Lihue Alternate Route

Take a drive through a beautiful corner of Kauai that not many travelers get to see. The Lihue Alternate Route, better known as the Kipu Bypass (Hulemalu Road), offers a scenic alternate route between Lihue and points west of Lihue. In addition to being a timesaver if traffic is heavy on the main highway (Route 50), the route provides sweeping views of the Ha’upu Mountain range and the Huleia National Wildlife Refuge. The popular Kipu Ranch, where movies such as Indiana Jones and Jurassic Park were filmed, is located near Hulemalu Road. The scenic and interesting Menehune Fish Pond is also on the route. If traveling on the bypass from the western part of Kauai, the route ends at the back of Nawiliwili Harbor. Not far from the eastern end of the route is Kalapaki Beach and the Lihue Airport. We suggest if you’re staying in Poipu, Waimea and related areas that you take this route when headed to the airport at the end of your Kauai visit. See the mountains, the fishpond, and stop by Kalapaki Beach for one last refreshing dose of Kauai.

Location at Google Maps
The distance of the route is approximately 5 miles with a 12-15 minute drive time.