Hanalei Bay on the North Shore of Kauai
The Hawaiian meaning of Hanalei is “lei-shaped bay”. Hanalei, caressed by beautiful emerald green mountains, fertile soils, and majestic waterfalls making streams and rivers. Hanalei Bay is the largest bay on the north shore of Kauaʻi island in Hawaii. The town of Hanalei is a destination that will keep you coming back for more.
The largest bay on Kauai, Hanalei Bay. The crescent shaped bay stretches nearly two miles surrounded by beautiful mountains. It expands from the east end at Pu’u Poa to Makahoa Point on the west end. You’ll find public restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and pavilions on the grassy areas along the bay.There are few public access points to get to Hanalei bay. It includes Ana’e Road, Ama’ama Road, He’e Road, Hanalei Pavilion, and Hanalei Pier. During the summer the bay you’ll find sailboats dotting the bay near the Hanalei pier, stand up paddle boarding and swimming. It is the complete opposite during the winter – the surf becomes large and the bay is a favorite surfing location.
Hanalei also known as the taro capital of the world. The ancient Hawaiians used the entire taro plant. None went to waste. It was cooked and eaten. The taro aka ‘corm’ was mashed into poi. The taro leaves, known as luau, were steamed and eaten. The leaves were also functional, used to hold water and food. The Hawaiian word for Taro is ‘kalo’. It was a staple food for the ancient Hawaiians. High in nutrients and heavy in calories.
In the 1800’s members of the Royal Hawaiian family visited quaint Hanalei town. King Kamehameha II took a 42-day voyage to Kauai in 1821. King Kamehameha III visited Hanalei in 1852. King Kamehameha IV visited Hanalei in 1856 with Queen Emma, and visited again with their young son Prince Albert.
