They say that the best things come in small packages, and this charming city is no exception. From amazing tourist attractions to exciting activities, there are tons of fun things to do in Wainiha.
Wainiha must see attractions:
- Makua Beach
- Hanalei Bay
- Na Pali Coast State Park
- Waimea Canyon
- Hanalei Pier
- Anini Beach
Makua Beach is one of the most secluded and far away beaches on Oahu. It's a quiet beach, far from crowds. The beach is white sand, but it can be hot and dry. This undeveloped beach is backed by the Waianae Mountain Range and Makua Valley. Most Oahu visitors never get to see this beach. That's because no tour buses go here, and most people who make the effort to drive to the remote leeward coast of Oahu only drive up to
Makaha Beach, a popular big wave surfing beach in the winter months. Unlike many Oahu beaches, Makua Beach is not protected by an offshore reef, so the waves can get really high and the currents strong on rough days. The ocean bottom drops off quickly here, so swimmers should stay close to the shore. Fishing and bodyboarding are popular activities on calmer days. There are no lifeguards or facilities here.
Wainiha River flows into the ocean at the eastern end of the beach. The nearshore water tends to be murky from the silt deposited by the river. When the conditions are right, surfers can be seen on the river side of the bay riding a break.
Hanalei Bay - Spend a lazy day on this popular beach. Discover memorable beach sunrises and impressive mountain views. This is a romantic area. Rent standup paddle boards and find a secluded stretch of beach where you can picnic in peace, away from the crowds.
Na Pali Coast State Park - This Wilderness park is in the northwest part of Kauai. It is known for its towering pali, or sea cliffs, punctuated by narrow valleys, streams and cascading waterfalls. The Kalalau Trail is a steep footpath running through the park, between nearby Ke'e Beach and sandy Kalalau Beach. It cuts through 5 valleys, including the Hanakoa Valley, with its native plants and old agricultural terraces. Here you can hike for hours along a meandering seaside path and discover a hidden beach. Waterfalls and swift flowing streams continue to cut these narrow valleys while the sea carves cliffs at their mouths. Extensive stone walled terraces can still be found on the valley bottoms where Hawaiians once lived and cultivated taro. Go kayaking along the shore and see soaring cliffs that rise dramatically from the sea. Other than hiking the coast, the only way to legally access shore areas in Napali Coast State Wilderness Park is by boat.
Waimea Canyon - often referred to as the "Grand Canyon" of the Pacific, this awe-inspiring collection of majestic peaks and troughs will have you taking picture after picture which will never look as good as you remembered. The depth of the green and red valleys are best seen in person as photos cannot possibly portray the beauty. Approximately ten miles long and up to 3,000 feet deep, this large canyon is located on the western side of Kauai. Waimea is Hawaiian for "reddish water", a reference to the erosion of the canyon's red soil.
Waimea Canyon State Park overlooks the Waimea Canyon, which is one of Hawaii's most visited scenic treasures. The park consists of a scenic drive, lookouts of the canyon, a viewpoint of Ni'ihau Island, wildland picnicking and trails. Adjacent forest reserves with long, strenuous hikes into and out of the canyon. Seasonal trout fishing. Pigs and seasonal goats are hunted nearby.
Hanalei Pier - Another romantic quiet area where you can wander the beautiful beaches and collect sea shells or just sit on the beach and enjoy the turquoise waters of the ocean. The pier was originally built of wood before 1892. In 1921, it was reconstructed with concrete and a roof was added at the far end. It was used as a shipping pier until 1933. It was a main filming area for the 1957 film, South Pacific. The land at the base of the pier is a Kauai County park known as Black Pot Beach, which is a popular camping area for local families. There is a small boat ramp where you can launch kayaks to paddle the Hanalei River. Hanalei Pier is where you will find the calmest spot for children to play in the surf. Because of its popularity with the locals and visitors parking can be difficult on holidays and weekends. Weekdays are suggested days to visit for visitors.
