Kauai's Most Beautiful Places to See
Kauai is full of breathtaking places to see! These are the most beautiful spots you need to visit!
Nicknamed the Garden Isle for good reason, Kaua‘i is a lush paradise overflowing with jaw-dropping natural beauty. With its emerald valleys, dramatic sea cliffs, golden beaches, and cascading waterfalls, Kaua‘i offers some of the most breathtaking sights in all of Hawai‘i. Whether you're exploring by car, hiking through tropical rainforest, or gazing out from a scenic overlook, the island promises unforgettable views at every turn.
This guide to Kaua‘i’s most beautiful places to see will take you on a journey through the island’s most iconic landscapes, from the rugged grandeur of Waimea Canyon—often called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific"—to the misty, mystical cliffs of the Nā Pali Coast. You'll discover hidden beaches, serene gardens, and lookout points that offer panoramic vistas you won’t believe are real.
Perfect for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike, this curated list highlights the must-see spots that showcase Kaua‘i’s wild charm and untouched beauty. Whether you’re a photographer chasing the perfect shot, an adventurer seeking new trails, or simply looking to slow down and soak in the scenery, these stunning locations belong at the top of your itinerary.
Get ready to fall in love with Kaua‘i all over again—or for the very first time. Let’s explore some of the most beautiful places this magical island has to offer.
Kilauea Point Lighthouse
Historic Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is worth a visit. Learn about resident wildlife too. Opens 10am-4pm. Thurs-Sat (808) 828-0384. Reservations Required.
photo: Getty image
Waimea Canyon
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Kokee State Park
By car, air or on foot, exploring this natural wonder is a must see! Go hiking, stop at the overlooks and visit the Kokee Natural History Museum.
photo: iStock
Na Pali Coast
Nearly 15 miles of towering sea cliffs plunge 4,000 feet into the ocean. It's a stunning geographical feature of the island and should be on your bucket list.
photo: iStock
Wailua River
Explore the state's only navigable river with ancient cultural and historical sites along its banks. Activities include kayaking, stand up paddling and more!
photo: Gelston Dwight
Wailua Falls
Visit this 80-food tiered waterfall in the morning for rainbow sightings. If it looks familiar, it's because an aerial view of the falls was featured in the opening credits of the 1970's TV series, "Fantasy Island."
Hanalei
Time stands still in this charming town on the island's north shore. Further down Kuhio Highway, Haena State Park is now open to the public on a limited basis.
photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson
Hoopii Falls
Adventure awaits along the 1.7 mile trail located near Kapaa Town on the east shore of Kauai. Please be mindful and respectful of all posted guidance that will lead you to the magnificent Hoopii Falls!
Menehune Pond
Said to have been built by Menehune (Hawaii's version of the leprechaun), the pond has been dated to approximately 1,000 A.D.
photo: iStock
Spouting Horn
Dramatic at high tide, this natural wonder spouts water up to 50 feet when ocean conditions are right. You might even see a rainbow in the spray!
photo: Dallas Nagata
Opaekaa Falls
The Falls is 150-feet tall and 40-feet wide, is easily seen from a small lookout on the side of Kuamoo Road. Opaekaa means "rolling shrimp," which were once abundant in the stream.
