Introduction to Hanalei town in Kauai, Hawaii

Hanalei Valley Lookout in Kauai, Hawaii

Before arriving here, stop at the scenic Hanalei Valley Lookout to admire the lushly pastoral landscape of the Hanalei Valley--home to the legendary magical, musical dragon Puff.  Continue on, driving the winding road that is very much like the famous Road to Hana on Maui, with many one-lane bridges.

house on stilts in Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii

Just before the end of the road, you’ll see houses on stilts and the Dry Cave (described by one unimpressed kid as “just a big dry cave”) and the Wet Cave (which contains a lake).

Kee Beach in Kauai, Hawaii

At the end of the road is Kee Beach, where a reef-protected lagoon makes this the island’s best beach for swimming, but be aware that strong currents and dangerous waves break out on the rocks.  Scenes from the TV mini-series Thorn Birds and the movies South Pacific and Lord of the Flies were filmed here, and the sunsets can be magnificent.  Bring a picnic lunch or dinner. 

The end of the road is also the beginning of the spectacularly scenic and green Na Pali Coast and the infamous 11-mile-long Kalalau Trail that is popular with back-packers. 


More things to do in Kauai.

More information about Kauai.

More ideas for exploring the U.S.

images ©2014 Carole Terwilliger Meyers