Kauai Maps & Regions
Kauai is the shape of an almost perfect circle, with a magnificent beauty emanating from each one of its 552 square miles. The island's location is a strategic and fortunate one for visitors because the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean keep the island at perfect temperature year-round.
Kauai's beaches make up almost half of its shoreline, which is an obvious perk for visitors. Kauai, Hawaii's fourth largest island, also shares its mountains with its guests. A hike along the Kalalau Trail, or a helicopter ride past 5,148-ft Mount Waialeale, the center of Kauai rewards visitors with amazing memories and photographs. The deeply weathered mountainous region tells a story as does Kauai's Waimea Canyon. Often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea Canyon offers extravagant views and hiking trails throughout its 4,000-foot elevation.
Kauai Maps - Today's Weather Conditions
| Place | Temperature | Humidity | Pressure | Conditions | Wind | Updated |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lihue | 73°F 23°C | 71% | 30.12 in | Mostly Cloudy | ENE at 13 mph | 6:53 AM HST |
| Na Pali Coast | 60.0°F 15.6°C | 97% | 0.00 in | ENE at 0.0 mph | 6:11 AM HST | |
| Poipu-Hanapepe | 70.0°F 21.1°C | 0% | 0.00 in | ENE at 9.0 mph | 6:02 AM HST | |
| Princeville | 68.7°F 20.4°C | 70% | 30.09 in | South at 7.0 mph | 7:05 AM HST | |
| Waimea | 68°F 20°C | 78% | 30.09 in | Clear | ESE at 5 mph | 6:56 AM HST |
South Shore Kauai
The sunny South Shore of Kauai is home to historic Old Koloa Town and the resort area of Poipu. This is an area of activity and historic attractions. Whether you’re playing on a championship golf course or exploring the Koloa Heritage Trail to learn more about Kauai’s history, there’s something for everyone on the South Shore. A good place to start is spending the day at Poipu Beach Park, which was once named one of America’s best beaches. Nearby Spouting Horn features a blowhole that releases a spout of water up to 20 feet or more into the air. See why Kauai is nicknamed “The Garden Isle” at two National Tropical Botanical Gardens: McBryde Garden, featuring 259-acres of gardens and world’s largest collection of Hawaiian plants, and Allerton Garden, an 80-acre gem with sophisticated garden design and the giant Moreton Figs made famous in the film “Jurassic Park.” You’ll even find the Kauai Coffee farm tour just a few miles west of Poipu.
Kauai East Shore-Lihue
Lihue is the government and commercial center of the island as well as a cultural and historical area. This may be the most traveled town on Kauai since its home to Kauai’s main airport (the Lihue Airport) and Nawiliwili Harbor, the island's major commercial shipping center and cruise ship port.
Lihue has a variety of beaches and natural wonders to explore. Kalapaki Beach is the home of the Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club and the Kauai Lagoons Golf Club. Bodysurfing, windsurfing and swimming make Kalapaki a popular destination. Ninini Beach is home to an automated lighthouse, operating since 1897. And just north of Lihue, don’t forget to stop at the Wailua Falls lookout for an amazing waterfall view.
The Lihue area also has numerous historical spots including Alekoko (Menehune Fishpond), a roughly 1000-year old aquaculture reservoir; Kilohana, a historic plantation estate; and both the historic Kauai Museum and Grove Farm Homestead Museum. Lihue is your gateway to adventure on Kauai.
Kauai East Shore, Coconut Coast
Kauai's East Side is sometimes referred to as the Coconut Coast for the groves of coconut palms that grow in its resort areas. The most populated district on the island, about 16,000 of the island's 62,000 residents reside in the Wailua/Kapaa area. Amongst the clusters of coconut trees you’ll find historic places, amazing beaches and memorable attractions. In Wailua, you’ll find a variety of sightseeing opportunities and outdoor activities. Kayak the Wailua River in Wailua River State Park, take a boat ride to the Fern Grotto, or take photos at Opaekaa Falls. Don’t forget to try and spot the Sleeping Giant in the Nounou Mountains or take a hike up this scenic ridge. Sacred places like Polihau Heiau, the large lava-rock temple of Kauai’s last king, Kaumualii, can also be found on the East Side. And be sure to visit Kapaa Town to discover fine Hawaiian arts and crafts.
North Shore Kauai
Kauai's dramatic North Shore is an enchanting setting full of rugged mountains, lush taro fields, heavenly beaches and spectacular sea cliffs. You’ll be amazed at how much beauty can be found in just one area of Kauai. The North Shore is also home to the upscale resort area of Princeville where you can indulge in world-class hospitality and play at some of Kauai’s premier golf courses. You can also find other accommodations here ranging from historic bed and breakfasts to rental homes allowing everyone the opportunity to experience the beauty of Kauai’s North Shore. Visit lovely Hanalei Town, home to stretches of green taro fields alongside colorful shops, galleries and restaurants. But the most stunning feature of Kauai's North Shore is the magnificent Napali Coast. This 17-mile stretch of coastline is lined with cliffs up to 3,000-foot tall, accented with lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls and sea caves.
West Shore Kauai
The West Side is home to a few of Kauai’s most historic places and scenic wonders, the most famous of which is the breathtaking Waimea Canyon, the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” But there is even more to explore. Head north beyond the gorges and cliffs of Waimea Canyon and visit Kokee State Park where you’ll find yet another amazing view from the Kalalau Lookout. The two small towns of Waimea and Hanapepe also grace the West Side. In 1778, Captain Cook first landed in the Hawaiian Islands here at Waimea Bay. Today, a statue of Cook stands in Waimea Town commemorating this event. Hanapepe is the art capital of Kauai with galleries, shops and eateries lining small town Hanapepe Road.
