Welcome to Kapaa
A charming beachside town steeped in history and culture
North of Wailua on the eastern shore of Kauai, Kapaa is a town of history and legends. It’s most known for its colorful storefronts, sprawling white-sand beaches, and the Sleeping Giant, a majestic formation on the Nounou Mountain Range. It has also been voted among the 10 Cutest Towns in the US by Forbes.
Emerging as a fishing village before the sugar boom in the mid-1800s, this charming, historic town has developed into a touristy paradise with plenty to offer, from hotels to funky boutiques, green parks, scenic dining rooms, and shops to entertain. The vibrant Old Kapaa Town features traditional live music, local crafts, and keepsakes that bring people back to the island from time to time. Temples and museums highlight Kapaa's cultural heritage, and locals hold on to a robust sense of community pride that has endured for centuries.
With Hawaii Route 56 passing through town, Kapaa is easily accessible and close to Lihue Airport. A mix of plantation-style homes and modern Hawaii architecture flecks the residential streets of Kapaa, capturing the spirit and charisma of this town and its people.
What to Love
- The legend of the Sleeping Giant
- Pristine beaches bathed in sunshine
- Proximity to the Kauai International Airport
- Cascading waterfalls along Wailua River
- Lush green spaces for outdoor fun
- A strong sense of community
Local Lifestyle
Centrally located with a relaxed pace of life, Kapaa fosters a healthy outdoor lifestyle with diverse activities such as hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating. This charming tropical paradise showers visitors and locals in its cozy, small-town feel, allowing you to soak in beautiful sights at all turns — whether that's on its scenic oceanfront bike path or along hiking trails and long stretches of sandy beaches.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Looking for a healthy treat to help stay cool during a hot activity-filled day? Wailua Shave Ice has got you covered. Pick from a seasonal menu of tasty flavors, whether you prefer coconut milk or tangy pineapple, sweet almond, or fresh-cut oranges.
Order a side of chili fries with your burger and milkshake at Bubba Burgers, or stop by the upscale Street Burger to bite into the innovative burgers locals and tourists can't stop raving about! Smith's Tropical Paradise offers buffet dinners, featuring meat, fish, and chicken dishes in a tranquil setting.
Things to Do
Kapa'a Beach Park is a scene of alluring ancient ruins, palm trees, and fine sand — it’s perfect for those who love quaint, rocky beaches with a hint of privacy. It's a popular fishing spot and great for picnicking families.
Check in with your kids at the luxurious Waipouli Beach Resort and enjoy exclusive onsite amenities, including sand-bottom jacuzzis, a full-service spa, a beachfront restaurant and bar, and a fantasy pool. Baby Beach is well-known for its shallow tide pool, where waters are calm and every member of the family can splash around while spotting tiny sea creatures. You'll also see kiteboarders surfing on its bigger waves and fishermen at work casting their lines.
Take a stroll around Old Kapaa Town to find locally made keepsakes, including aloha shirts, local art, gift items, and jewelry at any of Kapaa's vibrant Craft Fairs, or attend the Farmers Market every week to grab some fresh fruits and veggies. First Saturdays bring the Old Kapaa Town Art Walk, which is filled with drummers and dancers, local art masterpieces, and plenty of delicious food. You won't want to be left behind in the crowd!Schools