Is the blue book correct in that it is about a 35 minute drive from Po'ipu to Waimea and 25 min drive from Waimea to Waimea Canyon Lookout?

How long should I plan for a trip on the Waimea Canyon Drive?

How essential is doing this drive at all, if we only have 2 days on the south shore of Kauai (4 days north shore)??

Can't recall the exact drive time, but it was pretty long and not very scenic. Did it once and that was more than enough. It's a nice enough view when you get there, but I'd say if your schedule is full with activities or you just want to relax on the beach or around the pool, you could skip it.

Thats true about 1.5 hours including a stop for maps at the visitors center. The best way to see the canyon is to hike the canyon about 1.5 miles each way all the way to the sacred pools and water falls. Hard but worth it, i meet a group of 65-70 year old ladys on the way so its not mountain climbing. The whole island can be drove from one end to the other in 1.5 hours or so except during rush hour going thru popipu. Also dont miss the kee beach and napali ridge hike, hike the ridge and then on your return have lunch you brought and then snorkle the calm lagoon for a great treat. nick

Personally i don't consider the views of Waimea Canyon that can be seen from the overlooks to be anything special. I hate to say it, but it just looks like a huge gully to me. I guess I just don't "get" it. however if you continue up into Koke'e there is some gorgeous scenery. i think the Kalalau Valley overlook is spectacular, and worth the fairly long drive up there.

But you have to decide if you want to spend the time to drive up there or if you would rather stay on the beach...

Maha'ulepu is beautiful and natural, some very worthwhile scenery, and close to Po'ipu.

I found it interesting. Is it the Grand Canyon, no. But, it is still very scenic.

You might want to consider driving as far up the road as you can. The view of the Na' Pali Coast from just near the Air Force (?) listening station are impressive, as well.

With just two days, I'd skip it. I always get carsick. And like they said, it's interesting just not amazing.