Aloha, fellow travelers! If you’ve been following our island-hopping journey, you’ll know that this video is all about our one-day adventure on the east side of Kauai. We aimed to explore the beautiful spots near Lihue Airport, making the most of our brief stay. No lengthy drives to Waimea Canyon or beyond – just the best Kauai has to offer within a 30-minute radius.
Heading off on an adventure requires fuel, so our first stop was at Po’s Kitchen for a quick breakfast. Then, we embarked on an incredible journey. Here’s your itinerary for a day in Lihue, Kauai.
Po’s Kitchen: A Tasty Start
Our adventure begins with breakfast at Po’s Kitchen. We took the early flight and needed a quick bite to kickstart our day. The food was decent, but in hindsight, we wish we had ordered more. Energy is key for any adventure, after all.
Sleeping Giant: Conquer the Giant
Our next destination was the Sleeping Giant in Wailua, where we met up with a friend to stage cars. Our plan was to hike the Sleeping Giant one way, starting from the West Trailhead and finishing on the east. The hike is relatively easy, and perfect for beginners. From the nose of the giant, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Kauai, but be cautious on the narrow sections.
Opaeka’a Falls: A Natural Wonder
After the hike, we headed to Opaeka’a Falls. The falls are 151 feet tall and located in the Wailua River State Park. Opaeka’a means “rolling shrimp” in Hawaiian, a name earned due to the abundance of freshwater shrimp tumbling down the falls in the past. The view from across the street is equally breathtaking, offering a serene perspective of the winding river.
Konohiki Seafood: A Delicious Stop
As hunger struck, we headed to Konohiki Seafoods for lunch. Highly recommended by a local friend, this place is a must-visit for seafood lovers. We indulged in delectable Poke bowls, Ginger shrimp, and Inari – all exceptionally tasty.
Ho’opi’i Falls: A Hidden Gem
With our stomachs satisfied, we ventured to Ho’opi’i Falls for our last hike of the day. Situated near a residential area, it’s crucial to be respectful of the neighbors when parking. A short trail leads to the falls, which were made famous in the movie Jurassic Park.
Waialua Falls: A Quick Pit Stop
Before heading to the airport, we squeezed in a visit to Wailua Falls. With limited parking and a tight lookout, this is a short stop to marvel at the stunning twin streams.
Hamura Saimin: A Flavorful Finale
Surprisingly, we had some extra time and decided to make one final stop at Hamura Saimin, a renowned spot for homemade saimin. Their noodles and savory broth offer the perfect comfort food.
Conclusion and Tips
Our one-day adventure in Kauai was filled with scenic hikes, beautiful waterfalls, and scrumptious food. To maximize your experience, be sure to check for any construction or traffic conditions on the island, as Kuhio Highway is the main route around Kauai. We hope this guide helps you plan your visit to Lihue, Kauai. Don’t forget to like and subscribe for more adventure content. Aloha!