Hanapepe art night straight from the airport

Question

We arrive on a Friday afternoon in February and we’re staying in Kapa’a. We’re thinking of going straight from the airport to Hanapepe for dinner and the art night. Our luggage will be in the trunk. We’ll be driving to Kapa’a in the dark. Are there any cautions about this plan? Any one lane bridges on this route?

Answer

Your plan to go straight from the airport to Hanapepe for dinner and art night sounds great! However, there are a few things to consider when driving from Lihue (the airport) to Hanapepe, especially in the dark. Here's some advice to help you feel more confident about your plans:

1. Route from Lihue to Hanapepe

Route: The most direct route is to take Highway 50 West from Lihue, which leads you to Hanapepe. This drive is about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
One-lane bridges: Yes, there is one one-lane bridge on the highway you'll be taking. This is located on the way between Lihue and Hanapepe on Highway 50. It's important to be cautious and aware of oncoming traffic, especially at night. There are usually signs indicating when it's safe to pass, but be sure to drive carefully and yield when necessary.

2. Driving in the Dark

Visibility: Kauai is known for its beautiful but winding roads, and driving at night can be challenging if you're not familiar with the area. While the highway is well-lit in most places, some smaller roads may not have as much lighting, so it's a good idea to drive cautiously. Be prepared for potentially sharp turns or narrow roads as you make your way to Hanapepe.
Luggage: Leaving your luggage in the trunk for a short trip should be fine, but just make sure your vehicle is locked, and if you're in a more remote area, be cautious of any potential risks when leaving valuables behind. Hanapepe's art night is a fun and safe event, but it's always good to keep an eye on your belongings.

3. Hanapepe Art Night

Art Night: Hanapepe's Art Night is a wonderful experience, with local galleries open late, live music, and a fun atmosphere. It's a great way to kick off your Kauai trip. You'll likely find plenty of parking in the town, but since it's a popular event, it might get crowded, so arriving early is a good idea.

4. Other Considerations

Timing: Be mindful of the time it takes to get to Hanapepe and the fact that it will be dark when you drive. While it’s a relatively short drive, the roads can be tricky in low visibility. Allow yourself a bit of extra time to get to Hanapepe and explore the galleries, as it’s a lovely, walkable town.
Gas Stations: There are a couple of gas stations along the way, so if you’re running low on fuel, you can stop in either Lihue or on the outskirts of Hanapepe.

Overall, your plan is quite doable and should be an enjoyable evening! Just take it easy on the roads, especially with the one-lane bridge, and enjoy the art night once you arrive in Hanapepe. Have fun, and enjoy your time on Kauai!

Hanapepe art night straight from the airport

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