but I really had an awful time on this tour today. The hike was far from “moderate.” It was difficult and at times treacherous with steep inclines. Never ending rocks to navigate while trying not to slip and fall as several people did. I had Ryko water shoes on which were great, but I was going slow because I was so scared of falling and was left behind by the guide. I missed all the stories and by the time my husband and I got to the waterfall the turkey sandwiches we had preordered had been given away and we were handed ham sandwiches and told “sorry” (I couldn’t eat the ham sandwich due to religious considerations - so I had nothing to eat other than a few pieces of pineapple).
My husband and I headed back before the group to get a head start but sure enough I was left behind again. The guide did come back and walk with us a little and then took off again.
We also had an issue on the kayak coming back. My husband’s seat would not stay up, making it extremely difficult to navigate. Again we were behind everyone, but the guide saw us struggling and ended up towing us in.
I left this tour with a sore knee and a wrenched back from all times I slipped while trying not to fall. So for me, this was a horrible experience. Had I known the true experience level needed for this so called “moderate” hike, I would have never participated...
Read moreI wanted to write as soon as I was home - what a wonderful experience!! A couple of us in the group had made the trip about 8-9 years ago - and with the grandkids all older now, we wanted to share it with them. Gabe Bleacher was our guide and he is spectacular. We were all so impressed by his knowledge of the water, kayaking, the area, the history, the wildlife and flora/fauna. He showed us how they braided the bark of the tree and explained the many uses. He learned some of the Hawaiian words/names - and pronounced them correctly! We were so impressed he took the time to spend time chatting with so many in the group. He also took the time for us to get to know each other a little bit before we headed out. As far as the kayak and hike -- it was muddy, wet, beautiful and so worth it!! I loved how when a couple of people started to grumble about the mud or the drizzle - he was quick to smile and charmingly remind them to just 'embrace' it! It worked each and every time ..!! The falls are stunning - the river is beautiful -- the kayak's are well cared for - the paddles - just fine. It can be crowded - but just enjoy the adventure. It can be wet - it's a wet island!! is it worth it ?? Absolutely - and I highly recommend this company - their guide was excellent, their equipment in good order. ENJOY!! and...
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