Exciting Things to do on the West Side of Kauai

There are many things to do on the West Side of Kauai. Sure, it might not be as popular as Poipu or Hanalei. But finding things to do on Kauai’s west side is easier than you think. Not only that, there are some super fun activities that don’t include things like boat or helicopter tours.

From west side of Kauai beaches and parks to restaurants, shops and more, there’s so much to discover! I’ve made a list of a few things to do on the West shore of Kauai that can help you when planning your itinerary.

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What to do on the West Side of Kauai

Visit Hanapepe

With plantation style buildings, strolling down main street in Hanapepe feels like going back in time. They have shops, restaurants and some really cool photo opps, which I’ve listed below. Learn more about the town of Hanapepe, Kauai’s Biggest Little Town, by visiting their website.

Hanapepe Valley Lookout– Pull over on Kaumualii Highway shortly after mile marker 14 for a spectacular view!

Swinging bridge– This is one thing despite having visited Hanapepe twice that I haven’t done yet. But I hear it’s fun, if you’re not afraid of heights like me!

Lilo and Stitch Mural– If you’re a Disney fan like my family then finding out that the town in the movie Lilo and Stitch was based off of Hanapepe is way cool! There’s a mural that’s a great photo opp as well as a cut out board you can put your head through for another photo opp.

The Old truck – Another really cool opportunity to take photos, the old truck has been in Hanapepe for over ten years!

Art Night– Every Friday night from 5-8pm stroll through local shops, galleries and restaurants in Hanapepe. Unique vendors line the streets, there’s truly something for everyone!

Midnight Bear Breads– There’s nothing like stopping by a local bakery and grabbing a fresh pastry while walking about town. Learn a little more about what Midnight Bear Breads Menu offers in this post.

Salt Pond Beach Park

With typically calm waters, Salt Pond is protected by reefs and has a few shallow pools. There are also barbecues, restrooms, picnic tables, and a lifeguard on duty. Plus it’s a dog friendly beach, so it would be a good option if you’re taking a dog from Kauai Humane Society out for the day.

Kauai Coffee Company

Located on the south west side, Kauai Coffee Company is the largest coffee grower in the U.S. Go on a self-guided tour of the estate, or choose between two options for scheduled tours: a walking tour or an open-air truck farm tour.

They offer coffee samples as well as a gift shop where you can buy coffee, coffee mugs, clothing, stickers, bags and more. And if you fall in love with their coffee like I did but don’t have room in your luggage, never fear! They ship to the mainland!

Kekaha Beach Park

The last lifeguarded beach among the west side of Kauai beaches, the wind and waves are usually strong at Kekaha Beach Park. The beach is perfect for a walk or picnic on the beach and watching the sunset. Restrooms are available.

More Things to do on the West Side of Kauai

Koke’e State Park

Although you won’t see me promoting hiking here at all, Koke’e State Park is still worth a visit if you like sightseeing and watching wildlife. There are picnic tables, restrooms, a natural history museum, a restaurant and even a gift shop! You can even camp on Kauai here with a reservation (permit is required).

Waimea Canyon

Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, this is definitely one of the most popular things to do on Kauai’s west side…and for good reason. The views are simply stunning! Enjoy the scenic drive with many lookouts and viewpoints to stop at and appreciate the scenery.

There is a parking fee of $10 per vehicle for non-residents and an entrance fee of $5 per person. No reservations are required. Waimea Canyon State Park runs adjacent to Koke’e State Park and usually has a few food carts that provide water and snacks, but they’re not always open so you might consider bringing your own snacks.

Visit Waimea Town

You won’t find a lot of fancy things to do in the town of Waimea. But what you will find is time to slow down and enjoy the simple things! Stop by these West Side of Kauai restaurants and grab a taco from Island Taco, fresh seafood at the Shrimp Station, or a shave ice from JoJo’s Shave Ice. Oh and our favorite, Coconut Corner! They have everything from fresh fruit and smoothies to sandwiches, stir fry and fried chicken!

Farmer’s Markets

There’s nothing like visiting a Farmer’s Market when in Kauai to find fresh, local produce. You can find them all over the island on different days. Below are the ones I know about on the West side.

• Hale Puna Market– Meets under the large Monkeypod tree 9567 Huakai Rd., Waimea, Thursdays from 3:30-5:30pm.
• West Side Farmers Market– Located at Kekaha Neighborhood Center, 8130 Elepaio Rd. Saturday at 9am.
• Hanapepe Farmers Market– Hanapepe Community Park, 4481 Kona Rd. Thursdays from 3pm-4pm.

These are a few exciting things to do on the West Side of Kauai. I hope this list will help you in planning your next Kauai adventure! Remember to enjoy the journey on island time!