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Kauai, the oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands, is often called the Garden Isle for its deep green valleys, sheer cliffs and rivers. Erosion over millions of years shaped dramatic landforms such as the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon, and much of the island remains undeveloped, with no road circling it completely.
On the north shore, Hanalei Bay curves beneath waterfall-streaked mountains, and the Hanalei Valley Lookout gazes over taro fields. At the end of the road, Haena State Park (reservations required) provides access to Kee Beach and the start of the Kalalau Trail, a demanding route along the Na Pali Coast; the full trek needs a permit. Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge protects seabirds around a historic lighthouse. On the west side, Waimea Canyon State Park offers views into a colorful gorge, and the road continues into Kokee State Park, where the Kalalau Lookout looks straight down into a Na Pali valley. Hanapepe is known for galleries and a swinging footbridge. On the east side, kayakers paddle the Wailua River, and Opaekaa Falls is visible from a roadside lookout. Poipu Beach Park, on the sunny south shore, is popular for swimming and snorkeling.
Kauai suits hikers, nature lovers and those seeking quiet. Boat and helicopter tours show the Na Pali Coast from offshore and above. The north shore is wetter in winter, when big surf arrives.
WiserMap travel guideKauai Hawaii Na Pali Coast Waimea Canyon and Hanalei BayExplore Kauai: Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, Hanalei Bay, Haena State Park, Kilauea Point, Wailua River and Poipu, with reservations, seasons and tips.Read the guide
A wide crescent bay on the north shore backed by green mountains and waterfalls, with a historic pier and calm summer water for swimming and paddleboarding. In winter it gets big surf. Tip: the small town of Hanalei has food trucks, shops and surfboard rentals.
The park at the end of the north shore road, with Kee Beach and its lagoon reef for snorkeling on calm days, and the start of the Kalalau Trail. Tip: entry and parking reservations are required for non-residents and sell out, or use the north shore shuttle.
A popular south shore beach with a protected swimming area for families and snorkeling along the reef. Hawaiian monk seals and green sea turtles often rest on the sand. Tip: lifeguards are on duty, and seals must be given plenty of space by law, so stay behind any marked area.
A legendary 11-mile trail along the dramatic Na Pali cliffs. Day hikers can walk 2 miles to Hanakapiai Beach, but going beyond needs a camping permit. The cliffs can also be seen from boat tours or helicopters. Tip: do not swim at Hanakapiai, as currents are deadly.
A roadside viewpoint near Princeville overlooking the Hanalei Valley, with its patchwork of taro fields, the winding river and mountains behind. Part of the valley is a wildlife refuge for endangered waterbirds. Tip: it is a quick stop on the way to Hanalei, best in morning light.
Known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, this canyon is about 10 miles long and up to 3,000 feet deep, with red and green walls. The Waimea Canyon Lookout and several trails give views. Tip: go in the morning before clouds roll in, and a small entry fee applies for non-residents.
A cool upland park above Waimea Canyon with forest trails and a small museum. At the end of the road, the Kalalau and Puu o Kila lookouts gaze down into the Kalalau Valley of the Na Pali Coast. Tip: clouds come and go fast, so wait a few minutes if the view is hidden.
A peninsula on the north shore with the historic 1913 Kilauea Lighthouse and nesting seabirds such as red-footed boobies, albatross and frigatebirds, plus endangered nene geese. Whales pass in winter. Tip: advance reservations are required, and bring binoculars.
A small west side town with old wooden storefronts, art galleries and a swinging footbridge over the Hanapepe River. It hosts a lively art night on Friday evenings with food trucks and music. Tip: try the local taro chips and stop at the nearby salt ponds viewpoint.
Spouting Horn is a lava blowhole near Poipu that shoots seawater high into the air with a hissing sound. Nearby Old Koloa Town, site of Hawaii's first sugar plantation, has historic buildings with shops and eateries. Tip: the blowhole is most dramatic at high tide.
The Wailua River is popular for kayak trips upstream to a hike to Uluwehi or Secret Falls. Just above, Opaekaa Falls is a wide waterfall seen from a roadside lookout, with an overlook of the river valley across the road. Tip: book kayak rentals early and start in the morning.
A historic garden in the Lawai Valley near Poipu, part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden, with outdoor rooms, fountains and huge Moreton Bay fig trees seen in the film Jurassic Park. Visits are by guided tour only. Tip: tours leave from the visitor center across from Spouting Horn.
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