A Day in Waimea Canyon For Nature Lovers

Try something different for breakfast at Kokee Lodge. The Loco Moco is a contemporary Hawaiian dish made with local grass-fed beef, a fried egg and a scoop of rice. Or go for pancakes topped with lilikoi (passion fruit) syrup, fruit compote and whipped cream.

Hike along a forest filled with lime green kukui trees with scented white flowers to reach the westside of the Waimea Canyon. During your five-mile trek, spot several waterfalls and exotic birds. The trail takes you down 2000 feet to the bottom of Waimea Canyon.

The walk to Waipoo Falls will lead you through the Waimea Canyon rim, where you can take in amazing panoramic views. Keep moving onward to Kokee Rain Forest, through kukui trees, silky oaks, and many indigenous plants until you have reached the 800-foot Waipoo waterfall.

Pack a picnic and have lunch with a view at one of the Canyon's many picnic areas. Or stop by the Shrimp Station to try shrimp in flavors ranging from spicy Cajun to coconut.

Book a Waimea Canyon downhill bike tour with Outfitters Kauai for an easy ride down from the Canyon’s 3,600 feet elevation. Stop to take photos during your cruise and enjoy views of both the Canyon and the Pacific Ocean.

End your day with a scenic 17 mile cruise from Kokee State Park to Waimea Canyon Drive. Revel in one last look and take a photograph to commemorate your trip at Kalalau Lookout.