Kauai North Shore

A gathering of stunning vistas, historic sites and quaint towns, North Kauai is perched between the mountains and sea. This quiet stretch of road, stitched together by one-lane bridges, leads to the Hawaiian Islands northernmost point, to luxurious accommodations, to tranquil Hanalei, and beyond, at its end, to idyllic beaches and the beginning of the Napali Coast.

Kilauea Lighthouse
Built in 1913, the 52-foot Kilauea Lighthouse used to aid ships passing through Hawaii to the Orient. This historic landmark sits majestically on the northernmost peninsula of the Island, providing scenic views of the dramatic cliffs and coastline. The Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is just around the bend, bringing Hawaii's rare and unique nesting seabirds close to view.

Limahuli Garden and Preserve
Admire the views and take a guided or self-guided tour of this botanical garden. Read signs about Hawaiian culture as you stroll along the path. The endangered native plants here are all neatly labeled. You'll find traditional Hawaiian agricultural terraces still gleaming with big, heart-shaped taro leaves.

Hanalei Taro Farms
Hanalei's fertile fields have produced taro for more than a thousand years. At the foot of Hanalei's green mountains, beautiful lo'i kalo (flooded fields of taro) produce most of the state's taro for poi (pounded taro root). Some of Hanalei's taro farms offer guided tours (by appointment only).