Hanalei

Hanalei is a north Kauai town beside Hanalei Bay, known for mountain views, taro fields, surf, small shops, the pier and wet-season beauty.

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Hanalei, Kauai

Hanalei, meaning "crescent bay" in the Hawaiian language, is located about 32 miles (52 km) from Lihue. This small north shore town is home to one of the finest and most scenic Kauai beaches – Hanalei Bay – popular for swimming, relaxation and other Kauai activities.

Hanalei has two main shopping centers located in the middle of town – Hanalei Center and Ching Young Village – where you can find several shopping, dining and entertainment venues.

Right before Hanalei (coming from Princeville), there is a one-lane bridge. From here to the end of the highway at Ke'e Beach it is an approximately 7-mile (11 km) scenic drive on a narrow and winding road. During heavy rains the road is closed and you can't go beyond this first one-lane bridge.

There are two scenic lookout points on the road from Princeville to Hanalei (before reaching the bridge). One is located on the left side of the road and overlooks Hanalei Valley. The other one is on the right side and overlooks Hanalei Valley and Hanalei Bay.

There are no hotels in Hanalei (except one inn and some vacation rental homes). The majority of accommodation options near Hanalei is in the resort town of Princeville.

Key Features

North Kauai town beside Hanalei Bay
Known for mountain views, waterfalls, surf and Hanalei Pier
Hanalei Valley is one of Hawaii's best-known taro-growing areas
Small town center has shops, restaurants and local services
Close to Princeville, Lumahai Beach, Haena and the Na Pali Coast access road
Winter surf can be dangerous along the bay and nearby beaches
Rain, flooding and one-lane bridges can affect north shore travel
Parking can be limited near the pier, beach and town center
Population: 410 at the 2020 Census
Zip code: 96714

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does Hanalei mean?

Hanalei is often translated as "lei making" or "crescent bay," with the name connected to the broad curve of the bay and the valley's long cultural history.

Why are taro fields important in Hanalei?

Hanalei Valley is one of Hawaii's best-known taro-growing areas. Wetland fields, mountain water and long farming traditions remain part of the valley's identity.

How is Hanalei different from Princeville?

Hanalei is a small bayfront town with older shops, beach access and taro fields nearby. Princeville is a planned resort and residential area on the bluff above the coast.

Why does Hanalei get so much rain?

The town sits below Kauai's wet north shore mountains, where trade winds push moisture upslope and feed waterfalls, streams and the green valley around the bay.

What makes Hanalei Pier special?

The pier is a landmark on Hanalei Bay, used for fishing, photos, beach access and sunset views. Its setting frames the bay, mountains and waterfalls behind town.