Shay & Ryan
Things To Do
Ho'opi'i Falls
A highly underrated Ho'opi'i Falls Trail takes you to one of Kaua'i's hidden gems of what is actually two waterfalls! Located on Kaua'i's eastern shore, the more-than-2-mile unmarked (Shay and her family had quite the adventure here!) trail takes you off the beaten path on the Kapaa stream, completely swathed in ferns, vines, trees, and wild Hawaiian foliage. The first waterfall is 20 minutes into the hike, while the stunning main falls are a 600-feet-high wonder at the end of the hike and was even a backdrop in the movie Jurassic Park!
Hanakapiai Falls
Hanakapiai Falls Trail is one of the most popular hikes on the Na Pal'i Coast in Kaua'i. The first part of the trail leads you to Hanakapiai Beach, before heading inwards along Hanakapiai stream towards the booming 300 ft waterfall in the depths of the jungle. The trail is 4 miles in and 4 miles out, however many hikes stop at the beach and enjoy! A favorite part of the hike is the red rock path and how it contrasts dramatically with the striking blue Pacific Ocean below.
Queens Bath
Make sure you wear appropriate shoes (preferably water shoes), because the trail down could be a slippery and muddy one if it rains! A short 15 minute hike and hidden trail that is steep leads to the beautiful, natural pools carved into a lava shelf within direct contact of the Pacific Ocean. Jump right in and soak up the natural pool's beauty. Be careful! Though it's beautiful, it can be dangerous depending on the swells. If you look closely, you'll see friendly sea turtles surfing in the waves on the way there!
Kauapea Beach (Secret Beach)
Stepping onto Secret Beach is like arriving to your own personal paradise. A wall of lava rock marks the edge of the beach's western end. To the east, there are dazzling views of Mokuaeae Island. Trickling pools and a small waterfall can be found along the half-mile stretch of sand. Secret Beach is a great place to start your morning, watch the sunset, or spend the entire day! Be prepared, there are no restrooms, lifeguards, or public facilities.
Waimea Canyon
Waimea Canyon is on Kaua'i's west side, and is described as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Stretching 14 miles long, 1 mile wide and more than 3600 ft deep, the Waimea Canyon lookout provides panoramic views of crested buttes, rugged crags and deep valley gorges. The grand inland vistas go on for miles. The main road leads you to a lower lookout point and the main Waimea Canyon overlook, offering views of Kaua'i's dramatic interior. If you are in the area, make sure to stop at Waimea Falls and Waimea Valley for some more incredible views!
Shipwreck Beach
Shipwreck Beach is a local favorite for surfing and bodysurfing. Here is also where you can find the start of the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail, which is a great hike to explore the otherwise inaccessible coastline. There is a 30ft cliff at the edge of the bay in the beach that you can jump off into the Pacific on a high tide!
Hanalei Bay
Hanalei Bay is the largest bay on the North Shore of Kaua'i. Hanalei Bay consists of nearly two miles of beach, surrounded by mountains. In the summer, the bay offers excellent mooring for sailboats, stand-up paddle boarding and swimming. Here you can rent paddle boards, surfboards, snorkel gear, and kayaks to explore this beautiful bay nestled in the coastline of Kaua'i. The historic Hanalei Pier was built in 1892 and has long been a favorite gathering place for local residents, who go there to fish, swim and play music. Bring a cooler and enjoy some relaxing vibes and great sunsets!
The Town of Hanalei
The small town of Hanalei on the North Shore of Kaua'i. It's crescent-shaped beach of Hanalei Bay features pine trees surf area at Waioli Beach Park. Forested hills back nearby Lumahai Beach, a location in the movie South Pacific. East of town, the Hanalei Valley lookout offers views of mountains and taro fields. Within the valley, Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for rare waterbirds. In the town, you will find charming shops that host spectacular local finds and art gallery treasures. There is also an ah-mazing food truck that offers the brides favorite place on the island for a Pulled Pork Sandwich!