Planning a trip to Hawaii is a dream of every wanderlust. If you want to prioritize lush landscapes and laid laid-back vibe during your holidays, Kauai is the perfect island in Hawaii for you. Kauai is known as the Garden Isle of Hawaii. The island’s pristine beaches and green landscapes are a feast for your senses, as they can help you reset your life in peace.
If you require some fun along with your peacetime, the Garden Isle offers an endless number of activities to do. You can go hiking, swimming, or just an exhilarating zipline adventure through the jungle, and even get indulged in some culture, it would be exciting for you to explore this oldest of the main Hawaiian islands. But with so much to do in such an extraordinary place, you will require some help regarding planning what to do in Kauai. Stress not, as I’ve curated a guide on the best things you can do in Kauai Hawaii.
Key Facts About Kauai
- With a coastline of 111 miles, Kauai has more accessible beaches than any other island in Hawaii
- Over 90% of the land on Kauai is used for conservation and agriculture and 70% of the island is inaccessible by foot
- Kauai’s Mt. Wai’ale’ale is the wettest spot on earth, where it averages 450 inches of rain every year
- Kauai coffee plantation is the largest in the United States
- You cannot drive around Kauai island, as no road connects the west of Kauai to the North shore
Exploring Kauai’s Regions
Kauai is the Fourth largest island in Hawaii. Like the other Hawaiian islands, there are two sides to Kauai: A leeward side and a windward side. The leeward side is drier compared to the wetter windward side.
The island is divided into four main regions so that you’ll understand which side you can focus on your trip:
The East Side
The site is also known as the Coconut Coast because the East Side is home to groves of coconut trees. This is the most populated area of the island. You can go sightseeing in the town of Kapa’a, the Wailua River, and Opaeka’a Falls. You can find cheaper accommodation options and better-value hotel deals on the East Side.
The West Side
The West Side is an entirely different part of Kauai, which makes you feel like you’re miles away from everyone else on the island. You will find a dry landscape, very small towns like Hanapepe and Waimea, and some beautiful sights. The most popular attractions for tourists here are Waimea Canyon and Koke’s State Park.
The North Shore
North Shore is known for its beauty seen in its jagged cliffs, lush landscape, and mesmerizing beaches. Summer spent here is ideal and the charming town of Hanalei is bustling with people. If you’re planning to visit here during winter then means significantly more rain and large waves. The main two towns you’ll have to often visit here are Hanalei and Princeville. Princeville Town is located on a bluff overlooking Hanalei Bay, but you need to drive across Hanalei Bridge to reach this area.
The South Shore
The South Shore is a sunny location filled with breathtaking and picture-perfect beaches. You can visit the famous Poipu Beach here, as well as historic Koloa Town. You can also go to Sorting Horn and the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail. You can stay in the south shore of Kauai during the winter months for a beach vacation. It has milder weather year-round, and you can engage in various types of activities here compared to the more greener north shore.
Tip: Pack layers for Kauai’s cooler evenings and rain showers.
What’s the best time of year to visit Kauai?
As with all Hawaiian islands, I suggest you book tickets during the shoulder seasons of September to mid-November and March to May. This is the peak time with the best weather, the lowest prices, and the smallest of crowds. But one thing to note is that Kauai has warm weather year-round and it gets significantly more rain compared to other islands. Consider booking a guided tour to explore Kauai’s many hidden gems. If you want to help with your Hawaii trip, you can connect with Ohana Hawaii Tours, and we’ll help you have the best time in Hawaii.
The Best Beach Experience In Kauai
One of the favorite top things for people to do on Kauai is enjoy the beaches. Just remember to practice beach safety by swimming on beaches with lifeguards, obeying lifeguard flags, and when in doubt don’t go out. You will find there are plenty of picturesque beaches to choose from, including the following:
Ke’e Beach
This is one of the best beaches on Kauai for summer swimming. You’ll be falling in love with the beach the minute you see it, thanks to its crystal clear water and the stunning cliffs as a backdrop. But heading to this beach requires a lot of advanced planning and the form of reservation, but it will be worth it, I promise. The start of the famous Kalalau trail departs from here, but you’ll also need another permit to access the Hiking trail.
Poipu Beach
This south shore beach has been named one of the most beautiful beaches in America, and you’ll never disagree. You can find yourself getting immersed in golden sand crescents, making this a beautiful spot for beachgoers and snorkelers. You can also get to see occasional Hawaiian monk seal appearances if you’re lucky on your trip. You will also find plenty of parking, making it an easily accessible beach, and you can easily enjoy the natural wading pool for beginner swimmers.
Makua Tunnels Beach
This is a stunning beach, especially in summer. If you enjoy snorkeling this is a very popular spot. But you have to be aware that parking here is very limited. Your best bet to arrive is early and park at Ha’ena Beach and make the walk to the tunnels. Ha’ena Beach has a larger parking lot, lifeguards, and showers.
Kekaha Beach
This is a favorite local surf and fishing spot on the far west side of Kauai. Here, you can find a long sandy stretch on the beach which is also a great place to beachcomb and scope out the sunset. You can relax and enjoy the calming waves but at times be prepared. There’s always a chance for strong winds and currents, that can make Kekaha beach dangerous for swimming, so be mindful of the unexpected conditions.
Kealia Beach Park
You can find this beach in a half-mile stretch of golden coast that hugs the curve of Highway 56 on the east side of Kauai. Its long sand-bar bottom provides a nice surf break. Swim or boogie board near the north end, where a breakwater creates a protected area. Calmer water in the summer months makes it a good spot for your swimming activity. You can find many facilities and lifeguards available near the beach but always swim with precautions.
Things To Do In Kauai
If you’re wondering, there’s no shortage of fun to be had on Kauai. Here are some highlights that you don’t want to miss on your trip, and this will likely get you started making a list of things to do in Kauai.
See the Na’Pali Coast
The Na’ Pali coast is a truly surreal destination. It is a 17-mile expanse of rocky, steep, and gorgeous cliffs that stretch along Kauai’s North shore. If you want to experience Kauai’s natural terrain and breathtaking beauty, you have to experience that with the Na’ Pali coast. You can get there either on foot from the water or by air in a helicopter as there are no roads that go along the Napali Coast.
You can take a Na’Pali boat tour, and just enjoy the blue ocean water, and look across the dramatic ridges and jungle foliage. Some of the boat tour offers meals, snorkeling activities, or sunset excursions so that you can customize your voyage to your liking.
Explore Waimea Canyon
You can’t leave Kauai without exploring Waimea Canyon. It’s like Hawaii’s own Grand Canyon of the Pacific that’s absolutely stunning to witness. Waimea Canyon measures 14 miles across, a mile wide, and 3600 feet deep is just nature’s wonder. Here you’ll get to see craggy red cliffsides and crested buttes blanketed in deep greens with waterfalls dotted in between.
Many of the tourists who visit Waimea Canyon choose to take the sight by car, as there are multiple lookout points situated along Koke’e Road, like Puu Hinahina. You can try to arrive early to get a parking spot or between 11 am and noon. Another way to enjoy this breathtaking canyon is You can go on a helicopter tour. You can simply enjoy seeing this magnificent canyon up from above, and you can also spot locations that were used for filming popular movies like Jurassic Park.
Hike The Kalalau Trail
If you’re into hiking, you should not miss this challenging Kalalau trail. This is a 22-mile backpacking round trip to explore the world-famous Na’ Pali coast. As there are no roads or paved streets that go long, through this famous coastline. Travelers on foot can explore the five valleys in Na’ Pali Coast State wilderness park, as you can pass through lush tropical forests, bubbling streams, refreshing waterfalls, and cliffside ocean views.
You can end the hike at the remote Kalalau beach. The hike is a lot of work and should be attempted without proper equipment and experience, as even novice hikers and state officials find it very difficult. The trails are not wide and open but narrow rocky and muddy, and even include some rock climbing. So if you’re up for some adventure, you can always go for this enthralling hiking experience in Kauai.
Wailua River State Park
If you are up for experiencing Kauai’s majestic rainforests without breaking too much of a sweat, you can visit Wailua River State Park. This park is on the eastern coast of the island. You can spot the navigable river in Hawaii, allowing visitors also get an eyeful of the lush valley on a boat tour. If you visit the nearby Wailua Falls, you can buy some homemade banana bread out of their trucks.
Another popular point of interest in the park includes “Opaeka’a Falls”, as its water glides down a jagged cliffside. The best part is that you can’t seem to find the source of the falls nor its endpoint, because it’s shrouded in jungle vegetation. You can learn some ancient Hawaii here as this place was considered sacred, and you can stop at the Wailua Complex of Heiaus, where you’ll find ruins, ancient birthing stones, and stone carvings with petroglyphs.
Hanalei Bay
This gorgeous spot is located 4 miles southwest of Princeville on Kauai’s north shore. Hanalei Bay is composed of three different beaches, Wai’oli Beach Park, Hanalei Beach Park, and Black Pot Beach. The Black Pot Beach is located between the historic Hanalei Pier and the mouth of the Hanalei River. You can find many amenities, like restaurants, shopping as well as water sports rentals in Hanalei Town.
While Hanalei is considered safe for swimming, with lifeguards present at multiple points along the beach, keep in mind the beach conditions vary by season. The waters are rough during the winter season and calm during the summer.
Allerton Garden
This is situated on the Kauai’s south shore west of Poipu Beach. It encompasses bamboo groves, and rainforest trees, that overlook the ocean, so take your time to get refreshed in this greenery. You might recognize some parts of this garden from their appearances in movies like Jurassic Park. If you’re a plant lover you should not miss this lush garden.
Reviewers often suggest you bring mosquito repellent and closed-toe shoes as parts of this location can get quite muddy.
Visit a Luau
Kauai is home to serval outstanding luauas that offer ono (delicious) and authentic food. These cultural experiences are some of the best things you have to do on the island. You won’t regret the first bite of imu oven slow-cooked Kalua pork, or get entertained by the island’s music and dance. You can check out the Luau Makiwa at Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort and experience the torch-lighting ceremony and authentic Hula Kahiko which honors the beauty of Kauai.
You can also visit the Kauai Museum to learn more about the rich history and culture of Kauai Island.
Adventure Sports
Here are some adventure sports ideas for people who love getting some adrenaline during holidays:
Go Ziplining
For adrenaline-packed adventure lovers, experiencing ziplining in Kauai is a must. There are several great places to zipline on Kauai. You will get to personal experience some of Kauai’s landscape from above, and breathe fresh oxygen while getting an adrenaline-pumping experience. You can go for ziplining surrounding Princeville, Koloa, and Lihue areas.
The Koloa zipline has 8 different lines on site, the longest of which clocks in at half a mile long, which means it’s a 3.5 hour ziplining adventure. You’ll soar high above the jungle, enjoying views of the Hoary Head Mountain Range, the Waita Reservoir, and the Koloa Sugar Mill.
Surfing and Paddle Boarding
Water sports are an integral part of Hawaiian culture. With numerous beaches across the island, you can find loads of places to surf, some of which are perfect for beginners. Other beaches are extremely recommended for advanced surfing, especially during the winter, so do research before heading out.
You can also easily learn paddle boarding on flat water, which is also a calm experience to just enjoy simply being in the waves.
Try Snorkeling
You can’t miss snorkeling while you’re at Kauai. You can plan snorkeling excursions on Kauai where the best snorkel spots are found near the north shore. The south shore is also excellent as it is accessible year-round. Annini Beach on the north shore is the perfect place for kids and beginners to snorkel. You can have a great adventure and see sea turtles and fish.
The most popular beach in Kauai to try snorkeling is Poipu Beach. It is where two crescent-shaped beaches come together to welcome sea turtles at sunset. It has colorful coral and more fishes like Damselfish, Moorish idols, Parrot fish, Butterfly fish, and more.
Enjoy Tubing
Tubing can be a fun activity to experience during your time in Kauai. I mean few things are more relaxing than floating down a river in an inflatable tube. You’ll strap on a helmet and float through the irrigation canal on the Lihue plantation ditch that was once used to water the surrounding sugar cane crops. You should know that the canals wind through the backcountry of the jungle, so it feels like you’re somewhere along the off-beaten path.
Food, Drinks and Shopping
I think you can enjoy fresh fish and local cuisine at one of Kauai’s many restaurants. Try tasting coffee at Kauai Coffee Company’s estate, if you’re a coffee lover. Try visiting a farmers market to sample local produce and artisanal goods.
These markets always have locally grown and prepared food and meals. You can also curate beautiful art, souvenirs, and music. If you have got extra time, try to stop by Kilohana Plantation for a meal, shopping, or rum tasting. Don’t forget to try the famous Shave Ice!
Anaina Hou Farmers Market
If you’re traveling to the North Shore on a Saturday, add this pitstop for a must. This farmers market is one of the best on the island, spanning two lots in a small public community center. You can easily find a bunch of local produce, foodie items like tropical fruits and vegetables also small gifts. You will only take around 45 minutes to explore the whole thing.
You can also stop at Kauai Kunana Dairy, as it’s a must-stop for cheeses and homemade banana breads.
Hanapepe
The Hanapepe town is known as the art capital of Kauai. It is located on the southwest side of the island between Koloa and Waimea, filled with rich Hawaiian History. The historic building of enlisted servicemen and sailors stationed here from World War 1 to the early 1950s was the inspiration for the Disney Film “Lilo and Stitch”. The place is filled with house shops, art galleries, and eateries and is dubbed Kauai’s Biggest Little Town.
You can shop locally crafted jewelry, art, and clothing and also hand-painted ceramic tiles and pottery. There are a wide variety of artisans in Hanapepe that suit any taste or style. Beyond the shops, you can also check out the bevy of local eateries, including Midnight Bear Breads Bakery, Longies Shave Ice and Treats, and Kauai Kookie.
Old Koloa Town
The Old Koloa town is located on Kauai’s south shore near Poipu Beach. It is the original sugar plantation-era shopping village in the town of Koloa. It has got brightly colored buildings and has a history worth noting. For instance, the Tao building was first used as an ice cream parlor, serving plantation workers.
Today these buildings are filled with charming shops and restaurants. You can enjoy a stroll through the complex, where the storefronts are filled with surf attire and beachwear, souvenir t-shirts and gifts, handcrafted goods, and fine art galleries. You can have a bite to eat at Kenji Burger, very famous for its food, Koloa Pizza Kitchen + Bar, or Leahi vegan eats.
Planning Your Trip
The Garden Island will always surprise its visitors, as it is more than just a garden. The island is filled with fun activities and beautiful sights for visitors to embrace. Each and every stop on Kauai can be mesmerizing and thrilling, so make sure you plan your itinerary perfectly before landing on this island. There is one main airport on the island, Lihue Airport (LIH) which welcomes overseas and inter-island flights. You can book your accommodations on the North Shore or South Shore for easy access to Kauai’s many attractions. The most populated resort areas are Poipu and Princeville, and they all offer the best beaches and activities nearby.
Make sure to plan your vacation around Kauai’s many festivals and events, so that you can fully indulge in the spirits of Hawaii. While you’re in a happy vacay mode in Hawaii, it’s important to respect the locals, land, and wildlife. Never forget to pick up your trash, and respect the culture. Also, try to avoid spots that are unsafe. Now, get packing and plan your perfect trip to Kauai.
FAQs
How many days should I spend on Kauai?
To be able to complete the tour, a minimum of 8-10 days in Kauai is recommended. Consequently, the time can be spent exploring the various sites on the Island while having a few minutes of rest for relaxation. 5-7 days are ideal for exploring the entire island if you don’t have time.
Why is Kauai famous?
Kauai is most known as Garden Island due to its rich landscape, mountains, beaches, and abundant fauna. Its lush landscapes feature iconic destinations like the Na Pali Coast, with dramatic cliffs and ocean views, and Waimea Canyon, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” The island’s charm has made it a favorite filming location for Hollywood blockbusters, like Jurassic Park.
What are some things to do in Kaua’i when it’s raining?
If you visit Kaua’i during its wet season from November to April, you may experience occasional rain showers. Here are some activities to enjoy when the weather turns rainy:
- Savor a coffee-tasting experience at the Kauai Coffee Company estate.
- Explore the island’s rich history at the Kauai Museum.
- Browse unique local products at Warehouse 3450.
- Enjoy a meal, shop, or indulge in rum tasting at the Kilohana Plantation.
- Check the weather forecast—you might find sunshine on another side of the island.
- Treat yourself to relaxation and luxury at a hotel spa.