Known for the Wailua River which meanders its way through the town, Wailua doesn't have much more to offer than a sprinkling of hotels, restaurants and shops. Most notably, it is the jumping off point for activities on the Waimea such as kayaking and, when it is open, boat tours to Fern Grotto.
Smith's Tropical Paradise, a 30-acre botanical and cultural paradise with plants and animals of all types, is also in Wailua. Smith's holds regular luaus and hosts weddings.