Na Pali Coast & West Shore Natural Wonders

More than 10 miles long, 1 mile wide, and 3,600 feet deep, Waimea Canyon should be on every visitor’s must-see list.  Unlike the Grand Canyon, Waimea Canyon is as green as it is red, and the spectacular cloud formations produce ever-changing views.

If you stop at every turnout for pictures – and you’ll want to – it will take you about ninety minutes to do the Canyon from Waimea town.  There’s a 4,000-ft elevation gain, and usually a corresponding 10 – 15 degree temperature drop.  So take a jacket even on hot days.

The Ou’u Ka Pele Lookout has a nice view of the Waipo’o Falls, especially after heavy rains.  On clear days, there are also great views of Ni’ihau, the “forbidden island.”

There are dozens of fantastic hikes in Koke’e State Park, and there’s a trailhead at most of the parking lots.  If you want to explore them, check in at the Museum for a map and up-to-the-minute information.  It’s just past the 15 Mile Marker.

The Kalalau Lookout at Mile Marker 18 offers unbelievable views of the lush green valley and churning sea below.  But continue all the way to the top, the Pu’u o Kila Lookout.  From here, you’ll see more of the Kalalau Valley, the largest on the Na Pali coast.  If it seems familiar, it’s because this is the view chosen for postcards and the cover of coffee table books.

If it’s socked in when you get there, give it a while.  Sometimes, if you wait ten minutes, the fog will burn off and your patience will be rewarded with pinch-me vistas and photo ops.

There’s a restaurant adjacent to the Museum, but unless you’re starved, we recommend that you head back down to Waimea and have lunch at Shrimp Station.

If you took 550 up, take 552 (Koke’e Road) down.  That way, you’ll enjoy two different perspectives.

Waimea is a fairly sleepy little town.  There are a few clothing and souvenir shops.  But the big draw here is Jo Jo’s Shave Ice.  With over 60 flavors, there’s something for everyone, but be prepared to wait.  And wait.

Find the top ten Kauai natural wonders.