This Underrated Bay Nestled Along The Hawaiian Coast Is A Dream Come True

With approximately 750 miles of coastline, the Hawaiian Islands are home to incredible beaches, beautiful inlets, jaw-dropping peninsulas, and breathtaking bays. From marine life conservation districts and protected bays perfect for snorkeling to historic bays and those used in film productions, the bays you will find throughout the state are truly second to none and will give you an unforgettable experience, but today, we’re showing off one of our favorites.

Nestled along Kauai’s southeastern shore near Lihue, Nawiliwili Bay is a stunning slice of paradise just waiting to be discovered.

You’ll find a little bit of everything within Nawiliwili Bay. Not only is the bay full of striking beaches and plenty of natural beauty…

...but it is home to the island’s main harbor. The harbor dates to 1930, but Nawiliwili’s history goes back even further.

When Captain Cook first landed here, Nawiliwili was the physical and cultural heart of the area: fishermen worked in the bay, and the area was a popular spot to farm taro. The bay itself wasn’t safe for sailing vessels and interisland steamers, as unfortunately, the area near shore was too sandy and there was a risk of the vessel being smashed into the rocks by the waves.

To remedy this situation, a portion of Nawiliwili Bay was dredged and protected by a breakwater to form Nawiliwili Harbor. It is here were Wailua River, Hawaii’s only navigable river, enters the Pacific.

Today, Nawiliwili Bay now home to beautiful hotels, mouthwatering restaurants, and pristine beaches as well as the simple Ninini Point Lighthouse.

Marking the northern entrance to Nawiliwili Bay, Ninini Point was leased by the Hawaiian government from the Lihue Plantation in the late 1800s as a site for a lighthouse. The current 72-foot concrete tower was built in the early 1930s, while the lamp room was removed in the 1950s, the lighthouse — as well as the land and water surrounding it — is simply jaw-dropping.

Backed by towering, verdant mountains and featuring vibrant blue waters, it doesn’t get much prettier than Nawiliwili Bay. It’s so beautiful that it was used as a backdrop in the film, "Raiders of the Lost Ark."

Whether you're pulling into Nawiliwili Harbor aboard a cruise ship or checking out some of the area's best beaches, you'll surely find yourself in awe of this ethereal bay.

There are several spots to visit within Nawiliwili Bay, but our favorite is Nawiliwili Park, found at Waapa Rd., Lihue, HI 96766. Have you ever visited the gorgeous Nawiliwili Bay? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below! Then, click here to discover one of the clearest bays you'll find in the Aloha State.