Lihue

The Basics

Lihue is the gateway to all adventures on Kauai. For a wonderful introduction to the island’s natural attractions, take a flightseeing tour that leaves from town and heads to the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and Mount Waialeale. Afterward, visit the Kauai Museum to learn about early Hawaiian life and the geological forces that created the Hawaiian Islands, then stop by the Grove Farm Homestead to learn how sugar plantations shaped Kauai’s history.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Lihue is Kauai’s main commercial center and home to some of the island’s best restaurants.

• Kalapaki Beach, located just north of Lihue, is one of the island’s top sunbathing spots.

• Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses if you plan to visit Lihue’s beaches.

How to Get There

Lihue is home to Kauai’s only commercial airport. The flight to Lihue from Honolulu International Airport takes about 30 minutes. You can also find direct flights to Lihue from some mainland locations, and there are daily flights from Lihue to other Hawaiian islands.

When to Get There

Kauai is remarkably warm all year round and is a perfect destination at any time. Winter is the busiest time in Kauai, but this is also the best time to see humpback whales. To avoid crowds and save on accommodations, visit in April or from August to September. The weather is hot and dry from April through September and rainer during the rest of the year.

Kilohana Plantation

The Kilohana Plantation is one of Kauai’s most historic landmarks and a popular attraction for visitors. The fully restored plantation offers hiking paths through the rainforest, boutiques and galleries, and an old-fashioned train that runs through the park. The plantation’s main draw is a traditional luau ceremony, which is offered twice a week and boasts fire dancers, hula performances, and a feast of roasted pig and other local specialties.

What is Lihue known for?

Lihue is Kauai’s government and commercial center and holds plenty of history and culture. It has the island’s airport and cruise port and is the primary commercial shipping center. Kalapaki Beach is the place for bodysurfing, surfing, and swimming. Plus, the impressive Wailua Falls is close by for amazing views.

How much time do I need in Lihue?

There are plenty of attractions to visit in Lihue, whether natural, historical, or cultural. Visitors can spend a day visiting the beaches, museums, or Wailua Falls, doing water sports, or sampling rum and coffee. Or spend more days here, using Lihue as a base for exploring more of Kauai.

What kinds of museums are in Lihue?

Lihue has several museums and galleries for art lovers and history buffs. Visit the Kauai Museum for historic buildings and artifacts and the Grove Farm Sugar Plantation to see the Wilcox home and gardens. Several local artists display their work at galleries like the Tabora Gallery, Seductions of Kauai Gallery, and more.

What is the best time of year to visit Lihue?

The best times for most travelers to visit Lihue are the off-peak or shoulder seasons when the crowds are thinner, and the weather is still good. Try April or May or August through early October, but avoid the busy summer months of June and July and the cooler weather in December and January.

Why are there so many chickens in Lihue and Kauai?

Chickens run around Lihue, and this is for a few reasons. After red junglefowl were first brought to the island by the Polynesians, they cross-bred with domestic chickens and became feral, running around the island like they owned the place. Later, in 1982, a hurricane destroyed chicken coops, scattering chickens all over the island.

What kinds of tours go to Lihue?

Many tours start in Lihue since it’s the capital and is easily accessible to several attractions. Hop on a helicopter for an aerial island tour, or book luau and buffet dinner shows for a Hawaiian cultural experience. Kayaking, exploring the Wailua River, and visiting plantations are also combined with Lihue tours.

Ways to explore

Most Kauai visits kick off from Lihue, the island’s air and sea transportation hub. For an introduction to the island’s natural attractions, take a plane or helicopter flightseeing tour, or a driving tour (or a self-driving audio tour) that leaves from town and heads to the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and Mount Waialeale. Afterward, visit the Kauai Museum to learn about early Hawaiian life and the geological forces that created the Hawaiian Islands, then stop by the Grove Farm Museum to learn how sugar plantations shaped Kauai’s history. End at Kilohana Plantation to see a working farm and a luau.

Accessibility

Attractions in Lihue have varying levels of wheelchair accessibility, so confirm in advance.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, sun hat, beach gear, mosquito repellent

What to wear

Comfortable clothes, sunscreen

Not allowed

No trip to Kauai is complete without trying shave ice, the island’s sweet treat, and Lihue is home to several stands.

Amenities

Parks and beaches, restaurants, shops

Address

Lihue is home to Kauai’s only commercial airport. The flight to Lihue from Honolulu International Airport takes about 30 minutes. You can also find direct flights to Lihue from some mainland locations, and there are daily flights from Lihue to other Hawaiian islands.

Driving

The island’s capital city sits along Highway 50, the main coastal road that skirts the eastern shoreline. It’s easy to drive to all the main sights on the island from here.

Public transportation

Lihue is also the hub for bus transportation on Kauai, and most routes begin in or connect to the town.

Best times to visit

Most of Lihue’s attractions and shops are only open during business hours, and the town is very quiet in the evenings.

Best days to visit

Some attractions in Lihue are closed on Sundays and Mondays, so visit from Tuesday to Saturday to avoid disappointment.

Best months to visit

Spring through fall are the best months to visit Kauai, as it gets most of its rainfall in winter.

Special events

Lihue hosts dozens of events and festivals each year, from weekly art nights and evening markets to the historic King Kamehameha Day Parade and Ho'olaule'a in June.