Where is Waimea Canyon State Park,Waimea (Kauai), Hawaii?

Written by | Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 12:28 PM ET

Waimea Canyon State Park is located in Kauai, Hawaii, USA. It lies between Waimea Town and Kokeʻe State Park and is situated in the western part of the island. It is famous for its deep red canyon, colorful cliffs, and scenic hiking trails.

Waimea Canyon State Park Location Map,Waimea (Kauai), Hawaii

Top Attractions Inside Waimea Canyon State Park

  • Waimea Canyon Lookout – Panoramic views of the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”
  • Waipo’o Falls – Scenic waterfall visible from nearby trails and overlooks.
  • Canyon Trails – Hiking paths through dramatic cliffs, valleys, and lush vegetation.
  • Pu’u Hinai Trail – Short trail offering unique perspectives of the canyon landscape.
  • Koke’e Road Overlooks – Scenic viewpoints with sweeping vistas of the canyon and island forests.
  • Birdwatching – Habitat for native and migratory birds in forested areas.
  • Picnic Areas – Designated spots for enjoying the natural beauty of the canyon.

Waimea Canyon State Park Facts

Official NameWaimea Canyon State Park
LocationWaimea, Kauai, Hawaii, USA – Western side of Kauai, along Waimea Canyon Drive
Latitude & Longitude22.0645° N, 159.6640° W
Total Area≈3,661 acres (≈14.8 km²)
Established / Opened1951
Managed ByHawaii State Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR)
RegionWaimea Canyon, Western Kauai, Hawaii
AddressWaimea Canyon Drive, Waimea, HI 96796, USA
Zip Code96796
Area Code808
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD, $)
Time ZoneHawaii-Aleutian Time (HST) – UTC−10 (no Daylight Saving)
Theme / ConceptScenic canyon landscapes, Hiking, Waterfalls, Volcanic geology, Photography, Outdoor recreation
Main Sections / FeaturesWaimea Canyon lookout points, Waipo’o Falls, Hiking trails, Scenic drives, Canyon rim vistas
Famous AttractionsWaimea Canyon Lookout, Waipo’o Falls, Pu’u Hinai lookout, Canyon hiking trails, Kokee State Park nearby
Annual Visitors~400,000–500,000 visitors
Entry Fee TypeFree access to park and lookout areas; Parking fees at some trailheads
Ticket Price RangeFree; Parking ~$5 per vehicle
Ticket OptionsSelf-guided sightseeing, Hiking trails, Photography, Guided tours, Picnic areas
Best Time to VisitApril–October for clearer skies; Early morning for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
Nearby AirportLihue Airport (LIH) – 43 miles (69 km)
TransportationCar / Parking, Hiking trails, Guided tours, Scenic drives, Shuttle services limited
Official Websitehttps://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/kauai/waimea-canyon-state-park/

Distances from Waimea Canyon State Park to Nearby Landmarks

  • Koke‘e State Park – 12 km (7.5 mi)
  • Waipo‘o Falls – 14 km (8.7 mi)
  • Kalalau Lookout – 30 km (18.6 mi)
  • Polihale State Park – 46 km (28.6 mi)
  • Hanalei – 50 km (31 mi)
  • Na Pali Coast Trailhead – 32 km (19.9 mi)
  • Hanapepe Town – 28 km (17.4 mi)
  • Lihue – 75 km (46.6 mi)
  • Poipu Beach – 60 km (37.3 mi)
  • Kaua‘i Coffee Company – 22 km (13.7 mi)
  • Ke‘e Beach – 35 km (21.7 mi)
  • Princeville – 48 km (29.8 mi)
  • Kīlauea Lighthouse – 50 km (31 mi)
  • Hanalei Bay – 50 km (31 mi)
  • Waimea Town – 8 km (5 mi)
  • Salt Pond Beach Park – 40 km (24.9 mi)
  • Spouting Horn – 55 km (34.2 mi)
  • Kauai Museum – 70 km (43.5 mi)
  • Allerton Garden – 58 km (36 mi)
  • Limahuli Garden & Preserve – 48 km (29.8 mi)