Nawiliwili: The Garden Isle
We docked and rented a car (again, the only practical way). Waimea Canyon by 9 a.m. – the red dirt and layered cliffs really do look like a mini Grand Canyon with tropical vegetation. The main lookout is an easy 5-minute walk from parking – we had it almost to ourselves. Afternoon Na Pali catamaran from Port Allen (30-minute drive) – the boats are permitted and regulated, and the cliffs rising 4,000 ft from the sea with waterfalls every few minutes are worth every penny.
Spinning dolphins, sea caves you can enter, and snorkeling in water warm enough for comfort. Back by 4:30 with zero rush. Nāwiliwili takes its name from the wiliwili trees – nā wiliwili, "the wiliwili trees" – whose lightweight wood was prized for outriggers and surfboards. The modern harbor opened in 1930 to serve Lihue Plantation, which ran sugar from 1849 until 2000, pioneering Hawaii's first large-scale irrigation with the Rice Ditch in 1856-1857. The pros: the most dramatically beautiful island. The cons: everything requires driving, but the roads are good and traffic almost nonexistent.
Port & Transportation
Arriving at Port
Cruise ships arrive at Nawiliwili Harbor, located where the Hule'ia Stream meets the ocean. The Aloha Center, a 12,000-square-foot facility, sits just one block from the pier and houses various shops, art galleries, and equipment rental businesses.
Getting Around
Renting a vehicle is highly recommended for exploring Kauai, as the island features primarily one principal highway that circles most of the coastline. Public transit is available through the Kauai Bus system, which operates both scheduled routes and on-demand door-to-door service. Complimentary shuttle service runs to the local Farmers Market. The town center of Lihue is approximately 1.9 miles away, roughly a 10-minute drive from the harbor.
What to See & Do
Museums & Cultural Sites
The Kauai Museum offers exhibits on the island's heritage and cultural artifacts. Grove Farm Homestead Museum provides a glimpse into Kauai's agricultural past. Kilohana Plantation showcases the plantation era through preserved buildings and grounds.
Beaches
Niumalu Beach Park gained fame as a filming location for Raiders of the Lost Ark. Kalapaki Beach offers excellent conditions for swimming and sunbathing.
Water Activities
The waters around Kauai provide excellent opportunities for snorkeling, surfing, swimming, and kayaking. Several rivers on the island are navigable by kayak, offering unique inland water adventures.
Shopping
Kukui Grove and Lihue Shopping Centers feature familiar mainland-style retail stores. Complimentary shuttle buses provide transportation to various shopping areas and strip malls around the island.
Depth Soundings Ashore
Practical tips before you step off the ship.
Money & Payments
The U.S. dollar is the local currency, and credit/debit cards are accepted throughout the island. Hawaii's general excise tax ranges from 4-6% on purchases.
Tipping & Gratuities
Standard gratuity is 15-20% at restaurants, 10-15% for personal services, and $5-10 per person for half-day guided tours.
Emergencies
For emergencies, dial 911.
Island Culture
Kauai's one-lane bridges and roaming chickens are part of the charm – slow down and wave; the aloha spirit rewards patience.
Kauai Area Map
Interactive map showing Nawiliwili Harbor, Waimea Canyon, Na Pali Coast, and beaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Nawiliwili worth it?
A: The most beautiful Hawaiian island from a cruise ship.
Q: Best thing?
A: Waimea Canyon drive + Na Pali boat.
Q: How long for Na Pali boat?
A: 5–6 hours round-trip including drive.
Q: Walk from port?
A: To harbor shops yes; island requires car.
Last reviewed: January 2026
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Photo Gallery
Image Credits
- nawiliwili-1.webp: WikiMedia Commons (CC BY-SA)
- nawiliwili-2.webp: WikiMedia Commons (CC BY-SA)
- nawiliwili-3.webp: WikiMedia Commons (CC BY-SA)
- nawiliwili-4.webp: WikiMedia Commons (CC BY-SA)
Images sourced from WikiMedia Commons under Creative Commons licenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What's the best time of year to visit Nawiliwili?
A: Peak cruise season offers the most reliable weather and best conditions for sightseeing. Check the weather guide above for specific month recommendations based on your planned activities.
Q: Does Nawiliwili have a hurricane or storm season?
A: Weather patterns vary by region and season. Check the weather hazards section above for specific storm season concerns and timing. Cruise lines closely monitor weather conditions and will adjust itineraries if needed for passenger safety. Travel insurance is recommended for cruises during peak storm season months.
Q: What should I pack for Nawiliwili's weather?
A: Essentials include sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and layers for variable conditions. Check the packing tips section in our weather guide for destination-specific recommendations.
Q: Will rain ruin my port day?
A: Brief showers are common in many destinations but rarely last long enough to significantly impact your day. Have a backup plan for indoor attractions, and remember that many activities continue in light rain. Check the weather forecast before your visit.