Here are Kauai’s six best scenic drives.
- Hall of Trees. Kauai has but one major road.
- Hanalei Bay. Drive north on the Kuhio Highway past Princeville and the macadamia nut farms.
- Waimea Canyon.
- Kalalau Valley Lookout.
- Polihale Beach.
Contents
Can you drive around the island of Kauai?
The island is circular in shape with one main road connecting the North Shore and West Side of the island. You cannot drive completely around the island, the rugged and beautiful Na Pali Coast makes that impossible. Drive through quaint coastal towns and rural upcountry neighborhoods while exploring Kauai.
What beaches can you drive on in Kauai?
Polihale is also one of the only beaches in the Aloha State where it’s legal to drive right up to the water. The wild and beautiful beach is often overlooked for more accessible beaches despite the fact that it is one of the most idyllic camping spots in all of Hawaii.
How much of the Kauai island is accessible by car?
20 percent
Kauai is generally considered one of the least developed islands in the Hawaiian archipelago. Only 20 percent of the island is accessible by car, and most of the coastline can’t be seen from any road. For instance, the island’s most famous destination — the dramatic Na Pali Coast.
How long does it take to drive all around Kauai?
Driving completely around Kaua’i can be accomplished in one day if you’re ambitious; the highway forms a semi-circle and takes about two-and-a-half hours to traverse. However, it’s best to spread out your time if you really want to soak in all the treasures along the way.
Is it easy to drive in Kauai?
Driving around the island of Kauai is not only easy, but also offers stunning views of white-sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, and lush tropical valleys and forests. In a single day you can enjoy a bright sunny day on the beach on the South Shore and smell the sweet floral fragrances after a rainstorm on the North Shore.
Is traffic bad in Kauai?
We do not have many traffic accidents on Kauai but, sadly, a few lead to fatalities. It most often happens when a driver crosses the center divide and hits an oncoming car. When this happens the highway is closed for an indefinite time, generally several hours.
Is the road to Kee beach Open?
There is currently zero accesss to Kalalau trail, Ke’e beach, Haena, Tunnels beach, Lumahai etc.The road to Ke’e and LUMAHAI beaches is still closed.
Do you need permit for Kee beach?
The first two-miles of the Kalalau Trail from Ke’e Beach to Hanakāpīʻai Beach is open for day-use without a permit. Hā’ena State Park has a 900 visitor per-day limit.Reservations can be made up to 30-days in advance, and no later than the day before your visit.
Is it illegal to drive on the beach in Hawaii?
Hawai’i state law prohibits motorized vehicles on beaches, but Kaua’i code allows users to transport people or supplies for picnicking, fishing, camping or swimming on the beach. County code specifies that driving back and forth or racing on a beach violates the code.
What is the best month to go to Kauai?
The best time to visit Kauai is between September and November or from April to June, when the weather is pleasant and airfare and hotel rates drop.
Do you need 4wd in Kauai?
Requires Four. Wheel Drive. people, just 17 miles of water and dunes.
How many days do you need in Kauai?
How many days do you need in Kauai? If you’re visiting multiple islands in Hawaii and trying to decide where to spend your time, I’d recommend a minimum of three days in Kauai. Spend more time here if you like the idea of tropical wilderness and remote beaches.
Do I need a car on Kauai?
Do I need a car to get around Kauai? It’s possible to get around Kauai by shuttle, tour bus, taxi or public transportation system. But to make the most of your time in Kauai, consider renting a car.
Is Uber good in Kauai?
Uber and Lyft in Kauai can get you through towns and to your lodging from the airport. Rideshare services are allowed in the pickup and drop-off lanes at the airport, as well. However, parts of the island are quite remote, and you will not be able to find a rideshare in these areas.
How safe is Kauai?
Kauai is a safe place to travel and has relatively low crime but it is always smart to take precautions to protect yourself and your personal belongings. Always swim and hike with a buddy. Obey lifeguard rules, precautions and warning signs.
How do you get around Kauai without 2021?
On Kauai, there are several options for ground transportation:
- Shuttle Service.
- Public Transportation.
- Taxi Service.
- Ride Shares.
Can you drive Hanalei?
During access hours the highway at Hanalei Hill will be open to single lane, alternating traffic for passenger cars and light trucks.Updates and the public access schedule will be posted at https://hidot.hawaii.gov/2021-hanalei-hill-landslide/ .
Which side of Kauai should I stay on?
The Southern Shore of Kauai is where you’ll find the best weather, as it’s both drier and has more sun along this part of the island. This makes this part of the island especially popular with visitors, so you’ll also discover an abundance of great shopping and dining options here in addition to the many resorts.
How do you get to Ke E Beach?
To access this little beach from Lihu’e, take Kuhio Highway and head north (hwy 56 and 560). You will need about one hour to drive all the way to the north shore (40 miles/65 kilometers). At the very end of the road, you will reach a big parking lot with showers and toilets.
Is the road to Hanalei Open?
Kuhio Highway fully re-opens
In March 2021, a substantial landslide struck the island of Kauai in the small town of Hanalei.Route 56 is how virtually anyone and everyone accesses the island’s north shore.