Waimea Canyon Lookout
Waimea, HI
The main viewpoint over a red and green canyon about 3,600 feet deep, often called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.
Waimea Canyon Lookout is a viewpoint over Waimea Canyon in the west of the island of Kauaʻi in Hawaiʻi. It sits at 3,400 feet (about 1,040 m) at mile 10.3 of Highway 550. Lonely Planet describes a view of several deep red canyons that meet here and counts it among the most impressive viewpoints on the canyon.
GoHawaii describes the canyon as about 14 miles (23 km) long, one mile wide and more than 3,600 feet (over 1,100 m) deep; it is nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific". Following the road you continue uphill to Kōkeʻe State Park.
The light changes the picture: according to Lonely Planet mornings are often misty, while in the late afternoon the canyon glows in warm, russet tones. Visibility is especially good on sunny days after rain. Further viewpoints lie higher up the road, such as Puʻu Ka Pele and Puʻu Hinahina near mile 13. According to GoHawaii the site is open in daylight and free; check parking rules beforehand.
- Nearest town
- Waimea, HI
- Category
- Scenic viewpoints
- GPS
- 22.0717, -159.6614
- Editor's pick
- ★
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually December–February. Still fine, with some compromises, in March–June and September–November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Sources
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Sugi GroveCampsite5 mi from Waimea Canyon LookoutToilets
- KawaikoiCampsite5 mi from Waimea Canyon LookoutToilets
- Anini Beach CampingCampsite17 mi from Waimea Canyon Lookout
- Lydgate Beach Park CampingCampsite21 mi from Waimea Canyon Lookout
- Kumu campCampsite23 mi from Waimea Canyon LookoutTentsDrinking waterShowersToilets
- Anahola Beach Park CampingCampsite24 mi from Waimea Canyon Lookout
All campsites in Hawaii · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Waimea Canyon Lookout?
Waimea Canyon Lookout is in Waimea, HI, at GPS 22.0717, -159.6614. It is about 14 mi from Hanalei.
Can you camp near Waimea Canyon Lookout?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Kaluahaulu, about 1 mi away; within 25 mi there are 20 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Waimea Canyon Lookout?
Waimea Canyon Lookout is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Kauaʻi from Hanalei to Waimea Canyon.
What is there to see near Waimea Canyon Lookout?
Places worth a stop nearby: Kalalau Lookout (6 mi), Spouting Horn (17 mi), Wailua Falls (18 mi) and Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge (20 mi).
When is the best time to visit Waimea Canyon Lookout?
The most pleasant months are usually December–February. Still fine, with some compromises, in March–June and September–November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)