Island Spotlight – Kauai

Aloha from Hawaii!  We’re coming to you from the beautiful island of Kauai!  Kauai is called the Garden Isle and for good reason!  The island is so lush and green, with 97% of the Kauai being undeveloped.  It makes sense that one of the wettest spots in the world, Mount Waialeale is located here. Kauai is literally a nature lover’s paradise!  Yes, Kauai has some of the best beaches in the world and golf courses that make the professionals quiver.  But nothing beats getting out into nature and breathing in the fresh island air!                                                                                                             

And that brings us to the STAR on the island of Kauai!

Let me introduce you to Waimea Canyon, also referred to as “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific”.  The Canyon is 10 miles long and 3,600 feet deep.  Waimea Canyon started to take form over 10 million years ago when the central volcano collapsed.  But let’s not forget about the power of the Waimea River, which carves its way through the rugged landscape.  Mother Nature definitely went all in with Waimea Canyon!  Whatever you’ve conjured up in your mind, Waimea Canyon will be that and so much more!  And pictures don’t do this place any justice…you just have to see it with your own eyes!  

Waimea Canyon is located at the Waimea Canyon State Park.  There is a parking fee of $25 per vehicle and an entry fee is $5 per person with keiki(kids) under 3 are free.  Hours of operation are during daylight hours only.  

So let’s explore what this amazing place has to offer!  

There are several lookouts along the scenic drive that you have to stop and enjoy!    You will even have a viewpoint of Ni‘ihau Island, which is a private island off the coast.  The first lookout is Waimea Canyon Lookout and is located at mile marker 10.  You get a panoramic view of the amazing landscape along the edge of the canyon.  *This lookout is ideal for those who don’t want to make the trek along the trail.  As you continue on…the second lookout you’ll come upon is at mile marker 13 called Puu Hinahina.  Here you get a bird’s eye view down into the canyon at the Waimea River, watching it make its way out to the sea!  The Kalalau Lookout at mile marker 18 but can only be accessed by those who hike from Kee Beach.  You’ll be rewarded with an endless view of the big blue Pacific Ocean.  The last lookout and the end of the road by car is called Puu o Kila located at mile marker 19.  If you want to continue on, it will have to be by foot. 

Getting out of the car is the best way to see the canyon!  There are several hikes that offer different skill levels so everyone can enjoy the great outdoors!  

Cliff Trail is a fairly easy hike that goes for about a tenth of a mile. This short hike can be completed in about a half an hour but will probably take longer because there are amazing views of the canyon around every turn. You may even run into some goats along the way

The Canyon Trail is a moderate trail and begins from a fork on the Cliff Trail and can take up to three hours to finish. About halfway into the hike, you will reach a gorgeous 800-foot waterfall called Waipo’o Fall.  When you get to the end of the trail, you’ll be rewarded with the Kumuwela Lookout.  This is a great place where you can relax, enjoy a picnic and admire the beauty of the canyon!

Black Pipe Trail is another moderate level hike.  This trail is a hike across a Koa forest 8 miles long that can take half a day to cover. The trail gets its name from the famous Black Pipe that hikers have to cross to get into the forest.

The last trail is for experienced hikers only!  The Kukui Trail is for those hikers who can navigate across rough terrain.  This trail will take you through a forest of kukui nut trees(hence the name) as well as other trees. Eventually the trail leads to the bottom of the Waimea River. This is a great place to cool down, relax and enjoy the scenery!

Traveling to Waimea Canyon can be an all day adventure so plan accordingly!  There are two roads that take you to Waimea Canyon, so take the one road up and the other road down the canyon for the ultimate sightseeing journey!

Waimea Canyon is an amazing place to visit anytime of the year!  However, the best time to visit is during the summer months.  Less humidity and better visibility is always the perfect combination for an amazing adventure to Waimea Canyon!  Best advice is to always arrive early!  Clouds can drift in and can hinder your viewing experience!  

So if you’re traveling to Kauai, Waimea Canyon is a must see!  Planning ahead of time by dressing accordingly, having the proper footwear, bringing food and beverages and allowing ample time is the best way for you to enjoy Waimea Canyon for all its beauty!  

ALOHA!