Best Sights on the West Side of Kauai

The west side of Kauai is the least developed part of the island. It is also the warmest, usually being three to four degrees above other parts of the island; it is also the sunniest and gets the least amount of rain. Despite being less developed, the west side of Kauai is worth visiting. The following is a list of the best sights to see on the west side of Kauai.

Driving along Highway 50 on the west side you will pass through a few towns. The town of Hanapepe used to be the most happening town in Kauai, at least in the early 1900s, now it is a sleepy little town. But if you are driving through Hanapepe on a Friday night be sure to stop by to see local artists displaying their work. Continuing on Highway 50 you will come to Waimea. Waimea was the first town in Hawaii visited by Captain Cook in January 1778, and there is a monument in town to commemorate his find. When you are in Waimea be sure to stop by the Waimea River. Waimea literally means red water, and the Waimea River literally runs red from the sediment.

A must see on the west side of Kauai is the Waimea Canyon. It has been called "the Grand Canyon of the Pacific" and is truly a natural wonder. The canyon is ten miles long, 1 mile wide and more than 3,600 feet deep. Each layer represents a new volcanic eruption and lava flow. The best way to get to the canyon is by taking Waimea Canyon Road in Waimea, the views on the drive up are absolutely incredible and make the trip to the west side really worthwhile. It is a bit colder given the higher elevation, so be sure to bring a sweater to keep you warm as you get out of your car to view the canyon. There are several lookout points along the route including Waimea Canyon Lookout at mile marker 10, Pu'u Ka Pele Lookout at mile marker 12, Pu'u Hinahina Lookout at mile marker 13, and Kalalau Lookout at mile marker 18. Along the way up the mountain are the Koke'e Museum and the Koke'e lodge. The museum is a great place to stop for a little history on the canyon and Kauai, and the lodge is a great place to grab a bite to eat.

Back on Highway 50 heading west take it to the end. You will come to a dirt road that may have signs saying Do Not Enter, but this is a public access road, so go ahead. This road leads to one of the most incredible beaches on Kauai, the Polihale. The Polihale is seventeen miles of pure sandy beach. The beach is usually fairly secluded. There are great views of the Na Pali coast and the 100 foot dunes are island famous. Take caution if you decide to go for a dip.

It may seem far from everything, but the west coast of Kauai has some the best must see spots on the island. This guide to the west side of Kauai will help get you there.