Waimea Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Waimea Canyon showing landscape views and a gorge or canyon
Waimea which includes mountains
Waimea Canyon featuring a gorge or canyon
Russian Fort Elizabeth State Historical Park which includes tranquil scenes
Waimea

Just minutes from the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this village is celebrated as the first Hawaiian landing place of Captain Cook and for its quaint island charm.

Waimea is a seaport village that offers a relaxed atmosphere. It’s also the site where Captain James Cook first stepped onto Hawaiian soil in 1778, a moment commemorated by a statue in the town’s centre. The main street is lined with pretty historic buildings, and the town is only minutes away from the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” 

Waimea is one of the few towns in West Kauaʻi that has not been transformed by the tourist industry. It retains its authentic character, making it an ideal destination for visitors who want to enjoy a slow-paced getaway. Check into one of the hotels or beach cottages that dot the coastline and wake up to the sight of the shimmering Pacific Ocean each morning. Many resorts host luaus throughout the week, offering an opportunity to enjoy regional dishes and traditional dance performances. 

Head to Waimea Beach and sunbathe on its distinctive black sand. Before making your way back into town for dinner, stop by the Waimea State Recreation Pier. Stretching into the Pacific, it is the village’s most popular gathering place to watch the sun set over the ocean. Then, sample local cuisine at one of Waimea’s seafood restaurants. 

Set aside an afternoon to explore West Kauaʻi Technology & Visitor Centre. Whether looking at the historical exhibits or attending a concert or performance, the institution is an ideal place to learn more about the traditions and culture of Kauaʻi. 

Drive 13 miles (20 kilometres) outside town to Waimea Canyon. Often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this natural landmark is one of Kauaʻi’s most popular destinations. Standing in stark contrast to the lush, rainforest landscape that defines Waimea, the canyon features 14 miles (16 kilometres) of cavernous red rocks 3,600 feet (1,097 metres) high. Travel along Canyon Drive to enjoy the view from afar or hike down into the heart of the canyon. 

Waimea is a 45-minute drive west of Lihue Airport. Public transportation is limited, so it’s advisable to rent a car or motorcycle to get the most out of the region.

Waimea Plantation Cottages, a Coast Resort

Waimea Plantation Cottages, a Coast Resort

3.5 out of 5
9400 Kaumualii Highway, Waimea, HI
Stay at this 3.5-star beach resort in Waimea. Enjoy a beach locale, a 24-hour front desk and a business centre. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the property ...
9/10 Wonderful! (948 reviews)
"Quiet atmosphere"

Reviewed on 16 Jul 2025

Waimea Plantation Cottages, a Coast Resort
Kauai Shores Hotel

Kauai Shores Hotel

3.5 out of 5
420 Papaloa Rd, Kapaa, HI
The price is ₹18,051 per night from 18 Aug to 19 Aug
₹18,051
₹24,350 total
18 Aug - 19 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this beach hotel in Kapaa. Enjoy free parking, 2 outdoor pools and a beach locale. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant in their reviews. Popular ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,284 reviews)
"Great location. Free valet was a plus. Close to the Country Market which we enjoyed"

Reviewed on 20 Jul 2025

Kauai Shores Hotel
The Royal Sonesta Kaua'i Resort Lihue

The Royal Sonesta Kaua'i Resort Lihue

4 out of 5
3610 Rice Street, Lihue, HI
The price is ₹28,416 per night from 22 Aug to 23 Aug
₹28,416
₹38,104 total
22 Aug - 23 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star beach hotel in Lihue. Enjoy a full-service spa, 4 restaurants and a beach locale. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in their ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,006 reviews)
"The staff was amazing, the pool was beautiful"

Reviewed on 21 Jul 2025

The Royal Sonesta Kaua'i Resort Lihue
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Plantation Hale Suites

Plantation Hale Suites

3 out of 5
525 Aleka Loop, Kapaa, HI
Stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Kapaa. Enjoy 3 outdoor pools, 2 hot tubs and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,630 reviews)
"Check in fast, property is very clean 2 minutes walk to beach Enjoyed my trip"

Reviewed on 1 Jul 2025

Plantation Hale Suites
Castle Kiahuna Plantation & Beach Bungalows

Castle Kiahuna Plantation & Beach Bungalows

3 out of 5
2253B Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI
Stay at this 3-star beach aparthotel in Koloa. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a beach locale. Our guests praise the property condition in their reviews. ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,021 reviews)
"Beautiful location! Loved having coffee every morning on the lanai."

Reviewed on 20 Jun 2025

Castle Kiahuna Plantation & Beach Bungalows
Makai Club Resort

Makai Club Resort

3.5 out of 5
4180 Lei O Papa Road, Princeville, HI
Stay at this 3.5-star golf condo in Princeville. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a business centre. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
9/10 Wonderful! (360 reviews)
"It’s absolutely beautiful the staff is amazing and kind. The stay was amazing everything to do with property went well and the staff being so friendly was the greatest it’s no fun dealing with ugly people and the property had none of this thankfully, Paul Acosta, from Austin,Texas"

Reviewed on 17 Jul 2025

Makai Club Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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