📸 Sleeping Giant | Nounou Mountain, Kauai
📝 My Story:
As you drive through Wailua, Kauai, you can't miss the iconic ridge line of Nounou Mountain — better known as the Sleeping Giant.
With a little imagination, you can see the silhouette of a giant lying on his back, head on the left, feet on the right.
We didn’t hike the trail this time, but we did make a quick stop to admire this legendary landmark from below.
It’s one of those places where Hawaiian folklore comes to life — and even from a distance, it leaves an impression.
(And yes, once you see the “giant,” you’ll never unsee it!)
If you have time and energy, you can actually hike to the top — the Nounou Trail offers incredible panoramic views of the Wailua Valley and coastline.
🌎 Location:
📍 Google Maps: Open Sleeping Giant (Nounou Mountain) on Google Maps ➔
📌 Quick Info:
🏙️ City: Wailua, Kauai
🅿️ Parking: Limited — small lots near trailheads or roadside
🚻 Bathrooms: Not available at the trailhead
🚲 Bike Rentals: Not available directly here
🧭 Travel Tip: If you plan to hike, bring water and start early to avoid the heat
📸 Photographer’s Note: Best visibility is early morning before clouds roll in
🛐 Etiquette: Respect the trails and stay on designated paths
🕰️ Best Time to Explore: Morning for clear skies and cooler temps
♿ Accessibility: Viewable from your vehicle (hike itself is not accessible)
💡 Pro Tip:
Even if you don't plan to hike, take a few minutes to pull over safely and admire the Sleeping Giant from afar.
The best roadside viewpoints are along Kuamoo Road (Highway 580) and Haleilio Road.
📸 Photography Tip:
To really capture the giant’s silhouette, use a zoom lens and a lower angle to exaggerate the "sleeping" posture of the mountain.
🎉 Fun Fact:
According to Hawaiian legend, the Sleeping Giant is the body of a giant who overate at a luau and laid down for a nap — only to never wake up!
The islanders honored him by leaving him in peace.
🌺 Return to Main Hawaii Travel Story
Want to read the full story of our unforgettable adventure across Kauai and Maui?
👉 Click here to explore our complete Hawaii Travel Journal ➔
🗺️ Planning Your Own Hawaii Adventure?
If you’re planning your own trip to Kauai (or anywhere across Hawaii), you can find this hidden gem — and many more — on my public travel map:
👉 View My Hawaii Travel Map Here ➔
