Discover the North Shore of Kauai

The North Shore of Kauai is paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and food enthusiasts alike. It is one of my favorite places on Earth and one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited. It’s natural beauty is incredible. From its jagged, emerald mountains and pristine beaches to lush hiking trails, this region of Kauai offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and vibrant local culture. Here are some of my favorites and what makes the North Shore of Kauai a must-visit destination.

Logistics

Getting to the North Shore of Kauai typically involves flying into Lihue Airport (LIH), located on the southeastern side of the island. From the airport, it is about an hour’s drive to reach the North Shore. I highly recommend renting a car. Public transit and ride share services are sparse and unreliable. Plus, having your own car allows you to explore the region at your own pace.

Where To Stay

The North Shore of Kauai has so many beautiful places to stay. You will not find many resorts or hotels. There is 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay. This luxurious 5 star hotel is oceanfront and offers stunning views of Hanalei Bay and surrounding mountains. Hanalei Bay Resort is a 3 star resort with beautiful mountain and ocean views.

Most visitors rent a condo or house when visiting the North Shore of Kauai. We typically rent a condo when we visit.  I recommend searching through Hawai’i Life Real Estate for vacation rental options. There are also listings via VRBO, AirBnB, and more. As far as location goes, I recommend looking for places in or near Hanalei, Princeville, and Kilauea. All are in close proximity to one another and near all the great beaches, hikes, and more. I especially love staying in Princeville. It is an incredible location where views from every direction are gorgeous. Plus, you are close to restaurants and shops in Hanalei. An important note is that nothing is walkable. You have to drive to all of the restaurants unless you are staying close to 1 Hanalei Bay or in the town of Hanalei. However, it is a quick drive of usually 10 minutes or less depending on your destination.

Beautiful Beaches

The North Shore of Kauai is full of beautiful beaches. Here are some of my favorites. 

• Hanalei Bay: This large, crescent-shaped bay is renowned for its stunning views and calm waters, making it perfect for swimming, paddle boarding, and kayaking. The backdrop of lush mountains adds to the bay’s picturesque charm, creating an idyllic spot for relaxation and water activities. Surfing and boogie boarding are epic here in the winter months. This also is a great beach for long beach walks. 
• Tunnels Beach: This gorgeous beach features views of the dramatic Na Pali Coast mountains. Excellent snorkeling can be found here in the summer months and when the water is calm. Tunnels Beach boasts a vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life. Be sure to rent snorkel gear (there are rental shops in Hanalei) and snorkel the reef here!
• Anini Beach: Anini has the longest and widest fringing reef in the Hawaiian Islands. Because of the unique conditions, it usually has well-protected waters. Enjoy snorkeling, beach walks, picnicking, paddle boarding, and windsurfing. We also snorkeled this reef and saw multiple sea turtles! This beach has plenty of tree coverage and shade, which is super nice in the heat. 
• Lumahai Beach: Famous for its appearance in the movie “South Pacific,” Lumahai Beach is a photographer’s dream with its dramatic landscapes and powerful waves. This beach is perfect for relaxing and walking the beach. However, do not swim here due to strong currents.
• Hideaways Beach (Pali Ke Kua): Hideaways beach is hidden beneath a 200ft ocean bluff and can be accessed by a steep yet well-maintained trail. It is a downhill trek from the parking lot, gradually coursing through the 200ft elevation drop. The beach is tiny and feels so private and serene. 
• Ke’e Beach: Located at the end of the road and is the farthest you can drive on the North Shore. This beach is protected by a reef that makes it a safe place for snorkeling and swimming during the summer when the water is calm and clear. Ke’e Beach is also the beginning of the Napali Coast and the Kalalau trail that leads to Hanakapiai and Kalalau Beach. This special spot is especially beautiful at sunset. During the summer months, the water can be very calm and clear.  For beach and trail access you will need to reserve a park and pass or shuttle on the website www.gohaena.com

BEACH SAFETY

The North Shore of Kauai is known for strong waves and currents especially during the winter months. Please always be aware and cautious when venturing out. Here are some tips to help keep you safe. 

• Choose beaches with a lifeguard.
• Before entering the water check for any warning signs indicating hazardous conditions.
• Avoid swimming during high surf.
• Never swim alone.
• Never allow small children to swim or play in water unattended.
• Never swim in murky water and in river mouths.
• Never turn your back on the ocean, an unexpected wave can knock you down and drag you out.
• Listen to weather and surf forecasts on local radio or check the surf report

Scenic Hikes

1. Kalalau Trail: This iconic 11-mile (18km) trail (22 miles/36 km RT) along the Na Pali Coast to the Kalalau Valley. It offers breathtaking views of the coastline and lush valleys. The trail is challenging and terrifying in spots, but the vistas of towering cliffs and secluded beaches make it a rewarding adventure for experienced hikers. Tough, beautiful, and incredible. Hiking the full trail requires a permit, an overnight camping reservations, and adequate preparation.  You should be an experienced hiker to hike this full trail. There is a less strenuous option. You do not need a hiking reservation to hike the first two miles, which is from from Keʻe Beach to Hanakapiai stream and beach. It is a four mile round trip hike. This section is moderately strenuous. You will need to reserve a parking pass in advance through https://gohaena.com. This website is full of helpful information for your adventure planning.  
2. Hanakapiai Falls: For a shorter yet equally stunning hike, the trail to Hanakapiai Falls is a popular choice. Starting from the Kalalau Trail, this 4-mile round trip hike leads to a majestic waterfall where hikers can cool off in the refreshing pool at its base.
3. Okolehao Trail: Offering panoramic views of Hanalei Bay and the surrounding mountains, the Okolehao Trail is a moderate hike that rewards trekkers with stunning vistas. The trail winds through lush forests and offers several lookout points perfect for photo opportunities. This is an out and back trail with a steady climb during the first half. 

Hiking Tips

• If it has rained a lot, the trails can be slippery and treacherous.
• Wear proper hiking shoes and bring adequate water and food.
• Do not swim at Hanakapiai Beach. It is the most deadly on the islands of Hawaii as it has no reef barrier to resist the powerful ocean currents which hit the shore with full force. Enjoy the beauty from a safe distance on shore. 
• I highly recommend booking earlier in the morning for the hike. An earlier start time means a less busy trail and cooler air temperatures.

Culinary Delights

There are numerous places on the North Shore of Kauai to eat delicious food. Here are some of my favorites:

1. Bar Acuda: Delicious tapas bar in Hanalei. The cozy ambiance and creative small plates make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. I highly recommend this restaurant. It is a must when we visit Kauai. Advance reservations are necessary.
2. The Dolphin: Known for its fresh seafood and sushi, The Dolphin in Hanalei is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Plus, it has a very fun vibe. There are outdoor tables along the river where you can enjoy a cocktail and wait for your table to be ready. They do not take reservations. 
3. The Dolphin Fish Market — Located behind the Dolphin restaurant, it is the place to buy fresh fish to prepare at your vacation rental.  Plus, you can buy sushi rolls and poke for easy and quick lunches.
4. Tahiti Nui: For a taste of local culture, Tahiti Nui offers Hawaiian cuisine with a side of live music and hula performances. This family-owned restaurant is famous for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious island-inspired dishes.
5. Wishing Well Shave Ice — So many delicious options.  Usually a long line, but well worth the wait!
6. JoJo’s Shaved Ice — Another fantastic option for Hawaiian shave ice with numerous mouth watering choices.

Conclusion

The North Shore of Kauai is an incredibly special place. The natural beauty is spectacular and there is so much adventure to be found depending on your interests. Whether you are lounging on the golden sands of Hanalei Bay, hiking to the awe-inspiring Hanakapiai Falls, or savoring a meal at one of the local eateries, this paradise promises an unforgettable experience. Get ready to be enchanted by the wonders of Kauai’s North Shore. I hope this helps you plan your visit to the North Shore of Kauai. Please let me know if you have other recommendations as well.