The town of Waimea is the gate way to Kokee state park & Waimea Canyon.

On any given day, you can see the locals fishing from Waimea’s pier.  The River meets the ocean here and as you can see, it looks muddy.  Waimea means “red water”.  The Waimea River is full of sediment that dyes the water red.  All beaches in Waimea are murky from the river runoff.  This red dirt is where the “Red Dirt TShirt” came from.  It is also why, Shoes and clothes are hard to keep white.  My shoes always look dirty.

The Wranglers Steakhouse and the original Shrimp Station are both written up in all of the books.  I particularly  like the Shrimp Station.  Fresh shrimp made any way you can imagine.  Jojo’s shaved ice is known for the best on the island.   Kauai Chocolate Company has some of the best candy on the island.

There isn’t a lot of shopping In Waimea Town.  A few Antiques stores are tucked away on side streets, however, the hours are hit and miss.  Collectibles & Find Junque Antique Store is my favorite.  However she is closed Fridays, Saturdays,Sundays and sometimes Mondays.

Waimea Canyon is only a mile wide, 3,567 feet deep, and 12 miles long. Apparently, a massive earthquake sent a number of streams into the single river that ultimately carved out the canyon.

Driving up to the canyon and Kokee State Park be sure to stop at all lookout stations. On a clear day it is awesome. Isn’t clear often, but when it is, it is breath taking.  These pictures were on that special day.  Most of the time it is overcast and raining.

Make sure you stop at the Kokee museum, gift shop & lodge.   Kokee State Park is about a 45 min. drive from Waimea. A very steep and windy road.  No gas stations along the way.

Be sure to bring a light weight cover & shoes in case you decide to take one of the many small hiking trails. It can get cool & rains often. I