Aristotle once said, “Whoever is delighted in solitude is either a wild beast or a god." Draw a line in the sand and find out which side you land on in Hanalei, Hawaii. Curving along the north coast of Kauai, this small and stunning district is the definition of peace and quiet. During the 19th century, Imperial Russians flocked to Hanalei, but don’t worry—this trip won’t be as chilly as your solo retreat to the Siberian tundra. Although locals are few, you’ll be too busy riding world-famous waves, hiking to nearby waterfalls, and relaxing in lovely Hanalei hotels to ever call this destination “too serene."
Visiting Hanalei
Hanalei is known for some of the best surf breaks in Hawaii, yet few make the trek out to Kauai’s North Shore. Blaze the trail at Hanalei Beach, then reclaim your land legs with a hike to the Hanalei Valley Lookout on the northern tip of the Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge. The creatures who make a home in this scenic sanctuary far outnumber the human inhabitants in the surrounding districts. While you’re standing in paradise, it’s time to decide: Are you a wild beast or a god? If you’re the former, stay right there, but if you’re feeling quite divine, slide behind the wheel of one of our rental cars in Hanalei and drive east to the nearby Kahana Pond in Kahului— a bird sanctuary and sacred site beloved by Maui for centuries. Back in the bay, watch the sun set in shades of orange and purple before making new friends in a low-key café, or spend the evening resting up for your next adventure in one of the luxurious hotels in Hanalei.
Even aspiring escape artists want the best, so book your pick of Hanalei motels from our selection of top hotels in Maui. With the inside story on over 271,000 hotels worldwide, we’re sure to find your idea of heaven on earth.