Find the Best Things to Do in West Side
By Jade Eckardt
About West Side
Photo courtesy of Jade Eckardt
Locally known as the west side, Kaua‘i’s leeward coast is Hawaii’s take on the wild west. A geologist’s dreamland, the landscape out here contradicts itself with rolling white beaches, vast canyons, deep rivers, and dry desert land. The west and driest side of the island is a land without frills, but it offers something unique for art buffs, history fans, nature lovers, and beach bums alike.
Art enthusiasts can view local creations and mingle with their crafters. Those hot for history can take a historical walking tour, browse an antiques shop, and visit landmarks that mark the change that led Hawaii to its current state. The outdoors types can camp in the mountains or at the beach, hike, bird watch, and bicycle. Beach bums can surf, swim, stand-up paddle, and snorkel. From Hanapepe to the west end of the Na Pali Coast the sun is almost always shining, and the red dirt tints everything from vehicles to buildings.
See & Do
Polihale State Park is a tropical dream any time of day. The fine white sand seems endless, and carries on for about thirteen miles. The ocean out here is almost always a bright blue and the sacred cliffs provide a unique backdrop and a mythical tale.
To get the best the beach has to offer arrive around three in the afternoon and stay to watch the spectacular sunset. You'll still get some sun at this time, and catching the s unset is a must. A two wheel drive vehicle will almost always get you out here, but stay off the sand and watch our for pot holes.
Eat
Located roadside of Kaumuali`i Highway, Island Tacos in Waimea is a simple order-at-the-counter taco stand with outdoor seating It resembles a roadside taco stand in Mexico, and the simplicity ads to the ability to get to the beach fast.
The vast menu offers local fish, pork, chicken, and even a wide array of wonderful vegetarian and vegan option - and the portions are always huge. You'll find unique toppings like a wasabi spiked aioli sauce and the options of fat free dishes. This is a must stop while on the west side and is great when heading out of town or to the beach.
Party
Every Friday night from six to nine, around 16 art galleries open their doors for a night of art celebration on the main street in Hanapepe. Art Night is an opportunity to socialize with locals and other visitors, explore the small historic town, and meet local artists.
Feel free to show up casual if you're coming straight off the beach but you can also dress up a bit if you feel like it. Expect music, talking story, and plenty of locally made arts and crafts.
Stay
It's not everyday you find a hotel with history literally built into its walls. At the Aston Waimea Plantation Cottages, where original buildings and homes have been turned into stand alone cottages, you'll find ocean front accommodations riddled with a history that is the foundation Kauai's present state.
The cottages are perfect for couple, families, or a group of friends. Most have one to three bedrooms (there's a huge one with five) and offer private back yards, full kitchens, and BBQ areas. It's like a home away from home.
Shop
Numerous galleries selling the creations of local artists have a monopoly on the small town of Hanapepe. They feature photography, paintings, drawings, sculptures, glass, and other creations mostly related to Kauai. Whether window shopping or picking up souvenirs, the town is worth a cruise.
At Kauai Fine Arts you'll find local antiques and other creations. Over at Kauai Finds you'll be treated to islandy home decor such as ceramic tiles asking guests to remove shoes. Truly amazing island photography and watercolors decorate the walls of the Arius Homan Gallery. There's about 16 galleries in Hanapepe, along with places to eat and a small bookstore.