Waimea

Travel Guide

Waimea Canyon showing landscape views and a gorge or canyon
Waimea showing mountains
Waimea Canyon showing 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 Jul 29, 2025

Waimea Plantation Cottages, a Coast Resort
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 P19,136 per night from Aug 25 to Aug 26
P19,136
P25,660 total
Aug 25 - Aug 26
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 Jul 29, 2025

The Royal Sonesta Kaua'i Resort Lihue
Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection

Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection

4.5 out of 5
2641 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI
The price is P39,784 per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
P39,784
P49,257 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Koloa. Enjoy free WiFi, 3 outdoor pools, and 5 hot tubs. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,002 reviews)
"Loved this property. Our villas were clean, well maintained and staff was friendly. The linens and beds were comfortable and the kitchen was equipped with enough kitchen ware you could prepare meals. The store on site has a variety of basic staples and they made the best lattes with oak milk. My ..."

Reviewed on Aug 1, 2025

Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection
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.
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 Jul 28, 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! (1,058 reviews)
"For persons with mobility challenges, ensure to contact property to secure the one mobility accessible rental they have."

Reviewed on Jul 25, 2025

Banyan Harbor Resort
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 WiFi, free parking, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the property condition in our reviews. Popular ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,023 reviews)
"Beautiful location! Loved having coffee every morning on the lanai."

Reviewed on Jun 20, 2025

Castle Kiahuna Plantation & Beach Bungalows
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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