Waimea Canyon on the Hawaiian island of Kauai is often called “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” I do not really agree with the comparison but if it helps get visitors to this amazing place than I am OK with the description.
Located on the west side of the Island it is an easy drive from the popular resorts in Poipu. It is a longer drive from the north side of the island but it is still worth the effort.
Waimea Canyon
The curvy road up to the canyon would be a lot of fun to drive in a convertible sports car but since we had six people we were styling in the family-friendly minivan. The 14 mile road starts at the ocean and winds its way up through the canyon. There are a number of scenic overlooks along the road to stop to view the canyon. If the weather is clear I recommend stopping on the way up because it might be raining on the way back down.
Waterfall in the Canyon
At the end of the road is the Kokee State Park. The park is surrounded by forest and there are numerous hiking trails. There are a museum, restaurant and rental cabins located at the park. I suggest buying food before before starting the drive up the canyon if you plan on being up there all day.
On the day that we visited the park the annual Emalani Festival was happening. The festival commemorates the journey of Queen Emma to this area in 1871. We did not spend a lot of time at the festival but we did get to see some musical performances, hula dancing and the entrance of “Queen Emma” on her horse.
Queen Emma Arriving on Horseback
Hula Dancers at the Emalani Festival
Beyond Kokee State Park is a road leading to a scenic lookout at the top of the canyon. I wish I could tell you how the view was from the top but it was raining when we got there and the canyon was not visible.
We spent around three hours visiting the canyon. If you plan to do some hiking plan for more time than that. I would also recommend getting there earlier in the day because it tends to rain in the afternoon.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
- Location – Kauai Hawaii
- Visit in the morning because it often rains in the afternoon.
- Make sure you have a full gas tank and bring food and snacks with you.
- Visit the Kokee State Park Website for more information.
Rich - RichyFeet says
November 17, 2014 at 4:45 PMWow, love seeing unknown lands like this. Great photos, makes me want to go!
Rich – RichyFeet recently posted..That time I nearly died on a volcano
Jeff says
November 19, 2014 at 4:58 PMIt is a great place. I highly recommend it.
Chanel | Cultural Xplorer says
November 20, 2014 at 9:29 AMI remember loving the canyons when I visited them a few years back. They were so beautiful!
Chanel recently posted..How To Spend A Layover in Brussels
Hannah says
December 26, 2014 at 11:32 PMWe visited Waimea 4 years ago, and that windy road made me car sick….but worth the views in the end!
Hannah recently posted..El Nido Tour C Review – Palawan Philippines