Kauai Cities and Regions

The east side of the island includes Kauai’s county seat, home to the airport, harbor, hospital, Kauai Museum, major shopping centers, and government institutions. Even so, natural treasures, like picturesque Wailua Falls, abound.

Laidback surfers drawn to the enchanted crescent-shaped north shore bay walk down the country roads wearing board shorts and big smiles. Fed by a long, winding river, Hanalei Valley is a dreamy patchwork of lush taro fields that produce half of Hawaii’s poi.

With the best fairways on the island, this north shore luxury resort community on the bluff overlooking Hanalei Bay is a haven for golfers.

Kilauea’s much-photographed lighthouse marks the northernmost point of the main Hawaiian Islands. The sleepy former plantation town is the gateway to Kauai’s scenic north shore.

Drive through a tunnel of trees to arrive at resort hotel central on the south shore. At night, sun-kissed visitors stroll through charming boutiques and dine on Pacific Rim cuisine at ocean-side restaurants.

Check out Hanapepe’s art galleries, located behind charming, old-town storefronts. An eclectic mix of Zen temples, gift shops, and vegan-friendly eateries add modernity to this south shore country town.

Historic Waimea in southwest Kauai is the gateway to Hawaii’s “grand canyon” and Koke‘e State Park. Catamarans and inflatable rafts headed for the Na Pali Coast also take off from here. After a day’s adventure, unwind at the island’s only brewpub.