The Best Scenic Views in Kauai
Kauai is an amazing place with natural beauty all around. In this post I’m going to share some of the best scenic views in Kauai that you definitely won’t want to miss during your trip to the Garden Isle.
There are some spectacular Kauai scenic overlooks that are very popular among tourists and locals alike. They are honestly so beautiful, they’re almost unreal. You feel like you’re looking at a postcard, these lookouts in Kauai are so picture perfect!
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If you’re looking for a few other things to do, check out these posts:
Kauai Overlooks
Wailua Falls Overlook
What I love about the gorgeous scenic view at Wailua Falls is that you don’t have to do any hiking to get to it. It’s just a short drive just out of Lihue down a somewhat windy road. You basically drive right by the overlook and park in a small parking lot at the end of the road, then walk back.
The double waterfall is spectacular. It’s actually been featured in a TV show, if you remember Fantasy Island from the 70s-80s, Wailua Falls were featured in the opening scene. It’s actually a great thing to do if your flight leaves a little later in the day as it’s not far from the airport.
Menehune Fish Pond Overlook
Also known as Alekoko fish pond, this historical site was built over 1,000 years ago. The entrance to Menehune scenic overlook is about a half mile from the entrance to Nawiliwili Harbor.
Legend has it the Menehune (a race of small people) built the ponds to create a dam used to trap fish to feed the Hawaiian royals.
Spouting Horn Overlook
Head to Poipu on the South shore to visit Spouting Horn Park. This is a nice park located on Lawa’i Road where parking is free and there are picnic tables and restrooms. Flowers, trees and of course chickens abound as well.
Of course the star of the show is Spouting Horn, a huge blowhole that sprays ocean water up in the air. Caused by ocean waves rushing under a lava shelf, it’s a scenic ocean view that is a very unique experience.
Lookouts in Kauai
Waimea Canyon
One of the most popular lookouts in Kauai, Waimea Canyon is known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Located on Kauai’s West Side, it’s about a 26 mile drive (including the return trip) up a very windy road. But once you get to the top, boy is it astonishing!
The return trip boasts beautiful driving scenic views of Kauai…literally breathtaking! I actually really enjoyed the return trip and the view of the sky touching the ocean.
Kalalau Lookout
Just up the road from Waimea Canyon (around 8 miles or so) is the Kalalau Valley Lookout. It’s one of the most recognized and photographed scenic views in Kauai. It has been featured in movies like Jurassic Park, Six Days Seven Nights, Mighty Joe Young and the original King Kong.
Many visitors think the best view in Kauai can be seen at this lookout. The trick is to catch it when you can actually see it. Clouds can obstruct the gorgeous views in the afternoon, so the best time to visit is usually between 8-11 am.
Pu’u O Kila Lookout
Just a mile up the road from the Kalalau Lookout is another spectacular scenic view of the Kalalau Valley. You can also get a view of Mount Waialeale, the wettest place on Kauai, if not all of planet earth.
There is a parking lot with room enough for a few dozen cars and the lookout area is fenced off. You can also venture outside the fence on a trail if you’re brave enough (which having a fear of heights myself, I definitely am not!).
Hanalei Valley Lookout
Near Princeville, the Hanalei overlook on the North Shore of Kauai is a sight to behold. It’s a patchwork of lush vegetation that is truly stunning. Another of the most popular scenic views in Kauai.
It’s easily accessible by car right on Kuhio Highway. This makes it simple to just stop for a few minutes and take some photos.
Hanalei Bay Lookout
Heading toward Hanalei you can pull off of Kuhio highway just past Hanalei Valley Lookout to get an awesome view of the bay. Hanalei Bay Lookout is only really accessible on the way down as you’d have to cross traffic and make a u turn to stop on the way back up the hill, which isn’t advisable.
But if you can stop on the way down, definitely do, you won’t be disappointed!
Opaeka’a Falls Lookout
Another very convenient stop to see amazing scenic views in Kauai. Simply pull off of Kuamoʻo Road in Wailua into a parking lot and check out Opaeka’a falls. They’re absolutely gorgeous!
Kauai Scenic Spots
Polihale State Park
With 17 miles of golden, sandy beach and views of the Na Pali Coast, Polihale beach is a sight to behold. Watching the sunset over the Pacific ocean is an amazing view you’re sure to remember forever.
Be aware that Polihale State Park sits at the end of an unpaved road. Most rental car companies won’t allow you to drive there, so you’ll have to make other arrangements to visit this scenic spot.
Makaleha Mountain Overlook
Located near Kapa’a, a drive down Kahuna road will lead you to astounding views of Makaleha Mountain and the several waterfalls that flow down it. You can park by the water tanks at the end of the road or even roadside to view this lush, scenic spot.
That’s one thing about Kauai, there is beauty everywhere. Mountains, waterfalls, beaches, the ocean…it’s definitely a magical place!
Scenic Views in Kauai
Sleeping Giant
Otherwise known as NouNou Mountain, to get the scenic views you do have to hike one of the three mountain trails. But as you know, we’re not about hiking here at Kauai My Way!
Taking in the view of Sleeping Giant from afar is a sight to see in itself. It actually does look like a giant lying on his back. Located on the East Side of Kauai between Wailua and Kapa’a, you can get a nice view of the mountain while driving down Kuhio highway, or even from some spots around town. I snapped the pic below while driving by the parking lot in front of Safeway.
Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge
On the North Shore you’ll find Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge located at the end of Kilauea Road through the town of Kilauea. Say that three times fast!
There are only a few spaces to park but parking is free, and the view is absolutely amazing! You can pay to enter the lighthouse (reservations required) but it’s simply not necessary to enjoy the magnificent views.
As you can see, the Garden Island is overflowing with beauty. These are some of the best scenic views in Kauai that I have found, but by no means are they the only ones. Let us know which ones you plan on visiting during your next trip to Kauai.
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