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Lihue

Lihue, Hawaii, United States

Lihue, located on the beautiful island of Kauai in Hawaii, is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. As the commercial center of Kauai, Lihue serves a…

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Lihue.

Top Hotels in Lihue

Top Flights to Lihue

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Lihue.

Tours

Explore Wailua Falls

Visit the stunning 80-foot waterfalls, a popular spot known for stunning views and photo opportunities.

Ninini Point Lighthouse Visit

A picturesque lighthouse offering panoramic views of Kauai's coastline.

Kauai Museum Exploration

Dive into the rich history and culture of Kauai through exhibits and archives.

Grove Farm Homestead

Tour the historic plantation home to learn about Kauai's agricultural history.

Shopping

Kilohana Plantation Shopping

Discover unique local crafts, souvenirs, and dining at this historic plantation site.

Shopping at Coconut Marketplace

A vibrant shopping center with a variety of shops, from island fashion to local eats.

Outdoor

Kauai Backcountry Adventures Tubing

Experience the thrill of tubing down the gentle waters and scenic vistas of Kauai's old sugar plantations.

Hanamaulu Beach Park Day Trip

Spend a relaxing day at Hanamaulu Beach, perfect for picnics and water activities.

Kayaking on Wailua River

Adventure through the serene Wailua River and discover hidden waterfalls and lush surroundings.

Kalapaki Beach Day

Enjoy the sandy shores of Kalapaki Beach with activities such as paddleboarding and sunbathing.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Lihue.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

Not Available

Languages

English, English, Hawaiian

Average weather

Lihue

Jan

26°19°

Feb

26°19°

Mar

27°20°

Apr

27°20°

May

28°21°

Jun

29°22°

Jul

29°23°

Aug

30°23°

Sep

30°23°

Oct

29°22°

Nov

28°21°

Dec

26°20°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Lihue.

What people love

Traveling to Lihue, Hawaii, located on the island of Kauai, offers a variety of benefits and unique experiences. Here are some of the pros of visiting Lihue:

Natural Beauty: Lihue is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including lush rainforests, majestic mountains, and beautiful beaches. Visitors can explore the iconic Waimea Canyon, known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," and witness the breathtaking views of the Napali Coast.
Outdoor Activities: Lihue offers a wide range of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Visitors can go hiking, zip-lining, snorkeling, surfing, or take a helicopter tour to experience the island's diverse terrain and wildlife.
Cultural Attractions: Lihue has several cultural attractions that provide insights into the island's history and heritage. Visitors can visit the Kauai Museum to learn about the island's rich cultural past or explore historic sites such as the Grove Farm Homestead Museum.
Relaxation and Wellness: Lihue is a great destination for those looking to unwind and rejuvenate. The island offers luxury resorts, spas, and wellness retreats where visitors can indulge in relaxing massages, yoga classes, and other wellness activities.
Local Cuisine: Lihue boasts a vibrant food scene with an abundance of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local delicacies. Visitors can enjoy farm-to-table dining experiences, sample traditional Hawaiian dishes, and explore local farmers' markets for authentic flavors.
Friendly Locals: The people of Lihue are known for their warm hospitality and friendly demeanor, making visitors feel welcome and at home during their stay on the island.

Overall, traveling to Lihue, Hawaii, offers a perfect combination of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, relaxation, and delicious cuisine, making it a memorable destination for travelers seeking a tropical paradise.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Lihue, Hawaii, located on the island of Kauai, could include:

Expensive: Hawaii, in general, can be an expensive destination due to the cost of accommodation, food, and activities. Lihue is no exception, so travelers should be prepared for higher costs compared to other destinations.
Isolation: Being located on an island, Lihue can feel isolated from the mainland United States. Travelers should be aware that it may take longer to reach Lihue and that certain amenities or services may be limited compared to more urban areas.
Weather: While Hawaii is known for its beautiful weather, Lihue can experience periods of heavy rainfall, particularly during the winter months. Travelers should be prepared for the possibility of rain during their visit.
Crowds: Lihue is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak travel seasons. This means that attractions, beaches, and restaurants may be crowded, and travelers may need to contend with larger crowds than they would prefer.
Limited Public Transportation: While Lihue does have some public transportation options, such as buses, the island's public transportation system may not be as extensive or convenient as in larger cities. Renting a car may be necessary for getting around and exploring the island.

Please note that these cons may vary depending on individual preferences and circumstances.

Lihue, located on the island of Kauai in Hawaii, is the county seat and one of the principal towns of Kauai County. It has a rich history and serves as a commercial and governmental center on the island. Here is a detailed history of Lihue, Hawaii:

Early History and Native Hawaiian Influence

Pre-European Contact: Before European contact, the area that is now Lihue was inhabited by Native Hawaiians, who lived off the land and the sea, cultivating taro and fishing in the surrounding waters. The Native Hawaiian culture and society were deeply rooted in a system of ahupua'a, land divisions that extended from the mountains to the sea.

19th Century

Arrival of Europeans and Missionaries: In the early 19th century, Western explorers and missionaries began arriving in Hawaii. The introduction of Christianity and Western influence led to significant changes in Hawaiian society. Missionaries established the first churches and schools, influencing the cultural landscape of the area.
Sugar Industry: The establishment of the Lihue Plantation Company in 1849 by German immigrant William Little Lee was a turning point in Lihue's development. Sugarcane became the primary industry, attracting laborers from various countries, including China, Japan, Portugal, and the Philippines. This led to a diverse and multicultural community.
Significant Figures: Paul Isenberg, a German immigrant, played a crucial role in the development of the sugar industry in Lihue. He became the manager of the Lihue Plantation and contributed to its expansion and success.

20th Century

World War II: During World War II, Lihue, like the rest of Hawaii, played a strategic military role. The island saw an increased military presence and infrastructure development.
Post-War Development: After the war, Lihue continued to grow as a commercial center. The decline of the sugar industry in the latter half of the 20th century led to economic diversification, with tourism becoming increasingly important.

Important Landmarks

Kilohana Plantation: A historic plantation estate, Kilohana was built in the 1930s and now serves as a cultural and historical site, offering visitors a glimpse into Kauai's plantation past.
Kauai Museum: Located in Lihue, the Kauai Museum offers exhibits on the island’s history, including its geological formation, Native Hawaiian culture, and the plantation era.
Huleia National Wildlife Refuge: Close to Lihue, this refuge is a sanctuary for native Hawaiian birds and is part of efforts to preserve Hawaii's natural environment.
Nawiliwili Harbor: This is the main port for Kauai and plays a critical role in the island's economy, serving both commercial and cruise ship operations.

Contemporary Lihue

Today, Lihue is a vibrant town that balances its role as a business and governmental hub with its rich cultural heritage. The town is home to several government offices, including the Kauai County Building, and serves as the primary gateway to the island, with Lihue Airport facilitating travel to and from the island.

Lihue's history is a testament to the cultural blending that characterizes much of Hawaii, reflecting the influences of its native Hawaiian roots and the various immigrant groups that have settled there over the centuries.