If you’re on Kauai and you’re in the mood to do some adventuring then I highly suggest you check out Waimea Canyon and Polihale Beach.
From the North Shore they are a bit of a drive. It took us about two hours to get to Waimea and then another hour to get to Polihale from the canyon (so plan accordingly!).
My husband and I checked these spots out in one day. Although you can easily do Waimea Canyon one day and Polihale Beach another.
Waimea Canyon is on the western side of the island and is considered the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”. I’ve never been to the Grand Canyon (one of these days!) so I like to think that I’m getting a taste at this Hawaiian spot. 🙂
There are fun little spots to stop at and explore as you make your way up Highway 550.
We stopped at this turnout where we got this breathtaking view. 
We eventually made it to Waimea Canyon Lookout. 
Beautiful.
There are plenty of hiking trails at Waimea Canyon (and also Koke’e Park down the road). I was feeling pretty tired that day so we passed.
After Waimea we found ourselves heading to Polihale Beach…
***Insert heart eyes emoji here***
Polihale Beach is part of Polihale State Park and it is totally worth it to adventure here! It took us about an hour or so to get here from Waimea Canyon.
Word of Warning: The last 5 miles or so is on a gravel road with plenty of potholes so if you’re in a tiny rental car (like we were) proceed with caution. 
If you have a 4×4 then totally go for it, it’s worth it, TRUST ME. Because of our tiny car we actually didn’t make the drive all the way to the end of the beach where it butts up against the Napali Coast. Opting not to risk damage to our car we pulled off at, Queen’s Pond, the southern end of the beach.
Lemme tell you, we were not disappointed. 
I’d recommend packing a lunch, an umbrella and plenty of water. Enjoy. 🙂 
Waimea Canyon and Polihale Beach are both worth the drive. It’s amazing what you can see on the beautiful island of Kauai. I hope you enjoy!
XO, Jenneke Rose
Jenneke Rose 