Kapaa, just north of Wailua, shares the Sleeping Giant with her more touristy neighbour but lacks some of the other attractions that keep Wailua well-visited. From here, it's a straight shot by boat over to Oahu, and Kapaa has for centuries served as a reference point for sailors so bound.
Expect to find a very local ambiance here amongst the coconut palms, so if you're after a break from resort life this is a good place to start. A little outside Kapaa are open and quiet beaches if you're after a little beach strolling away from the stress of relaxing in groups, or continue on up Route 56 for scenic views of the seashore from the comfort of your car.
For exercise, rent bicycles in Kapaa and do some riding on or off-road—try the dirt road once used for hauling sugar cane that runs between Kealia Beach and Anahola, north of Kapaa. Alternatively, take a rigorous ride through the region on horseback.
Many of the beaches near Kapaa can have tricky currents, so choose your swimming spot carefully. Alternatively, indulge your inner Hollywood with a quick road-cruise up the coast to Moloaa Bay, where once upon a time Skipper, Gilligan and Crew washed ashore for filming.
Kapaa is less than 20 miles north of Lihue on Route 56.
