Take a Virtual Tour of Kauaʻi’s North Shore

From Hanalei and beyond, check out our digital walkthrough of some of Kauaʻi's most scenic sites.
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Photo: Getty Images
Aerial panoramic image at sunrise off the coast over Hanalei Bay and pier on Hawaiian island of Kauai

Since no one can travel right now, we thought we’d bring Kauaʻi to you.

To celebrate just how gorgeous and awe-inspiring Kauaʻi’s north shore is, we’ve put together a virtual tour of the Garden Isle’s most scenic spots, from tranquil Hanalei Bay to the rugged Hanakāpiʻai Beach along the Kalalau Trail. No airline ticket, hotel booking or car rental needed.

Welcome to Hanalei, filled to the brim with art galleries, surf shops and boutiques, making it one of Kauaʻi’s most colorful beachside boroughs to visit.
Photo: David Croxford

 

Lose yourself in the shops and boutiques that fill Hanalei’s sand-dusted streets.
Photo: David Croxford

 

Smoothie shacks, shave ice vendors and fruit stands are a great way to refuel after a day at the beach.
Photo: David Croxford

 

For even more shopping options, look toward the Ching Young Village Shopping Center (5-5190 Kūhiō Highway, Hanalei), which is home to over 40 local shops and vendors.
Photo: David Croxford

 

Whatever you’re doing in Hanalei, look up once in awhile. The Hanalei Mountains are awe-inspiring.
Photo: David Croxford

 

If you’re feeling hungry—like really hungry—make your way to Chicken in a Barrel (5-5190 Kūhiō Highway, Hanalei), which is known for its barbecue chicken and chili bowls.
Photo: David Croxford

 

Of course, visiting Hanalei Bay, and its iconic pier, is an absolute must.
Photo: David Croxford
This view never gets old.
Photo: David Croxford

 

As you exit Hanalei, and start heading toward Hāʻena State Park, keep an eye out for the Waiʻoli Huiʻia Church (5 Kūhiō Highway, #5363A, Hanalei), which was built in 1912.
Photo: Christine Hitt

 

There are a ton of postcard-perfect beaches on the way to Hāʻena State Park, and Keʻe Beach is a prime example.
Photo: David Croxford

 

A plank walkway from Keʻe Beach to Hāʻena State Park was built after the disastrous 2018 Kauaʻi floods. Patches of kalo (taro) were also planted along the path.
Photo: David Croxford

 

A star attraction on Kauaʻi’s North Shore, the Kalalau Trail boasts jaw-dropping views of the Nāpali Coast. (And no, you won’t have to hike all 11 miles to see it.)
Photo: Kevin Allen

 

This vision of Mākua Beach (aka Tunnels) comes only 20 minutes into the hike.
Photo: Kevin Allen

 

Hiking along the Kalalau Trail’s many ridges may ignite a fire in your legs, but views like this are worth the effort.
Photo: Kevin Allen

 

For most, Hanakāpiʻai Beach, approximately 2 miles from the trailhead, is an ending point for their Kalalau Trail hike. While the water may look inviting, heavy rip currents are common here and swimming is highly discouraged.
Photo: Kevin Allen

 

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Categories: First-Time, Kaua’i Guides, Kauaʻi, Travel Safety