A Local's Guide to Kauai's North Shore

Aloha friend,

Today, we’re sharing a quick guide to Kauai’s North Shore. We’ve tapped owner of The Haven Kauai to share the absolute must-stops. Most we’ve been to and also love, but some we haven’t, and now we can’t wait to hop over. Read on to learn more about Emmalani and the cafe, and take her advice because she’s clearly tuned in.

See you on the Garden Isle,
The Edit Hawaii team

Opened in December of 2023, The Haven is the cutest coffee shop nestled in Wainiha Valley on the North Shore of Kauai, adjacent to the historic Wainiha General Store.

You’ll find amazing drinks and small bites, but the space serves as way more than just a caffeine slinger. The Haven is a hub for creativity and has breathed new life into the tiny little town, thanks to Emmalani’s dedication to rejuvenating the community and support of local businesses as she navigates running her own.

We’re convinced that the owner—Emmalani Lloyd (yes, of the Lloyd Board ohana)—is one of the coolest people ever, and The Haven and the community she built around it is proof enough. She was raised up the road from the cafe, and its location even served as her bus stop throughout elementary school. So it’s safe to say she knows this area. We trusted her to give us the inside scoop to the North Shore must-stop spots. And of course, we’re sharing with you:

Where to Sip

Morning: The Haven Kauai. I promise I’m not biased (ok, you know what, yes I am). This truly is still what I would call a hidden gem. Good service, premium grade locally sourced ingredients, and little nooks all over the place to sit and enjoy a coffee with a yummy bite. 

Midday: Hanalei Market. The to-go section is perfectly curated for an on-the-go girly, where I always find a new bubbly adaptogenic drink to sip on. Right now, it’s the Fresh Fizz Date Cola. The lines are short, everything is well stocked, and it’s the perfect mid-day pick-me-up.

Evening: AMA. Two words: wine and fire-pit (that’s three, whatever). A thoughtfully curated wine list. Cozy up by the firepit with a friend and let this enchanting backyard view seriously take your breath away. 

Where to Shop

Bikinis & Eveningwear: I Heart Hanalei. Female founded, the owner has been a taste curator on Kauai for 25+ years. This place is like a Revolve flagship store. No notes. When I get to the register, I just close my eyes. 

Gifts: Ohana Shop. Everything is handpicked with intention and sourced with artisanal practices in mind. It's an easy place to pop in and find a gift someone will actually use or wear daily.

Everything Else: The Wainiha Country Market. Nestled next to The Haven, this historic market has been around for almost 100 years. Stocked with all sorts of locally sourced goods, this nook is the perfect pit stop for a JuneShine on your way to sunset. I also love getting Kauai Juice Co. Verde hot sauce, the Oboi Nioi Shoyu, and whatever rotating bottle of Sauvy B they have refrigerated. Trust. 

Where to Eat

Breakfast: Wake Up Cafe. The ultimate hangover cure. Order the Fishermen’s Breakfast and thank me later. Call ahead and snag a seat on the road for impeccable people-watching. 

Lunch: Fresh Bite Farm To Beach. If someone really loves you, they will tell you this might have to be the one place where you have lunch while on the North Shore. My order? Gaucho wrap, no tomatoes, add chicken, half chimichurri-half buttermilk ranch. You’re welcome in advance. 

Dinner: Bar Acuda. Did you really think I wouldn’t say this? The perfect tapas bar with some of the freshest bites. If they have a special, it’s mandatory to order it (yes, I make the rules). Bonus points if you snag seats at the bar and get to hang out with the regulars. 

Hawaii Island

4.12: Waimea Market by Malama Hawaii Makers Market

4.15-4.17: HIE Trunk Show at Four Seasons Hualalai

Kauai

4.5: Machine Machine + Haloa Gallery Opening Reception

4.16: Jewelry Boxes Pottery Workshop at Hometown Kauai

Maui

4.18 & 4.19: 33rd Annual Celebration of the Arts

4.24: Boyz II Men at The MACC

Oahu

4.4: “PIKO” An Art Exhibition by Enoka Phillips at Pō’ai by Pono Potions

4.4: First Friday at Capitol Modern

4.5: Hunananiho Beach Cleanup with Nalu Health

4.5: Mystic Luau at The Curb Kaimuki

4.5: Olive & Oliver Tent Sale

4.6: Botanical Appliqué Workshop at Harbors Vintage

4.13: Spritz & Shop at Hideout at Laylow Waikiki

4.19: Easter Floral Arrangement Workshop at Mari’s Gardens Kailua

4.19-26: Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii Earth Week 2025

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