Waipouli Beach Park to to Makaleha Falls trailhead
Waipouli Beach Park to to Makaleha Falls trailhead
4.6
(9532)
14,214
riders
01:15
27.5km
240m
Road cycling
Embark on an easy road cycling adventure from Waipouli Beach Park to the Makaleha Falls trailhead. This route spans 17.1 miles (27.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 798 feet (243 metres), making it suitable for all fitness levels. You can expect to complete the ride in about 1…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
286 m
Highlight (Segment) • Beach
Tip by
10.6 km
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
26.6 km
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
27.5 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
19.3 km
5.35 km
1.39 km
1.34 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
23.0 km
4.33 km
102 m
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Elevation
Highest point (160 m)
Lowest point (0 m)
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Weather
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Today
Wednesday 6 May
27°C
19°C
11 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
This road cycling route from Waipouli Beach Park to the Makaleha Falls trailhead is considered easy. It features well-paved surfaces and a relatively gentle elevation gain, making it suitable for cyclists of all fitness levels.
Yes, absolutely! With its easy difficulty grade, well-maintained roads, and moderate distance, this route is very family-friendly and ideal for beginner road cyclists looking for an enjoyable ride on Kauai.
You can typically find parking at Waipouli Beach Park, which serves as the starting point for this cycling adventure. Parking availability can vary, especially during peak times.
The route begins near the scenic Ke Ala Hele Makalae coastal path, offering ocean views. As you cycle inland towards the Makaleha Falls trailhead, the scenery transitions to more lush Hawaiian landscapes. You'll pass by Kapaʻa Beach Park and bike path, and the route concludes at the Trailhead to Makaleha Falls.
Kauai generally offers pleasant cycling weather year-round. However, the drier months from April to October are often preferred for road cycling, as you'll encounter less rain and more consistent conditions. Always check the local forecast before you head out.
While the road cycling route itself is generally open to cyclists with leashed dogs (if they can safely ride in a trailer or basket), it's important to note that the actual Makaleha Falls hiking trail, which this route leads to, may have different regulations regarding dogs. Always check specific rules for the hiking trail if you plan to continue on foot.
No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required for cycling this specific road route from Waipouli Beach Park to the Makaleha Falls trailhead. However, if you plan to hike beyond the trailhead into the Nounou Forest Reserve to reach Makaleha Falls, you should check for any current regulations or permit requirements for the hiking trail itself, as these can change.
Yes, there are several bike rental shops located in the Kapaʻa and Waipouli areas, often within a short distance of Waipouli Beach Park. It's a good idea to reserve your bike in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
This route is a road cycling path that leads to the Makaleha Falls trailhead. It is an easy, paved ride. The actual Makaleha Falls hiking trail, however, is a separate, challenging, unmaintained jungle hike involving multiple stream crossings, muddy sections, and bouldering, which is completely unsuitable for bicycles.
The starting point near Waipouli Beach Park and the nearby Kapaʻa town offer numerous cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite or a drink before or after your ride. As you head inland towards the Makaleha Falls trailhead, options become more limited, so plan accordingly.
The road conditions for this cycling route are generally well-paved and easy to navigate. It's a smooth ride suitable for race bikes and other road cycling setups. Always be mindful of local traffic and any temporary road changes.