Kauai is a small island and you might be tempted to book your hotel in a more central area. But I’d highly recommend staying in two different areas of the island on your visit. Why? You don’t want to miss the dramatic Kauai North Shore.

Why Stay At The Kauai North Shore

Sure, you could just drive to the North Shore and make a day trip of it. But, there’s something incredible about waking up and spending an early morning on the deserted beaches of the Kauai North Shore, not another person in sight.

I stayed at the Hanalei Colony Resort, which was an incredible experience. And, I would definitely recommend staying here on your trip to Kauai.

The beach in front of the Hanalei Colony Resort is absolutely stunning, very wild and untamed, and so beautiful to watch!

This beach was a great beach for collecting shells. In fact, the only people I came across during the early mornings were jewelry makers collecting shells for their art. 

The waves looked more like fabric than water, and I could have done nothing more than stare at them all day.

Every beach has its own unique landscape on the Kauai North shore, so make sure to visit as many of them as you possibly can.

One of the most popular beaches in the area is Tunnels Beach. Tunnels Beach is where the movie, “South Pacific” was filmed and you get a stunning view of Bali Hai from this beach.

This is also one of the best beaches in Kauai for snorkeling, so don’t forget your snorkel gear. Lots of sea turtles like to frequent the area.

The beach is also a favorite with surfers. Parking is a challenge, here, though, so go early.

The sandy beach goes on for miles, so you won’t have a problem finding a spot all to yourself.

The entire coast of the Kauai North shore is very scenic, so make sure to stop and enjoy it every chance you get.

One of the most breathtaking views is the view of Hanalei Valley. Yes, that famous dragon was from here.

I highly recommend stopping at any of the farmer’s markets that are happening during your visit. You will find beautiful produce and usually an ice-cold coconut to sip.

One of my favorite things to do in Kauai was kayaking along the Hanalei River out to Hanalei Bay.

The views were stunning, and the hibiscus leaves softly dropping into the water made me feel like I was in a dream.

The North Shore is also where the untouched Na Pali Coast begins. Here, you can hike the Kalalau Trail, which provides the only land access to the Na Pali Coast. 

I highly recommend taking a boat tour to see the full splendor of the Na Pali Coast. I took the Niihau + Napali Super Tour with Holo Holo Charters, and it was an incredible way to gape at the scenery.

Most of the boat tours leave from Port Allen, the southern side of Kauai, so save your tour for when you are visiting that part of the island.

Enjoy your time on Kauai and all the magic it has to offer. Me Ke Aloha.

Make sure to read this article on my other website for the best food and restaurants in Kauai.