Hanalei, Kauai
Hanalei, meaning "crescent bay" in the Hawaiian language, is located about 32 miles (52 km) from Lihue. This small north shore town is home to one of the finest and most scenic Kauai beaches – Hanalei Bay – popular for swimming, relaxation and other Kauai activities.
Hanalei has two main shopping centers located in the middle of town – Hanalei Center and Ching Young Village – where you can find several shopping, dining and entertainment venues.
Right before Hanalei (coming from Princeville), there is a one-lane bridge. From here to the end of the highway at Ke'e Beach it is an approximately 7-mile (11 km) scenic drive on a narrow and winding road. During heavy rains the road is closed and you can't go beyond this first one-lane bridge.
There are two scenic lookout points on the road from Princeville to Hanalei (before reaching the bridge). One is located on the left side of the road and overlooks Hanalei Valley. The other one is on the right side and overlooks Hanalei Valley and Hanalei Bay.
There are no hotels in Hanalei (except one inn and some vacation rental homes). The majority of accommodation options near Hanalei is in the resort town of Princeville.
