Top 10 Things To Do on Kauai’s East Side (Kapaa, Wailua)
by Admin
Posted on 14-11-2023 03:58 PM
Off the main stretch of road where old
Kapaa
town meets wailua, i find myself going back toward lihue to verify this claim about street burger, a new upscale joint across from kintaro’s. What i ordered didn’t disappoint: the wailua burger, made with all grass-fed beef from kauai’s own makaweli meat co. Topped with a pineapple-glazed piece of spam. Don’t forget to order a side of truffle fries, if only to sample the ketchup made in-house from scratch, a happy reminder for those of us who forgot that this condiment is supposed to taste like hearty tomato.
If you’re not in a rush, request a table on the outdoor patio and wash it down with the largest craft beer selection on kaua‘i’s east side.
Nounou mountain is located on the east side of kauai between kapaa and wailua. The range is often referred to as the “sleeping giant” for its resemblance to the figure of a man lying on his back. According to local legend, the mountain is actually a giant that fell into a deep sleep on his back and has yet to awaken. Visitors to the mountain can hike its scenic trails, including the two-mile nounou trail, which leads to the top of the mountain. From the top of the mountain, visitors can take in views of east kauai.
1. Bike Path: Ke Ala Hele Makalae
Donkey’s beach at the end of the bike path
ke ala hele makalae is kauai’s only coastal bike path that runs along the water from lydgate park on the south end of kapaa to donkey beach, on the north end of kapaa. Even with the small disconnect in the middle between the coconut marketplace and waipouli beach resort you can still hop on at any point and enjoy a nice long adventure. Lydgate to coconut marketplace is approx.
2 miles one way, or waipouli beach resort to donkey beach is approx. 4. 5 miles one way. You will see me on the bike path often!.
If you are looking for a day in kapaʻa full of adventure and fun, hopping on a bike and cycling along the coast is a great way to do just that. Take in the expansive views of the ocean, rugged coastline and outstanding mountains as the gentle breeze from the ocean follows you along the path. The main cycle path that attracts both tourists and locals is the ke ala hele makalae , which is also known as ‘the path that goes by the coast’. There are 8 miles of cycling or walking to be done along this trail, with every bit offering stunning views of the island and out to sea.
2. Hiking Trails: Sleeping Giant, Kuilau Ridge:
The wailua river is the only navigable river in hawaii, and visitors can enjoy a legitimate boating, kayak, or sup adventure in wailua river state park. You can either rent your own kayak, or you can hop on one of many tours. Some tours combine hiking and kayaking, and others focus on only one activity. Though the hikes in this area can be interesting and a nice addition, be sure your tour is centered around the river, and that you’re getting ample time to explore its waters winding through the rainforest. Wailua is located between lihue and kapaa in the center of the east side.
The legend of the sleeping giant pristine beaches bathed in sunshine proximity to the kauai international airport cascading waterfalls along wailua river lush green spaces for outdoor fun a strong sense of community.