Explore North Shore

A quiet stretch of road stitched together by one-lane bridges leads you through Kaua‘i’s dramatic North Shore. Here you’ll discover an enchanting setting full of rugged mountains, lush taro fields, heavenly beaches and spectacular sea cliffs. But the most stunning feature, starting at Kaua‘i'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. If you plan to visit Hā‘ena State Park, which includes the Kalalau Trail, Hanakāpī‘ai Falls and Kē‘ē Beach, advance paid reservations are required, whether you plan to drive, walk or use the North Shore shuttle. Anyone without the proper reservations or permits will be turned around. Day passes are available up to 30 days in advance and sell out in a very short period of time. These steps will help manage demand and ensure a better experience for all who interact with this culturally important and ecologically fragile place. gohaena.com

Daniel K. Inouye Kīlauea Point Lighthouse

Visit the 52-foot Daniel K. Inouye Kīlauea Point Lighthouse, where the rest of the world feels far and distant. Previously used to aid ships passing through Hawai‘i, the lighthouse now sits majestically amidst scenic views of the dramatic cliffs and coastline, defining Kaua‘i’s North Shore. Plan ahead and visit kauairefuges.org to purchase tickets or call (808) 826-1528 for more information.

Limahuli Garden and Preserve

A leisurely stroll through the National Tropical Botanical Garden’s Limahuli Garden and Preserve on Kaua‘i’s North Shore will not only delight your senses but will deepen your appreciation for how kuleana (responsibility) has for generations defined Kaua‘i residents’ relationship with the ‘āina (land). Through self-guided tours, you’ll explore Hawaiian culture and discover endangered native plants and traditional Hawaiian agricultural terraces. Meaning “turning hands” in Hawaiian, Limahuli recognizes the Native Hawaiians who built agricultural terraces out of lava rock and planted cultivars of kalo (taro), an important cultural food crop. ntbg.org

Wai‘oli Mission House

See how life was in Kaua‘i over 160 years ago at the Wai‘oli Mission House. Built in 1837 and restored in 1921, this early missionary home with historical furnishings is surrounded by lush mountains and greenery. It’s also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. grovefarm.org/waiolimissionhouse

Hanalei

Visit the peaceful town of Hanalei for colorful shops, local eateries, unique art galleries and the beautiful Wai‘oli Hui‘ia Church, where melodious Hawaiian hymns can be heard every Sunday. Then head to Hanalei Bay, and spend a leisurely day at this tropical paradise with a picnic lunch and refreshing coconut or lychee shave ice. Venture to the foot of Hanalei’s green mountains and drive past the kalo fields. While beautiful, the fields are kapu (off limits) and belong to the landowners. If you’d like to experience the lo‘i there are many places you can volunteer to do so. For thousands of years, beautiful lo‘i kalo (irrigated fields of taro) have produced most of the state’s kalo for poi (pounded taro root).