There may not be a more remarkable site on the island of Kauai than Waimea Canyon. The argument can even be made that there may not be a site that compares with the canyon in all of Hawaii, but we’ll gladly sit that argument out.
Due to it’s sheer size, unique formation history, and its age, Waimea Canyon stands out as the oldest attraction in Hawaii, and also the attraction that has helped researchers develop a deeper understanding of the volcanic history of the islands.
Beginning over 5 million years ago, volcanic eruptions brought the start of the Hawaiian Islands, forming the island of Kauai and giving birth to Hawaii. Well, a form of Hawaii. After continuously erupting for over 1 million years, the volcano had risen all the way from the sea floor to well above the ocean’s surface. Around this time, the top of the volcano buckled, forming a depression, which filled with lava flows, and much like Mt. Kilauea, those lava flows hardened, creating the earliest forms of land. With constant rain from Mt. Wai’ale’ale, the hardened lava eroded and has since formed the massive canyon’s massive walls, and created the stunning colors and formations that are found throughout the canyon. In the Hawaiian language, Waimea translates to “reddish water”, taken from the color of the eroded soil from the canyon walls.
Today, Waimea Canyon is one of the most visited attractions on Kauai, and the opportunity to visit and view the natural beauty of it should not be missed. Spanning over 10 miles in length, and 3,000 feet deep in some places, the size of the canyon cannot be matched in Hawaii. Throughout the canyon, hiking trails and scenic lookout points can be found, offering you the some of the best photo opportunities you can imagine.
Hawaii Discount offers terrific tours to the canyon, giving you a guided experience at one of the top locations in Hawaii. Whether you choose to see the canyon up close on our Waimea Canyon and Wailua River Tour, choose a fun-filled combo tour with the Luau Kalamkau, or fly high above Kauai and witness the canyon from above on one of our scenic aerial tours, you will not be disappointed. The beauty of Kauai is like no other island, and learning about the island will deepen your love for it.
Due to the high volume of visitors traveling to Hawaii year round, our Hawaii tours and activities sell out quickly. In many cases, tours sell out weeks or months in advance. To ensure your spots on tour, we recommend reserving your tours today. Call our office or book online to take advantage of our low price guarantee today.
back to trip planner