The One Hawaii Town Everyone Should Visit At Least Once
Hanalei is a small beach town on the north shore of Kauai, in Hawaii. This small seaside town’s features include a two mile long crescent-shaped white sand beach with forested mountains forming the backdrop. It is a premier destination for a wide variety of year-round water activities as well as other outdoor adventures like hiking, it has historic landmarks, relaxing accommodation options that elevate the relaxed small town setting, and is a great location for exploring other towns on the north shore. Let us take a closer look at Hanalei and find out why it is the one Hawaii town everyone should visit at least once.
Crescent-Shaped Beach
Hanalei Beach has many qualities that draw in people regardless of their personal ideas of perfect beach day. The two miles of white sand beach are ideal for sunbathing next to the Pacific Ocean, and the calm waters in the summer and fall invite snorkeling among the two coral reefs at either end of the bay. Beginner surfers can be spotted learning the basics, with designated areas for body and boogie surfing. The Easterly side of the bay sees larger waves come in, which will satisfy the needs of more skilled and experienced surfers.
However, during the winter months, the waves throughout the entire bay become larger and the current stronger, meaning the water should only be entered by strong swimmers and surfers who can handle the current. But there are more than just water-based activities on the beach. Families can enjoy the use of barbecue grills and picnic areas at Hanalei Pavillion Beach Park, making it a great place for outings and spending the whole afternoon on the beach.
Historic Pier
Hanalei Pier is a historic 19th-century pier that extends out into the water of the Hanalei Bay. The original wooden structure of the pier was built before 1892 to accommodate Kauai’s growing economy, particularly for the transportation of sugar and rice, solidifying Hanalei’s role in Kauau’s agricultural trade. However, as the rice trade expanded, so did the need for a more robust pier. In 1912, the pier underwent renovations, which saw a 340 foot long wooden deck atop a concrete base. In 1921, the wooden deck was replaced with a concrete one which could better withstand Hawaii’s tropical climate.
The pier ceased its commercial shipping role in 1933, and what was once a busy transportation hub for sugar and rice is now a sacred community gather spot. Residents and visitors alike enjoy the pier today as a prime spot for fishing, watching the sunset, or wading in the shallows.
Kauai Mountains
Explore the lush forest-covered mountains overlooking Hanalei, and hike the Okolehao Trail. The trail is a short but intense 2.5 mile long trail which rises to 1,250 feet in elevation and rewards hikers with views of the Hanalei Bay and surrounding Hanalei Valley. The beginning of the trail is steep and thick with foliage, with muddy and rope-assisted climbing sections present in later parts of the trail.
There are frequent viewpoints throughout the trail, and a bench at the top for resting and taking in the surrounding views. From the top, the Hanalei River can be seen coursing through the valley floor, and on a clear day it is possible to view one fifth of the entire island, as well as Mount Waialeale, the second-highest point on the island.
Tropical Accommodation
The Hanalei Inn is conveniently located just one block away from Hanalei Bay, with close proximity to accessible trails, making it a popular accommodation option in Hanalei. The rooms are equipped with a queen bed, full kitchen and coffee making facilities, in-room climate control, and cable television. The exterior of the inn is surrounded by fruit trees and tropical gardens, with barbecues, picnic tables, and hammocks for relaxing. There are also four apartments available, designed in a rustic Hawaiian style that includes plantation hardwood floors, local art, and tropical flowers. The apartments offer private lanais, for relaxing in the outside air within the comforts of home.
Nearby Towns
Princeville is a resort community east of Hanalei known as a premier location for classic Hawaiian luxury and its stunning coastal landscape. Queen’s Bath is a natural tide pool embedded in the lava rock which offers a unique swimming experience. However, much like Hanalei Bay, the winter months make the water dangerous due to high surf.
Anahola is a small village further along from Princeville on the east shore that has an old village along the bay, and a newer commercial part adjacent to the highway. Anahola Beach is known for its shallow and calm waters, making it popular among beach goers and nature lovers who want to swim and snorkel.
Haena is a small town on the north shore that is only a 15 minute drive from Hanalei. Limahuli Gardens showcase a collection of native plant species from Kauai for the purpose of conservation, cultural perpetuation, and education.
Add Hanalei to Your Hawaiian Bucket List
If it's not already, Hanalei needs to be placed on your Hawaiian bucket list. From its relaxing accommodation, its natural beauty epitomized in its beaches and mountains, its historic pier and community gathering place, and its close proximity to other towns and communities on the island, Hanalei has so much to offer for every traveler. This is the one Hawaii town everyone should visit at least once.
