Spotlight's Kauai Gold Magazine

The North Shore extends from Moloa‘a to Ha‘ena. It's miles of beaches, great snorkeling, striking cliffs and lush countryside. Kilauea lies between the 22- and 24-mile markers. To see the Old Stone Church, turn right at the Union 76 station. Turn down Kilauea Road to see the Kilauea Lighthouse (photo below) and Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. The last mile to the lighthouse is a narrow one-lane road; proceed slowly. Lighthouse and refuge are open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. everyday. Kilauea Point is famous for shearwaters, boobies, frigates, monk seals, and a rugged coastline.

Kalihiwai Valley is located at the 25-mile marker. Many visitors stop at the overlook to photograph the valley and waterfall. To reach ‘Anini Beach, turn onto Kalihiwai Road on the Hanalei side of the bridge. At the dead end sign, take the left fork onto Anini Road. ‘Anini is good for beginning windsurfers, snorkeling and swimming. There are public rest rooms, showers and picnic tables. A polo field is past the county park. From April through August, spend a Sunday afternoon watching high-goal polo matches.

Princeville is the major resort development on the North Shore with the spectacular Princeville Hotel, a 36-hole Trent Jones golf course, shopping center, condominiums, Hanalei Bay Resort, Po‘oku Stables, and Kaua‘i Athletic Club.

Hanalei Valley Lookout (photo right) is located just past Princeville Shopping Center on the left hand side and offers one of the best views of Hanalei Valley. An informative plaque tells of the valley's rich agricultural history. Heading down the hill, pull over at the sharp curve and take in the spectacular view of Hanalei Bay. The Hanalei Bridge, built in 1912, is a one-lane, wood-planked and steel-trussed structure that has seen better days and residents are calling for its restoration.

When in Hanalei Town, turn right at Aku Road to reach Hanalei Bay. Another right at the dead end leads to Black Pot Beach Park, Hanalei Pier and Hanalei River.

Beyond Hanalei, the highway winds past world-famous Lumaha‘i Beach, Maniniholo Dry Cave, Ha‘ena Beach Park, ending at Ke‘e Beach, gateway to the Napali Coast.