Waimea

Travel Guide

Waimea Canyon featuring a gorge or canyon and landscape views
Waimea showing mountains
Waimea Canyon which includes a gorge or canyon
Russian Fort Elizabeth showing 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 center. 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 Center. 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 kilometers) 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 kilometers) of cavernous red rocks 3,600 feet (1,097 meters) 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 center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
9/10 Wonderful! (952 reviews)
"This was a unique and authentic Hawaiian experience. The cottage was clean, spacious and comfortable with all of the amenities we needed. The grounds were impeccably maintained. The views and sounds of waves, birds and chickens made it better than any chain resort. It’s a little remote but Nāpali ..."

Reviewed on 29 Jul 2025

Waimea Plantation Cottages, a Coast Resort
Kai Nalu, Spacious, Beachfront Home

Kai Nalu, Spacious, Beachfront Home

Waimea
Book a stay at this beach vacation home in Waimea. Enjoy a beach locale, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Cook Landing Site and Captain ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (43 reviews)
"This was the most beautiful, amazing location! The hosts were simply the best in communicating and taking care of our needs."

Reviewed on 13 Jun 2025

Kai Nalu, Spacious, Beachfront Home
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 €381 per night from 25 Aug to 26 Aug
€381
25 Aug - 26 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 our ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,022 reviews)
Clean and Relaxing
"Overall, we enjoyed our stay at the Royal Sonesta Kauai. It's connected to a Marriott resort, so there are a lot of restaurants and different spaces in which to relax. Our room was updated and clean, though they only provide in-room services every two days. As a vegetarian, there were limited options ..."

Reviewed on 29 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.
Kai Nalu, Spacious, Beachfront Home

Kai Nalu, Spacious, Beachfront Home

Waimea
Book a stay at this beach vacation home in Waimea. Enjoy a beach locale, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Cook Landing Site and Captain ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (43 reviews)
"This was the most beautiful, amazing location! The hosts were simply the best in communicating and taking care of our needs."

Reviewed on 13 Jun 2025

Kai Nalu, Spacious, Beachfront Home
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 WiFi, free parking, and a business center. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9/10 Wonderful! (364 reviews)
"place was wonderful. We loved staying here. Unfortunately, we stayed on the lower level and you can hear all the noise from the people upstairs, which made our stay very uncomfortable."

Reviewed on 28 Jul 2025

Makai Club Resort
Banyan Harbor Resort

Banyan Harbor Resort

3 out of 5
3411 Wilcox Rd, Lihue, HI
Stay at this 3-star aparthotel in Lihue. Enjoy a 24-hour business center, laundry facilities, and concierge services. Our guests praise the helpful staff in ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,059 reviews)
"Front desk staff super kind & friendly , room is nice and neat !!"

Reviewed on 1 Aug 2025

Banyan Harbor 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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