The Ultimate Hawaii Hidden Gem Road Trip Will Take You To 9 Incredible Little-Known Spots In The State

While Kauai has its fair share of popular spots like Hanalei Bay and Wailua Falls, it most certainly has some incredible lesser-known locales that won't be overrun with tourists. This ultimate Hawaii hidden gems road trip will take you around The Garden Island of Hawaii to some fascinating hidden gems and natural wonders. These are some must sees if you’re on the island, so make sure to gas up the car and get this road trip started.

This hidden gems road trip around Kauai will cover 101 miles with approximately 3 ½ hours of driving time. Use this interactive Google map to customize the trip to your needs. Let's hit the road!

1. Maniniholo Dry Cave, Kilauea

If you love to explore caves, grab a flashlight and head to our first stop, Maniniholo Dry Cave. Located across from Haena Beach Park, this cave goes back over 100 feet and is fun and easy to explore.

Learn more about this Hawaii hidden gem by visiting this webpage. It’s a trip you absolutely won’t want to miss, and it’s the perfect first stop on our roadtrip.

Address: 5-7878 Kuhio Hwy, Kilauea, HI 96754

2. Kaweonui Beach, Princeville

Tucked away below a bluff known as Kaweonui Point lies the secluded Kaweonui Beach, which is commonly referred to as 'Sealodge Beach.' This pristine slice of shoreline can be accessed via a trail that starts at the Sealodge Condos.

This little known place in Hawaii is an excellent place to get away from it all, and enjoy some peace and quiet! Pack a picnic for this second stop on our road trip itinerary.

Address: Princeville, HI 96722

3. Princeville Botanical Gardens, Princeville

Since Kauai is known as The Garden Island, you must stop at one of the many botanical gardens here. Tucked away in the jungles of the North Shore, Princeville Botanical Gardens is not just filled with exotic flowers and fruit trees but also organically grown chocolate. Come here and take a Walking and Chocolate Tasting Tour for a memorable experience. Read more about why the tropical garden tour In Hawaii deserves a spot on our road trip!

Address: 3840 Ahonui Pl, Princeville, HI 96722

4. Kīlauea Lighthouse, Kilauea

Located on the Kauai's northernmost point within a wildlife refuge is the picture-perfect Kīlauea Lighthouse which is a must-visit on the island. This lighthouse was first illuminated in 1913 with a beam that could be seen 90 miles out to sea. To learn more about this Hawaii hidden gem, read about the northernmost point of the inhabited Hawaiian Islands.

Address: 3580 Kilauea Rd, Kilauea, HI 96754

5. Paliku Beach, Kealia

Paliku Beach is a secluded stretch of sand that was a nudist beach at one time. It is nicknamed 'Donkey Beach' due to the mules (not donkeys) that once resided in a nearby pasture. This beach is a perfect spot for sunbathing, but no swimming due to rough surf. Get the scoop on Paliku Beach in Hawaii to learn more.

Address: Kealia, Hawaii 96751

6. Kauai's Hindu Monastery - Saiva Siddhanta Headquarters, Kapaʻa

Kauai Aadheenam, or Kauai Hindu Monastery, is a South-Indian monastery, spiritual sanctuary, and temple complex set on an otherworldly slice of property filled with lush vegetation. There's no other place like this.

Learn more about this fascinating hidden gem in Hawaii by visiting the website.

Address: 107 Kaholalele Rd, Kapaʻa, HI 96746

7. Fern Grotto, Kapaʻa

Located within Wailua River State Park is a natural wonder known as the Fern Grotto. This grotto is a fern-covered cave surrounded by a tropical garden. One way to see it is by kayaking along the Wailea River which is a magical experience to say the least!

Learn more about kayaking to this hidden gem in Hawaii by reading our previous article.

Address: Wailua River State Park, Kapaʻa, HI 96746

8. Hanapepe Swinging Bridge, Hanapepe

The charming small town of Hanapepe is filled with plantation-style buildings, shops, restaurants, galleries, and a swinging bridge. The Hanapepe Swinging Bridge was built in the early 1900s as a way for its residents to cross the river. It has since been restored and reinforced, but it still swings the slightest bit when pedestrians cross.

Learn everything you need to know about this secret place in Hawaii by visiting this Kauai’s tourism website.

Address: 3857 Iona Rd, Hanapepe, HI 96716

9. Kalalau Lookout, Kapaʻa

We end this road trip at a lookout that gives panoramic views of the ocean and Kalalau Valley. Take in the scenery and realize how lucky you are to bear witness to so much beauty! This little known place in Hawaii is a must see when you’re on Kauai.

Get all the details about the Kalalau Lookout on Kauai’s official webpage.

Address: Kokee Rd, Kapaʻa, HI 96746

Are you ready for a road trip around Kauai? Which Hawaii hidden gems are you most excited to see? Is there any we left off this list? Let us know in the comments below!

If you love road trips, don't forget to read more about the ultimate Kauai road trip.