Wailua Heritage Trail on Kauai

You’ll never lack for Kauai things to do when you visit this magnificent island. In this post, we’d like to look at one of the best ways to learn more about Kauai history: by traveling the Wailua Heritage Trail. T

This amazing pathway leads you on a grand tour of the priceless wonders you can enjoy along Kauai’s eastern shores. Combine a trip to the trail with our world-class vacation homes and you’ll come home with vacation memories you’ll treasure forever.

Here’s a look at the trail’s most beloved points of interest.

Wailua Bay – Ancient legends say that mythological figures like Hi’ikaipoliopele and Mo’ikeha found their way to Kauai through the bay’s tranquil waters. Today the beaches along the bay offer some of the best surfing in Hawaii.

Opaeka’a Falls – This amazing natural wonder seems to spring magically from the surrounding mountains, cascading down a rocky cliff into the sun-soaked valley below. Legends say the waters are home to the Mo’O, a race of magical beings who could take the form of owls, sharks, or even geckos.

Wai-ale’ale Mountain- Rising to a height of 5,243 feet, the top of this majestic peak is the highest spot on all of Kauai. The area is blessed with abundant rainfall year round, so bring a poncho with you if you visit.

Nounou Mountain – this summit is steeped in ancient lore. It’s said to be the site of a titanic battle between the gods Kaweloleimakua and Aikanaka centuries ago. According to legend, a race of people called the Puni once walked these lands. When they fell asleep their bodies turned to stone, forming the fascinating rock formations that charm and mystify people to this day. This spot is one of the most alluring stops on the Wailua Heritage Trail.

Maunakapu Mountain and the Wailua River Valley – The mountain ascends to a height of 2766 feet. Below it stretches the 2800 acre Wailua River Valley, a place of unbelievable bounty that served the needs of Kauai’s people both in ancient times and today.

Kuamo’olaakane Ridge

This is another site that is rich in legend and folklore. Ancient priests walked along the ridge to seek the favor of the god Kane, who kept tribal villages blessed with abundant supplies of fresh water. It forms one of the most awe-inspiring sites along the Wailua Heritage Trail.

The Holoholoku Birthing Stones

These ancient stones were synonymous with both birth and death in ancient times. Pregnant women carrying Kauai’s unborn royalty were led here to give birth. The location was also used to sacrifice enemy warriors and others unfortunate people to the local gods.

Hikinaakala and Ma’ama’akualono

These areas are rumored to possess extraordinary healing powers, making the sites a favorite pilgrimage destination for Kauai’s sick and injured. We’re not saying the legends are true. But a visit to these beautiful locations will certainly have you feeling better soon!

After a day spent exploring the wonders of the Wailua Heritage Trail, nothing can beat having a comfortable, well-appointed vacation home to cradle you in comfort as you unwind from your adventures.