Go west and get off the beaten path on Kauai. The West Side is home to a few of Kauai's most historic places and scenic wonders, the most famous of which is the breathtaking Waimea Canyon, the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific."

But there is even more to explore. Head north beyond the gorges and cliffs of Waimea Canyon and visit Kokee State Park where you'll find yet another amazing view from the Kalalau Lookout. The two small towns of Waimea and Hanapepe also grace the West Side. In 1778, Captain Cook first landed in the Hawaiian Islands here at Waimea Bay. Today, a statue of Cook stands in Waimea Town commemorating this event. Hanapepe is the art capital of Kauai with galleries, shops and eateries lining small town Hanapepe Road.

West Side, Kauai Highlights:

• Kokee State Park, Kauai - Kokee State Park features 45 miles of Kauai's best hiking trails and is the home of the Kalalau Lookout.
• Waimea Canyon, Kauai - Waimea Canyon, on Kauai's west side, is nicknamed "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific."
• Waimea Town, Kauai - A statue of Captain James Cook, who first landed in Hawaii at Waimea Bay in 1778, can be found in the center of this historic seaport town.
• Hanapepe Town, Kauai - Known as "Kauai's biggest little town," charming Hanapepe Town is the art capital of Kauai.

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