Kalaheo HawaiiATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Kalaheo, Hawaii.
1. Lawai International Center
HISTORIC BUDDHIST TEMPLE SITE
Lawai International Center is a historic site featuring 88 shrines along a peaceful walking path. Visitors can explore the Hall of Compassion temple building while learning about the site's cultural significance. The center offers informative videos and talks to enhance the visitor experience.
2. Kalani Kauai
MOUNTAIN VIEWS AND TRAILS
Kalani Kauai offers visitors stunning mountain scenery and hiking opportunities. The attraction is highly rated by travelers, earning a perfect 5.0 rating. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the beautiful landscapes and outdoor experiences available.
3. Kukuiolono Golf Course
AFFORDABLE HISTORIC GOLF
Kukuiolono Golf Course is one of Hawaii's best-kept golfing secrets, originally built by sugar king Walter McBride and donated to the people of Kaua'i in 1919. The nine-hole course is perfect for beginners and experienced golfers alike, offering affordable rates. Visitors can enjoy stunning coastal views while playing and afterward dine at the on-site restaurant.
4. Eluawai Farm
LOCAL AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE
Eluawai Farm provides visitors with an authentic agricultural experience on Kauai. The farm features activities including mini golf that draws families for traditional vacation challenges. Visitors can learn about local farming practices while enjoying recreational activities.
5. Minnie's Mercantile
LOCAL BUTCHER SHOP
Minnie's Mercantile is a specialty butcher shop offering premium cuts of locally sourced beef. The shop processes just one whole beef each week, making their products highly sought after on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors can purchase specialty cuts including steer burger, tomahawk, rib-eye, porterhouse, and t-bone steaks.
6. Kalawai Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
Kalawai Park is a recreational area serving the local community and visitors to Kalaheo. The park offers open spaces and facilities for various outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing time in this pleasant community gathering spot.
7. National Tropical Botanical Garden
TROPICAL PLANT CONSERVATION
The National Tropical Botanical Garden headquarters is dedicated to researching and saving endangered tropical plants and ecosystems. The organization manages five gardens, including the nearby McBride Garden with towering palms and exotic plants, and Allerton Garden with manicured landscapes and statues. Guided tours are available but must be booked in advance.
8. Kalaheo Music and Strings
LOCAL MUSIC SHOP
Kalaheo Music and Strings is a specialty shop catering to music enthusiasts and musicians. The store offers instruments, accessories, and musical expertise to locals and visitors alike. It serves as a cultural hub for the musical community in the Kalaheo area.
9. Kauai Coffee Estate
LARGEST US COFFEE FARM
Kauai Coffee Estate is the largest coffee farm in the United States, offering visitors a chance to stroll through coffee orchards. The Visitor Center provides opportunities to learn about coffee production and sample different varieties. Guests can purchase gifts and coffee products to take home, with shipping services available.
10. Creative Ohana
LOCAL ARTISAN COOPERATIVE
Creative Ohana is an artist cooperative specializing in unique locally made products. The shop features handmade items, with 90% of products made on Kauai and the rest created by Hawaiian artisans. Many items can be customized, offering visitors personalized mementos of their Hawaiian experience.
11. Kalaheo Farmers Market
WEEKLY LOCAL PRODUCE
The Kalaheo Farmers Market takes place every Tuesday at the Kalaheo Neighborhood Center, offering locally grown Kauai produce. Visitors can purchase exotic flowers, fresh herbs, and organic fruits and vegetables directly from the farmers who grow them. Highlights include juicy mangoes and fresh coconuts, but guests should arrive early as the market is popular with both locals and tourists.
12. Fern Grotto Cruise
SCENIC RIVER JOURNEY
The Fern Grotto Cruise takes visitors along the Wailua River to explore a unique natural fern-covered lava rock grotto. This popular attraction combines a boat ride with Hawaiian cultural experiences and natural beauty. The excursion is easily accessible from Kalaheo and ranks among the most popular activities for visitors to the area.
13. NaPali Boat Tour
COASTAL CLIFFS ADVENTURE
The NaPali Boat Tour aboard the Amelia K offers breathtaking views of Kauai's dramatic coastal cliffs. Travelers can witness towering sea cliffs, hidden beaches, and cascading waterfalls that are inaccessible by land. This popular excursion lets visitors experience the majestic NaPali Coast from the unique vantage point of the ocean.
14. Smith Family Garden Luau
TRADITIONAL HAWAIIAN CELEBRATION
The Smith Family Garden Luau provides an authentic Hawaiian feast and cultural experience on Kauai. Guests enjoy traditional cuisine, including kalua pig cooked in an underground imu oven, alongside performances of hula and other Polynesian dances. The event takes place in lush garden surroundings, creating a memorable immersion into Hawaiian traditions.
15. Kukuiolono Park
SCENIC GARDENS AND HISTORY
Kukuiolono Park offers beautiful gardens, walking paths, and panoramic views of Kauai's coastline. The park was donated to the people of Kauai by sugar magnate Walter McBride, whose grave can be visited near the golf course's 8th tee. Visitors can enjoy the Japanese garden, stone walking paths, and picnic areas throughout this peaceful retreat.