Location: Hanalei
Top Things to do in Hanalei
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10 Things to do in Hanalei That You Shouldn't Miss
The beautiful little town of Hanalei could almost have been designed as a holiday island paradise. Its stunning beach, mountain scenery and its mostly fabulous weather conditions mean that you are going to want to spend most of your holiday outdoors. The bay on which Hanalei is located boasts beautiful white sands. Hanalei beach is perfect for lazing around or taking part in traditional beach games, as well as for enjoying a dip in the clean, warm waters. The conditions are often perfect for surfing, with locals and visitors alike keen to engage. When the water in the bay is rough, there remains an area towards the west of the bay which is reasonably sheltered for bathing. The pier at Hanalei is very important to the culture of the town and is used for fishing, as well as social and musical gatherings. The pier was featured in the musical, South Pacific.Hanalei TownThe small town that is Hanalei is famed for its dedication to Kauai’s island history and culture. Its art galleries contain carvings produced by indigent tribes people from local wood, with many souvenirs available for purchase. The Waioli Mission House and Church date back to the early part of the nineteenth century and were established by Christian missionaries to Kauai from the US mainland. Regular music and celebratory events are held, where you will be given the opportunity to taste poi, a locally produced Hawaiian delicacy. The freedom of your holiday rental will also allow you to sample the local island cuisine at the town’s traditional restaurants.
Restaurants in Hanalei
1. Hanakoa Falls
2. Havaiki Oceanic and Tribal Art
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 18 reviews
Reviewed By vagabondvicki2015 - Kauai, United States
There is so much to see in this art gallery. Things you would normally only see in a museum. Also tikis in every size and jewelry made by local artists. Loved it!
3. Hanalei Valley Lookout
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 742 reviews
Reviewed By AimeeE351 - Frisco, United States
Just off the main road a few parking spots await. You pull off and stop for a quick photo of the valley and the taro fields with mountains behind.
4. Hanalei Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,829 reviews
Reviewed By puaka1 - Lee's Summit, United States
Breathtaking beach with nearby mountains making it a heavenly experience. A little ways from Lihue but the drive is beautiful itself. When it rains you can make out countless waterfalls on the nearby mountain range. Friendly shore break for body surfing, body boarding, surfing, or paddle boarding. You can even make out local canoe clubs practicing in the bay. Would live here if I could afford it lol but since I can't I will be back, frequently.
5. Limahuli Garden and Preserve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 649 reviews
Reviewed By JurgenR438 - Honolulu, United States
A local treasure under the shadow of the real BALI HAI! Lead yourself through the historical lands of ancient Hawaiians and learn a ton about the plants that they relied on to survive. There are plants here that you won’t find anywhere else and are on the verge of extinction. They provide a wonderful guide book as well as great signs to help you learn about the garden and it’s history. Since we live on Oahu, we were treated to free attendance otherwise you have to make a reservation.
6. Hanalei Pier
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 585 reviews
Reviewed By jttravis - Sarasota, United States
The best place in Hanalei to enjoy the sunset. Very popular with tourists and locals. Also a nice beach to swim or hang out. To get there from main road in Hanalei- turn next to Kalypso restaurant, go to end of street and turn right. Drive a few blocks and it will be on the left.
7. Wai`oli Hui`ia Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 179 reviews
Reviewed By Good_Food_Lover77 - Lihue, United States
Stopped here with a friend to take photos at this local historical site. Had such a fun time & will surely go back!
8. Waipa Farmers Market
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 8 reviews
9. Okolehao Trail
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 81 reviews
Reviewed By dianesE3809PI
The hike to the benches and view of Hanalei Bay is very do-able, though plan for mud. A walking stick would be helpful. The view is beautiful! Also note that you can keep hiking beyond the benches, but then be prepared because you will be on the Hihimanu Trail which has descriptions of being death-defying with 37 ropes to climb to another peak. There is parking at the trailhead, which was very helpful, and it's very close to Hanalei where you can pick up JoJo's Shave Ice for a nice cool treat after the hike or Chicken in a Barrel for something more substantial.
10. Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 25 reviews
Reviewed By MikeH305 - Phoenix, United States
We have a knack of making a turn just because. This one as we were leaving Hanalei interested me because someone had pulled off and wer taking photos. So I did too but i didn't stop right at the turn. I went further on down the road and found all sorts of birds to photograph from the car. Further down was a parking area for the wild life reserve. Off the beaten path and not a lot of people here. Great for birding and birders.
