North Shore Kauai | Go Hawaii

North Shore

Photo by Max Seigal

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Kauaʻi's dramatic North Shore is an enchanting setting full of rugged mountains, lush taro fields, heavenly beaches and spectacular sea cliffs. You’ll be amazed at how much beauty can be found in just one area of Kauaʻi.

Begin your journey on the island’s northernmost point. Historic Daniel K. Inouye Kīlauea Point Lighthouse is a wildlife sanctuary and a scenic spot during whale watching season. Visit lovely Hanalei Town, home to stretches of green taro fields alongside colorful shops, galleries and restaurants. You’ll also find some of Kauaʻi’s best beaches such as the setting for the film “South Pacific,” and Kēʻē Beach, ideal for sunbathing. You can also learn about native plants and see scenic ocean views at ʻāina Kai Botanical Gardens or at the 17-acre Limahuli Gardens, part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden.

But the most stunning feature of Kauaʻi's North Shore is the magnificent Nāpali Coast. This 17-mile stretch of coastline is lined with cliffs up to 3,000-foot tall, accented with lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls and sea caves. Inaccessible by car, you can hike or take an air or boat tour to view this breathtaking natural wonder.

The North Shore is also home to the upscale resort area of Princeville where you can indulge in world-class hospitality and play at some of Kauaʻi’s premier golf courses. You can also find other accommodations here ranging from historic bed and breakfasts to rental homes allowing everyone the opportunity to experience the beauty of Kauaʻi’s North Shore.

Regions of Kauaʻi

Opaekaa Falls
This towering falls is an incredible sight (and photo opportunity) during your East Side adventure.
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Wailua River
One of Hawaiʻi's only navigable rivers offers plenty of fun for kayakers and other paddlers.
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Fern Grotto
Take a boat ride to this remote, fern-filled cave to see a different side of Kauaʻi.
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Kapaa Town
This historic enclave is home to local boutiques and delicious dining options.
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Waimea Canyon
The scenic vistas at the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" are truly beyond belief.
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Waimea Town
The oceanfront town at the gateway to Waimea Canyon is a fun stop during your West Side adventure.
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Kokee State Park
This beautiful state park has dozens of miles of trails and incredible overlooks.
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Hanapepe Town
Hanapēpē Town offers interesting local galleries, boutiques and more.
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Daniel K Inouye Kilauea Point Lighthouse
Interesting history and awe-inspiring photo opportunities await.
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Napali Coast
The best views of these cathedral spire-like peaks is with a helicopter or boat tour.
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Hanalei Town
This laid-back town is the perfect place to unwind.
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Waioli Mission House and Church
Take a trip back in time to the arrival of missionaries on Kauaʻi.
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Poipu Beach Park, Kauai
The family-friendly Poʻipū Beach Park on Kauaʻi’s South Shore was once voted “America’s Best Beach.”
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Old Koloa Town, Kauai
Old Kōloa Town is a charming area with a historic plantation past.
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Koloa Heritage Trail, Kauai
Kōloa Heritage Trail spotlights significant cultural, historical and geological sites.
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Spouting Horn, Kauai
Spouting Horn Park features a blowhole that’s one of the most photographed spots on Kauaʻi.
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Allerton & McBryde Gardens
Allerton Garden is home to the giant Moreton Figs made famous in the film "Jurassic Park," and both gardens feature a wide variety of trails and plant species.
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Kauai Museum
Located in Līhuʻe, the Kauaʻi Museum features amazing collections from the artisans of Kauaʻi and Niʻihau.
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Alekoko Fishpond
According to legend, the Menehune built ʻAlakoko Fishpond on Kauaʻi’s southeast shore in one night.
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Wailua Falls
Wailua Falls is an easily accessible, 80-foot-high waterfall located north of Līhuʻe.
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Kilohana Estate
Past Līhuʻe is Kilohana, a restored 1930s-era plantation estate renowned for hosting one of the island’s most iconic lūʻau.
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Grove Farm Homestead Museum
Founded in 1864, this 100-acre sugar plantation museum in Līhuʻe provides a fascinating look into Kauaʻi’s plantation past.
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North Shore
The North Shore of Kauaʻi
Home to dramatic natural beauty like the cliffs of the Nāpali Coast, this area is an outdoor lover's paradise.
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East Side (Coconut Coast)
The East Side of Kauaʻi known as the Royal Coconut Coast
Kauaʻi's East Side is sometimes called the Coconut Coast for the groves of coconut palms that grow there.
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Līhuʻe
Aerial shot of the Wailua Falls in Līhuʻe
The island's government and commercial center is surrounded by natural wonders like Wailua Falls.
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South Shore
South Shore of Kauaʻi
You'll find sites with cultural, historical and geological significance alongside beautiful beaches on the South Shore.
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West Side
Hiking on the West Side of Kauaʻi
Discover charming, art-filled Hanapēpē Town, the scenic vistas of Kōkeʻe State Park, and much more.
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North Shore Highlights

Daniel K Inouye Kilauea Point Lighthouse

Daniel K Inouye Kīlauea Point Lighthouse

Interesting history and awe-inspiring photo opportunities await.

More
Napali Coast

Nāpali Coast

The best views of these cathedral spire-like peaks is with a helicopter or boat tour.

More
Hanalei Town

Hanalei Town

This laid-back town is the perfect place to unwind.

More
Waioli Mission House and Church

Waiʻoli Mission House and Church

Take a trip back in time to the arrival of missionaries on Kauaʻi.

More

View the Digital Hawaiian Islands Official Visitors’ Guide

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