8 Of The Best Views & Lookouts On Kauai
Kauai, known for its stunning natural beauty, is one of the most picturesque places you can visit. It is home to some of the most awe-inspiring views and lookouts that you’ve most likely seen in movies, TV shows, and much more. In this blog post, we will explore eight of the best views and lookouts on Kauai that are a must-visit for anyone traveling to the Garden Isle.
Waimea Canyon Lookout
The Waimea Canyon Lookout is one of the most impressive natural attractions on the island of Kauai. This 14-mile-long, 1-mile-wide canyon was formed by erosion from the Waimea River. The result is a breathtaking landscape of red rock formations, lush green forests, and waterfalls – an atmosphere hard to find anywhere else in the world.
The Waimea Canyon Lookouts are easily accessible by car, with parking available at the top of the lookout point. From here, visitors can take in panoramic views of the canyon and the surrounding landscape. There are also several hiking trails in the area, ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks that lead down into the canyon.
There are a total of 3 official spots you can get to. The standard Waimea Canyon Lookout, Puu Ka Pele Lookout, and the Puu Hinahina Lookout. We recommend having a full tank of gas as the round trip to access these lookouts is over 30 miles.
Kalalau Lookout
The Kalalau Lookout is one of the more well-known lookouts on the island. Located in Koke’e State Park, this lookout offers panoramic views of the Kalalau Valley and the Na Pali Coast in the distance. The valley is lush and green, with steep ridges and waterfalls cascading down into the valley floor.
To reach the Kalalau Lookout, visitors can drive along the winding road through Koke’e State Park. There are several lookout points along the way, but the Kalalau Lookout is the most spectacular. You’ll find the official Kalalau Lookout point towards the end of the main road right on Mile Marker #18. From here, you can see the sheer cliffs of the Na Pali Coast rising up from the ocean, as well as the deep valley below.
The Kalalau Lookout is also the starting point for several hiking trails, including the Kalalau Trail, which winds through the Na Pali Coast and offers some of the most breathtaking views on the island. While the trail is challenging and requires proper preparation, even a short hike can offer incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a stunning photo opportunity, the Kalalau Lookout is a must-visit destination on Kauai.
Kilauea Lighthouse
The Kilauea Lighthouse is one of the most iconic landmarks on the island of Kauai. Located on the northernmost point of the island, this historic lighthouse was built in 1913 and has served as an important navigation aid for ships traveling along the coast.
Today, the Kilauea Lighthouse is open to visitors who can take a self-guided tour of the lighthouse and surrounding grounds. From the top of the lighthouse, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and coastline. During the winter months, visitors may also be able to spot humpback whales in the waters below. (There is an entry fee as of May 2023.)
In addition to the lighthouse, the surrounding area is home to a wildlife refuge that offers visitors the chance to see a variety of seabirds, including albatrosses and red-footed boobies. Overall it’s a great place to stop by for a quick snack, photos, or just to take in the scenery.
Hanalei Bay
Hanalei Bay is known as one of the best beaches in all of Hawaii. Located on the north shore of the island, this bay offers a crescent-shaped beach with golden sands and crystal-clear waters. The bay is also surrounded by plenty of mountains and hills, making it quite a picturesque place to spend a day.
In addition to its natural beauty, Hanalei Bay offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Surfing is a popular pastime, with waves that are suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers. Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are also popular options, allowing visitors to explore the bay and nearby Hanalei River.
The town of Hanalei is located nearby, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and accommodations for visitors to the area. The town has a relaxed and laid-back vibe, making it a great destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re looking to surf, swim, or just relax on the beach, Hanalei Bay is a must-visit destination on Kauai.
Opaekaa Falls
Opaekaa Falls is one of the most easily accessible waterfalls on the island of Kauai. Located just a few miles outside the town of Kapaa, this waterfall cascades over a cliff into a pool below, creating a picturesque scene that is sure to impress.
The waterfall can be viewed from a lookout point located just off the road, making it a popular stop for visitors exploring the island. From the lookout, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the waterfall and surrounding valley, including the Wailua River which flows nearby.
Wailua Falls
Wailua Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls on the island of Kauai. Located near the town of Wailua, this waterfall drops nearly 80 feet into a pool below, creating a breathtaking scene for all visitors.
Wailua Falls, like many other stunning locations on Kaua’i, has served as a filming location for movies and TV shows. The most recognizable of these is probably the television series “Fantasy Island,” in which the falls are prominently featured in the opening credits. Luckily, you don’t need to lace up your shoes to enjoy the view of Wailua Falls – it’s easily accessible from the roadside.
Spouting Horn
Spouting Horn is a natural wonder located on the southern coast of Kauai, and you’ve most likely seen it somewhere as it’s one of the most popular photography locations on the island. This blowhole is created when waves crash into an underwater lava tube, forcing water and air through a small opening in the rock, resulting in a powerful spout of water shooting up into the air.
The blowhole can be viewed from a lookout point located just off the road, making it a popular stop for visitors exploring the island. From the lookout, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the ocean and the spout of water shooting up into the air, as well as the surrounding rugged coastline.
In addition to its natural beauty, Spouting Horn is also steeped in Hawaiian legend and lore. According to legend, the blowhole was created by a giant lizard named Kaikapu, who was caught in the lava tube and slain by a local fisherman. The spout of water is said to be the hissing breath of the dying lizard.
Koke’e State Park
Koke’e State Park is another beautiful park located on the northwestern side of Kauai. Covering over 4,000 acres of rugged terrain, this park offers some of the most stunning views and hiking trails on the island.
The park is home to a diverse range of plant and animal life, including rare and endangered species such as the Hawaiian honeycreeper. Visitors to the park can explore a variety of trails that wind through forests, meadows, and along ridges, offering spectacular panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding mountains.
Take your time to explore Kauai’s natural beauty
Kauai is a natural wonderland that is home to some of the most breathtaking views and lookouts in the world. Whether you’re interested in hiking, surfing, or just taking in the natural beauty of the island, there is something for everyone on Kauai. Be sure to add these eight destinations to your itinerary for an unforgettable experience on Kauai.
Looking for a new way to explore Kauai? Take a boat tour with us at Kauai Sea Tours!
If you’re looking for a new way to explore Kauai, why not take a boat tour with us at Kauai Sea Tours? Our experienced guides will take you on an unforgettable journey through the island’s beautiful coastline and waters, where you can see stunning marine life and breathtaking views that you won’t find anywhere else on the island. Book your tour today and experience the magic of Kauai from a whole new perspective. We hope to see you soon!