The Beauty of Hanalei on Kauai's North Shore

Hanalei is a town on the North Shore of Kaua’i…a truly beautiful place…

Drive over the single-lane bridge into the Hanalei Valley, and you’ll have transported yourself to a place where the beauty of the land has been preserved, and life moves at a slow pace.

The taro fields are to your left, and are set against majestic green mountains. Waterfalls stream these mountains after heavy rains, leaving deep grooves in the mountainside.

The buffalo grass on your right lines the winding Hanalei River, which eventually finds its way to the sea. Just going through this gateway of Hanalei will take you down a couple of notches.

After drinking in the beauty of the valley entrance, you will find yourself in the heart of Hanalei town. Take the time to wander through historic buildings that are remnants of a time gone by, some of which have been transformed into eateries and boutiques.

Get a bite to eat at the Hanalei Gourmet, Hanalei Dolphin, Tahiti Nui, or just treat yourself to some “shaved ice.” Visit the landmark Wai’oli Hui’ia Church, which was founded in 1834.

Then it’s time to head for the bay. As the largest bay on Kaua’i, nearly 2-miles long, Hanalei Bay is the perfect place to take a stroll, take a dip, and/or just take it easy.

Enjoy the warmth of the sun, but be sure to stay long enough to experience the breathtaking and tranquil sunset.

For many of us that live on the island, and for many visitors that have connected to Kaua’i, Hanalei is not just a picture-perfect town on the North Shore of Kaua’i, but also a place of well-being.