There are so many stunningly beautiful places to go on the island of Kauai, but certainly one that should not be overlooked is Waimea Canyon.  Actually … that is not true because you should definitely “overlook” Waimea.  In fact the overlooks are the best way to see the deep colorful gorge of Waimea Canyon. Waimea is Hawaiian for “reddish water”, a reference to the erosion of the canyon’s red soil.   

AKA the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, Waimea Canyon is over 10 miles long, about 1 mile across and over 3000 feet deep.  The entrance fee to see the canyon is a very reasonable price – free.  It is an easy drive on state road 550 on the west side of Kauai.   There are several lookout areas and for those so inclined, numerous hiking trails.  Be sure to take plenty of water if you go hiking!

nice beer shirt!

Road past Waimea leads to Koke’e state park where you should not feed the Nēnē.

Here is a larger panoramic view posted in Wikipedia Commons.