Wailua Falls — 173ft Fan in Hawaii

Wailua Falls is a 173-foot fan waterfall in Kauaʻi County, Hawaii, reached by drive-up access over 0.1 miles.

Wailua Falls is the 173-foot twin-stream fan waterfall on Kauaʻi's eastern coast, made famous by the opening sequence of the original 'Fantasy Island' television show — a roadside drive-up viewpoint just outside Lihue. The Wailua River drops over a basalt cliff in two parallel streams during normal flow, merging into a single column during peak flow after heavy rain. The viewing platform sits directly across from the falls; the drop into the gorge is dramatic and the metal safety railing exists for good reason. Local Hawaiians historically considered the falls sacred and used them as a test of warrior endurance.

What to expect

Drive Maalo Road (Highway 583) north from Lihue for 4 miles. The viewpoint is a small roadside lot at the end. Walk a few feet to the railing and the view opens directly onto the falls and the gorge. There's no trail to the base — the unofficial scramble path is officially closed and dangerous (multiple deaths). Stay behind the railing. Pair with the Wailua River boat tour, the Fern Grotto, or Opaeka'a Falls (5 minutes drive away).