kauai trip report

The Ultimate Kauai Travel Guide: Plan Your Best Trip

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase through my links we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read about our affiliate policies here .

Share with your friends!

For adventure seekers, outdoor enthusiasts, and beach bums, Kauai is the island to explore.

From the Grand Canyon of the Pacific to hiking remote valleys to sunset cruises along the Na Pali Coast, you will not regret a trip to the Garden Isle.

You’ll find everything you need to know about planning your trip to Kauai here.

Take a shortcut with these helpful planning resources: – Check out the  best times to visit Kauai – Pick  what part of the island  is the best fit for your group – You won’t have to worry about what you’re forgetting with our Packing List – We’ve got you covered with 35 Best Things to Do on Kauai

Want to hop around? Use our handy table of contents below to find exactly what you’re looking for.

Kauai Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the kauai itinerary.

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Kauai.

Kauai Travel Guide: The Facts

• Kauai’s Mt. Wai’ale’ale is the wettest spot on Earth, averaging 450 inches of rain per year.
• With a coastline of 111-miles, Kauai has more accessible beaches than any other island.
• Over 90% of the land on Kauai is used for Conservation and Agriculture and 70% of the island is inaccessible by foot.
• Chickens run wild on Kauai after Hurricane Iniki destroyed many of the chicken coops. You will get an early start in the morning as the roosters may wake you up.

• Kauai Coffee is the largest coffee plantation in the United States
• You cannot drive around the island. The Na Pali Cliffs and Waimea Canyon make it nearly impossible to build a road to connect west Kauai with the North Shore.
• Kauai is the oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands. Once rising more than 10,000 feet above sea level, Olokele Volcano has since eroded down to two main peaks — Waiʻaleʻale (5,148 feet) and Kawaikini (5,243 feet).

Kauai Travel Guide: Geography

Kauai, the Garden Isle, is Hawaii’s fourth-largest island. Like all of the Hawaiian islands, there are two sides: a leeward side and a windward side. The leeward side of the island is drier and the windward side is wetter. 

The island is divided into four main regions: the East Side (including Lihue), the West Side, the North Shore, and the South Shore. 

Also known as the Coconut Coast, the east side is home to groves of coconut trees (hence the name), and is the most populated area of the island. Sights here include the town of Kapa’a, the Wailua River, and ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls. If you’re looking for slightly cheaper accommodations, you’ll find some better value hotel deals on the east side.

There’s plenty to keep you busy in Kapa’a and around Lihue !

The west side feels like you’re miles away from everyone else on Kauai. Gone are the big resorts and traffic. Instead, you have dry landscape, very small towns like Hanapepe and Waimea, and some must-see sights. The most popular attractions here are Waimea Canyon and Koke’e State Park.

North Shore

Escape to the beauty of the north shore. This is truly an experience. The jagged cliffs, lush landscape, and beautiful beaches are dramatically breathtaking. Summer here is ideal and the charming town of Hanalei is bustling. Winter brings significantly more rain and large waves.

Two towns you’ll hear mentioned often on the North Shore are Hanalei and Princeville. Princeville is located on a bluff overlooking Hanalei Bay, but you’ll need to drive across Hanalei bridge to reach the town.

When you’re planning your trip, be sure to check out our list of the best things to do in Hanalei.

South Shore

Picture perfect beaches and the best resorts are located on the sunny south shore. You’ll find famous Poipu Beach here as well as historic Koloa Town. And don’t forget Spouting Horn and the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail. 

This is a great place to stay, especially in the winter months, if you’re hoping for a beach vacation where you can walk from your accommodations to a swimmable beach. In Poipu, there are also plenty of restaurants to enjoy, lots of places to snorkel, and activities galore. It might not be as green and as lush as the north shore, but it has more mild weather year-round.

Check out our favorite things to do in Poipu to help plan your trip.

What’s the Best Time of Year to Visit Kauai?

While you may be visiting from a place that has four seasons each year, in Hawaii there are just two: summer (kau) and winter (hooilo). Summer runs from May to October and winter lasts from November to April. 

As with all the Hawaiian islands, the lowest prices, best weather, and smallest crowds are during the shoulder seasons of September to mid-November and March to May. But one thing to note is that Kauai has warm weather year-round but it does get significantly more rain than the other islands.

You can check out the average rainfall by month and average temperature by month for Hanalei (north shore) and Poipu (south shore). It’s easy to see that Hanalei consistently gets more rain than Poipu all year and is a bit cooler as well.

If you are planning to visit outside of the summer months, staying on the North Shore will mean a lot more rain and rough ocean conditions. If you decide to visit Kauai outside of the summer months, you might want to plan your stay on the South Shore for your best chance of sunny skies and calmer ocean conditions. 

We dive into this more and help you pick the best time to visit Kauai .

Our favorite month to visit Kauai is September. It checks all the boxes for the cheapest time to go, great weather, and it’s less crowded. 

If you can’t get away during the school season, then late May and June are good times to go during the busy season.

And if you’re curious about ocean temperatures and conditions, we have good news. The ocean temperature is always between 75 to 80 degrees, year-round. That means you can swim comfortably in January and in June.

But aside from temperature, consider waves. During the summer months, you can usually find calm water in many places around the island. The exception is if there is a storm (or remnants of a storm) passing by or if the island is getting a south swell. 

In the winter, north swells can bring choppy water and large waves to the north and east sides of the island, while Poipu and the south shore stay a bit calmer. 

This site from the Hawaii Department of Health gives a great overview of when you typically see swells in what areas of the island. 

Kauai Travel Guide: Getting to Kauai

There is one main airport on the island, Lihue Airport (LIH) , which welcomes overseas and inter-island flights. Located on the south-east side of the island, it’s approximately 50 minutes from Princeville on the North Shore, 25 minutes from Poipu on the South Shore, and 10 minutes from the Royal Coconut Coast resort area on the east side. 

Planning on island hopping while here? Read our full guide on inter-island travel . Or if you’re arriving by cruise ship, we have everything you need in our Cruise Travel Guide !

Renting a Car and Getting Around Kauai

Should you rent a car on Kauai? Most likely, yes. While Kauai does have a bus system and has uber and taxis, renting a car makes traveling around on your vacation easier. 

Our favorite tip for anyone visiting Hawaii is to book with Discount Hawaii Car Rental . When we travel inter-island or we have friends in town, we use them 95% of the time. They offer the most competitive rates, they work with national agencies, you don’t have to pre-book, and you can cancel at any time. We also have some great local companies listed on our rental car recommendations page. 

For the most part, the roads on Kauai are well paved and easy to navigate with any type of car — no 4-wheel drive required! Though if you want to rent a jeep…it really is fun. 

Lihue Airport (LIH) is located in the capital city of Li’hue. In a centralized location, it is easy to hop in a rental car and head south to Poipu (25-minute drive) or north to Princeville and Hanalei Bay (45-minute drive).

Kauai Travel Guide: Where to Stay on Kauai

Think of Kauai as a compass when considering where to stay:

The most popular resort areas are Poipu (south shore) and Princeville (north shore). They have the best beaches and activities nearby. 

For the best year-round weather, look to Poipu and the South Shore as these beaches stay relatively calm during the winter months while the North Shore gets the big surf. 

There is so much more to consider so take a deep dive before you book your accommodations:

Related Articles:

• Where to Stay on Kauai
• Princeville vs Poipu: Finding the Best Place to Stay on Kauai

If you’re searching for the perfect hotel or vacation rental, we have you covered. Our Where to Stay database is where we post reviews of our favorite resorts on the island. You can search by price or type and we’re adding to it every week!

Some of our favorites that we love to highlight are:

• Kiahuna Plantation Resort: condos right on Kiahuna Beach — a gorgeous spot!
• Koloa Landing resort : our favorite hotel on the south shore
• Poipu Kapili: great gardens and just a short walk to the beach
• Waipouli Beach Resort : our pick for the east side

Should you stay in a hotel or vacation rental on Kauai?

Go for a hotel if you’re looking for the traditional resort experience with big pools, nearby beaches, and restaurants within walking distance. Opt for a vacation rental if you want access to a kitchen, are looking for space, or are looking to save money. 

We routinely stay in both. We’ll book a vacation rental for the majority of our stay so we have access to a kitchen and a little more space for the kids. Then we’ll treat ourselves to a great resort for a few days to enjoy the pool and other amenities. This has been a winning combo for us recently. 

If you’re still not sure what you want to do, we break down the difference between choosing a hotel and a vacation rental in Hawaii .  

What part of Kauai should you stay on?

Most visitors to Kauai plan to stay in one of three areas: Princeville (on the North Shore), Poipu (on the South Shore), or the Royal Coconut Coast (on the East side). Where you decide to stay will depend on the time of year, the vibe you’re going for, and your budget. 

We help you make sense of this big decision with our full where to Stay on Kauai guide . 

If you’re coming with kids, check out of list of the best family friendly resorts on Kauai . And if you’re coming to Kauai for your honeymoon, don’t miss our favorite honeymoon resorts . 

How Many Days Should You Spend on Kauai?

How much time do you have? Kauai isn’t a large island but there is a lot to do and see so deciding how long to stay can be a challenge. 

According to Hawaii Tourism Authority data, visitors spend an average of 8 days on the island. Ideally, spending at least a week on Kauai will give you time to balance relaxation with adventure. If you’re island-hopping while in Hawaii, you might feel comfortable visiting Kauai for a few less days but make sure you prioritize your time to see all that you want to (we help you do that in the sections below!).

Read more about why we think a week on Kauai is a good idea . And don’t miss our Hawaii packing list as you’re getting ready to go.

Honestly, there is so much to do on Kauai, check out our list of the top things to do on Kauai before you decide how long you want to stay.

The Best Beaches and Snorkeling Spots on Kauai

When you are heading to Kauai, you’re in for a treat. The island has plenty of beautiful beaches to choose from, including our favorites: 

• Ke’e Beach: Yes, heading to this beach requires a lot of advanced planning (in the form of a reservation ), but it’s worth it. This is our favorite beach on Kauai for summer swimming thanks to the crystal clear water and the stunning cliffs as a backdrop. The start of the famous Kalalau trail departs from here, but you’ll also need another permit to access that hiking trail.
• Poipu Beach: This south shore beach has been named one of the best in America, and we don’t disagree. Golden sand crescents make this a beautiful spot for beachgoers and snorkelers. Plus, with plenty of parking, heading here is enjoyable.
• Makua (Tunnels) Beach: This beach is stunning, especially in the summer. It’s also a very popular snorkeling spot. But parking here is very limited. Your best bet is to arrive early and park at Ha’ena Beach and make the walk to Tunnels. Ha’ena Beach has a larger parking lot, lifeguards, and showers.

We have a few resources to help you pick the best beach on Kauai.

• The 10 Best Beaches on Kauai: stunning spots you don’t want to miss!
• The 9 Best Beaches on Kauai for Swimming
• The 7 Best Beaches on Kauai in the Winter
• Top Kauai Snorkeling Spots
• Our 7 Favorite Kid-Friendly Kauai Beaches

And if snorkeling is high on your to-do list, check out our five favorite snorkeling spots on Kauai and our favorite snorkeling tours on Kauai . 

Remember that while the beaches in Hawaii are beautiful, they are not without risk. Currents, dangerous shore break, and changing ocean conditions make swimming in any ocean dangerous. Practice beach safety by swimming on beaches with lifeguards, obeying lifeguard flags, and when in doubt, don’t go out. This website has more excellent information to help keep you safe. 

Things to do on Kauai

There’s no shortage of fun to be had on Kauai. Explore our 35 Best Things to Do on Kauai for ideas to plan your trip. But, to help you get started making your list, these are some highlights that you won’t want to miss:

• See the Napali Coast: This stunning coastline is inaccessible by car. Want to catch a view of it? You can only get there by foot, by air, or by boat. We love boat rides along the Napali Coast. Check out our pick for the best Napali Coast Boat Tours .
• Waimea Canyon: The Grand Canyon of the Pacific makes for a fantastic day trip. Take a view, enjoy the views, and don’t forget to keep driving up the road to Koke’e State Park. On a clear day you can get a stunning Napali Coast view.  
• Ha’ena State Park: Whether you’re coming for hiking or the beach, this state park offers it all. While you do need reservations to get in, it’s worth the effort and is high on our list of can’t miss experiences.
• Poipu Beach: two crescent-shaped beaches come together to welcome sea turtles at sunset. We recommend going during the day as there is snorkeling , surf lessons , and 20 more things to do in Poipu .

Don’t forget to eat well while you’re there! You can check out our five favorite spots for shave ice as well as our favorite Kauai food trucks . 

Want help seeing how to fit all of the best sights into your vacation? Our Kauai itinerary was created just for that. The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. With the download, you’ll get five carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t-miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

The Best Tours & Activities on Kauai

While we embrace DIY travel, there’s something to be said for a great tour when you’re in Hawaii. Not only are you supporting a local business, but you’re getting time with a guide who truly knows the island. Whether they’re teaching you the history of the islands during a canoe tour or they’re educating you on marine life during a snorkeling trip, a good tour experience can stick with you for years. 

• Napali Coast Snorkel with Holo Holo Charters : Take in the beautiful Napali Coast and snorkel off the coast of the forbidden island, Niihau on this snorkeling day tour. 
• Mountain Tubing Adventure : Head into the backcountry with this very popular tour, tubing down a former irrigation system. 
• Wailua River Kayak Tour : Enjoy kayaking and a hike up the Wailua River to a waterfall. 

We’ve done the hard work for you by finding the best of the best tours on the island. Here’s a sampling of our favorites to get started, but don’t forget to check out our full list . 

Popular Kauai Videos

Get to know Kauai and see some of our best recommendations with our popular Kauai videos.

Or, explore our full library of videos on Hawaii .

Full Library of Kauai Articles

Want to binge-read everything we’ve written on visiting Kauai? Pour yourself a Mai Tai and browse all Kauai articles here .

The Kauai Itinerary

If you’re planning a trip to Kauai, we’ve got you covered. Our island itineraries help you navigate the planning process and make your trip smooth once you’re on-island.

Thousands of customers have loved them, whether they were planning for a trip that was a year away or a trip that was a day away.

We hope you have an amazing trip!

~Jordan & Erica

Love our Kauai Travel Guide? Pin it and follow us for more!

I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

Similar Posts

Don’t Miss the 5 Best Spots for Shave Ice on Kauai

The 3 Best Kauai Whale Watching Tours (+ how to see them from shore)

Hawaii in February: Everything to Know For Your Trip

Hawaii in April: Everything to Know For Your Trip

Planning a Trip to Hawaii in 2024: 15 essential details

The Best Hawaiian Island to Visit: Don’t Get It Wrong

This is the most comprehensive Hawaii vacation planning resource on the internet!

TOP RESOURCES

• Join Our Newsletter
• Hawaii Itineraries
• Tours & Activities
• Top Travel Gear
• Discount Car Rentals

ISLAND GUIDES

• Planning A Trip To Hawaii
• Oahu Island Guide
• Maui Island Guide
• Hawai’i (Big Island) Guide
• Kauai Island Guide

Your use of the information provided in our Content, Itineraries, Site, and Services is for your informational purposes only and is subject to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. Your use of the information described in, your participation in activities presented in, and/or your engagement of any Travel Service Providers presented in our Content, Itineraries, Site, and/or Services may carry the risk of illness, bodily injury, disability, death, or property damage. You voluntarily and freely assume all risks and dangers that may occur pursuant to your access, use, purchase, or participation in any information, activity, good, or service described in our Content, Itineraries, Site, and Services or provided by any Travel Service Providers.

Don’t start planning without our cheat sheets

You’ll get:

• 4 can’t-miss activities on each island,
• a map with the main sights in town,
• and famous local grindz (eats)!

Review Cart

No products in the cart.

Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.

Kauai Beaches Guide

Tunnels, Kee, Haena, Poipu, ...

Kauai Sights Guide

Na Pali, Waimea Canyon, Wailua ...

Kauai Hiking Trails Guide

Kalalau, Nounou, Kuilau, Nualolo ...

Kauai Regions Guide

Lihue, East Coast, Na Pali, West, ...

When to Visit Kauai

Learn about the best time to visit Kauai →

Kauai Travel Tips

Our Kauai travel tips & recommendations →

Kauai Top Picks

Explore Kauai's Must See & Do →

All Hawaii Island Guides →

Kauai Accommodations →

Lodging by type.

• Kauai Hotels & Resorts
• Kauai B&B's and Inn's
• Kauai Vacation Rentals

Popular Reads

• Where to stay on Kauai →
• When to visit Kauai →
• Kauai Attractions →
• Kauai Weather →

Explore Kauai Hotels & Resorts Search Now

Kauai Activities →

Kauai tours by type.

• Land Tours & Services
• Ocean & Water Tours
• Plane & Helicopter Tours
• Kauai Itineraries

Popular Kauai Activities...

• Kauai Guided Tours →
• Kauai Helicopter Tours →
• Na Pali Coast Tours →
• Mountain Tubing Tours →

Explore Kauai Tours Search Now

Kauai Travel Guide

Visitor information on where to stay, best kauai things to do, and more....

Kauai Vacation Guide

Visitor info & top things to do on kauai , essential tips for the ultimate kauai vacation experience.

Kauai is an island full of splendor, raw beauty, and culture; an island that, like no other, represents the true spirit of aloha. The island really is a true hidden gem of sorts. Over 90% of the island cannot be reached by road. In fact, the most beautiful part of the whole island has no road near it - and most Kauai lovers like it that way.

Kauai is defined by its amazing scenery and laid back persona. The island, arguably we'll admit, also boasts more coastline filled with beaches than any other island in the chain.

Kauai is home to Waimea Canyon, which Mark Twain dubbed, "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific," the majestic Na Pali Coastline, Mount Waiʻaleʻale (one of the wettest spots on earth), some of the best hiking trails in all of Hawaii, and a unique mix of small towns dotting the coastal highway that encircles most of the island.

— article continued below —

Kalalau Trail - Na Pali Coast

FREE Kauai Summary Guidesheet

Updated with a new summary map of  Kauai  with estimated driving times from popular starting points.

Includes the top  must-see & do  Kauai attractions,  best times to visit ,  where to stay  briefing, Kauai  airports detail , a monthly  weather summary , and where to find the most  noteworthy local ono 'grindz'  (best eats) on Kauai.

Download Guidesheet Now

The island of Kauai has also been a hot spot for feature films. Dozens of filmmakers and producers have chosen the 'Garden Isle' as a backdrop in their movies.

We'll help you discover all that the island has to offer.

Everything you need to know about the Garden Island is here in one convenient place:

• Explore the incredible selection and pick the best beach on Kauai
• Hikers will love Kauai, it has some of the best hikes in the state.
• Determine the best time to travel to Kauai
• Discover where to stay on Kauai
• Read our top Kauai travel tips ,
• Explore the best hand-picked tours and adventures and our fantastic selection of Kauai accommodations

Waialeale Waterfalls

Summary of Kauai topics covered on this page.

• Kauai Blog, Recent News, and current Kauai Events
• Kauai Weather, Climate, and current Forecast
• Where to Stay on Kauai - accommodations summary
• Kauai Map Packet
• Best Time to Visit Kauai  - which month is the best?
• Kauai Regions & Destinations Guide
• Top 10 Kauai Attractions to See & Do
• Kauai Trip Itineraries for Planning 1-7 Day Trips
• Top Kauai Sights
• Top Kauai Beaches
• Top Kauai Hiking Trails
• Kauai Popular Tours & Activities
• Kauai Visitor Information & Articles

When to Visit Kauai?

The best months to visit.

Wondering when the best time to visit Kauai is? If you've already narrowed down your choices of islands and the Garden Isle is the winner, you're probably wondering what time of year to visit the island.

When considering the weather, crowds, demand, and prices, the best times to visit Kauai are the months of April, May, August, September, and early October.  Some call these Kauai's 'off-season periods' or the 'shoulder months.' 

There's more to cover on this topic before you make a final decision. In this article, we'll cover visitor arrivals, Kauai's weather and climate, accommodations, rates, and what to expect on a visit during each season on Kauai.

Kauai Estimated Visitor Arrivals (click to enlarge)

Hanalei Bay Pier - North Kauai

Where to Stay on Kauai

If you love the beach, enjoy lush scenery, and want to immerse yourself in stunning, untouched landscapes, anywhere on Kauai will make you happy. The North and East coasts of Kauai illustrate absolute beauty. Beaches sprawl across the entire island- more (arguably) than any other island in the state. So head to "Garden Isle" for the lush greenery, particularly the North and East coasts, which provide the most scenic terrains. 

Overview of Staying on Kauai 

Let's get a lay of the land that is Kauai. The island of Kauai has four major geographic areas to select from when choosing where to stay. In order of popularity (by our account), they are:

The South Shore- including Koloa, Lawai, and Poipu

The North Shore- including Princeville, Hanalei, and Kilauea

The East Coast- including Kapaa, Wailua, and, in this case, the county seat of Lihue

The West Side- including the towns of Waimea and Hanapepe, staying on the West Side is much less popular than the other locations)

OK, that may not seem that simple. However, not that difficult because it's hard to make a terrible choice in Kauai. But each area on Kauai has its unique flavor and atmosphere - including its attractions and sights to see.

In this detailed article, we'll look at the pros and cons of each area we've briefly discussed above. As noted above, these are in order of popularity, by our account.

Kauai Weather 

Weather & climate on kauai.

Kauai is known as the Garden Isle, for a good reason, the lush landscape is something to see. The center of the island is home to one of the wettest locations on the planet, Mt. Waialeale. Its annual precipitation is over 400 inches.

Don’t be fooled by the amount of rain this island gets though, the combination of sunshine and dry weather more than balance it out. We find that rain is random and only lasts a few minutes usually.

The south shore and east coast tend to be drier and the north shore is wetter. The temperatures on the Garden Isle range from 78-85°F for the high and 65-74°F for the low. There's much more to cover in our  Kauai Weather  article.

Kauai Weather & Forecast

*Climate Notes: Weather and Climate numbers are aggregated from trusted weather sources providing the monthly temperature and precipitation figures for Kauai's primary airport in Lihue. These climate summaries, specific to the airport location, should therefore not be taken as a "whole-island" forecast. Weather conditions can change dramatically on Kauai due to the diverse topography, changes in elevation, the trade winds, and other unique island conditions. Temperatures are provided in Fahrenheit and Precipitation in Inches.

Kauai Average Monthly Temperatures

Kauai Average Precipitation

Kauai Weather Forecast

Kauai transportation.

Transportation on Kauai is varied, allowing for a tailored travel experience.

• Car Rentals : Renting a car is favored (we recommend  Discount Hawaii Car Rental ), offering freedom to roam the island's diverse locales.
• Public Buses : The Kauai Bus covers several routes, though it has limitations in schedule and coverage.
• Shuttle Services : Some resorts offer shuttles to key destinations for a hassle-free commute.
• Bicycling : With scenic trails, biking is a delightful option with rentals available island-wide.
• Taxis and Ride-Shares : Convenient for short distances, taxis and ride-shares like Uber and Lyft are operational.
• Walking : In compact areas like Kapaa and Hanalei, walking is a pleasant way to explore the surroundings and mingle with locals.

Considering the transportation options in advance can help visitors make the most of their Kauai experience, whether they prefer the flexibility of a rental car, the eco-friendliness of biking, or the convenience of public transit.

Waimea Canyon - Waipoo Falls

2024 Kauai Visitor Guides

Download your copy of one of our Kauai Visitor Guides today  and take advantage of our  destination expert's Kauai insights . We've just updated and released our latest Kauai Highlights & Essentials Guides for 2024.

These updated Kauai packets contain nearly  20 visual pages   (in the Intro/Highlights Guide)   and almost  40 visual pages   (in the Essentials Guide)  of pertinent Hawaii travel information  to assist in planning your perfect Hawaii trip. There's lots of good Kauai information + maps, weather charts, hotel pricing graphics, and more - ideal for those who are just getting started planning their trip to Kauai.

There are also  NO advertisements  or paid product placements within these packets.

Kauai Regions

Popular destinations on kauai.

Kaua'i is the oldest of all the main Hawaiian Islands, dating back some 5.1 million years . The island is nearly circular in shape with a land area encompassing 533 square miles, which is 25 miles long by 33 miles wide at its furthest points.

The island has roads stretching around it from the northwest coast, starting at Ke'e Beach, moving clockwise along the eastern coast (through Kapa'a and Lihue), and then around to the west coast (through Hanapepe and Waimea). Finally, it heads north up to the ridges of Waimea and Koke'e State Park overlooking the inaccessible Na Pali coast on the west side of the island.

Let's be honest: all of the Garden Island is fabulous. But each area offers different attractions, sights, and things to do. Explore Kauai's regions from afar here and find the spot that's best for you.

North Kauai Region | East Kauai Region | Lihue Region | South Kauai Region | West Kauai Region | Na Pali Coast Region

North Kauai Destinations

North kauai region, priceville, kilauea, hanalei, ha'ena.

As on all the Hawaiian Islands, this region is typically known as the famous "North Shore." The North Shore has a mild average temperature in the mid to low 70's, but much of it receives a lot more rain - up to 120 inches a year in some places. This makes it green, lush, and very tropical.

One of the most popular resort areas is also located on the north shore of the island,  Princeville . Princeville is a large and popular resort area overlooking the cliffs of Hanalei and Hanalei Bay with everything you could ever need to make the perfect vacation. Just hold onto your wallet, things can be pricey here. Houses in this area go for too much money and way too much money. Compared to the west coast of the island, this is Beverly Hills.

Other towns you'll find include:  Kilauea ,  Ha'ena , and  Hanalei  with its beautiful bay and beaches.

East Kauai Destinations

East Kauai Region

Anahola, Kapa'a, Wailua, Hanama'ulu

There are many people who will call this region of the island the Coconut Coast, and once you visit you'll see why. For miles along the shoreline, there are hundreds of coconut trees.

East Kaua'i will also be where rain chances increase as the trade winds blow in from the Pacific. The average rainfall varies along the coastline, but you can expect to see a little more than on the south and west sides - between 45 and 60 inches a year. Head mauka (inland) towards Wai'ale'ale or Kawaikini, though, rain increases by the foot, literally. The average temperature is much cooler in this region than the south or west at around 70F.

The east coast is probably the second most popular part of the island, including for accommodations, and thus most of the resorts are along this stretch, especially in Kapa'a. Plus, there are plenty of attractions gracing the region, from  Wailua Falls  and  Opaeka'a Falls  to the  Fern Grotto , all near the  Wailua Rive r.

In the east region, you'll pass through the popular resort area of  Kapa'a . It is a small oceanfront town that's getting ever so close to the North Shore. It is also right on the edge of Wailua River State Park and  Lydgate Beach Park .

Other towns you'll find on the east coast include: Wailua, Hanama'ulu, and Anahola.

Lihue Kauai Region

Located within the southeastern portion of the eastern region, Lihue is the county seat of the island and is the location of the government offices, a museum, and several other potential resources to visitors.

Your journey on the Garden Island will begin in the Lihue Region at the Lihue Airport (LIH).

Lihue Region

South kauai destinations, south kauai region, koloa, po'ipu, lawa'i, kaleheo.

The southern side of the island is warm, dry, and generally arid averaging about 35-40 inches of rain a year. The average temperature is 78F, but don't be surprised if temps get into the high 80's or even 90's in this region.

Though far from the popular North Shore and scarcely populated, the South side has a lot to offer. The biggest attractions here are the perfect beaches around the  Po'ipu  area, the  National Tropical Botanical Garden , and  Spouting Horn .

The Poipu area stretches around Makahuena Point and is a popular tourist destination, filled with hotels, condos, resorts, shopping, and vacation rentals.

Other towns you'll find on the south side include:  Kalaheo ,  Koloa ,  Lawa'i , and  Omao .

West Kauai Destinations

West kauai region guide, hanapepe/'ele'ele, waimea, kekaha, koke'e.

For the most part, the western portion of the island is impassable, filled with mountainous terrain and valleys that make roads impossible to build here. The northwest side of the Garden Island is most famous for Waimea Canyon and the Kokee State Park trails and hikes that stretch far and wide across this region. The southwest side contains several small towns and various attractions.

Northwest Kauai

You've probably heard the most about this region because of Waimea Canyon, which Mark Twain called, " The Grand Canyon of the Pacific. " It is indeed a beautiful sight to behold, and you have several overlooks to enjoy it from. The region is a mecca to hikers, offering dozens of trails from the most challenging to quite easy

Southwest Kauai

The Southwest portion of this region includes the  Waimea  town area,  Hanapepe  town, and Polihale Beach State Park. The weather on this side of the island varies greatly. Here on the southwest side, it is incredibly dry.

West Kauai Region

Na pali coast region.

Stretching along Kauai's west coast is the majestic Na Pali Coastline. When it comes to scenic areas, Na Pali may very well be the top on the list here in Hawaii. Miles of rugged coastline more beautiful than anything imagined, it truly feels like another world. So whether you fly over it, hike it, or take a boat around the edges of it... Na Pali is something that must be experienced.

These sea cliffs begin at Ke'e Beach along the north shore and continue around the north and west portion of Kauai, ending at Polihale Beach bordering the western region. They extend upwards of 1000 feet and are made up of a series of "hanging" and traditional valleys and cliffs. A "hanging" valley is one that ends abruptly at a sea cliff rather than gently stretching out into the ocean. They are formed when the ocean's waves cut away at the lava rock quicker than the interior streams can scour out the valley floor.

Many movies, such as 'The Thorn Birds' and portions of 'South Pacific,' have been filmed along this coast using the dramatic background of these steep cliffs. Numerous sea caves, small beaches, and high waterfalls add to the beauty and uniqueness of the landscape.

Na Pali Region

Kalalau Valley - Kokee State Park

Kauai Travel Map Packet

Updated to include top kauai beaches map.

Updated with a new high-resolution printable 'Garden Island' map. Includes most major attractions, all major routes, airports, and a chart with estimated driving times.

PDF packet now additionally includes a Beaches Map.

-File is a print-ready PDF document

Kauai Blog & Travel News

Timely kauai headlines, events, and announcements, kauai top attractions, top 10 kauai things to see & do.

Truth be told, all of Kauai is remarkable. However, some Kauai attractions are incredibly popular because they offer an experience that truly captures the magical essence of Kauai. Most Inspirational, Must-See, Top Picks, Best of Kauai... no matter what you label them, you absolutely must witness these attractions for yourself. Of volcanic origin, the highest peaks on this mountainous island are Kawaikini , at 5,243 feet, followed by Mount Wai'ale'ale near the center of the island, at 5,148 feet above sea level. One of the wettest spots on earth , with an annual average rainfall of 450-470 inches , is located on the east side of Mount Wai'ale'ale.

This high annual rainfall has eroded deep valleys in the central mountain, carving out ridges, canyons, and gorgeous valleys with many scenic waterfalls. Click on any of the tiles below to discover just a few of Kauai's top attractions.

Top 10 Attractions on Kauai

• Na Pali Coast State Park - NaPali Coastline
• Waimea Canyon - West Kauai
• Kalalau Lookout - West Kauai
• Hanalei Beach Park - North Shore Kauai
• Makua 'Tunnels' Beach - North Shore Kauai
• Wailua Falls - East Kauai
• Kalalau Trail - first two miles to Hanakapi'ai Beach along Na Pali Coast (accessed in North Kauai)
• Ke'e Beach - Na Pali Coast and Northwest Shore Kauai
• Kilauea Lighthouse & Wildlife Refuge - Northeast Shore Kauai
• Po'ipu Beach - South Shore Kauai

Na Pali Coast State Park

West & North Kauai Region

#1 rated in sights to see on kauai.

The NaPali Coast is the gem of all gems on the island. There are 3 ways to visit the NaPali Coast: by land, by sea, or by air.

Stretching across a road-less expanse from  Polihale Beach on the West Side to Makana Mountain and  Kee Beach  in Ha’ena on the North Shore; the NaPali Coast makes up the breathtaking, beautiful northwest coastline. 

Filled with dramatic cliff faces, pristine beaches, rugged hiking trails, and extensive archaeological sites, NaPali Coast is an environment of immense power where natural forces are continually evolving the shape of the land.

Waimea Canyon

#2 Rated in Sights to See on Kauai

Dubbed " The Grand Canyon of the Pacific " by Mark Twain, Waimea Canyon is the largest canyon in the Pacific and truly a dramatic sight to behold at ten miles long, one mile wide, and more than 3,500 ft. deep.

Carved thousands of years ago by rivers and floods that flowed from Mount Waialeale's summit, the canyon is home to the Waimea River.

The river was named for the red hue of the water, as Waimea means 'red waters.' The red tint is caused by several natural processes that break down the ancient rock inside the gorge.

Kalalau Lookout

#3 Rated in Sights to See on Kauai

Kalalau Lookout isn't just another Waimea Canyon lookout, as many first-time visitors often believe. It's a view into the heart of the Kalalau Valley- one of the most-photographed and well-recognized valleys in all of Hawaii.

The surrounding coastline and valley, which is the largest valley on the island at two miles wide, has served as the backdrop for countless films including "King Kong" (the original), "Mighty Joe Young," "Jurassic Park," and "Six Days Seven Nights."

Kalalau Lookout is also the highest elevation most people reach on the island by road, at 4,000 feet.

Hanalei Beach Park & Bay

#1 rated beach on kauai.

On an average day, this is by far the best beach on the island. It's family-friendly and the sand is pristine. At 125 ft. wide and with over two miles of sand along the crescent-shaped bay, the surroundings are superb with views of the verdant mountains rising in the background. Hanalei Bay Beach is bordered by the Hanalei River to the east, the Waipa River to the west, and there are two large coral reefs at both ends of the bay.

For those seeking ocean fun and diversity, the beach has a little of everything. The right side of the bay features a reef that creates ideal surfing conditions for those looking to catch some waves. Near the pier the waves are much more gentle, making it an ideal location for those new to the ocean or rookie wave riders. Boogie boarding is reliable along the central portion of the bay, and even some intermediate surfing is possible here. The crowds don't flock to this beach, so there's plenty of room for everyone at Hanalei Bay.

Hanalei Beach Park

Makua 'Tunnels' Beach

#2 Rated Beach on Kauai

Tunnels beach offers some of the best snorkeling anywhere in Hawaii during the calm summer months. The backdrop is similar to that of Hanalei Beach; the mountains rising up behind the beach are gorgeous.

Tunnels Beach has one major downside- parking. But you can usually find parking at Haena Beach Park and then walk (to the right) to access Tunnels Beach. Surfers also will enjoy the outermost portions of the reef where waves are larger.

Wailua Falls

#4 Rated in Sights to See on Kauai

If you've ever fantasized about seeing a double-tiered waterfall, then get ready to turn your fantasy into reality at the gorgeous Wailua Falls.

Unlike many other waterfalls on the island, Wailua Falls is easily accessible, as no hiking is needed to reach it and appreciate its beauty up close. In fact, the parking lot basically overlooks the falls.

As an added bonus, when the sun hits at just the right angle you'll get a beautiful rainbow extending out from the base of the falls in the mist, which is nothing short of spectacular.

Kalalau Trail

First Two Miles to Hanakapiai Beach

#1 rated hiking trail on kauai.

Number one on our list for hiking is the Kalalau Trail, or what some refer to as the "Hanakapiai Trail." This trail includes the first two miles (one way) of the 11-mile Kalalau trail that stretches along the NaPali coastline, starting at Kee Beach at the end of the road in the northern region.

It is popular with visitors who want a very scenic half-day hike. It can be semi-strenuous, however, as the trail does do a good bit of climbing and descending. Crossing the stream at Hanakapiai Beach can also be hazardous, but overall this is a good trail for visitors who want to see some of NaPali's beautiful coastline on foot.

Visitors planning to make the Kalalau trail hike must now make  online reservations ; which will currently be limited to 900 a day, according to the state DLNR. Please also be aware of the  new rules  for the whole Haena State Park area.

#3 Rated Beach on Kauai

Located at the trailhead of our previous top attraction, Ke`e Beach is located at the end of Highway 560 and is one of the island's most popular North Shore beaches.

If you want a beach with a view, you're going to be hard-pressed to find a better view than the NaPali Coast as seen from the far right end of Ke`e Beach- it's simply jaw-dropping. Situated between NaPali and Limahuli stream, the lagoon-like beach is also popular for snorkeling. The water here is very clear and reef fish are abundant. The chickens are part of the local scene, and it makes us wonder, where else will you find chickens on a beach?

For more information on where to park, please be aware of the  new rules  for the whole  Haena State Park  area (including Ke'e Beach access).

Kilauea Lighthouse & Wildlife Refuge

#6 rated in sights to see on kauai.

Kilauea Lighthouse is the northernmost point of the main Hawaiian Islands. The lighthouse was built in 1913 with the largest hand-blown clamshell lens in the world. It was later replaced with a beacon in the 1970's.

The lighthouse is open to look around within on the ground level. Today the lighthouse remains one of Kaua'i's most popular attractions.

Native vegetation and an informative visitor center attract thousands of tourists to this site to bird-watch, view the sweeping cliff and ocean vistas, and revel in the island's past.

Kilauea Lighthouse

Po'ipu Beach

#4 rated beach on kauai.

Poipu Beach is the star when it comes to the south shore of the island. This beautiful curve of white sand is 50 ft. wide by approximately 1,000 ft. long.

The beach is actually split into two small bays; one section is ideal for small children and beginner snorkelers while the other section is better suited for swimming, snorkeling, and even surfing when the surf is up. The sandbar separating the two bays is often home to the endangered monk seal; however, we highly encourage you not to approach them.

Poipu Beach

Kauai Itinerary Suggestions

Garden isle itineraries.

Kauai is the fourth largest island in Hawaii, and it is undeniably one of the most beautiful places in the world. Many have described it as a divine place on earth. Here, you will witness its scenic greenery, remarkable trails, stunning beaches with crystal clear blue waters, and irresistible allure wherever you venture.

Ultimately, we’ve designed our itineraries around a set number of on-island days: offering  one ,  two ,  three ,  four ,  five ,  six , and  seven-day  itineraries for exploring the island, soaking in the best sights, and ensuring your precious time (and potentially money) on Kauai are used wisely. We’ve tried to balance our itineraries between those who seek adventure and those looking to find a good beach and relax. Overall, we want your experience to be exactly what you’ve dreamed of when planning your trip.

For each island we’ve attempted to split up the itinerary days by sorting attractions according to their geographic proximity; i.e., on West Kauai day, you’d explore the best of the western region's attractions, beaches, hiking trails, and activities. Our itineraries are not meant to be followed consecutively necessarily, which would probably be exhausting, but instead as a  grab-and-go resource  for ‘mapping’ your trip - think of us as a  Wayfinder’s guide to Kauai .

For nearly 20 years now, we've been visiting the Garden Island and making detailed notes about what the island's highlights are and what visitors like yourself simply must-see based on the limited time you've allocated for each Hawaiian Island.

It isn't easy and can even be overwhelming to start planning a trip to Hawaii. One quick look on our website, and you'll soon discover there are hundreds of possibilities; a variety of sights to see, a plethora of beautiful beaches to choose from, and a diverse set of incredible trails that criss-cross each of the islands. Honestly, you could spend months on the island and not see and do it all. Having a reliable guide, that's key. We'd genuinely love to be your guide to the island of Kauai during your stay, and we hope you find our itineraries resourceful while planning your trip.

View our Kauai Itineraries

Kauai tours & activities, popular tours & activities on kauai.

For many visitors, a Kauai tour may be the perfect way to experience parts of 'The Garden Isle' that you'd otherwise never get to see.  We've hand-selected these top-3 Kauai tours  below due to their popularity and high ratings with visitors like yourself! Be sure to view all of our recommended Kauai Tours & Activities .

Private Kauai Helicopter Tour

Starting at $354/person

On this incredible tour of Kauai, you’ll experience beautiful views that take your breath away. Explore the stunning  Manawaiopuna Falls , also known as  “Jurassic Park” falls , wedged between the emerald green mountain top of the  Hanapepe Valley . Soar over the amazing views of the  Olokele Canyon  and majestic  Waimea Canyon . Waimea canyon is also known as the the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” where you’ll catch sight of dozens of cascading waterfalls, including the  2000-foot Waipo’o falls . Then on to the sacred  Napali Coast  with its 3500-foot seacliffs plummetting into the vast Pacific ocean. Along the Napali coast, you will fly into the secret valleys of Nualolo and Kalalau valley with their fantastic landscape. On to Kauai’s magical  North Shore,  which reveals the sculpted green  Hanalei Valley  with more waterfalls than you can count. The pilot will then guide you over the turquoise-blue waters of  Hanalei Bay  and the  Princeville Resort area .

Na Pali Sunset Cruise with Dinner & Cocktails

Starting at $160.00/person

Holo Holo Charters offers one of the only Ocean Friendly Restaurants (certified by Surfrider Foundation) on the water; enjoy a unique dining experience aboard our sunset dinner tour. Why stay home or sit in a boring restaurant when you can stretch out in the fresh air and enjoy the afternoon on the water on our intimate and delicious sunset dinner cruise?

Kauai Waterfall Triple Trail Expedition

Starting at $125/person

Kipu Ranch Adventures Waterfall Triple Trail Expedition holds nothing back. Here you’ll find well-maintained top-of-the-line ultra-smooth suspension vehicles.  At nearly double the mileage of our signature tour, we look forward to showing you top-quality adventure touring at its finest. A well-thought-out and crafted route is where great expeditions begin; we have mapped out just that. Traversing the best open view, mountain, and jungle sections of all three of our trail systems combined into one epic trip.

Best Things to See on Kauai

Garden island sights guide.

Kauai has some of the most dramatic scenery in all of Hawaii. From the towering cliffs of the NaPali Coast to the dramatic landscapes of Waimea Canyon, the Garden Isle is filled with geologic marvels that amaze and allure.

Looking for some of the world's best waterfalls? How about ancient Hawaiian villages? And let's not forget that Kauai is a great place to appreciate history and culture.

If fantastic sights are on your Garden Isle itinerary, you're in luck. Check out our Kauai Things to See Guide for more information about each of the island's top attractions.

Things to See on Kauai

Best Beaches on Kauai

Garden island beach guide.

Kauai has some of the best beaches in the world, and the most of any major Hawaiian island. 

Some of the island's beaches are accessible only by trail, others by helicopter, or solely by the sea, but most are available to all visitors. 

One thing is certain, the Garden Island has the perfect beach for every type of beachgoer. Use our Kauai Beaches Guide to identify the best beaches for your trip.

Kauai Beaches

Best Hikes on Kauai

Garden island hiking trails guide.

The island is home to some of the best hiking trails in the entire state of Hawaii, if not the world. If you like to hike, the island will certainly not disappoint.

The island offers a huge variety of trails and hikes that vary from 3,000 ft. ridge and cliff trails to treks along the gorgeous NaPali coastline.

In our opinion, no other Hawaiian island can make an impression on hikers the way the Garden Island can. Utilize our Kauai Hiking Guide to determine which of the island's best trails are for you.

Kauai Hikes

Kauai Visitor Information

Our top kauai travel tips.

Kauai is the fourth most visited island, at 1.2 to 1.3 million visitors annually . The island is defined by its amazing verdant scenery and laid-back persona. The island, arguably we'll admit, also boasts more coastline filled with amazing beaches than any other island in the chain.

It is the fourth-largest landmass  in the Hawaiian island chain, which consists of  eight major islands  and 124 islets. The archipelago is made up of numerous volcanic islands in the central Pacific Ocean stretching in a 1,500-mile crescent from Kure Island in the northwest to the Big Island of Hawaii in the east, encompassing an area of 6,459 square miles. The eight major islands at the eastern end of the chain are, from west to east, Niihau, Kauai , Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and the Big Island of Hawaii.

Discover fun things to do, the oh-so-amazing NaPali Coast, and insider tips and advice to make your Kauai vacation simply spectacular.

Popular Kauai Travel Articles

Kauai vacation guide, explore kauai by topic, terms of use & disclosures.

This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms , conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures . For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. Mahalo!

Download our Hawaii Map Packet

Includes most major attractions, all major routes, airports, and a chart with estimated driving times for each respective island..

Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included.

Download your copy of our... 2024 Hawaii Travel Guide

Hawaii-Guide.com has been featured in...

Hawaii Visitor Information...

Try out our new AI Powered Search & Chatbot →

Plus & Premium Benefits

Donate and remove ALL the ads

Mahalo for your support!

By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms . Mahalo!

How to Visit the Island of Kauai on a Budget

Many think it cannot be done, but a vacation in Kauai is absolutely doable on a budget. We spent a week exploring the best of what Kauai has on offer and all on a shoestring budget. We rented a car, camped, ate cheap food, and had an amazing time.

And we’ll tell you exactly how we did it.

Pulling up to the Kalalau lookout, one of the last lookouts in Koke’e State Park, we were soaking in the views. Stepping towards the viewpoint, Yana noticed a small trail beyond the railing. A sign clearly states to stay behind the railing, that it is not a trail, and I think it implied danger.

Per our typical exchange, I asked Yana not to go. Standing next to 2,000-foot vertical drops to the Kalalau Valley, Yana glanced over at me, and as usual, she ignored my request. She continued and before I knew it, she was out of sight.

I followed.

Within a minute, there were stunning panoramic views. It made the overlook seem like an afterthought. Yana had a grin on her face – whether it was her sense of success, or she hadn’t had enough, I didn’t know. She continued on down the trail and again, I followed.

The further the trail goes, the more exposed it became. We were clearly on a ridgeline of a mountain that began as manageable with a 20-30 foot wide ridge. But the ridge narrowed to just three feet wide with clear evidence of mudslides. The ground was soft. We gave each other a look, but no words. Yana continued on the trail and I followed.

We hit a dead end. Any further and we would’ve fallen to our deaths. Looking around us, the views were breathtaking – we could see Kalalau Beach beneath us and miles of the Na’Pali coastline. In just two days’ time, we would hike the Kalalau trail, ending just below where we were standing.

The silence reminded us of the 2,000-foot drop on both sides. Clouds were quickly gathering. A raindrop fell. It was time to leave.

Kauai is a land of adventure and has some amazing hikes. The island has stunning mountains that meet the Pacific, at the famed Na’Pali coast. And while Hawaii is expensive, cheap camping options exist all around Kauai with excellent food that caters to those on a budget.

Read on to learn more about how to visit this spectacular island without breaking the bank!

Content and photographs provided by Yana Kogan and Timon .

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Kauai on a Budget

Where to stay in kauai.

There are a few options that won’t break the bank. The first is the Koke’e Lodge cabins at the Koke’e State Park. The cabins are located in the mountains, so temperatures tend to lower during the night.

The Islander on the Beach is also a good option as it offers apartments with ocean views. There are a few beaches within walking distance. For the quality and the price, you will have a good experience at these places in Kauai.

Camping in Kauai

Camping is one of the best ways to cut down costs while visiting Kauai. With dozens of campsites around the island and cost as little as $3 per adult, per night, or $30 per night in State Parks for non-residents, we highly suggest packing a tent, or heading to Costco to buy one!

Read more about  Camping in Kauai: Ultimate Guide to Campgrounds and Permits .

Cheap Food in Kauai

Kauai has excellent food, and without question, some of the best poke in Hawaii. The seafood is incredibly fresh, and there are plenty of options for those on a budget. You can find many delicious places to eat for under $10 per person.

Don’t miss some of the island’s bests, such as Da Crack ,  Tiki Tacos , Pono Market , and the  Kilauea Fish Market . Read our full article on  Cheap Eats in Kauai !

How to Travel on a Budget in Kauai

Traveling in Kauai or anywhere in Hawaii comes with a cost. Accommodation can add up quickly and nice meals out can break the bank. However, a visit to Kauai doesn’t have to take months of savings to be splurged in a few days.

There are several ways to see all the beautiful places in Kauai without breaking the bank! Here are some of our tips on how to travel on a budget in Kauai.

By far the cheapest option for accommodation in Kauai is to camp. Camping is very cheap on the island with county and state campsites options. As mentioned before, getting camping permits is a bit tricky, especially for the county permits, so be sure to read our  guide on camping and permits in Kauai .

Camping can save lots of dough, which you can then spend on a rental car to explore the island. If you don’t have camping equipment to bring, don’t worry. You can buy everything you need from Walmart, and it will still cost less than 1 night at a hotel. Grab these from the Lihue Walmart:

• Tent ($60 – $80)
• Sleeping Pad ($30/each)
• Blanket ($10 – $20)
• 2 Camping Chairs ($30)
• Camp stove + Butane ($25)
• Cookware and utensils/plates ($20)
• Head torch/lantern ($10)
• Cooler ($10)

While vacationing in Kauai, it is best to not rely on their poor public transportation system. We would highly recommend getting a rental car. A weekly rental with Advantage Rent a Car will run you around $45/day. If you combine the cost of a weekly car rental and camping for a week, you can stick to a budget of around $350 for the week for accommodation and a car – that’s not too shabby!

Explore the Beautiful Island by Hiking

Kauai is best explored on foot. Whether it is the famous views on the Na’Pali coast, exploring the Waimea Canyon, or trekking around Koke’e State Park, there are dozens of hikes to choose from. And the best part about it is they are all free!

Beaches are Free

Exploring the beaches in Kauai is the best free activity you can do! Sand and water are abundant on the island of Kauai, so spend a few days finding your favorite spot. Some of our favorite beaches are Hanalei Beach, Kee Beach, Poipu Beach, Haena Beach, and Polihale Beach.

Best Hikes in Kauai

Kalalau trail, na’pali coast state park.

The famous Na’Pali coastline is bound to be a highlight of your vacation in Kauai. The Kalalau Trail is a 22-mile round trip hike and is the only way to truly explore this coastline up close. This is by far the best hike, not just in Kauai, but all of Hawaii!

The Kalalau Trail is also recognized as one of the world’s most dangerous hikes with 11 miles of continuous ascents and descents, which include river crossings. The hike is grueling but has a big payoff at the end – a stunning beach, caves, and an enormous valley with swimming holes to explore.

This hike is for experienced hikers and can be very dangerous, in particular during the river crossings. For more on obtaining a permit and the hike itself, read our  Ultimate Guide to the Kalalau Trail .

Canyon and Cliff Trail, Waimea Canyon State Park

Two of the most popular hikes in Kauai are the Canyon Trail and the Cliff Trail, and both are within Koke’e State Park. These trails can be joined for a single hike to multiple viewpoints into the Waimea Canyon (known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific).

The hike to the top of the Waipo’o Falls is a 4-mile round trip hike. It is a suitable hike for most; however, there is a steep ascent on the return.

Kalalau Lookout Ridge Trail, Koke’e State Park

Described in the introduction of this article, the  Kalalau Lookout  Ridge trail is officially closed and not a formal hiking trail. However, there are still many who hike out on this ridge for the incredible views. This 2-mile trail is adventurous as they come in Kauai. But sadly, we can’t suggest you go on this hike, because it is closed.

Awa’awapuhi Trail, Koke’e State Park

This in and out hike is 3 miles entirely downhill through a forest. Although the hike in itself is not very impressive, there is a spectacular reward at the end. Views of the two valleys, the Nualolo and  Awa’awapuhi , are remarkable.

There is a narrow section beyond the lookout with vertical drops 2,000 feet on each side so beware. The hike back is entirely uphill, or combine with the Nualolo trail to make a 12-mile loop.

Wailua Falls Trail, Wailua River State Park

Just north of Lihue is the Wailua River State Park and the  Wailua Falls  lookout sits at the end of the park. There is a very short 0.3-mile trail to the bottom of the falls that is officially closed.

This trail is not easy to get down to,  especially if the track is muddy. It is extremely steep and requires some scrambling. Head past the fence for the start of the trail. There is a nice swimming lagoon at the bottom of the falls so bring a swimsuit.

we hope you have an amazing (and inexpensive) trip to Kauai!

Planning a trip to Kauai? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

SHARE THIS ON PINTEREST

About the Author:

Yana & Timon met at college in Boston, Massachusetts. After graduating, they started their professional careers. They moved to San Francisco in 2010, a city they loved living in for nearly six years. After working and saving up money for several years, they quit their jobs and set off on an adventure of a lifetime. They started living a nomadic lifestyle in December 2015 and have not looked back since.

View all posts

Related Posts

The Top 15 Things to Do in Yosemite National Park

12 Incredible Airbnbs in Malibu, California

Telluride Airbnbs: 12 Stunning Vacation Rentals

1 thought on “how to visit the island of kauai on a budget”.

The trail by Shipwreck Beach is absolutely breathtaking. It’s about 2 miles of stunning cliff side, beachside trails ending at the caves and Gillian Beach. So pretty.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Get Paid to Review Campsites!

Stay in the Loop

Subscribe for exclusive content, giveaways, new products and more!

• Backpacking
• Backcountry Cooking
• Wilderness Medicine
• Destinations
• TRIP REPORTS

My Top “Must, Should and Could” Things To Do in Kauai

Hawaii and its Garden Isle have long been on my budget list.

There are tons of long lists of things to do in Kauai scattered across the internet. Some of the activities mentioned on these lists seemed like no-brainers (like going on a ridge hike) while others seemed like filler (like visiting a garden… the whole island is a garden!).

So after much research and spending time in Kauai, I’ve arrived at a list of worthwhile activities to do on your Kauai trip. I’ve divided them into three categories: Must Do, Should Do and Could Do activities in Kauai.

The Must Do’s are the activities I most recommend, if you have the time and resources to do them. The Should Do’s are strongly recommended, but might not suit everyone’s interests and needs. Finally, the Could Do’s are activities that were fun and definitely worthwhile, but don’t be concerned if you’re unable to see them all on your trip.

Of course, everyone’s preferences are different. I’m an outdoor person, so obviously, this list is riddled with outdoor activities. Take these as a recommendation meant to help you with your travel planning.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support is much appreciated! You can learn more by reading my full disclosure .

Map of Things to do in Kauai

In the map below, I’ve highlighted all of the activities and accommodations mentioned in the post. Although the island is small and driving times aren’t too much, I still found it easiest to group activities together by location.

“Must Do” Things to do in Kauai

Okay, let’s start off with the Must Do activities in Kauai. These were my absolute favorite things I did on the island during my visit.

Helicopter Tour

At $300+ per person, this is an expensive activity. Despite the price tag, I think a helicopter tour is 100% worth it. All of the tours cover the entirety of the island, covering highlights like Jurassic Falls, Waimea Canyon and the Na Pali Coast.

You can go with a doors-on or door-off helicopter ride. Most depart from the Lihue airstrip. I did a doors-off ride with Jack Harter Helicopters and it was incredible. It was $359 and lasted about 65 minutes (the cost per minute is actually a lot lower than what I’ve seen in other destinations).

Through the tour, the pilot explained all of the sites we passed them and we got so close to different waterfalls and mountains. Some of the areas are difficult, or impossible, to reach on foot, like Jurassic Falls and Kalalua Valley. The helicopter tour makes the entire island accessible!

Pu’u O Kila Lookout + Pihea Trail

This was my second favorite part of the entire trip and I didn’t see it listed anywhere online. Pu’u O Kila Lookout is the last stop along Koke’e Road. The lookout itself is quite popular and provides a wonderful view of Kalalau Valley. However, the best views come from the Pihea Trail .

Within 200 ft of starting the trail, I was audibly gasping at how beautiful the view of the valley was.

Now, I went all the way to the top of Pihea (about one mile each way). If I’m being honest, it was not worth the muddy climbing required to reach the mediocre lookout. Just do the first 1/2 mile and you’ll get more than enough gorgeous viewpoints.

Tip : I visited midday, so the sun was shining down into the valley and bringing everything to life. I think this would also be an excellent place for sunset.

Nā Pali Coast Boat Tour

The next activity I most definitely recommend is a boat tour of the Na Pali coast. There are a few options, from lazy sailing to speedy boats, depending on what you’re interested in.

I went with the Na Pali + Nihue Adventure by Holo Holo Charters. This was a 6-hour trip from Port Allan, to the Na Pali coastline and then to the “forbidden island” of Nihue.

Unfortunately for my tour, upon reaching the start of the Na Pali coastline we were met with high winds and 100-foot swells, meaning we couldn’t get to the Na Pali coast or Nihue. Apparently this occasionally happens in the winter months. The weather forced us to turn around early and shorten the tour (they gave a generous partial refund to accommodate this).

The rest of the tour made up for this disappointment, however. We went to a location along the southern coast that is frequented by dolphins. At least fifty dolphins came right up to the boat to play. It was incredible. You can see three dolphins in the sunset photo below, and other groups playing right below the ship – the dolphins were less than 10 ft from me!

Waimea Canyon Lookouts

Waimea Canyon is stunning. The red, orange and brown of the rocks contrast so beautifully with the green trees and blue sky. As you drive into the state park, there are several opportunities to pull over and take in the view.

The three lookouts with the best views of Waimea Canyon are Waimea Canyon Lookout , Pu’u Ka Pele Lookout and Pu’u Hinahina Lookout . Check out all three to see the falls at different angles.

Note : Once you arrive at your first lookout, you need to purchase a day pass (when I was there it was $10 per car + $5 per person) and the day pass can be used at any lookout for the rest of the day. Just place it on the dashboard of your car.

“Should Do” Things to do in Kauai

In our next section, here are the things I think you should do in Kauai, but if they don’t match your interests or itinerary, it’s not the end of the world.

Camping and/or Sunset at Polihale Beach

This was easily one of the highlights of the whole trip. The only reason I’ve put it in the “Should Do” category is that Polihale Beach is difficult to access.

Polihale Beach is the further point west that you can drive. After exiting the highway, there’s a 25-30 minute drive on a pothole-filled, gravel road. 4×4 vehicles are recommended! If you’re willing to put in the effort to get here, though, you will be well rewarded.

Polihale has a huge sandy beach that stretches right up to the start of the rocky cliffs of the Na Pali coastline. You can’t swim here – it’s considered the most dangerous beach in Kauai due to its surf and riptides. But it’s also known to have the best sunsets on the island!

I camped at Polihale Beach (you can reserve a spot for $35) so watching the sunset was easy. I brought a sleeping bag and sleeping pad and slept in the Jeep. There were lots of other people camping there as well.

Hike the Kalalau Trail (or at least to Hanakapiai Falls)

The Kalalau Trail is Kauai’s premier backpacking trail. It starts in Ha’ena State Park, the furthest northwest point you can drive to. From here, it traces the Na Pali coastline, passing through highlights like Hanakapi’ai Beach and Hanakoa Falls, before ending at the beautiful Kalalau Beach. The whole trail is 22 miles and is typically done as an overnight backpacking trip.

It can be quite difficult to get a permit for the full trail, especially in peak season and on weekends. However, you can do the first ~5 miles to Hanakoa Falls without a permit. You’ll just need to make a parking / shuttle reservation at Ha’ena State Park.

The only reason I’ve put this as a “Should Do” is because the trail is challenging. Even the first section to Hanakapi’ai Beach (which is only 4 miles total) has 1200 ft of elevation gain. The trail is very exposed and can get flooded and windy in bad weather. Don’t put yourself at risk by doing this hike if it’s outside your abilities.

I, unfortunately, had my reservation cancelled due to a storm while I was there, so I wasn’t able to do the Kalalau Trail. I’ll definitely be back for it though!

Swimming at Poipu

There is a reason so many resorts are in the Poipu area. Poipu has some of the best beaches for swimming. There’s soft golden sand and a gentle surf; you don’t need to worry about riptides or storm surges here. There’s typically a lifeguard on duty (depending on the exact beach you go to).

I spent an afternoon at Kiahuna Beach and Poipu Beach – it was wonderful. I’ve also heard good things about Baby Beach (a little west) and Shipwreck Beach (a little east).

Also, the beaches are public. So even if a beach is adjacent to a resort (like the Sheraton) and looks like it would be a private beach, it’s actually open to the public!

Hike Awa’awapuhi Trail

Awa’awapuhi Trail is a ridge trail located in Koke’e State Park. It’s 6 miles round trip, with about 2000 ft of elevation gain. The trail is marked as moderate on AllTrails and I saw hiking groups of all ages and abilities on the trail.

Although a ridge trail, it’s not like you’re on the edge of a ridge for several miles. Most of the trail is wide with a gradual incline/decline and trees on either side. After some rain, the trail gets really muddy. Either bring hiking boots with good traction or trekking poles.

The view from the end of the trail is beautiful – you can see the bright blue water of the Pacific Ocean as it crashes into the red and green Na Pali coastline. I did the trail in the morning, and the only downside was that the sun was behind the coastline, so the coast looked a little grey. Perhaps doing the trail in the early afternoon would be better.

Note : The other popular ridge trail is Kalepa Ridge Trail, which is only 2 miles and 600 ft of elevation gain. However, when I arrived at the Lookout at the trailhead, there were several signs saying the hiking trails were closed and requesting people not jump the fence to do the hike. If this is the case when you visit, please respect the sign and do Awa’awapuhi Trail instead. It is excellent!

Snorkelling

I did not expect to enjoy snorkelling as much as I did. I enjoy swimming in open water, but I’ve always been scared to open my eyes underwater or have a fish (or shark) swim into me. Well, on the southern coast of Kauai, where snorkelling is so popular, the water has insane visibility. You can clearly see all the way to the reef below.

And swimming around the reef are dozens of species of colorful fish! I saw recognized a few varieties from Finding Nemo. My favorite moment though was encountering three sea turtles. Wow, these creatures are so much bigger than I expected and they pass through the water with so much ease and grace.

I think how much you enjoy this activity will depend on the sea life you see – I don’t know if I’d recommend it so strongly if I hadn’t seen the sea turtles. And wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, of course.

I did the snorkelling as part of the boat tour, but you can also do it as a standalone activity.

“Could Do” Things to do in Kauai

Finally, here are all of the other activities that would be great to do while in Kauai. I don’t think any of these will be the highlight of the trip for you, but they’re all worth checking out if you have time.

Wailua Falls

This is a pretty double waterfall near Lihue. I visited it while I was killing time before my helicopter tour and, despite being mid-morning on a Wednesday, the lookout was quite busy. There isn’t really anywhere to go once you’re at the falls (no hiking trails) so it’s very much a take-a-photo-and-leave kind of tourist attraction.

If you’ve got the time and like waterfalls, definitely check it out. But don’t change your itinerary trying to fit this waterfall in if you have other things planned. (Besides, the waterfalls on the helicopter tour are way better, anyways!)

Kauai Coffee Company

Once upon a time, I was a bit of a coffee connoisseur, so I really enjoyed the walking tour of Kauai Coffee Company. They have the largest coffee plantation in Hawaii and their coffee is used in blends all around the world. There’s a free self-guided walking tour through the plantation. I bought a coffee from the café and then spent 25 minutes walking the tour and learning more about how coffee is made.

You’ll drive right by it as you’re driving from Lihue to Waimea Canyon, so this is a really easy detour to make if you need a caffeine boost and to stretch your legs.

Kilauea Lighthouse

If you’re already on the north coast and driving by it, visit the Kilauea Lighthouse. Built in 1912, Kilauea is an attractive lighthouse with waves raging below it and seabirds flying above it.

The lighthouse is part of Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. The rock ledge is part of a dormant volcano and provides shelter to a variety of birds and aquatic animals, like ‘Ā (Red-footed booby), Mōlī (Laysan albatross), ‘Ua ‘u kani (Wedge-tailed shearwater), as well as ‘Ilio-holo-i-ka-uaua (Hawaiian monk seal), Honu(Green sea turtle), and Koholā (Humpback whale). Bring binoculars if you’re into birding!

You can pay $10 to go into the refuge and walk toward the lighthouse. The main viewpoint (seen in the photo below) is from the parking lot (so you can get this far without paying).

Kilohana Lookout

From Ku’u O Kila Lookout, there’s also an option to follow the Pihea Trail all the way to Kilohana Lookout, which is about 8.5 miles roundtrip from the trailhead. To reach the lookout, after Pihea you descend into Alakai Swamp (overgrown and muddy, but the boardwalks help some).

I had considered doing the full trail, but once I encountered how muddy and overgrown the start of the Pihea Trail was (and how it was supposed to rain and get muddier) I opted to skip it.

While hiking the Pihea trail, I met two couples who live in Hawaii and have both some the full trail. They recommended doing it if you live in Hawaii or will be in Kauai for more than a few days. The trail takes a long time, and although the view is beautiful, it isn’t the best use of time if you’re only in Kauai for a couple of days.

Historic Town of Hanapepe

Between Poipu and Waimea Canyon is the historic town of Hanapepe. It used to be one of the largest communities on the island, but now it’s affectionately referred to as “Kauai’s biggest little town”. The buildings are all plantation-style houses from a century ago, now filled with shops.

Hanapepe has a semi-famous swinging bridge, a Lilo & Stitch mural, a beautiful mosaic and a decorated truck. After parking the car, I walked to both of these sights and it was good to stretch my legs. Nothing in Hanapepe is particularly noteworthy, but it is an attractive town and definitely worth a little exploring.

On Thursdays, there is a Farmer’s Market and on Fridays, artists gather to showcase their work. Either of these times could be a good opportunity to see the town bustling.

Manini-Holo Dry Cave

I’d driven to the north shore for Tunnel Beach, but the real highlight turned out to be Manini-Holo Dry Cave. Across the road from Tunnel Beach and a little west, there is a large entrance to the cave and anyone can enter.

The cave goes surprisingly far back… there was a point where everyone was on their hands and knees, holding iPhone flashlights and the cave just kept going. I didn’t go to far in myself (I’m not quite with tight spaces), but I still found the cave super cool!

Camping at Koke’e State Park

In contrast to camping at Polihale State Park, I found camping at Koke’e State Park to be quite underwhelming. The campground is on a large grassy field surrounded by trees and near the main road, so there isn’t any viewpoint. The bathrooms were also quite clean and there’s a café and restaurant nearby (open 10am to 4pm most days) with wifi (no cell service in this part of Koke’e State Park).

Maybe I’m biased because it was raining when I arrived and people weren’t hanging out together here like they were at Polihale. But it just didn’t seem like a must-to camping location.

That said, it’s a convenient place to sleep if you want to catch a late sunset or an early morning sunrise at one of the lookouts, or go on a hike. I was the only one at the Waimea Canyon Lookout at sunset and captured the most beautiful sunset-rainbow combination (see below).

Where To Stay in Kauai

Hotels in kauai.

At first glance, it looks like Kauai has a ton of hotels. But when you think about how many people visit Kauai each year, you realize the supply is just enough to meet demand in peak periods. Book your accommodation early to avoid high rates!

Budget Hotels

Budget hotels come in at about $150-250. I stayed at one, the Kauai Palms Hotel , the night I arrived in Kauai. This was a really convenient place to stay as it was less than 10 minutes from the airport and they have lockboxes for keys if you’re arriving late at night like I was. The room was small and modest, it had air conditioning and was clean. The hot water in my shower didn’t work, but besides that it was good.

Mid-Range Hotels

Mid-range hotels can be up to $500 per night. I spent one night at the Sheraton Kauai Resort in Poipu and this one was about $400 during the Thanksgiving long weekend (I used Bonvoy Points so it ended up being $30).

The hotel was pretty nice. It had a swimming pool, great linings and a good restaurant. It has excellent proximity to Kiahuna Beach, which was excellent.

Luxury Hotels

Luxury hotels… well, the sky’s the limit! There are some incredibly fancy hotels in Kauai. For my last night in Kauai, I booked a night at the Grand Hyatt Resort . Thankfully I was able to book with points, otherwise, a basic king room was $1300!

The Grand Hyatt was beautiful. The landscaping alone was the most exquisite garden I’d seen outside of a botanical garden. My favorite part is that there are tons of pools on different levels all connected by a lazy river you can float down. The restaurant was good and I’ve heard the spa is really nice as well.

To my surprise, I didn’t spend a lot of time in the resort and wouldn’t book a night in such a fancy place again (even on points). I’m not able to relax long enough to make use of the pools and actually preferred sleeping in the Jeep (where I met other travellers and could see the stars and sunrise).

Camping in Kauai

Out of my five nights in Kauai, I spent two nights camping. Originally I was going to spend three nights and hit all of the state parks, but that, unfortunately, didn’t work out.

State Parks

There are three state parks in Kauai . State parks are $30 per person, per night if you’re not a Hawaiian resident and $20 per night, per person if you are a Hawaiian resident. The two car campgrounds, Polihale and Koke’e, have great amenities (showers and picnic areas).

• Kalalau State Park – Campground accessible by an 11-mile hike on the Kalalau Trail. This is the hardest reservation to get (I couldn’t get one initially and then when I did, it got cancelled because of unsafe conditions on the trail).
• Polihale State Park – Undesignated campsites on the southwest side of the island. Excellent proximity to the beach and incredible sunsets, but it’s at the end of a bumpy road. Proceed with caution.
• Koke’e State Park – Designated campsites in the midst of Waimea Canyon. This is the most built-up campground and a good choice if you want to catch a sunrise from one of the lookouts in Waimea Canyon (you do want this).

Between the two, I preferred Polihale. It was so beautiful, had an amazing view of the stars and sunset.

County Campgrounds

And there are four county campgrounds in Kauai . County campgrounds are $3 per person, per night for non-Hawaiian residents, and free for Hawaiian residents. I met a few people who had spent nights in each of these spots.

• Salt Pond Campground – This is a well-rated campground in the southeast corner of Kauai.
• Anini Beach Campground – Good campground on the north part of the island and the only campground near Princeville. All of the people I met said this was their favorite.
• Anahola Beach Campground – This is a very poorly rated campground on the east side of Kauai. Hundreds of reviews say there is a lot of activity at night on the beach (drinking, drugs, vehicles doing donuts on the sand) and many of the people who have stayed here report feeling unsafe and/or being awoken by police in the middle of the night and told to move. I didn’t consider camping here.
• Lydegate Campground – This is the most established county campground and it’s closest to Lihue and the airport. Similar to Anahola, there are a lot of reviews of drinking/drugs/sketchy people at the campground and people report feeling generally unsafe here. Again, I didn’t consider camping here.

One thing to know about county campgrounds is that they all close for ~24-48 hours each week.

Private Campgrounds

Finally, there are some private campgrounds.

• YMCA Camp Naue – I was unable to get a reservation here but it has generally good reviews. If you want to stay here, book early.
• Kumu Camp – I booked a night here but ended up camping elsewhere. The reviews are a very mixed bag. If you’re car camping, it’s $35 and there’s a decent place to set up. From what I could see from photos online, the cabins and showers are horrible looking. Also, Kumu shares a beach with Anahola Beach Campground, so there are reports of similar night activity here.

Final Thoughts

Well, I hope this has all been helpful and you’re ready to plan your own trip to Kauai. As I’ve said a few times, these were my favorite things to do in Kauai; this is not a comprehensive list of everything there is to do. I would definitely do the helicopter tour, boat ride, and a few of the hikes again. If you have any questions, please leave a comment or send me a message on Instagram !

Mikaela | Voyageur Tripper

Mikaela has been canoeing, hiking and camping for over ten years. She previously worked as a canoeing guide in Canada, and spent a season guiding hiking and kayaking tours in the high Arctic. Mikaela is a Wilderness First Responder and Whitewater Rescue Technician.

MY FAVOURITE GEAR

Fleece Sweater

Down Jacket

Hiking Boots

Hiking Shirt

Hiking Pants

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Facebook Group

Trip Report: My Favorite Kauai Experiences (And Hyatt Point Winner)

My trip this past weekend was my first time in Kauai, and I have to say that after just four days, I fell in love with this gorgeous island. That's mostly thanks to the great suggestions I got from TPG readers about what to see, do and eat while I was there. Here are a few of the highlights from my trip, and thanks again to all of you who shared your tips with me!

Day 1: Polihale Beach, Shrimp Burgers and Shave Ice, and a Poipu Sunset

We got in on Thursday morning and spent the first part-day exploring the Grand Hyatt . We also picked up our rental car at Lihue Airport … only to discover it was a pick-up truck! That seemed a little odd, but little did we know that the next day—our first full day on the island—we'd be thanking our lucky stars because we decided to check out Polihale Beach on the west side of the island near Waimea.

To get there, you need to take a bumpy dirt road for about 20 minutes, and it seems like it would have been practically impossible in a sedan. The ride was worth it, though, because the beach was beautiful. There was a stunning cliff falling to the water, the surf was beautiful (if a bit rough), and we had it practically to ourselves. Though the surf was rough, we decided to chance it and took a swim, bodysurfed, and had a good time, though it was probably a little dangerous and not the best idea.

My suggestion would be to bring snacks since there's literally nothing there. After a few hours, we had worked up an appetite, so we went to the Shrimp Station in Waimea, which several readers had recommended, and had a deep-fried lunch of coconut shrimp, shrimp tacos and shrimp burgers, which were my favorite.

After gorging on all that fried food, of course we needed to stop at Jo Jo's for some shave ice, which is basically a bunch of ice cream with shaved ice in various flavors. I had one with strawberry, coconut, pineapple, shaved coconut, coconut ice cream and macadamia nut ice cream, which was out of this world, and I'm still thinking about it.

On the way back to the Grand Hyatt, we were going to drive the Waimea Canyon, but we wanted to get back for sunset at the Beach House in Poipu so we could meet some friends who brought along pineapple champagne made in Hawaii so we could have drinks on the beach. It was the perfect end to the day. Dinner at the Beach House was also nice—excellent service and great view right on the water. The food was just good, not great, just fresh seafood.

Day 2: Pools, Spas and a Decadent Day

The next day, we drove the 75 minutes between the Grand Hyatt in Poipu on the south shore of Kauai to the St. Regis Princeville (where we spent our next two nights) on the north shore, stopping along the way to see the Wailua Falls. They were beautiful, but no Iguazu. Just pretty waterfalls in the jungly hillsides.

When we got to the St. Regis, we spent a lazy day by the pool, which had awesome views of Hanalei Bay and perfect service. In the afternoon, I got a hot stone massage at the spa, which, like much of the rest of the experience at the resort was gorgeous but expensive. That night, we ate dinner at Jean-Georges Vongerichten's Kauai Grill at the resort, which I mentioned in my hotel review of the St. Regis.

Day 3: The Surfing Lesson

It was time for a more active day, so I had our St. Regis butler Alfredo book us a surfing lesson with Hawaiian Surfing Adventure in the morning for two hours for $75 a person. This was probably my favorite part of the trip. Our instructor was Shawn, a native Hawaiian who grew up surfing from the age of three. It was just my friend and Sean and me hanging out on the beach learning the basics. I was nervous about it because I'm so tall and don't know what my center of gravity was going to be like, but Sean was a great teacher, and after 15 minutes of talking us through the basics on the beach, we got into the water, and I actually caught my first wave and rode it to the shore! Plus it was a great workout. Hanalei Bay was a fantastic place to learn since the waves were gentle, it's got a sandy bottom, and it even started raining at one point, which was just beautiful.

Day 4: The Helicopter Ride

Everyone told me I had to see the Na Pali Coast, which has to be one of the planet's most beautiful settings. To do so, you've got a few options: a rigorous all-day hike (which we didn't have time for), a catamaran or zodiac boat ride, or a helicopter. I'm not a huge fan of helicopters because of a bad family experience, so I had originally made a reservation to take a zodiac ride while I was staying at the Grand Hyatt since they only leave from the south coast in winter. Unfortunately, it had been canceled due to rough seas, so in order to see the cliffs, I had to take a helicopter tour from the northern coast during my stay.

I decided to pay $314 for a 45-minute tour with Sunshine Helicopters that departed from the Princeville Airport just a few minutes from the St. Regis. My misgivings were slightly assuaged by the helicopter itself, which was a beautiful, big new machine with four seats in back and three up front, as well as our outgoing pilot who said he flies eight flights a day.

The weather was perfect with very little cloud cover, and our pilot took us along the coast of Hanalei Bay, through the Waimea Canyon (we finally got to see it!) and flew us along crevices in the landscape that were just unbelievable, then up to rainy Mount Waileale, where he literally flew us through a cloud.

There were definitely a few moments of turbulence that made me wish I was back on solid ground, but I have to say that the entire experience was worth it, especially when we flew past the coastal cliffs and out over the ocean for those famous views of the Na Pali coast. We could even see whales breaching in the water below us.

It was just incredible—one of those experiences where you feel vulnerable and have to take a risk, it's pricey, especially just for 45 minutes, but those memories will last me a lifetime. You can get a small glimpse of them yourself by having a look at some of the video I shot from the helicopter ride below.

My New Obsession

I think it's fair to say that I'm obsessed with Kauai now. I'd always heard how gorgeous it was, but I had to go there myself to truly appreciate it, and luckily, I had all of you suggesting fantastic experiences along the way that made my trip really special.

As I mentioned in my post last week before I took off for Kauai, I wanted to reward one lucky TPG reader who commented or tweeted me with a suggestion for my first trip to the island.

The winner of the 10,000 Hyatt Gold Passport Points is: Vishal , who also provided one of the most thorough list of comments I got on my trip, with lots of helpful advice. Thanks Vishal! I'll be in touch soon with your points.

Take a look at the gallery below for my highlights, and let me know some of your favorite things to do on Kauai!

[card card-name='Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card' card-id='22125056' type='javascript' bullet-id='1']

• Work With Me

Home » Blog » Kauai Trip Report: Highlights From a Week In Paradise

Kauai Trip Report: Highlights From a Week In Paradise

Helicopter Flight Around The Island

Nā Pali Coast Boat Trip

Another highlight was a boat trip along the stunning Nā Pali Coast with Kauai Sea Tours . We were feeling adventurous so chose the raft style tour… and what an adventure it was! Our 24 ft ocean zodiac took us from Port Allen to the end of the Nā Pali coast, and back again. It was an adrenaline pumping, hold on tight kind of experience.

If you are after something more relaxing then you should opt for the catamaran style tours, though I would highly recommend the raft! We cruised into magnificent sea caves, had hundreds of Spinner Dolphins swim past our boat, and landed on a gorgeous beach for a short walk and lunch. We weren’t able to snorkel that day due to suboptimal ocean conditions, though I could imagine that would have been fantastic!

Kayaking The Wailua River

Another fun half-day adventure we opted for was a kayak along the Wailua River with KauaiOutfitters . The Wailua River is on the east side of the island and is Hawaii’s largest tropical river. We paddled a couple of miles up-river before landing our kayaks and hiking to the glorious

Uluwehi Falls (also known as “Secret Falls”). There was plenty of time for lunch and a refreshing swim in the natural pool that sits below the falls. Our guide was fantastic and it was a treat to hear his descriptions of the local vegetation.

Mountain Tubing

Kauai has a unique mountain tubing experience through historic irrigation systems. These were built in 1870 to bring water down from the mountains to sugar crops. The tour floats through lush forest with views of the mountains and Waialeale Crater . It was hilarious watching everyone spinning around in their tubes, going through the little rapids and entering the dark tunnels. My husband and I had a great time and enjoyed the refreshing mountain water (it wasn’t even that cold!).

Hiking, Biking, Snorkeling & Poolside Hangs

Another trip highlight included hiking the Awaawapuhi trail in Koke’s State Park (west side of Kauai). The 6.2mile roundtrip hike takes you through a tranquil rainforest to a stunning lookout of the Nualolo and Awaawapuhi Valleys . It was completely covered in fog when we arrived at the lookout but cleared momentarily to showcase the impressive ridges and coastline. After this, we headed a little further up Highway 550 to Pu’u o Kila Lookout to take in a gorgeous sunset. This is personally one of my favorite views on the island. 

While on Kauai, we stayed at the Marriott Courtyard Coconut Beach, close to the quaint town of Kapa’a . One of the local activities we enjoyed was hiring bikes and cruising the Kapa’a Bike Path. Sunrises are worth the early wake-up call on the Island’s east coast, with hammocking being my favorite way to enjoy them. It was also lovely to spend afternoons relaxing by the pool, enjoying a cocktail in the spa and catching up on some reading. The local beaches we enjoyed the most were Poipu Beach (great for snorkeling), Lawa’i Beach (perfect for sunset) and Anini Beach (best for sunrise).

One of the best things about Kauai is the delicious food! The island has some of the best seafood in the world, with local eateries knowing how to cook it to perfection. Some of our favorites included Island Tacos (Waimea), Shrimp Station (Waimea & Kapa’a), and Da Crack (Poipu). In Kapa’a, I would recommend checking out Mermaid Café for some delicious Thai fusion, and Java Kai for breakfast and a tasty cup of coffee. Shave Ice is a must try if you are visiting the island. Hawaii does shave ice better than anyone, and as a huge fan of ice-cream, this gives even the best ice-cream a run for its money. Our two favorite places were Wailua Shave Ice and JoJo’s.

Have you been lucky enough to visit Kauai?

Comment below with some of your favorite spots!

Disclaimer – My husband and I were guests of Hawaii Tourism Oceania during this trip, though as always my thoughts and reviews are unbiased. All photos included in this blog post were taken by myself or my husband Matthew Hahnel . 

Related Guides

How To Visit Katmai National Park – A Comprehensive Park Guide

Best Things To Do In White Sands National Park: Epic 1 Day Itinerary

Discovering the Best Things To Do in Punta Gorda: Florida’s Hidden Gem

Join our mailing list for exclusive resources, events, and more.

Thank you for subscribing!

17 comments

You can included some of the adventurous activity in your blog like hiking, biking and mountain activities. I like this activities more and always perform during my tour. Kauai is beautiful place and i think it is having all the beautiful way to spend luxurious and memorable time.

I always wanted to visit Hawaii for its beautiful nature and your post just convinced me that we should really make it happen! That helicopter ride, the views – incredible! Hope to be able to experience it one day.

Thanks Jurga! I would highly recommend it!

Ohh I enjoyed this! I had no idea Kauai had so many adventurous things to do. I’d always heard it was more of a retirement island haha. I’ll have to check it out next. I’m currently on Oahu with my hubby on our way back home to the mainland after Christmas in Australia.

Oh there are heaps of adventurous things to do! But it is also a nice place to relax… the best of both worlds!

What a dream-come-true trip! I hope I get to visit Kauai some day!

I hope you get there, it’s magical 🙂

Amazing photos! I have lived in the USA all my life and I have been dying to visit this island! It looks like it is so full of natural beauty and landscapes. Thanks for sharing!

Thank so much for reading! I hope you get to visit Kauai one day 🙂

Kauai here I come. Love the photos Renee and what an exciting adventure you had.

Thank you – it was an adventure indeed!

Wonderful blog Renee, i now want to go there !

Thanks David, I would highly recommend it! Kauai is probably my favorite Hawaii Island

I lietrally jumped out of my chair and danced after reading this!

Aw thanks so much!!! That means the world 🙂

Fantastic blog Renee.

Thanks Kenneth, I’m glad you enjoyed it!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Follow Along on Instagram

• Private Tours
• Napali Tours
• Meet Our Crew
• Why Tour with Makana Charters?
• Welcome to Kauai’s Na Pali Coast
• The Best Boat Tour For Photographers
• Kauai Weather
• Waimea Canyon

12 Must-do Activities on Your Kauai Road Trip

In Things To Do: Makana Charters Blog by Makana Charters November 15, 2022 2 Comments

A road-trip is a great way to explore the lush-green valleys, scenic coastlines, local food and culture of Kauai at your own pace. The element of surprise involved in discovering new things when you head out on your own, will give you the necessary dopamine rush to make your trip memorable.

It’s one thing to relax in the comforting resorts of Kauai and a totally different thing to get out on the streets and explore the island by road. Though the circumference of the island can be covered in less than 4 hours, it is better to do it at your own pace and get the most out of your road trip.  

Since you will be driving along the coast most of the time, the fact that there is easy accommodation available at most of the beaches, makes your road trip easy and hassle-free.

Following is a list of 12 must-do activities on your road trip in Kauai which will help you plan your road trip and spend more time at the places that resonate with you:

Kauai Road Trip: 12 Best Activities

1. spouting horn.

Located in the Kola district on the southern coast of Kauai, this unique blowhole shoots a huge spout of water into the air with a hissing sound. The water sometimes goes as high as 30 to 50 ft. The blowhole cavity was formed as a result of the ocean waves crashing against the rocks for many years. Unlike the beaches, the shore is made out of lava rocks and is a great place to enjoy the ocean view and sunset.

It is easy to find a parking space at any time of the year. During day time you can find vendor stalls selling local goods such as arts, crafts and souvenirs. Spouting horn is close to Poipu and you can fix your itinerary accordingly.

2. Witnessing the Waterfalls

If scenery is your top priority, the Wailua falls should be on the top of your list. Unlike most of the waterfalls in Kauai, the Wailua Falls is easily accessible by car. The view is close to the parking lot and makes this a good side trip. The splendid scenery of the twin waterfalls is the reason why tourists flock to this place. The parking space is limited and can be crowded during peak hours.

A few miles away from Wailua falls is the Opaekaa falls. As per the locals this is the most easily accessible waterfall on the island with ample parking space. Since both these waterfalls belong to the eastern part of the island, you can plan for a quick stop on your way to the north shore or on your way back to the south. 

3. Explore the State Parks

Kauai is home to a plethora of state parks. You can explore any one of the state parks or visit all of them based on the amount of time you have. Most of the state parks have basic amenities like restrooms, showers and picnic tables.

The Haena beach park on the north shore has beautiful beaches, coral reefs, hiking trails and sea caves that date back to more than 4000 years. The calm waters of the coral reef make the place ideal for swimming and snorkelling.

The Koke’e state park on the north-western shore is a paradise for hikers as it has 7 hiking trails. Do visit the Koke’e Natural History Museum for its exhibits, maps, guides and souvenirs.

Visit the Waimea Canyon State Park for a splendid view of the Waimea Canyon, often referred to as the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’.

4. Snorkelling in Lydgate Beach Park

If you are in the mood for snorkelling, there are plenty of places in Kauai to fulfil your craving. But there is something unique about Lydgate Beach Park that makes it special. On the shore, there is a giant pool protected from the ocean waters by boulders. The pool is designed in such a way that the fish can enter into it through the cervices. The calm water, different varieties of tropical fish and lifeguard facility on the beach makes this place an ideal snorkelling spot.

The beach park also has playgrounds and picnic spots making it a perfect family holiday spot.

5. Camping on the Beach

What can be better than relaxing on the soothing beaches sipping a glass of Mai Tai? Camping is a way to do just that. This is the reason why you can see a lot of tents springing up when you visit the beaches. Most of the beach parks in Kauai provide camping access.

The Haena beach on the north shore is a favourite camping spot among locals and tourists alike. The beach boasts of a splendid view of the gorgeous Napali cliffs. Moreover, the place is close to Tunnels beach and Hanalei Bay which are great spots for camping as well.

With valid camping permits, you can access the campsites in some of the state parks, following a hike through the nature. The Black pot beach park, Lydgate state compound, Salt pond beach park and Anini beach park are also popular camping grounds on the island.

6. Try the Local Food

Food is always in abundance in Kauai. Out of the many delicious foods available, the poke bowls, acai fruit bowls and shave ice are a must try on your road trip. You can find ample destinations to have quick stops and recharge yourself.

Poke (pronounced as Po-Keh) is a local favourite made with chunks of cubed fish seasoned with sea salt, onions and sea weed and a sauce topping of your choice. Poke bowls are available almost everywhere on the island. It is more prominent on the southern coast with popular spots like Fish Express in Lihue and the Koloa Fish Market.

The Acai (pronounced as Ah-sigh-ee) fruit bowl is the local superfood as it will instantly recharge you with its nutritious elements. It is a prepared with a base of Acai berries and a combination of tropical fruits, crunchy Granola, a dash of honey and topping of your choice. The Kalalea Juice Hale on the east shore, serves king-sized acai fruit bowls. Other popular spots are The Aloha juice bar the north shore and Anake’s juice bar in Kukuila market in Koloa.

If you are mad about desserts, Kauai’s local sensation called the Shave Ice will blow you away. As the name suggests, it is made of shaved ice and is served with different toppings. The nature of toppings vary in different parts of the island. There is no end to the number of variations of shave you can try here.

A road trip is an excellent opportunity to try different recipes as you travel across the island. Don’t be surprised if you put on a few pounds during your trip.

7. Kilauea Light House

This historic monument located on the Kilauea point, towards the northern shore of Kauai, is home to breath-taking scenery and wildlife. Every year, thousands of seabirds, of different varieties, come to this point for nesting, laying and resting. The entry-fee in inexpensive. Do carry a binocular with you as you have a good chance of spotting humpback whales, dolphins and sea turtles .

8. Hanalei Bay

This is arguably the largest bay in Kauai. The best thing about Hanalei bay is that it is located on the north shore, with a picturesque mountain background. The beach is decorated with palm trees and is an ideal sunset spot. This crescent shaped bay has high tides towards the right and is a heaven for surfers. The calm waters on the other side is ideal for swimming and snorkelling.

Hanalei Bay has 3 beach parks namely Black Pot beach park, Hanalei Pavilion Beach Park and Waioli Beach Park. Since this is the highlight of North shore, one full day of your road trip can be dedicated to exploring Hanalei bay and the town.

9. Explores Dry and Wet Caves

Along with beautiful coastlines and rugged cliffs, Kauai also has some fascinating caves. The Makauwahi cave, situated in the Mahaulepu valley on the southern coast of Kauai, is the island’s largest limestone cave. The cave is reached through a giant sinkhole and is worth checking out.

While driving along the north shore, you can explore the Maniniholo dry cave, located right across the Haena beach. The nature of the cave is intriguing with its sandy floor and low ceilings. If you like the eeriness inside, do explore till the end with the help of a torchlight.

10. Hike the Kalalau Trail

This is one of the most incredible and challenging experiences you can have in Kauai. The Kalalau Trail resides along the NaPali coast . The trail stretches 11 miles on the north shore of the island and connects Ke’e beach to the Kalalau valley.

Average hikers will require two days to complete the trail. If time is not on your side, you can choose to hike the initial 3 mile stretch which leads to the Hanakapiai stream and beach. However, if you have a camping permit and can manage to reach the end of the Kalalau trail, you will be treated to magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean, beaches and Valleys.

11. Explore the Towns

Kauai is well known for its calm and history-rich towns. With prior planning, you can dedicate chunks of time to explore the popular towns in the island.

The Southern shore of the island is home to popular towns like Hanapepe, Poipu and Kapaa. They look charming at night, as you take a stroll along the street. Have dinner at an ocean front hotel to taste the local recipes while you take-in the breeze. Other popular towns on the south shore are Old Koloa town, Kalaheo and Omao. With shopping, restaurants, sightseeing and beaches , every second of your time will be well spent.

If you choose to explore the north shore, visiting Hanalei town is a worthwhile experience. Apart from the Hanalei Bay and its adrenaline filled water activities, Hanalei is home to taro fields, which are key contributors for Hawaii’s staple food ‘Poi’. Visit the local art galleries to get a glimpse of the history associated with the town. Other popular towns on the north shore include Kiluaea, Anini, Haena and Princeville.

Doing a bit of research on the events hosted by some of the towns, will help you get the most out of your visit.

12. Kayaking the Hanalei river

This will compliment your visit to Hanalei Bay as the bay is surrounded by Hanalei river. The calm waters of the river are excellent for Kayaking.  With an element of adventure involved, kayaking  through the rain forests is a good chance to spot the wild-life of the island. The Kayak rentals and tours in Hanalei will service all your needs for a memorable kayaking experience.

Kayaking the Wailua River is another popular activity among tourists. It is advisable to start early in the morning as the winds get stronger later on during the day.

Note: This post was first published on Nov 14, 2017. It has since been updated regularly for freshness and relevance.

A road trip is a great idea, indeed! Just go with the flow until you find great food and destinations. Love it!

It’s nice to reread this. I really enjoy unexpected travel and road trips!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Kauai Tourism
• Kauai Hotels
• Kauai Bed and Breakfast
• Kauai Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Kauai
• Kauai Restaurants
• Things to Do in Kauai
• Kauai Travel Forum
• Kauai Photos
• All Kauai Hotels
• Kauai Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Kauai
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

8 day Kauai trip report - Kauai Forum

• United States    
• Hawaii (HI)    
• Kauai    

8 day Kauai trip report

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Hawaii forums
• Kauai forum

Landed around noon, easy rental car pick up at Hertz with a free upgrade. Immediately stopped for lunch at Konohiki Seafood. Probably our least favorite poke, but the stuffed tofu skins were delish! Pocked up some provisions from Target and checked into Marjories Kauai Inn for the next four night. A lovely Bed and Breakfast overlooking the Lawai Valley, run by owners Alexis and Mike, some of the nicest, most thoughtful people! Swam in the amazing pool for a bit before heading to dinner at the Beach House. Had a prime sunset table and got to watch the surfers as we dined. Food was good, not great, and crazy overpriced. That said, totally worth the price for the views and vibe. And the best Mai Tai I had all trip. Can you say Pineapple Lillikoi foam!!!

Started early as we booked a Self Guided Kayak Tour on the Wailua River to Secret Falls. Booked through Wailua Kayak and Canoe, the only outfitter who doesn’t require putting your kayak on the car and driving to the river. Fantastic early morning paddle (about 45 min) to the Secret Falls Trailhead. Hike to the falls was pretty easy (one river crossing and some

Slippery rocks). Swam and hung at the falls for close to an hour before hiking/paddling back. Grabbed a wonderful lunch at Fish Express. Loved the self serve poke bowl topping bar. Went to the evening local market in Hanapepe and found a secret empty beach for sunset. Picked up Bobby’s for Dinner. Ribs were ok, but the furikake fries they had on special were outstanding!

Early start to Waimea Canyon. Drove all the way up, and decided to hike the Kalepa Ridge trail. This is a bit of a hidden trail, and very challenging. Steep grade for the beginning with loose rock and dirt. Highly recommend hiking shoes. I did not find it terribly nerve racking from a cliff/heights perspective. Felt very safe the entire time. The views of the Kalalau valley at the end of this hike were unreal. Well worth the journey! Stopped at all of the overlooks on the way out of the park, but I highly encourage doing a hike if you can. Went to the night market in Koloa which was great. Had some great Filipino food and food truck noodles!

Polihale Beach. Stopped at Ishihara market for an assortment of Poke to take to the beach picnic style. Stopped at a fruit stand for fresh pineapple and mango. Drive to Polihale def a bit sketchy. I was in a Nissan Rogue, but two wheel drive. The pothole section was not terrible, although quite long, but the sand towards the end of the road is dangerous. Nearly got stuck, but we made it. Prob the best beach day of my life. Just perfect weather, gorgeous scenery, and tons of room. Felt like we had the beach to ourselves. We hung for like 5 hours! That night we walked around poipu beach and got to see the sea turtles come to shore when it got dark. Dinner was burgers at Kenji Burgers in Koloa. Solid burger. Service was rough, although we were there 15 min before closing, so kind of expected. Mai Tai was disappointing.

Woke up for sunrise to see the sea turtles go back into the ocean at Poipu Beach from the night before. Very cool! Walked a couple miles of the Heritage Trail which was lovely. Walking along the cliffs was great, and love how there were many trail options to choose your own adventure. Headed North to our second B&B, The Palmwood Inn. Adults only B&B, very zen with an amazing pool overlook Moloaa. Great breakfast, High end accommodations. Stopped for the best acai bowl my life at Aloha Ola Farms. Also great smoothies. Sunset at Kilauea on the side of the road overlooking the lighthouse. Dinner was fair at Palate Wine Bar.

After a delicious breakfast at the Inn we went Beach hopping! We hit Hideaway, Queens Bath , and Anini for a sunset snorkel. All beaches were great, highly recommend. Squeezed in some Shave Ice from JoJo’s, and grabbed some Poke from Foodtown in Princeville for dinner.

Haena Day. 9:30 shuttle into the park. Started the hike. Went for a swim and snack at Hanakapai beach then hiked to Hanakapai Falls. Awesome hike, long but not too difficult as we had no rain. I imagine if rainy and slippery that it could be very challenging. Hung at the falls for like an hour before starting to head back. Stopped at the beach again to check out the caves, and caught the 6:30 shuttle back. Stopped for Sunset at Hanalei Beach , followed by an excellent dinner at Postcards. Really great meal, and good vibe!

Went for a long walk on Larsen's beach, all the way to a cool sea arch! Saw a monk seal chilling on the shore and went for a nice ocean swim. Did some shopping in Hanalei then went for a rum tasting at Hanalei Spirits. What a great family owned distillery. High quality spirits and a really great tour of their property. Dinner was at Hukilau Lanai . This was prob our favorite meal of the trip. Fresh delicious food at reasonable prices, with excellent service. Highly recommend.

Last day. Did some shopping in Kapaa , grabbed quick fish tacos at Tiki Tacos. They were average. One final stop at Fish Express for some Poke Bowls for the airplane and made the sad trip to the airport. So grateful for our time on the island, but so sad to leave!

Mahalo, Kauai:)))

Laura, go to those places and there is zero signage stating it's illegal or closed.

"Oh this is closed, cause I heard it on the internet" LMAO

Hideaway beach was def open. Easy to find trail next to the small parking lot. Lots of people there. The hike to it was a bit steep/slippery. There are ropes set up to help with the steep parts.

I see you chose to do a self guided kayak tour on the Wailua and hike to Secret Falls. Do you think that was the way to go vs. having one of the guided tours? I booked a tour but am considering just doing as you did for my family of 4 (two teens ages 17 and 15).

No need to do a guided tour - self tour is easy

My mom is 75 and we did self guided on a Sunday cause that worked for us and was not busy cause there is no guided tours on Sundays.

I like to say, its 5 star food and service at 3 star prices!

Glad you enjoyed it! Hukilau Lanai is our go to place to eat on the island. We eat there multiple times each visit. In 2018 we were on island for 16 days, and I think we ate there 5 times. Last visit was 12 days and we ate there 4 times (2 dine in and 2 take out) Love the focaccia bread!

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Help with last 3 nights 4:38 pm
• Rent a Car Kauai vs. Kauai Rent a Car? Which one? 11:47 am
• Coming on Cruise Ship - Best One Day Tours? yesterday
• Price per night for accomodations yesterday
• Princeville Vacation Rentals or AirB&B yesterday
• What to wear in Kauai in April yesterday
• Any current hula shows? Apr 09, 2024
• December/Janusry Apr 08, 2024
• Trip Report March 2024 Apr 08, 2024
• Turo Apr 07, 2024
• Must-See Kauai with an (almost) three year old Apr 07, 2024
• Nepali Coast - larger boat with shade? Apr 07, 2024
• Best location for budget condo's Apr 06, 2024
• 11 days end of July/early Aug - north/south split suggestion Apr 05, 2024
• Maui vs Kauai 11 replies
• What area to stay in on Kauai? 4 replies
• Kauai St regis or Big Island Four seasons 9 replies
• Did you see Todays Groupon for world resorts international? 29 replies
• Where to stay on Kauai Island? 20 replies
• Weather in June 2 replies
• Swimming with the Dolphins! 7 replies
• How long around the island 8 replies
• What to rent: Jeep/convertible 19 replies
• driving distance from Poipu to North Shore 3 replies

Kauai Hotels and Places to Stay

• Queen's Bath is VERY DANGEROUS! Please read.
• List of properly permitted vacation rentals, not condos - 8/15/2017
• Weather Questions start here Pls/Best Time of Year to Visit Kauai
• How to make reservations at Haena State Park / Ke'e Beach
• Kalalau Information
• Weather Report says Rain, Should I panic?
• Weather causing Hanalei Bridge to close?
• Should I split my stay between 2 locations on Kauai?
• Which side of the island to stay on?
• Should I rent a car?
• Good restaurants on Kauai?
• What are good threads to read to help me plan my trip?
• Webcams on Kauai and other Islands
• What are some free things to do on Kauai?
• What Napali Boat Tours Should I Take?
• Free Travel Planners for Hawaii & each island
• Hiking Advice & Links to Trails
• Good Areas to Hike With Kids?
• Kauai with small children
• Camping Advice
• Farmers Markets on Kauai
• Cruise ship days questions
• What off the beaten path activities can I do?
• Hawaii for Travelers with Disabilities
• Kaua‘i Ocean Safety & Surf Report
• Top Ten Ways to Protect Hawaiian Monk Seals/Dolphin protection
• Reef Etiquette Video (Cute)
• Advice on what NOT to do on Kaua‘i
• Cell Phone Coverage on Kauai
• Geography, Geology, History and Culture of Kaua'i
• Leptospirosis
• Staying safe in Hawai`i
• Please do NOT swim at Hanakapi'ai Beach!
• Gluten Free Dining
• How can I take a shelter dog on a field trip?
• Favorite Kauai Restaurants (updated November 2017)
• How to Eat Vegan on the Garden Isle of Kauai
• Kauaʻi Place Names - How to Pronounce
• Kauaʻi Multi-day Hikes
• How has Kauaʻi been affected by the floods?
• Stay safe in Hawai'i
• First Responders Want You To Be Safe
• List of condo complexes that have a/c
• BEWARE of Beachfront Travel, also know as TBD (Travel By Design)
• Happy Hours on Kauai
• Ha'ena State Park New Rules 2019