Kauai Scenic Drives

Kauai Scenic Drive Guide

Kauai Scenic Drives

Find the best Kauai scenic drives for canyon views, north shore scenery, coastal routes, leafy backroads and memorable day trips, from Waimea Canyon Drive and Kuhio Highway to Tree Tunnel Road.

Scenic drive directory

Kauai Scenic Drives

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

Kuhio Highway (North Shore)

Kuhio Highway on Kauai's North Shore winds from Hanalei toward Haena and Kee Beach, passing one-lane bridges, lush valleys, beach lookouts and the access route to Haena State Park and the Kalalau Trail.

Tree Tunnel Road

Tree Tunnel Road, officially Maluhia Road, is Kauai's leafy south-shore gateway to Koloa and Poipu, with a eucalyptus canopy, soft filtered light and easy access to beaches, gardens and resort areas.

Waimea Canyon Drive

Waimea Canyon Drive climbs from Waimea into Kauai's uplands, with red-earth scenery, canyon viewpoints, waterfalls, coastal views and access to Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Parks.

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.