Kauai is one of the most beautiful islands in Hawaii, known for its stunning landscapes and breathtaking scenery. One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Kauai is by taking a scenic drive around the island. From the lush greenery of the Na Pali Coast to the red dirt roads of Waimea Canyon, Kauai has a variety of scenic drives that will leave you in awe. In this article, we will explore some of the best scenic drives on Kauai.
Kuhio Highway (Route 56)
Kuhio Highway, also known as Route 56, is the main road that runs along the eastern coast of Kauai. This scenic drive offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the lush greenery of the island. The road takes you through several small towns and villages, including Kapaa, Anahola, and Kilauea. Along the way, you can stop at several lookout points to take in the beautiful scenery, including the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge and the Wailua River State Park. The drive ends at the beautiful town of Hanalei, where you can relax on the beach and enjoy the local cuisine.
Hanapepe Road (Route 530)
Hanapepe Road, also known as Route 530, takes you through the charming town of Hanapepe, which is known for its historic buildings and quaint shops. The road is lined with old-style plantation homes and beautiful views of the Waimea Canyon. The drive ends at the Hanapepe Lookout, which offers panoramic views of the canyon and the surrounding area.
Kokee Road (Route 550)
Kokee Road, also known as Route 550, takes you through the heart of Kauai's Waimea Canyon State Park. This scenic drive is one of the most breathtaking drives on the island, with views of the canyon's red and green cliffs, lush vegetation, and cascading waterfalls. Along the way, you can stop at several lookout points, including the Puu Hinahina Lookout, which offers panoramic views of the canyon and the Na Pali Coast. The drive ends at the Kokee State Park, where you can hike along the trails and explore the natural beauty of the area.
Kaumualii Highway (Route 50)
Kaumualii Highway, also known as Route 50, takes you through the center of the island, from Lihue to Waimea. This scenic drive offers views of the stunning Wailua River and the lush greenery of the island. Along the way, you can stop at several historic landmarks, including the Kauai Museum and the Kilohana Plantation, which offers a glimpse into the island's sugar plantation past. The drive ends at the town of Waimea, where you can explore the historic town and enjoy the local cuisine.
Na Pali Coast (Route 560)
The Na Pali Coast is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders of Kauai. While there is no road that goes through the coast, there is a scenic drive that takes you along the edge of the cliffs. This drive is not for the faint of heart, as the road is narrow and winding, but the views are well worth it. Along the way, you can stop at several lookout points to take in the stunning views of the coastline, including the Kalalau Lookout and the Waimea Canyon Lookout. The drive ends at the town of Hanalei, where you can relax on the beach and enjoy the local cuisine.
Koloa Road (Route 520)
Koloa Road, also known as Route 520, takes you through the charming town of Koloa, which is known for its historic architecture and sugar plantation past. The road is lined with beautiful trees and foliage, and offers stunning views of the coastline. Along the way, you can stop at several historic landmarks, including the Koloa Missionary Church and the Old Koloa Sugar Mill. The drive ends at Poipu Beach, where you can relax on the beach and enjoy the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean.
In addition to the scenic drives, there are also several guided tours available on Kauai that offer a more in-depth look at the island's natural beauty. Helicopter tours provide a unique perspective of the island, allowing you to see the stunning landscapes from above. Boat tours offer views of the coastline and the opportunity to see marine wildlife, such as dolphins and sea turtles. Hiking tours take you through the lush forests and canyons of Kauai, providing an up-close look at the island's natural beauty.
Kauai offers some of the most stunning scenic drives in Hawaii, with views of the Pacific Ocean, the Waimea Canyon, and the Napali Coast. Whether you choose to drive along the Kuhio Highway, the Hanapepe Road, the Kokee Road, the Kaumualii Highway, the Napali Coast, or the Koloa Road, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the island's natural beauty. Just remember to stay safe, obey traffic laws, and be prepared with plenty of water and snacks. With so much natural beauty to explore, a scenic drive on Kauai is an experience you won't soon forget.
