Kauai Regions
There is something special about the different regions of Kaua'i. We encourage you to plan a stay of a week or more to explore the various locations on Kaua'i. This is the absolute way to do it! No need to start off your vacation in a rush when you don't have to. Let us help you with all the details of your Kaua'i trip. More time for you to get excited for an awesome Kauai vacation.
North Shore
Kauai's dramatic North Shore is an Enchanting setting full of lush rugged mountains, soil rich taro fields, heavenly white sand beaches, and incredible jagged cliffs. So much beauty can be found in just one area of Kaua'i.
Start you journey on the northernmost point of the island. Historic Kilauea Point Lighthouse is wildlife sanctuary and a beautiful scenic lookout to watch whales in season. Take a drive to the lovely and quaint, hippy surf vibe town of Hanalei, home to the Hawaiian 'staple', taro. The taro fields stretches for miles, alongside a variety of shops, galleries and restaurants. Some of Kauai's best beaches here. Lumahai Beach was the setting for the film 'South Pacific', and Ke'e Beach, ideal for sunbathing. You'll need reservation to visit the Ha'ena State Park. You don't want to be disappointed byby not having access to this magical area of Kaua'i. So plan ahead and book now. You can also learn about native plants and discover scenic ocean views at Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens or at the 17 acre Limahuli Gardens, part of the National Trop;ical Botanical Garden.
But for the most stunning natural wonders in the world on Kauai's North Shore is the magnificent Napali Coast. This 17 mile stretch of coastline is lined with 3000 foot tall cliffs, draped with lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls and incredible sea caves. Inaccessible by car, you can hike or take an air or boat tour to view this breath taking prodigy of nature.
The North Shore is also home to the prestigious resort area of Princeville where you can indulge in world-class hospitality and play at Kauai's primier Makai Golf Course. You can also find other accommodations here ranging condo resorts to private vacation home rentals allowing everyone the opportunity to experience the beauty of Kauai's North Shore.
South Shore
Enjoy the drive through a tunnel of trees to arrive on the warm and beautiful south shore of Kauai. The biggest attractions here are the perfect rocky front beaches around the Poipu area and Spouting Horn, a blowhole that releases a spout of water up to 20 feet into the air. Poipu stretches around Makahuena Point and is a spectacle to any onlooker. Stroll through charming boutiques at night and dine at ocean-side restaurants. There is variety of restaraunts to choose from. Depending on the time of year you visit - restuarants can be very busy. So always book your reservation in advance. Other towns you'll find on the south side include Old Koloa Town, Kalaheo, Lawai, and Omao. Filled with resorts, golf, shopping, beaches and sights, there’s never a dull moment on the South Shore of Kauai — that is unless you just want to take a break and nap on the beach. It's known to be the sunny side of the island, drier, and densely populated with the resorts, vacation rentals, and residential community in one.
East Side
Sometimes referred to as the Royal Coconut Coast for the vast amount of coconut palms that grow in its resort areas. The most populated district on the island, about 16,000 of the island's 71,000 residents reside in the Wailua/Kapaa area. Amongst the clusters of coconut trees you’ll find historic places, amazing beaches and memorable attractions.
In Wailua, you’ll find a variety of sightseeing opportunities and outdoor activities. Kayak the Wailua River in Wailua River State Park, take a boat ride to the Fern Grotto, or take photos at Opaekaa Falls. Spot the Sleeping Giant in the Nounou Mountain or take a hike up this scenic ridge. Poliahu Heiau is sacred and can also be found on the East Side. Visit Kapaa Town to discover fine Hawaiian craft pieces, aloha-print shirts, jewelry and art is a MUST DO.
But Coconut Coast's golden beaches may be the area’s biggest draw. Unwind at Lydgate Beach Park in Wailua, where you'll find two lava rock enclosed ocean pools that are perfect places for families with small children and first-time snorkelers. It's protected and you'll find a life guard on duty. Fun in the sun awaits you on the Coconut Coast.
West Side
Approximately an hour's drive from Lihue Airport and other major towns on the Coconut Coast, Kauai’s West Side feels like it’s so far away. Here, spectacular natural wonders and historic sites meet old-school, funky small towns, rewarding visitors with a glimpse of Kauai mainly seen by locals.
The most famous attraction on the West Side is breathtaking Waimea Canyon, also called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Hiking trails and scenic overlooks offer sweeping views of rugged crags and plunging valleys dipping more than 3,600 feet into the earth. There’s nothing else in Hawaii quite like it.
Drive up to Kokee State Park from Waimea town, offering 45 miles of trails and endless opportunities to see native plants and wildlife. At the north edge of the park, Kalalau Lookout and Puu O Kila Lookout provide panoramic views of the vibrant, green cliffs of one of the valleys of the Napali Coast—two of the best (and safest) ways to see Kalalau Valley from land.
The two small towns of Waimea and Hanapepe are also worth a visit on the West Side. Captain James Cook first landed in the Hawaiian Islands here at Waimea Bay in 1778. Today, a statue of Cook stands in Waimea Town commemorating this historic event. About seven miles south of Waimea, Hanapepe is the island’s art capital, with eclectic galleries, shops and eateries lining the streets of “Kauai’s biggest little town”—a perfect place to shop for made-in-Hawaii gifts and souvenirs.
Learn more about where the Kauai Vacation Rentals are located.