Waimea Canyon

Why Waimea Canyon is special
Waimea Canyon on the island of Kauai in Hawaii is one of the most stunning natural wonders in the Pacific. Visitors enjoy a variety of scenic overlooks and hiking trails

Waimea Canyon tips and insights
Best time for viewing
It varies from spot. Generally, the best viewing time is in the morning because it is more likely to be cloudy in the afternoon (though you risk encountering morning mountain mists)

Sun direction affects viewing, too. For example, the ideal time for visiting the popular viewpoint named Waimea Canyon Outlook is the morning. In the afternoon, you will be facing the sun. However, the opposite is true for some of the viewpoints higher up the road.

The weather factor
Sightseeing quality is dependent on the weather. On sunny days, the canyon walls and vegetation are colorfully vibrant. Not so when it rains or clouds hang low. Check the local weather forecast before starting on your Waimea Canyon trip.

Dimensions
Waimea Canyon is about 16 kilometers (10 miles) long and 1100 meters (3600 feet) deep.

Driving
The road hugs the western rim of Waimea Canyon and is often winding. When you reach its end, you will be approximately 1200 meters (4,000 feet) above sea level.

Hiking
There is a variety of trails ranging from short and easy for tenderfoots to long and strenuous (down to the valley floor) for hiking enthusiasts.

Pu'u Kila Lookout
A breathtaking bird's eye view of the Na Pali Coast (a Hillman Bronze Medal winner) awaits you at road's end at the Pu'u Kila Lookout. Far below is Kalalau Beach. The vista is best in the morning when the sun is shining over your shoulder.

Clothing
Dress in layers. It will be nippy if not colder in the higher elevations.

Polynesia Triangle


The US state of Hawaii forms the northern tip of the vast Polynesian Triangle (see map above). It is an enormous sector in the Pacific Ocean defined by Polynesian culture. The two other tips are Easter Island and New Zealand.