Waimea Canyon

The basics

The canyon, within the purview of the free-to-access Waimea Canyon State Park, is best seen on a tour, which allows you to gaze over the cliff edges without having to also navigate a vehicle along the winding, canyon-hugging route or deal with parking fees. Take a 4WD tour on Kauai's backroads and past popular attractions like quaint Old Koloa Town, the Spouting Horn blowhole, the artsy town of Hanapepe and its famous Hanapepe Swinging Bridge, the Kauai Coffee Plantation, and the old Russian Fort before skirting the canyon.

Alternatively, follow the Wailua River—coupling boat or kayak rides to the jungle of Fern Grotto—with a journey west for comparatively dry river views. Most Waimea Canyon tours continue to Kauai's northern coast, stopping at Koke'e State Park and the Kalalau Overlook for sweeping views of the undulating Na Pali Coast. Adventurous visitors can opt for a helicopter tour to see the canyon and the coastline of this lush Hawaiian island.

Things to know before you go

• Waimea Canyon itself is dry and dusty, but the Na Pali Coast can be foggy and wet. Be prepared and dress in layers for whatever the weather may bring.

• Although the canyon trails aren't generally wheelchair accessible, the many lookout points are.

• For experienced hikers, longer treks—including guided multi-day hut-to-hut hikes—are an option. Trail maps and additional information are available in the Kokee Natural History Museum and Visitor Center north of the canyon.

• There are no gas stations and only one restaurant along Waimea Canyon Drive—a route that, depending on how many stops you make, could take all day. Choose a tour that includes lunch or snacks, or pack food.

How to get there

Access Waimea Canyon along scenic, in-and-out Waimea Canyon Drive (Highway 550) in southwestern Kauai, Hawaii. There are several lookout points and trailheads along the route. You can access the road from coastal Highway 50 in the town of Waimea, or from farther west at Kekaha, via Kokee Road. On the return journey be sure to look for glimpses of distant Niihau, the Forbidden Island.

When to get there

It's best to head to Waimea Canyon early in the day (before 10am) or in the late afternoon (after 3pm), when the fog that regularly rolls off the sea is less likely to obscure views along the route. Very early morning and at sunset, the canyon's colors come alive and make for great photographs.

Stops along the Waimea Canyon

There are dozens of pull-offs along Waimea Canyon Drive, but don't miss sights like the Waimea Canyon Lookout at mile marker 10, the Kalalau Lookout, the Puu Hinahina Lookout, or Waipio Falls, best seen from a small lookout around mile marker 13, opposite a picnic area with restrooms and water fountains. The Iliau Nature Loop is a flat and easy (though dusty) trail with signage on local flora and fauna, as well as some great canyon views; look for it just before mile marker 9. The restaurant at Kokee State Park, north of the canyon, serves local-style meals—try the loco moco, a hearty Hawaiian dish of white rice, a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and gravy.

How much time do you need in Waimea Canyon?

Visitors typically spend two or three hours exploring Waimea Canyon. However, the length of time you spend here depends on your interests and what activities you want to do. You could easily spend a whole day exploring the hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.

Is Waimea Canyon worth seeing?

Yes, Waimea Canyon is definitely worth seeing. At 14 miles (22.5 kilometers) long and 3,600 feet (1,097 meters) deep, Hawaii's version of the Grand Canyon is filled with stunning natural features, including waterfalls and crested buttes. Visitors can experience its majestic beauty from several different lookouts and trails.

What is the best time to go to Waimea Canyon?

The best time to go to Waimea Canyon is early in the morning. The temperatures are more comfortable earlier in the day and the views are clearer before clouds obscure the valley and peaks. Seasonally, it is best to visit Kauai during the dry season from April to October. You do not need to purchase Waimea Canyon tickets to visit the area any time of year.

What do you do on a tour of Waimea Canyon?

Tours of Waimea Canyon typically visit the state park's lookouts to take in the views of the canyon and waterfalls. Some tours also include a short walk on a nature trail toward the canyon's edge. Specialty tours on offer include biking excursions around the canyon with a tour guide.

How long does it take to hike the Waimea Canyon?

It depends on which trail you take. One of the most popular trails is the Canyon Trail to Waipoo Falls, a moderately challenging trail that typically takes around three hours to complete. There are also shorter trails that take under an hour and longer, more challenging trails that take all day.

Are there restrooms at Waimea Canyon?

Yes. At each main lookout in Waimea Canyon, you will find accessible public restrooms that the State Parks manage. There are also typically a few food vendors set up at the main Waimea Canyon Lookout, serving small snacks, cut fruit, water, and soft drinks.

Ways to explore

Located within Waimea Canyon State Park, Waimea Canyon is best seen on a tour, so you can gaze over the cliff edges without the hassle of navigating a vehicle along the winding, canyon-hugging route. Most Waimea Canyon tours continue to Kauai’s northern coast, stopping at Koke’e State Park and the Kalalau Overlook for sweeping views of the undulating Na Pali Coast. Alternatively, book a helicopter tour to see the canyon and the coastline of this lush Hawaiian island from above.

Accessibility

The canyon trails are not wheelchair accessible, but many lookout points are.

Age limits

None; children under 3 enter the park for free.

What to pack

Water, snacks, bug spray, first aid kit

What to wear

Hiking boots, layers, raincoat

Not allowed

Alcohol, fires, pets, drones, smoking

Amenities

Restrooms, picnic tables

Address

Waimea Canyon is located within Waimea Canyon State Park in southwestern Kauai, Hawaii. You can view the canyon from above at roadside lookouts or hike down the Cliff Trail or other longer trails.

Driving

Access Waimea Canyon along scenic Waimea Canyon Drive (Highway 550) from Waimea or Kokee Road from Kekaha. You need to pay an entrance fee to enter Waimea Canyon State Park—unless you are a resident of Hawaii—and purchase a parking permit.

Public transportation

Waimea Canyon is not accessible via public transportation. Your best bet is to book a tour that includes transportation.

Best times to visit

It’s best to head to Waimea Canyon early in the day (before 10am) or in the late afternoon (after 3pm), when the fog that regularly rolls off the sea is less likely to obscure views along the route. Very early morning and at sunset, the canyon’s colors come alive and make for great photographs. Check the park website before your visit, as opening hours are subject to change due to weather conditions or maintenance projects.

Best days to visit

Weekends and holidays are the most crowded at Waimea Canyon. Plan your trip for Monday through Thursday for a quieter experience.

Best months to visit

Waimea Canyon is worth visiting any time of year. The hiking trails are less muddy during the dry season from April to October. If you want to see the waterfalls at their peak, visit during winter when the canyon is full of greenery.