Hanapepe

Travel Guide
Hanapepe featuring a suspension bridge or treetop walkway and a house
Admire the quaint setting, browse the charming stores and restaurants and visit the pristine sandy bays in Kauai’s Biggest Little Town.

Among the liveliest towns in Hawaii, Hanapepe has a rich culture and historic buildings. Its plantation history is alive in the old structures, which today hold quaint shops and art galleries. Purchase artisanal gems from local vendors and chat with residents for a glimpse into their traditions.

Stroll through the enchanting town center for excellent dining and shopping options. The picturesque commune was the setting for several movies and the inspiration for the Disney animation Lilo & Stitch. Embark on an art tour on Friday evenings, when the town’s painters and sculptors showcase their work.

The Swinging Bridge sheds light on the rich past of the town. Watch your kids sway on the fun structure on the Waimea River, as Hawaiian children have done since the early 1900s. School was often canceled on rainy days, as the bridge was inaccessible. Consider Hanapepe’s intricate history, entwined with American G.I.s, sailors who trained in the Pacific theater.

In the southern part of the town is the Kauai Soto Zen Temple Zenshuji. Play games with your kids, enjoy a meal and join a memorial service.

Take a break from the cultural delights of the town with a relaxing afternoon at one of the beaches. Immediately south is Glass Beach, which takes its name from the abundance of sea glass. Collect these pretty translucent pebbles that shimmer in hues of blue, brown and white.

Head west to Salt Ponds Beach for its ideal swimming and snorkeling conditions. Spot monk seals and see the traditional salt ponds.

Fly to the Port Allen Airport and get a taxi to the town with a drive of just a few minutes. The commune is on the southern shore of Kauai, just 10 miles (16 kilometers) west of Koloa. Visit nearby attractions, such as the Spouting Horn.

Hanapepe is known for its quaint strip of shops and its excellent beach options.

Kauai Shores Hotel
Kauai Shores Hotel
3.5 out of 5
420 Papaloa Rd, Kapaa, HI
The price is RM1,223 per night from 15 Apr to 16 Apr
RM1,223
per night
15 Apr - 16 Apr
Stay at this beach hotel in Kapaa. Enjoy free parking, 2 outdoor pools, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant in our reviews. Popular ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,008 reviews)
"Loved this place only inconvenience was tiny parking but they also offer free valet. Great place to stay old Hawaii feels and super close to coconut marketplace!"

Reviewed on 27 Mar 2024

Kauai Shores Hotel
OUTRIGGER Kauaʻi Beach Resort & Spa
OUTRIGGER Kauaʻi Beach Resort & Spa
4 out of 5
4331 Kauai Beach Dr, Lihue, HI
The price is RM1,428 per night from 10 Apr to 11 Apr
RM1,428
per night
10 Apr - 11 Apr
Stay at this 4-star beach resort in Lihue. Enjoy free WiFi, 4 outdoor pools, and 3 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,019 reviews)
"Be aware that there are extra parking costs if a person rents a car while on Kauai.There is also a fee expense that was added in, but I knew about that once I made reservations. Overnight parking was something like $ 29 per night which I thought was a little high, staying at The Outrigger."

Reviewed on 24 Mar 2024

OUTRIGGER Kauaʻi Beach Resort & Spa
The Royal Sonesta Kaua'i Resort Lihue
The Royal Sonesta Kaua'i Resort Lihue
4 out of 5
3610 Rice Street, Lihue, HI
The price is RM1,842 per night from 27 Apr to 28 Apr
RM1,842
per night
27 Apr - 28 Apr
Stay at this beach hotel in Lihue. Enjoy 4 restaurants, a beach locale, and 2 bars/lounges. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,009 reviews)
"I really enjoyed my stay at the Royal Sonesta Kaua'i Resort and would highly recommend to anyone interested in a family friendly resort by the beach."

Reviewed on 25 Mar 2024

The Royal Sonesta Kaua'i Resort Lihue
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Plantation Hale Suites
Plantation Hale Suites
3 out of 5
525 Aleka Loop, Kapaa, HI
Stay at this family-friendly aparthotel in Kapaa. Enjoy 3 outdoor pools, 2 spa tubs, and WiFi. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,445 reviews)
"Great…will stay here again."

Reviewed on 19 Mar 2024

Plantation Hale Suites
Kauai Beach Villas
Kauai Beach Villas
4 out of 5
4330 Kauai Beach Drive, Lihue, HI
Stay at this 4-star beach villa in Lihue. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a business center. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (361 reviews)
"We stayed in A18 and it was clean, well decorated and had all necessities. Beautiful pool view. You are also welcome to use all amenities at the beautiful Outrigger hotel next door! Stunning pool and hot tubs with a quick walk to the beach. A few restaurants are in the hotel. About 15 minutes to ..."

Reviewed on 10 Mar 2024

Kauai Beach Villas
Kiahuna Plantation Resort Kauai by OUTRIGGER
Kiahuna Plantation Resort Kauai by OUTRIGGER
3 out of 5
2253 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI
Stay at this beach aparthotel in Koloa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (838 reviews)
"Walkable to everything and beautiful gardens surrounding the area!"

Reviewed on 25 Mar 2024

Kiahuna Plantation Resort Kauai by OUTRIGGER
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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