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7 things to do in Hanapepe Kauai

I’m so glad you found this list of things to do in Hanapepe, Kauai. Kauai is my favorite island, so if you’re planning a Kauai vacation or Kauai honeymoon, welcome! Hanapepe is known as “Hawaii’s Biggest Little Town,” and it’s a small town that many people miss. 

Fortunately for you, you won’t be one of them!

Before we get started, let me introduce myself. My name is Amy, and I’m a Hawaii Travel Agent. I’m one of the top travel agents for Hawaii, and creating fantastic custom trips in Hawaii is my passion! Contact me today to help plan and book your Hawaii vacation.

DO I NEED A RENTAL CAR IN Kauai?

You’ll definitely need a car in Kauai. Public transportation isn’t very reliable, and while Kauai is relatively small, you need a car to get around. You’ll find the best prices anywhere at Discount Hawaii Car Rental. 

Don’t miss my itineraries for Kauai if you want insider tips for your vacation, but don’t need to work with a Hawaii Travel Agent.

Where is Hanapepe?

Now, let’s get to some of the things to do in Hanapepe, but first, let’s talk about Hanapepe a little bit.

So, where is Hanapepe? Hanapepe is located on the south shore of Kauai, it’s about halfway between Poipu/Koloa (a popular tourist area) and Waimea. If you’re staying in the Poipu or Koloa area, it’s easy to visit because it’s only about 30 minutes away, but it has a completely different feel. 

Early Hawaiians cultivated taro in Hanapepe, but the town later gained fame for its salt production from salt ponds. Now, Hanapepe is most famous as an art town while still having a distinctly Hawaiian feel. 

You’ll also notice that this town is near Eleele, where many of the boat tours of the Na Pali coast will sail out of. So if you’re going out on one of our favorite Na Pali coast cruises – like Holo Holo Charters Na Pali Sail and Snorkel or a Na Pali sunset dinner cruise, you might want to check out Hanapepe before or after your sailing.

Now that you know a little bit about Hanapepe, let’s get to the list of things to do in Hawaii’s Biggest Little Town.

Things to do in Hanapepe

Here are the best things to do in Hanapepe, Kauai, listed in no particular order. 

1. Art night

Art Night happens every Friday and is a family-friendly event. I always recommend that my clients go here if they don’t have other plans on Friday!

2. Lilo and Stitch Murals

Even if you miss Art Night, you’ll find plenty of galleries and other fun art like the Lilo and Stitch Mural. The Disney Creative Team took inspiration from this small town, and it’s where Lilo and Stitch are from in the cartoons.

3. Restaurants

There are some wonderful restaurants in Hanapepe, such as Japanese Grandma’s Cafe, Caba, Mae Mae’s Kitchen, Bobbie’s Restaurant, and Kauai Menehune Kitchen. 

4. Hanapepe Valley Lookout

Kauai has many scenic overlooks, and Hanapepe Valley is one of them! You can spot Mount Waialeale (the wettest place on earth), and you might even notice that some of the scenery looks familiar. This was one of the many spots on Kauai used in filming Jurassic Park.

5. Shopping

There are many cute shops in Hanapepe, and many offer authentic Hawaiian souvenirs. Check out shops like Banana Patch Studio, Aloha Spice Company, and JJ Ohana. 

Please keep in mind that this is a very laid-back town, and some shops will operate on “Hawaii time,” so it’s best to call and ensure they are open if you’re going for one particular item or store!

6. Hanapepe Swinging Bridge

7. Salt Pond Beach Park

The calm water at Salt Pond Beach Park makes it perfect for families, and it’s one of the best places in Kauai for snorkeling!

The park is also known for its rich culture, as families nearby practice the art of making Hawaiian salt, a tradition passed down through generations. It’s a great spot for those looking to experience both snorkeling and local culture.

Be mindful of the cultural significance of salt-making in the area and approach it with respect.

The best things to do in Hanapepe, Kauai

I hope this list of things to do in Hanapepe helps you plan your Kauai itinerary. Check out more things to do in Kauai and Hawaii travel tips below!

More Hawaii Travel Tips:

• 20 fun facts about Hawaii
• Grand Hyatt Kauai Review
• 50 things to do on Kauai
• What not to do in Hawaii (30 things you should never do in Hawaii)
• 7 day Kauai Itinerary

Ready to plan your Hawaii vacation or Hawaii honeymoon?

It can be overwhelming planning a Hawaii vacation! Contact me today. I’d love to work with you! To offer the best service, I only take on a select number of clients per month, so please reach out early!

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