Hanalei, HI

Travel Guide

Hanalei which includes a gorge or canyon and general coastal views as well as a small group of people
NaPali Coast State Park which includes mountains
NaPali Coast State Park featuring landscape views, mountains and general coastal views
NaPali Coast State Park which includes a gorge or canyon and general coastal views
Hanalei showing a gorge or canyon

Dramatic landscapes, world-class waves and an authentic village atmosphere make this Hawaiian town an ideal getaway throughout the year. 

Located on Kauaʻi’s North Shore, Hanalei is loved for its untouched beauty and unique setting. The town sits on a crescent-shaped bay and at almost every point along the bay you are guaranteed a photogenic scene. There are only a few souvenir shops because the town maintains its local character and is largely free of development, making it a favorite for those in search of a classic Kauaʻi experience.

Hanalei’s history is strongly connected to the missionary movement. Join a guided tour through the Waioli Mission House and Church. Originally a home for missionaries, the house has been converted into a museum that showcases Hanalei life in the 19th century.

Spend the afternoon sunbathing and swimming on the white-sand shore of Hanalei Bay Beach. Pull on a face mask and fins to see tropical fish and sea turtles. The beach spans 2 miles (3 kilometers) along the coast and is rarely crowded, making it the perfect place to relax for the day. The bay’s waves attract surfers from all over the country.

Lumahai Beach is something of a local secret and sits 2 miles (3 kilometers) outside the town center. The beach is ideal for sunbathing, though riptides make swimming impossible.

Take a hike to explore the tropical landscape and enjoy panoramas from the mountain ridges that surround the town. The Kalalau Trail is a difficult but rewarding route that offers unparalleled views of the coastline.

Enjoy fresh-caught seafood and local cuisine at one of the village restaurants and then take a walk to Hanalei Pier to watch the sun set. Fishermen and musicians line the dock, a popular gathering place for locals. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Hanalei Pier became famous when it featured in the 1957 classic filmSouth Pacific. This landmark is the ideal place to experience the mellow atmosphere that defines Hanalei.

Hanalei is a 50-minute drive north of Lihue Airport. Public transport is limited, so it’s best to rent a car or motorcycle to get there and to explore the region’s attractions.

Where to stay in Hanalei

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Hanalei Palms

While there might not be top attractions in Hanalei Palms, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Hanalei Bay and Hanalei Beach.

Hanalei Palms
Hanalei Colony Resort
Hanalei Colony Resort
3.5 out of 5
5-7130 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI
Stay at this 3.5-star beach resort in Hanalei. Enjoy free parking, a full-service spa, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9/10 Wonderful! (606 reviews)
"If you are looking to relax, this is the place. Beautiful view & sound of the ocean. The massage at the spa on premises is life changing. There is also a coffee shop & a restaurant so there is no need to leave this oasis in paradise."

Reviewed on Jul 7, 2025

Hanalei Colony Resort
Kauai Shores Hotel
Kauai Shores Hotel
3.5 out of 5
420 Papaloa Rd, Kapaa, HI
$229 nightly
The price is $270 total per night from Jul 9 to Jul 10
$270 total
Jul 9 - Jul 10
Total includes taxes and fees
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Kapaa. Enjoy free parking, 2 outdoor pools, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant in our reviews. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,261 reviews)
"Nice p"

Reviewed on Jul 5, 2025

Kauai Shores Hotel
Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay, HI
Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay, HI
3.5 out of 5
3-5920 Kuhio Hwy, Lihue, HI
$199 nightly
The price is $234 total per night from Jul 23 to Jul 24
$234 total
Jul 23 - Jul 24
Total includes taxes and fees
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Lihue. Enjoy 2 outdoor pools, 2 restaurants, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the bar and the helpful staff in ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,008 reviews)
"Amazing spot, convenient location"

Reviewed on Jul 4, 2025

Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay, HI
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.
Gated cottage, 3 blocks to beach, A/C  Close to Tunnels. Lots of outdoor space
Gated cottage, 3 blocks to beach, A/C Close to Tunnels. Lots of outdoor space
Haena
Stay at this vacation home in Hanalei. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (165 reviews)
Everything you need
"This property has everything you need for a fun day at the beach. We Went snorkeling at Tunnels Beach and it was great. The kitchen is well stocked and the beds very comfortable! The outdoor seating is GREAT. We truly enjoyed our 3 nights here"

Reviewed on Jun 20, 2025

Gated cottage, 3 blocks to beach, A/C Close to Tunnels. Lots of outdoor space
Plantation Hale Suites
Plantation Hale Suites
3 out of 5
525 Aleka Loop, Kapaa, HI
Book a stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Kapaa. Enjoy 3 outdoor pools, 2 hot tubs, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,629 reviews)
"Check in fast, property is very clean 2 minutes walk to beach Enjoyed my trip"

Reviewed on Jul 1, 2025

Plantation Hale Suites
Kauai Beach Villas
Kauai Beach Villas
4 out of 5
4330 Kauai Beach Drive, Lihue, HI
Stay at this 4-star beach villa in Lihue. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a business center. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (470 reviews)
"I liked everything about the condo and friendly office service. I would definitely come back. Walking distance to famous Outrigger resort and restaurants"

Reviewed on Jul 6, 2025

Kauai Beach Villas
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.

Popular places to visit

Things to do

Reviews of Hanalei

4.7
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
2
5 - Excellent 67%
4 - Good
1
4 - Good 33%
3 - Okay
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3 - Okay 0%
2 - Disappointing
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1 - Terrible
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1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

My favorite beach town! It’s chill and fun and a great vibe. Shorts and flip flops.

Cities near Hanalei