Overview: The Garden Isle's Crown Jewel
The North Shore of Kauai is the vision of tropical Hawaii most people imagine. It is home to the stunning Hanalei Bay, the sophisticated Princeville resort area, and the gateway to the Na Pali Coast.
Top Attractions
- Hanalei Bay: A two-mile moon of white sand, perfect for winter surfing and summer swimming.
- Princeville: A luxury resort community featuring world-class golf and dramatic coastal views.
- Anini Beach: Protected by one of the largest reefs in Hawaii, making it safe for snorkeling even when elsewhere is rough.
- Kilauea Lighthouse: A wildlife refuge offering spectacular views of the rugged coastline.
The "Real Talk" Reality
Expect rain. The North Shore is the wettest part of the island, which is why it's so green. Rain showers are usually brief, but can be intense. In winter (Nov-Apr), the North Shore experiences massive ocean swells that can make swimming life-threatening.