Hanapepe Swinging Bridge | Fun Things To Do On Kauai

When you attend Hanapepe Art Night or visit this historic town on your Kauai vacation, the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge will be a delightful diversion filled with nostalgia. For over 100 years a suspension bridge has spanned this part of the Hanapepe River. Used by taro farmers and locals, many visitors cross on this bridge too.

The swaying motion is fun for all ages. While the bridge may look rickety, it is actually very safe with reinforced cables and wood planks. The current bridge replaced the original that was damaged during Hurricane Iniki in 1992.

On Hanapepe Art Night, the swinging bridge is a nice escape from the busy street. Star viewing is exceptional on the bridge after dark, and during the day there is a small art studio on the other side to visit.

If you have every crossed a swaying bridge like Capilano in Vancouver, B.C., you will find this one to be completely the opposite without any significant height. Bring the family and walk across Kauai history on this hidden gem.

Where to find Hanapepe Swinging Bridge.

Park in front of the Aloha Spice Company next to Banana Patch Studio in the center of town. From there it is a quick walk to the river. There is no admission fee.

Things to Do on Kauai Near Hanapepe.

• Swim at Salt Pond Beach. Hawaii’s only natural salt beds are here and next to a beach with a curved protected reef for year-round swimming.
• Attend Hanapepe Art Night. There are more than fifteen galleries and stores that stay open late on Fridays (from 6pm to 9pm) including restaurants and food trucks.
• Stop on your way to Waimea Canyon. Located on the island’s west side, the canyon stretches 10 miles long, one mile wide and more than 3,600 feet deep.