Waimea Canyon Tours

Waimea Canyon featuring a gorge or canyon
Waimea Canyon which includes a waterfall and a gorge or canyon
Waimea Canyon
Waimea Canyon showing a cascade and a gorge or canyon
Waimea Canyon which includes landscape views and a gorge or canyon


Gaze out at the colorful greens and reds of the majestic peaks and troughs in Kauai’s Grand Canyon of the Pacific.

Waimea Canyon is a stunning valley of red-brown hills and green vegetation. This exceptional Hawaiian wonder stretches across 14 miles (23 kilometers) of tumultuous topography at a maximum depth of 3,600 feet (1,100 meters). Bring your camera for excellent photo opportunities in this scenic part of the world.

Drive through the park along the main road to reach Waimea Canyon Overlook, which offers a marvelous vista from a popular vantage point. Stop multiple times and leave your car in the parking lots of the Puu ka Pele and Puu Hinahina viewing areas and walk around.

Look for intriguing geographical features that make up the spectacular canyon, including deep valley gorges, jagged peaks and crested buttes. Rainbows often make an appearance over the canyon.

Continue traveling up the twisting road next to the long canyon, which is about 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) wide. Bring snacks and refreshments and set up a picnic with your family with this wonderful backdrop. The canyon was formed by erosion from the Waimea River. Follow the winding trails that surround the canyon to see waterfalls and streams that add to the wonder of this natural treasure.

Take a helicopter ride with a tour operator around the island and appreciate the immense canyon from above. Walk along the ridges of the canyon and spot the comparatively small helicopters buzzing around. Continue hiking north through the park to reach Koke’e State Park, where you will find many trails and intriguing geological formations.

Make sure to bring hiking shoes and extra layers of clothing in anticipation of sudden changes in temperature and weather. Choose between a self-guided tour with a rental car and a tour bus operator.

Waimea Canyon is in Waimea Canyon State Park on the western side of the island of Kauai. Drive north for about 6 miles (10 kilometers) from Waimea to reach the start of the park. Visit nearby attractions, such as the Ku’la Natural Area Reserve, the Pu’u O Kila Lookout and the Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve.

Plan a trip to see Waimea Canyon

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Aston Islander on the Beach
Plantation Hale Suites
Banyan Harbor Resort

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Best Lodging Options Near Waimea Canyon

Waimea Plantation Cottages, a Coast Resort

Waimea Plantation Cottages, a Coast Resort

3.5 out of 5
9400 Kaumualii Highway, Waimea, HI
Waimea Plantation Cottages, a Coast Resort
Hale La- Luxury Beach House with Central Air Conditioning!

Hale La- Luxury Beach House with Central Air Conditioning!

Kekaha
Hale La- Luxury Beach House with Central Air Conditioning!
Hawaiian Charm..Just Steps From The Ocean..On Kauai's Sunny W Side * TVNC4216

Hawaiian Charm..Just Steps From The Ocean..On Kauai's Sunny W Side * TVNC4216

Kekaha
Hawaiian Charm..Just Steps From The Ocean..On Kauai's Sunny W Side * TVNC4216
Hanalei Colony Resort

Hanalei Colony Resort

3.5 out of 5
5-7130 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI
Hanalei Colony Resort
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

5 out of 5
5520 Ka Haku Road, Princeville, HI
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
On Hanalei bay with panoramic ocean views. Steps to the beach and walk to town.

On Hanalei bay with panoramic ocean views. Steps to the beach and walk to town.

Hanalei
On Hanalei bay with panoramic ocean views. Steps to the beach and walk to town.
Makai Club Resort

Makai Club Resort

3.5 out of 5
4180 Lei O Papa Road, Princeville, HI
Makai Club Resort
Hanalei Bay Resort

Hanalei Bay Resort

3 out of 5
5380 Honoiki Road, Princeville, HI
Hanalei Bay Resort
Hanalei Bay Resort Ocean Front! Unobstructed Ocean & Moountain View 8231

Hanalei Bay Resort Ocean Front! Unobstructed Ocean & Moountain View 8231

Princeville
Hanalei Bay Resort Ocean Front! Unobstructed Ocean & Moountain View 8231
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.

Things to do near Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon offers stunning sunsets, thrilling hikes, and kayaking adventures. Explore nearby attractions, journey through Waimea, and tackle the Kalalau and Kukui trails for a perfect excursion. Whether you're seeking breathtaking views or outdoor activities, the canyon provides an unforgettable experience for every tourist.

Food and drinks

Explore the flavors of Waimea Canyon at Captain Cook's, where you can savor fresh seafood and local Hawaiian dishes amidst stunning views. Don't miss their signature poke bowls and tropical smoothies, perfect after a day of hiking in the canyon.

Shopping

While in Waimea Canyon, visit the Talk Story Bookstore, located 12 miles away, for unique gifts and local literature. If you're up for a drive, the Princeville Center, 16 miles away, offers a variety of shops and dining options, and Poipu Shopping Village, 19 miles away, has a charming marketplace atmosphere.

Recreation

Kekaha Beach Park, 8 miles from Waimea Canyon, offers a serene environment for relaxation and rejuvenation by the ocean. For sports enthusiasts, the Princeville Makai Golf Club, located 15 miles away, presents stunning coastal views and a challenging course. The Robert Trent Jones Jr. Course, 17 miles away, features scenic landscapes and a premier golfing experience.

Adventure

Experience the breathtaking Canyon Trail, a 3-mile hike showcasing stunning outdoor scenery and adventure vibes. For water enthusiasts, the Catamaran Kahanu offers thrilling water sports 13 miles away. Alternatively, immerse yourself in nature on the Nu'alolo Trail, a 5-mile hike filled with beautiful landscapes and outdoor excitement.

Find the best attractions near Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," offers stunning views and outdoor adventures on the island of Kauai. Visitors can explore various attractions, including the breathtaking canyon itself, nearby Kekaha Beach Park, and the beautiful beaches in Waimea. This area is perfect for travelers seeking a mix of beach relaxation and cultural experiences, making it a must-visit destination in Hawaii.

  • Na Pali Coast State Park: Experience breathtaking views and dramatic cliffs at Na Pali Coast State Park, just 7 miles from Waimea Canyon. Enjoy hiking trails that lead you through lush landscapes and offer glimpses of the rugged coastline, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
  • Hanalei Bay: Located 14 miles away, Hanalei Bay boasts stunning beach scenery and outdoor activities. Relax on the soft sands, swim in the tranquil waters, or take in the picturesque views surrounded by lush mountains—it's a perfect spot for a beach day.
  • Waipo’o Falls: Just 0.9 miles from the canyon, Waipo’o Falls presents a romantic and adventurous setting. Hike to the falls and marvel at the cascading waters while enjoying the serene ambiance of nature—a hidden gem for couples and explorers!

Best time to go to Waimea Canyon

Visitor numbers around Waimea Canyon is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Waimea Canyon can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Waimea Canyon falls in August and September. August has slightly high visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather. The coolest average temperature around Waimea Canyon falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January72.0°F (22.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February71.1°F (21.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March71.4°F (21.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May75.0°F (23.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June77.0°F (25.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July78.1°F (25.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August78.6°F (25.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
September78.6°F (25.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October77.4°F (25.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November75.4°F (24.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December73.2°F (22.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Waimea Canyon

To save money on your trip to Waimea Canyon, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January, September, or November, when hotel prices drop. Take advantage of free nearby attractions like Barking Sands Beach and Polihale State Park. For accommodations, book your hotel about a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Utilize Expedia’s search tools to filter by budget and preferences, and consider package deals that combine flights and hotels. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and cash rewards for future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Waimea Canyon are January, September and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Waimea Canyon is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange the results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels ready for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Waimea Canyon with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.