Kauai Scenic Drives

Kauai Scenic Drive Guide

Kauai Scenic Drives

Kauai's scenic drives lead through some of the island's most recognizable landscapes, including canyon country, rainforest valleys, beach-lined shorelines and mountain roads. From Waimea Canyon Drive and Tree Tunnel Road to Kuhio Highway on the North Shore, each route offers a different view of the Garden Isle.

Scenic drive directory

Kauai Scenic Drives

Find Kauai scenic drives, from coastal routes and lookout stops to mountain roads, historic highways and easy day-drive ideas.

Kuhio Highway (North Shore)

Kuhio Highway on Kauai's North Shore winds from Hanalei toward Ha'ena and Ke'e Beach, passing one-lane bridges, lush valleys, beach views and Kalalau Trail access.

Tree Tunnel Road

Tree Tunnel Road, officially Maluhia Road, is Kauai's leafy south-shore gateway to Koloa and Poipu, with a eucalyptus canopy and filtered light.

Waimea Canyon Drive

Waimea Canyon Drive is Kauai's mountain road to Waimea Canyon, with red cliffs, deep valley views, changing weather and lookouts leading toward Kokee.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best scenic drives on Kauai?

Popular Kauai scenic drives include Waimea Canyon Drive, Kuhio Highway on the North Shore and Tree Tunnel Road near Koloa and Poipu.

Which Kauai scenic drive has the best canyon views?

Waimea Canyon Drive is the best-known Kauai route for canyon views, red-earth scenery, waterfalls, coastal overlooks and access to Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Parks.

Which Kauai drive is best for north shore scenery?

Kuhio Highway on the North Shore passes Hanalei, one-lane bridges, lush valleys, beach lookouts and the route toward Haena and Kee Beach.

Where is Tree Tunnel Road on Kauai?

Tree Tunnel Road, officially Maluhia Road, leads toward Koloa and Poipu through a leafy eucalyptus canopy on Kauai's south shore.

Can you do Kauai scenic drives in one day?

You can include several shorter drives in one day, but Waimea Canyon, the North Shore and Poipu-area routes are usually best planned by region.