11 Hidden Gems You Must Explore Along Kauai's North Shore
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Megan Shute
Author
The eight main Hawaiian Islands are not only wildly different from one another, but one side of the island can be in stark contrast to the other. Nowhere is this truer than on the island of Kauai, where the legendary north shore is unlike anything you’ll find across Kauai, and even throughout the islands as a whole. From hidden caves and picturesque beaches to mouthwatering shaved ice spots and breathtaking gardens there are so many hidden gems on Kaua’i. These 11 hidden gems in Hawaii that are found along Kauai’s north shore are just part of what makes this area so unique. Let’s take a closer look at these hidden gems in Hawaii:
1. Tunnels Beach
Tunnels Beach, Hawaii 96746, USA
With enticing turquoise waters, a plethora of sea life, and the mountains of the Na Pali coast behind you, there’s no questioning why Tunnels Beach is one of the best snorkeling destinations on Kauai.
Get a closer look at beautiful Tunnels Beach:
Get a closer look at beautiful Tunnels Beach:
2. Hanalei Valley Lookout
Kuhio Highway, Kuhio Hwy, Princeville, HI, USA
A jaw-dropping vista awaits you at the Hanalei Valley Lookout – the Hanalei River and expansive taro fields are flanked on either side by majestic mountains and waterfalls. Just off Highway 56/560, this picturesque lookout point proves that it’s not always about the ocean views.
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3. Nualolo Kai
Nualolo Kai Beach, Hawaii 96796, USA
A small beach and untouched valley surrounded by towering cliffs, Nualolo Kai is not only home to a large barrier reef, but also to one of the most extensive and well-preserved archaeological sites in all of Hawaii. Nualolo Kai is the site of an ancient Hawaiian fishing village, as well as an extensive Heiau (Hawaiian temple).
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4. Kilauea National Wildlife Refuge
Kilauea, HI 96754, USA
Located on Kauai’s north shore is 203 acres of protected land, where the Pacific golden plover, Laysan albatross, and the nene – the Hawaii state bird – live. The Kilauea Lighthouse is just a short walk from the parking lot. First illuminated on May 1, 1913, it is the northernmost point of the inhabited Hawaiian Islands.
5. Wishing Well Shave Ice
5-5080 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
Some of the best food in Hawaii comes from unassuming food trucks on the side of the road, and nowhere is that truer than Wishing Well Shave Ice, a Hanalei favorite. With a wide variety of organic shave ice flavors, refreshing acai bowls, and that perfect cup of coffee, Wishing Well is a must-visit.
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6. Open-Ceiling Sea Cave
96746, Kapa?a, HI 96746, USA
This geological formation is surrounded by high rock walls and features an open ceiling to the sky. You can view the sea cave from above, or enter it on a boat tour. The light from the cave's open ceiling penetrates the water and creates an ethereal blue hue that changes colors with the moving sun.
See what it’s like inside this gorgeous sea cave:
See what it’s like inside this gorgeous sea cave:
7. Queen's Bath
Kapiolani Loop, Princeville, HI 96722, USA
Located in the town of Princeville on Kauai’s north shore is a unique tide pool known as Queen’s Bath once used as a bathing spot for Hawaiian royalty. A sinkhole surrounded by igneous rock, this incredible geological formation is not only a vibrant turquoise pool set in the striking black lava shoreline, but it is also a dangerous lava bench exposed to deadly high surf. It is closed during the winter.
8. Waioli Mission House + Church
5-5373 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
Built in 1912, the green, spired church is often regarded as the most photographed building in Hanalei, Kauai – and no one is questioning why. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, inside the home you’ll find a wall clock that was installed in 1866, and still keeps perfect time.
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9. Ke'e Beach
Ke'e Beach, Hawaii 96746, USA
Located in Haena State Park, Ke'e Beach marks the end of the Kuhio Highway, the furthest you can drive on Kauai's north shore. A protected reef makes this an idyllic spot for snorkeling and swimming during the summer.
Get an aerial view of this stunning beach:
Get an aerial view of this stunning beach:
10. Limahuli Garden
5-8291 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
Situated on Kauai’s north shore in a tropical valley is Limahuli Gardens, one of our favorite hidden gems in Hawaii. It overlooks the ocean and Makana Mountain, and features lava rock terraces built by ancient Hawaiians in order to cultivate taro.
11. Maniniholo Dry Cave
5-7878 Kuhio Hwy, Kilauea, HI 96754, USA
Located just off Kuhio Highway within Haena State Park is this magical cave, which offers a sandy floor, low ceiling, and the lore of an evil spirit dwelling within. Rumor has it that during a conflict between the Menehune and Polynesian settlers, the Menehune used this secret tunnel to escape to the north shore. After they were all through, they created a collapse and trapped the Polynesians inside. The cave has a large opening, is at least 100 feet deep, and is perfect to explore with children - just don’t forget your flashlight!
Which of these hidden gems in Hawaii are you planning to visit? Let us know in the comments. While you’re visiting Kaua’i, be sure to explore the other islands as well and see all the wonderful things to do in Hawaii.
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More to Explore
Unique Attractions in Hawaii
What are the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii?
The most beautiful beaches in Hawaii include:
- Mokuleia Beach on Oahu. It's a remote beach in the northwestern part of the island near Haleiwa and several episodes of Lost were filmed here.
- Keawa'ula Beach. A great surfing spot. During the winter, you can find big waves here and hang ten in style.
- Polihale Beach on Kaua'i. This is located on a long, remote shoreline off the Kuamauli'i Highway and is a wonderful camping spot.
Discover more about the most beautiful beaches in Hawai'i.
What are some unique foods in Hawaii?
Unique foods in Hawaii include:
- Loco Moco. A true local favorite with a bed of rice, hamburger patties, and egg on top, and then it's all smothered in brown gravy.
- SPAM Musubi. It's kind of like SPAM sushi, with rice and spam encircled by a strip of seaweed.
- Manapua. A sort of dumpling, these are white, fluffy steamed buns filled with red pork or bean paste.
Find out more about unique foods in Hawaii.
What are the best scenic drives in Hawaii?
The best scenic drives in Hawaii include:
- Maluhia Road. Part of the Holo Holo Koloa Scenic Byway, it has a tunnel of eucalyptus trees and will lead you to the southern shore.
- Road to Hana on Maui. This 64-mile stretch will make it hard to keep your eyes on the road as you drive through valleys and cruise along the coast.
- Chain of Craters Road. Meandering through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, this road is occasionally interrupted by new lava that dries on it.
Learn more about the best scenic drives in Hawaii.