Waimea

Waimea is a historic west Kauai town known for Captain Cook history, Waimea Canyon access, red-dirt scenery, small-town shops and nearby beaches.

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Waimea

Waimea, Kauai

Waimea is located on Kauai's southwest shore. Even though this side of the island is not as lush as the rest of Kauai, Waimea has other attractions that are worth visiting. There are old buildings, churches, sugar mill ruins, as well as the Captain Cook landing site, located on Lucy Wright Beach Park.

Waimea also has a few good restaurants and shops, two supermarkets, two gas stations (your last chance to get gas before you drive up to Waimea Canyon), as well as a few accommodation options.

If you plan to drive to either the Waimea Canyon or the Koke'e State Park, Waimea is the last main town on your way there. From Waimea, the Waimea Canyon Drive leads to the canyon. As you drive up the road, stop for a moment at one of the lookout points to enjoy the nice view of Kauai's west shore and the island of Niihau on the horizon.

Key Features

Historic west Kauai town along Kaumualii Highway
Main gateway to Waimea Canyon Drive
Associated with Captain James Cook's 1778 landing in Hawaii
Small town center has food stops, shops and historic markers
West Kauai Heritage Center is in the town area
Paulaula State Historic Site is near the Waimea River mouth
Lucy Wright Beach Park and Kekaha Beach Park are nearby
Drier and sunnier than north and east Kauai
Good stop before Waimea Canyon, Kokee, Kekaha or Polihale
Population: 1,855 at the 2020 Census
ZIP code: 96796

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does Waimea mean?

Waimea means reddish water, a name often connected with the red soil and river water in the area. The west-side landscape is much drier and redder than many other parts of Kauai.

Why is Waimea important in Kauai history?

Waimea is associated with early Hawaiian settlement, west-side agriculture and Captain James Cook's 1778 landing in Hawaii. Historic markers and nearby sites reflect several layers of Kauai history.

What is Paulaula State Historic Site?

Paulaula State Historic Site, formerly known as Russian Fort Elizabeth, preserves the remains of a 19th-century fort site near the Waimea River mouth. It is one of the main historic places near town.

How is Waimea different from Kekaha?

Waimea has more shops, food stops, historic markers and the road to Waimea Canyon. Kekaha is farther west, more residential and closer to the long dry shoreline leading toward Polihale.

Why is Waimea a common starting point for Waimea Canyon?

Waimea Canyon Drive begins near town and climbs quickly from the dry west side into canyon country. Many visitors stop in Waimea for food, gas or supplies before heading uphill.