When searching for things to do in Kauai, Hawaii, you’re likely to find all kinds of outdoor activities. After all, this island isn’t called the “Garden Isle” for nothing! You’ll see breathtaking stretches of shoreline, gorgeous mountain views, incredible waterfalls, and more, but the beautiful nature of Kauai isn’t the only thing the island is known for. There are also plenty of fascinating towns you can visit during your stay in one of our Kauai vacation rentals. If you head to the southwestern portion of the island between Waimea and Koloa, you’ll find the small town of Hanapepe.
Often called “Kauai’s biggest little town,” Hanapepe offers plenty of activities, friendly locals, and picturesque scenery. Here’s everything you’ll want to know before you go.
The History of Hanapepe
Hanapepe was once known as one of the island’s largest communities. But this town came from humble beginnings. With a name translating to “crushed bay,” Hanapepe has been inhabited by native Hawaiians for centuries. It’s believed that this community may have gotten its name from the landslides in the valley or from the cliffs stretching from the sea to the rocks at the bay.
The Kanaka Maoli people were the sole residents of the Hanapepe area before the English arrived in 1778, led by Captain James Cook. Throughout the following century, the area became known for its crops, including sweet potatoes, taro, and bananas. Its most treasured crop, however, was salt. Salt trading was the first significant legacy of the island, and the traditional salt production is a treasured cultural practice, passed on & continued today by several Hawaiian families descended from Hanapepe’s original inhabitants.
In the late 1800s, the sugar industry was responsible for bringing immigrants from Asia to the islands. These driven and entrepreneurial people helped to build Hanapepe into one of the most vibrant cities on the island. In the 1920s Hanapepe became a haven for labor union organizers & striking workers hoping for humane living conditions & livable wages. Today many generational Kauai families remember this tumultuous era of Hanapepe’s history with respect and gratitude as the struggles of Hanapepe’s activists resulted in safety regulations & better living conditions for the following generations, grandparents of many Kauai locals. Thankfully, their efforts paid off, and Hanapepe’s workers now have much better working conditions and benefits.
During the early 20th century, specifically from World War I into the 1950s, the West Side of the town served as home for many sailors and G.I.s who came to the area for training. Today, the town may not be as large as it once was, but many of the historical buildings in the area still stand.
If the town of Hanapepe looks a bit familiar when you get here, there’s a good reason. You may have seen the town featured in films such as Flight of the Intruder or The Thornbirds. If those movies don’t ring a bell, you are likely familiar with the Disney film Lilo and Stitch, for which Hanapepe served as inspiration.
The Hanapepe Arts Community
These days, Hanapepe has built a reputation as the art capital of Kauai. Those historical buildings and plantation-style homes have since been renovated and now house all kinds of businesses, many of which are art galleries. In fact, Hanapepe holds more art galleries than any other town on the island.
Each gallery on the island holds distinct artwork from gifted artists, all with their own individual styles and subject matters. At Amy-Lauren’s Gallery, you’ll find an intimate setting that contains some of the island’s most original artwork; you won’t find any reproductions here! If you visit Banana Patch Studio, you’ll step inside the Historic Chang Building, constructed in 1926. Inside, more than 20 artists display their work, led by Joanna Carolan. Get a glimpse of hand-painted pottery, ceramic tiles, clocks, and wall plaques.
If you’re searching for digital photography, you should head to The Bridge Gallery. Their on-site framing studio allows the artists here to keep their work as authentic as possible, showcasing all the most gorgeous aspects of the Garden Isle. If you want to admire art in both painting and jewelry, come to Pu’uwai Gallery and Boutique. You’ll find the artwork of dozens of contemporary artists from across the island and unique pieces of jewelry hand-crafted by founder Veronica Groepler.
Visit Kauai Fine Arts to step back in time, as this gallery holds one of the world’s most impressive collections of antique maps dating as far back as the 16th century. Nearby, Mercedes Maza Art is one of the newest galleries on the island, offering unique pieces with colorful scenes of the Garden Isle. Of course, these are only a few of the galleries you’ll find in Hanapepe Town. You can also visit destinations like Hashi’s Fine Art Gallery, Island Art Gallery, Kalakoa Kauai Fine Art Gallery, and others.
Every Friday, Hanapepe locals and visitors come out for Hanapepe Art Night, a special event where you can meet and celebrate the town’s artists. Visit the town center from 5 to 9 p.m. each Friday to explore the local galleries and art studios and meet some of the most talented artists on the island. If you’re looking for a souvenir, you can purchase one of the unique pieces on display!
Where to Eat
While in Hanapepe Town, grab a bite to eat before you head back to our Kauai condo rentals. While in Kauai, you can find authentic Hawaiian cuisine, delicious global favorites, and plenty of delicious desserts!
Ku’ulei’s Gourmet is a “can’t miss” eatery in town. You’ll find mouthwatering local cuisine, including soups, salads, seafood, and sweets. If you’re searching for vegetarian and vegan options during your time here, this eatery is the place to be! Indulge in dishes like shrimp and asparagus soup, potato corn chowder, poke bowls, and an ever-changing sushi menu. Finish off with a snickerdoodle cookie or some tempting coconut macaroons.
Plan Your Visit!
Are you ready to immerse yourself in all the history, restaurants, and fun activities that Hanapepe offers? Reserve your unbeatable Kauai vacation rental today!
If you’re looking for a family-style restaurant, don’t miss MCS Grill. Local favorites like loco moco and the West Side Chili Peppa Chicken and classics like burgers, fish and chips. Enjoy vegan and vegetarian options, and wash everything down with a signature drink like the POG Ginger Spritzer.
Looking for global cuisine? You’ll find Asian flavors at Japanese Grandma’s Café or Wong’s Chinese Restaurant, or you can enjoy Mexican dishes at Paco’s Tacos. Of course, after you eat, you’ll want to finish on a sweet note! Head to Lappert’s Hawaii Ice Cream Kitchen, Longie’s Shaved Ice and Treats, Kauai Kookie Company, or Popo’s Cookies to satisfy your cravings.
Hanapepe Town is one destination you won’t want to miss when staying at one of the Waipouli Beach Resort rentals offered by Kauai Calls. We offer properties for groups of all sizes, allowing you to keep the whole family together while you explore this breathtaking destination. Our 2-bedroom vacation rentals in Kauai are among the most popular, but we also maintain bigger and smaller rentals to accommodate all groups.
Our rentals feature the amenities of home, such as high-speed internet and fully stocked kitchens. But of course, with the breathtaking view of the Kauai waters, you’ll never forget you’re on vacation! Explore this amazing island for yourself when you book your stay with Kauai Calls.
