Things to do in Lihue
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Top 10 attractions in Lihue
Kauai Backcountry Adventures
Gently drift along a historic waterway on a guided raft, or try a zipline adventure to view the lush grounds and charming valleys from above.Hanamaulu · 2.3 km from Lihue
Kauai
Kauai is located at the northern end of the Island of Hawai'i, is the fourth largest island in the archipelago, and is also a geologically ancient island. Years of erosion by wind and rain have left the mountains rounded and lush. The island is covered in dense tropical rainforests and crisscrossed by river valleys, with waterfalls hidden within, earning it the nickname "Garden Isle." The Waimea Canyon on the west side is known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," with reddish-brown rock walls layered with green vegetation; the Na Pali Coast on the north shore is famous for its nearly vertical, emerald-green sea cliffs. Roads do not reach this area, so to experience it up close, you can only take a boat, a helicopter, or hike the Kalalau Trail. Mount Waialeale in the center of the island has abundant rainfall and is one of the wettest places on Earth, giving rise to valleys full of rainforests and chains of waterfalls. The movie "Jurassic Park" was also filmed on the island. The island offers activities across sea, land, and air: taking a helicopter to overlook the canyons and sea cliffs is a signature local experience, offering views of waterfalls inaccessible by land; kayaking on the Wailua River to the Fern Grotto, cycling slowly along the east coast bike paths, snorkeling at Poipu Beach, or experiencing ziplining and horseback riding in the lush valleys are all well-established activities on the island.Kauai · 20.5 km from Lihue
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters
Lihue · 2.7 km from downtown
Smith Family Garden Luau
Smith Family Garden Luauis a cultural theme garden with a tropical flair that blends natural views, traditional architecture, dining, music, dance, and entertainment. Upon entering, visitors can feel the distinctive Hawaiian character. The entire environment is relaxed and natural, making it perfect for families and visitors who enjoy experiencing local culture. The garden is shaded by lush trees and rich in plant varieties, where you can see coconut trees, palm trees, and various tropical flowers. Winding paths connect different areas, surrounded by views and decorations in a traditional Hawaiian style, making visitors feel as if they are in a tropical botanical park. The garden also features tranquil water views, where visitors can stroll along the garden paths and take photos while enjoying the natural scenery. The spacious dining area can accommodate many visitors, with simple and comfortable seating. The surrounding tropical plants and traditional decorations further enhance the dining experience. Visitors can not only taste local specialties but also watch live music and dance performances in a relaxed atmosphere.Kauai · 7.9 km from Lihue
Lydgate Beach Park
Kauai · 7.2 km from Lihue
Kilohana
Kilohana Plantation is located in Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii, offering a comprehensive attraction that blends history with modern leisure. Originally the estate of sugar plantation owner Gaylord Wilcox, it has been transformed into a recreational destination featuring art exhibitions, dining, shopping, and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the estate's art galleries and craft shops, savor island-style cuisine made with local ingredients, or enjoy signature cocktails at the bar. Additionally, the plantation regularly hosts traditional Hawaiian luau dinners, featuring fire dancing, hula performances, and other cultural showcases. The plantation railway and tropical gardens also provide opportunities for visitors to connect with nature. With its relaxed and inviting atmosphere, Kilohana Plantation is perfect for a half-day or full-day itinerary to immerse in Hawaii's history and cultural charm.Kauai · 2.4 km from Lihue
Wailua River State Park
Along the east side of the island, you can enjoy beautiful waterfalls and lush jungle scenery along the calm Wailua River. In Hawaii, only Kauai has navigable rivers, and the Wailua River is one of the more popular ones. This 32 km long river originates from the 1,569 m high Mount Waialeale in the center of the island and once flowed past 7 different temples. The Wailua River has two well-known and easily accessible waterfalls: Opaekaa Falls and Wailua Falls. You can also take a guided open-air boat tour to visit Fern Grotto. You can enjoy many water activities here, such as kayaking, outrigger canoeing, or taking a boat tour to admire the beautiful scenery along the banks. While on the boat, you can also see Nounou Mountain (Sleeping Giant), which is formed by the ridge between Wailua and Kapaa. When viewed from a distance, the mountain peak truly looks like a sleeping giant lying down. You can also explore the Wailua River by car by driving inland along the north side of the river. Along the way, you can see special and sacred landmarks, including ancient temples, historical sites, Opaekaa Falls, and the Keahua Arboretum.Kauai · 6.8 km from Lihue
Ali'i Kauai Air Tours & Charters
Lihue · 2.8 km from downtown
Island Helicopters Kauai
Lihue · 2.5 km from downtown
Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours - Kauai
Lihue · 2.9 km from downtown
Experiences you can't miss in Lihue
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What travelers say about Lihue
Lavender and SunApril 10, 2022
5.0
Kapaa, located on the shore of East Harbor, is the second largest town on the island, with many hotels, restaurants and tropical shopping malls. Local handicrafts include shell garlands, hand-sewn pillows and acacia gourd trees.
Kauai
素素77October 16, 2024
5.0
The scenery is picturesque, the sea is blue, and the beach is perfect for vacation, full of romantic Hawaiian atmosphere.
Lydgate Beach Park
东张西望望东西January 23, 2021
5.0
The island is a very beautiful place. It is worth experiencing when traveling to Hawaii. Kauai is also a place you can't miss. The unbeatable sea view and beautiful beaches here make it a very suitable place for vacation.
Kilohana
纽约GossipJanuary 29, 2023
5.0
Wailua River Heritage is a scenic and historic area located on the Hawaiian island of Kauai. The Wailua River is considered one of the most sacred places on the island and is of great significance to the ancient Hawaiians.
The Wailua River is the only navigable river in the state of Hawaii and was an important transportation and trade route for the ancient Hawaiians. There are also many cultural and historical sites on the river, including the Wailua Complex of Heiaus, which is a national historic site.
We first drove to the viewing platform of Opaekaa Falls, which has a good view of the waterfall. The name Opaekaa means "rolling shrimp", which is appropriate because the waterfall is located in an area that was once inhabited by a large number of shrimp. The waterfall is about 150 feet (about 46 meters) high and is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.
Then we walked from the Opaekaa Falls viewing platform to a small viewing platform across the road, which has a better view of the North Fork of the Wailua River.
You can also take a cruise to explore the river and learn about its history and culture. The area also offers many recreational activities, including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and swimming.
Wailua River State Park
