Kauai is a tropical paradise that can enthrall journey vacationers as a lot as households. Well-known for its golden, sandy seashores, you possibly can spend day after day lazing by the turquoise waters.
However rising out of the Pacific is a jaw-dropping shoreline, punctuated by the unequalled Na Pali Coast. Right here, you’ll uncover distant sea cliffs and a dense jungle with hidden waterfalls. Add on the spectacular Waimea Canyon and the Wailua River and also you’ll don’t have any scarcity of adventures.
High issues to do in Kauai
When the legs develop weary, the seashores will welcome you again and the bars will wait to serve colourful cocktails because the solar goes down. Questioning what to do in Kauai? Learn on for our information to the Backyard Island.
1. Hike The Kalalau Path
Whereas the physique is recent and raring to go, trekking down the Kalalau Path is without doubt one of the finest issues to do in Kauai. The hike is an in a single day epic that can put your health to the take a look at. However for many who take up the difficult hike, you’ll see the beautiful Napali Coast as few can.
The recognition of the path and fragility of the setting means you’ll require a allow to start. However with that sorted forward of time, you’ll need to get an early begin. The trailhead is discovered at Ke’e Seashore. The primary two miles snakes alongside the coast in direction of the gorgeous white sand of Hanakapiai Seashore. This part could be busy because it doesn’t require a allow.
However when you attain the golden shore, you’ll flip inland and start reducing by the Napali Coast. After 9 miles of jaw-dropping vistas and thigh-burning undulation, you’ll attain the turnaround level. Some return for a complete of twenty-two miles in a day, however most stick round to camp behind Kalalau Seashore.
As you grasp with fellow hikers, benefit from the distant nook of Kauai which you can solely attain with a bit of sweat and a way of journey.
Kalalau Path Data:
- Trailhead: Ke’e Seashore
- Distance: 22 miles
- Issue: Troublesome
- Elevation Achieve: 6177ft
2. Waimea Canyon – The Grand Canyon of the Pacific
With the hardest hike on the island within the rearview mirror, you’ll be prepared for what’s subsequent. Kauai is teeming with alternative and whereas the adventures could also be barely shorter, they’re no much less distinctive. Subsequent up is Waimea Canyon, a 14-mile crevasse that cuts by the jungle in Kauai’s southwest, exposing swaths of deep orange rock.
At its lowest level, Waimea Canyon is over 3,500 toes deep and a mile vast. You’ll be able to discover the canyon by driving down the epic Koke’e Street. As you drive alongside, in search of epic viewpoints, you’ll be selecting up your jaw after each hairpin nook.
There are a number of mesmerizing stops alongside the best way, together with the Pu’u Hinahina Lookout. Put the automotive in park and benefit from the transient stroll to panoramic views. The preferred cease, nevertheless, is the Waimea Canyon Lookout. It might typically be busy, however the view is unbeatable right down to the Waimea Falls.
For those who’re prepared for a hike, head out alongside the 2-mile return Cliff Path. It’s quieter and brings you proper to the sting of Waimea Canyon.
3. Swim At Poipu Seashore Park (South Shore)
You’ve began off the journey with a bang, however now it’s time to place your toes up on the golden sand and discover your tropical bliss. On the South Shore, sunbathing at Poipu Seashore is without doubt one of the finest issues to do in Kauai.
The seaside is break up in two by a sand bar, providing a duo of silky arcs to select from. They’re each inside a protected bay, with the outer reef slowing a lot of the swell. So not solely is her delicate sand good for a day of studying true crime on the seaside towel, however it’s additionally prime for snorkeling.
Other than different vacationers, you’ll typically be joined by inexperienced sea turtles and the Hawaiian monk seal. While you aren’t swimming or admiring the wildlife from afar, Poipu Seashore is backed by resorts providing quick access to eating places and sundown cocktails.
If you are in Poipu, be sure to attempt your hand at some Ziplining. This Zipline Journey has 8 Ziplines and is an ideal strategy to get pleasure from some stunning views and a few journey!
4. Go Whale Watching
From mid-December to April yearly, massive numbers of migrating humpback whales make their strategy to the Hawaiian islands. There are lots of viewpoints on the island that can can help you spot the whales from afar, however nothing beats seeing them up shut.
The Auau Channel that splits Maui, Molokai, and Lanai will be the most famous whale watching spot in Hawaii, however Kauai has one thing these islands don’t, the Na Pali Coast. In need of doing the Kalalau Path, there are solely two methods to really seize the dramatic sea cliffs. That’s on a ship journey or a helicopter tour.
So why not do two for the value of 1? Head out alongside the spellbinding coast in quest of humpback whales, admiring the surroundings as you go. It gained’t take lengthy to identify the humpbacks, as they’re essentially the most acrobatic whale species on the planet. For those who’re fortunate, you’ll see many whales breaching the floor earlier than tumbling again down, creating a brand new set of waves.
5. Go to Tunnels Seashore
For wonderful snorkeling with brilliant colourful fish head to the serene Tunnels Seashore. On Kauai’s North Shore, the seaside comes with lifeguards who monitor the swimming situations. Nonetheless, with restricted parking, you’ll need to arrive early.
It’s definitely worth the early rise with the intention to get some tranquil snorkeling performed within the early morning mild. Dive into the translucent water with the reef spanning out in all instructions. The reef’s sea caves and complicated tunnels imply there’s a shock round each nook. As you discover the bubbling coral, preserve a watch out for sea turtles and monk seals making their strategy to the nice and cozy sand at Tunnels Seashore.
After finishing the internal reef, enterprise to the outer, the place you’ll uncover tumbling sea cliffs however will even have stronger currents. Those that keep on dry land can sit back and admire the towering mountains behind them.
6. Take a Helicopter Tour
Talking of towering mountains, if you wish to see them from above, that is what to do in Kauai. Kauai’s assorted landscapes are onerous to fathom and the sheer scale of the mountains and valleys typically makes adventuring on foot a bridge too far. So, with the intention to see a few of the most majestic elements of the island, you’ll must take to the sky.
E-book Your Helicopter Tour of Kauai Right here!
From above, the island’s veritable kaleidoscope of colours is on full show. See the deep blues of the Pacific Ocean fade to white because it crashes in opposition to the darkish brown cliffs. Because the cliffs rise, the browns combine with mild oranges and greens till the deep rainforest takes maintain.
Taking a helicopter tour is an effective way to seize the may of the Na Pali Coast and see pods of whales. However your tour can even take you to difficult-to-reach locations, together with the otherworldly Manawaiopuna Falls (Jurassic Falls).
7. Witness The Queen’s Bathtub
A short journey from Princeville, one in all Kauai’s premier resort cities, is the distinctive Queen’s Bathtub. The “bathtub” is a gigantic tide pool enveloped in lava rock. Hawaiian royalty would come to the North Shore to chill out in Queen’s Bathtub’s sacred waters.
To the left of the pure tub is a miniature cliff that options a number of small waterfalls pouring in. As they fall, the tub rises and falls with the ocean, creating a blinding sight.
The very best time to go to is in the summertime when the water round Kauai tends to be calmer. Within the winter, with the tough swell, Queen’s Bathtub is usually a spectacular however harmful place to swim. Many select to bypass that and easily admire the wonder from a protected spot. However for those who select to enterprise in, keep vigilant for giant waves and put on sturdy sneakers.
8. Stroll The Nationwide Tropical Botanical Backyard
The Nationwide Tropical Botanical Backyard is devoted to saving, learning, and likewise discovering new tropical vegetation. Its headquarters are discovered proper right here in Kauai, with the island residence to 4 distinct gardens (the fifth is in Florida). For the reason that gardens opened within the Nineteen Sixties, the gardens have grown to cowl virtually 2,000 acres teeming with hundreds of species from tropical areas across the globe.
It’s an effort to protect these distinctive and delightful species, with a lot of the backyard residence to endangered or threatened species. The NTGB even rediscovered a plant that was believed to be extinct.
Alongside these tropical vegetation is the most important assemblage of native Hawaiian vegetation on earth. Wander by any of the 4 gardens and uncover why Kauai is named the Backyard Isle.
9. Uncover Wailua Falls
Identified for its everlasting rainbow, Wailua Falls is each simply accessible and completely beautiful. On the island’s east coast close to Lihue Airport, comply with Freeway 583 and proceed driving till the useless finish.
From there, merely step out of the car and admire the 80-foot waterfall that tumbles down in two sections right into a jade-green swimming gap. But when watching from above solely evokes you to need to get a more in-depth look, enterprise down the steep however quick slope the place you possibly can swim within the refreshing waters beside the roar of the falls.
Nonetheless, for a real journey kayak alongside the Wailua River. It’s the one river you possibly can kayak on the island and can take you not simply to Wailua Falls however by historic temples and thru the unspoiled jungle.
10. Seize Lunch at One Of The Meals Vans
Once we consider what to do in Kauai, our minds consider mountains, beautiful waterfalls, and white sand seashores. However we have to add a fourth factor to that checklist: meals vans.
The island’s meals truck scene shall be probably the greatest surprises in your travels. You’ll discover them throughout, alongside seashores, on the trailhead, and round city. You’ll come throughout all types of foods and drinks that can preserve you fueled, from fish tacos to refreshing fruit smoothies. The very best half? It’s dust low cost.
However like all issues, there’s at all times someplace that does it finest. For those who solely have one meals truck expertise, head to Kapaa, the place you’ll discover them in abundance. Attempt Al Pastor Tacos or Nixtamai for Mexican delicacies. To chill off, eat shaved ice at Shave Ice Tege Tege.
11. Boogie Board at Shipwreck Seashore
Alongside the coast from Poipu Seashore is the aptly named Shipwreck Seashore. Many a ship has unintentionally and typically on goal are available contact with the seaside’s offshore reef, assembly its demise.
Whereas Poipu will get the crowds, this seaside stays comparatively quiet. It’s a well-liked surf seaside because of its full of life swell. However the swirling water doesn’t make for the very best swimming, so arm your self with a boogie board on the very least.
On sunny days, it’s a romantic spot for native and touring {couples} who can benefit from the tranquility as they give the impression of being out throughout the rusty ship lingering offshore. Another excuse to go to is the hovering 40-foot cliff. You’ll spot thrill-seekers leaping off the cliff like clockwork.
12. Stroll The Maha’ulepu Heritage Path
Departing from Shipwreck Seashore, the Maha’ulepu Heritage Path provides you with a glimpse into the previous. It’s one of many best hikes to do on the island, and the right complement to a day lazing on the sand.
The path meanders alongside the coast with unending views of the Pacific, lush mountains, and pink cliffs. You might even see whales. Begin early to keep away from the warmth, as there’s little shade alongside the trail.
Alongside the best way cross paths with the limestone cliffs, laden with fossilized marine life. Proceed previous kiawe timber to succeed in the Makauwahi Caves, the place you’ll discover extra fossils. The trek ends at Maha’ulepu Seashore, a distant cove and nice relaxation cease.
Maha’ulepu Heritage Path Data:
- Distance: 4 miles
- Issue: Simple
- Elevation Achieve: 150ft
13. Expertise Hawaiian Tradition
You’ll spend loads of time exploring the island’s epic panorama. However taking time to expertise native tradition is without doubt one of the finest issues to do in Kauai.
There are a selection of how to do that, with many resorts placing on their very own experiences. Some could have a nightly hula dance together with the chance to create a lauhala (conventional basket) or learn to use historic searching instruments.
Different methods to find out about Kauai tradition are by visiting the Kauai Museum and the Koke’e Pure Historical past Museum. Mix that with visits to small villages like Koloa and Hanapepe for the entire expertise.
14. Hike To The Kilauea Lighthouse (North Shore)
On the tip of Kauai’s North Shore is a rugged peninsula residence to the Kilauea Lighthouse. The historic construction stands virtually 200 toes above the Pacific Ocean and was full in 1913.
There’s a automotive park near the lighthouse, offering quick access. Nevertheless it’s finest to reach early or late within the day to keep away from the crowds. Sadly, you possibly can’t enter, however the sweeping views will shortly blow away any sense of disappointment.
The lighthouse is positioned inside the Kilauea Level Wildlife Refuge. So carry alongside your binoculars, as this is without doubt one of the finest spots on the island to get pleasure from some chicken watching.
15. Discover Secret Seashore (Kauapea Seashore)
Simply minutes from the Lighthouse on the North Shore is Secret Seashore. The identify not matches, as phrase has very a lot gotten out. Nonetheless, it stays one of many high seashores on the island.
After a steep 10-minute stroll right down to Kauapea Seashore, benefit from the expanse of golden sand and the tranquility of the newborn blue water. Behind you might be hovering, craggy cliffs offering a scenic backdrop. Such is the scale of the seaside, that even in peak season, you’ll have loads of room for your self.
In the summertime, swimming right here is on level. However come winter, it’s a surfer’s paradise and a supply of free leisure for onlookers.
16. Swim On the finish Of Hanakapiai Falls Path
That includes the primary part of the Kalalau Path, this trek is the right different for many who can’t full the in a single day journey. Moreover, you don’t want a allow.
Start by following the breathtaking coast to Hanakapiai Seashore. Cease for a breather and prep your legs for over 2500 toes of elevation acquire. As you chop inland, the path rises steadily by the jungle and doesn’t let up. Your sense of journey shall be put to the take a look at after each lingering tree root. However finally, you’ll make it.
Hanakapiai Falls is without doubt one of the finest in Hawaii. It’s a 300 toes tumbling white veil that splices the dense jungle. Soar in for a swim, earlier than returning to Ke’e Seashore.
Hanakapiai Falls Path Data:
- Trailhead: Ke’e Seashore
- Distance: 8 miles
- Issue: Average
- Elevation Achieve: 2664ft
17. Attempt Browsing at Hanalei Bay
The charming coastal city of Hanalei is residence to the most important harbor on the island. Hanalei Bay is large enough to characteristic a trio of white sand seashores to enhance the native hikes, seaside bum tradition, and farmers’ markets.
While you aren’t having fun with the native tradition, select between Hanalei Seashore Park, Waioli Seashore, and Black Pot Seashore. All of them mix to create the crown jewel of Kauai browsing.
Watch from afar or get pleasure from a beautiful swim by the seaside. Later, wander alongside the sand to search out the Hanalei River and its historic pier. End with a refreshing beverage at any of the beachfront bars that dot Hanalei Bay.
18. Sort out The Alakai’i Swamp Path
Starting on the show-stopping Pu’u O Kila Lookout in Koke’e State Park, the Alakai’i Swamp Path guarantees to be essentially the most distinctive hike but. Primarily an alpine swamp, the path begins alongside the Pihea Path the place you’ll have stunning views of the Kalalau Valley.
Quickly the path switches left, and also you’ll be met with raised boardwalks. From there, you’ll enterprise by the very best rainforest and swampland on earth.
The important thing to this hike is understanding you’ll get soiled. As useful because the boardwalk is, there’s no getting out clear. Wander among the many large hapu’u ferns, earlier than reaching the unequalled Kilohana Lookout the place you’ll really feel on the sting of the world.
Alakai’i Swamp Path Data:
- Trailhead: Pu’u Kila Lookout
- Distance: 7.7 miles
- Issue: Average/Troublesome
- Elevation Achieve: 1332ft
19. Swim At Anini Seashore
After getting all muddy within the Alakai’i Swamp, deal with your self to the colourful Anini Seashore. As you step onto the delicate marshmallow sand, you’ll spot the colours of the colourful reef streaming by the floor. The off-shore reef can be the explanation Anini Seashore options a few of the calmest year-round swimming in Kauai.
The beachis on the North Shore and spans two miles. The slight gradient permits for an abundance of shallow water, good for households with younger youngsters. On high of the views and straightforward swimming, Anini Seashore affords a full vary of facilities, from loos and showers to picnic tables.
If you wish to discover the reef, you possibly can hire snorkels proper on the seaside.
20. Polihale State Park
To expertise one of the vital secluded and pristine seashores on the island, enterprise into Polihale State Park. The park is famend for its golden shore, however as entry is hard, you’ll not often see massive crowds.
The one strategy to attain the coast is alongside a tough and undulating 5-mile dust street, match for less than 4WD. Whether or not you enterprise in on 4 wheels or two toes, you’ll be rewarded with mesmerizing, unspoiled heaven and over 15 miles of golden sand.
Out of your personal paradise, admire the emerald Makaha Ridge, which results in the sharp cliffs of the Na Pali Coast. Get your tenting allow, so when day turns to nighttime you possibly can sit back with buddies with no care on this planet.
21. Sort out The Sleeping Big Path
The Sleeping Big Path soars up the ridgeline on Nounou Mountain to 360-degree views. Legend has it that the mountain was created by an enormous who ate an excessive amount of at a celebration held in his identify. He basically fell right into a meals coma, drifting into an everlasting slumber. From a distance, you may make out the form of the enormous.
The preliminary trek takes you thru a sprawling tree plantation that started within the Thirties. As you acquire elevation, the timber start to disperse, leaving you with a quintessential ridgeline hike. Because the mountain falls away to both facet, the path ranges out with wondrous views in each route.
Full the hike at dawn or sundown, for a narrative you’ll be telling for years.
Sleeping Big Path Data:
- Trailhead: East of Halelili Street
- Distance: 3.6 miles
- Issue: Average
- Elevation Achieve: 948ft
22. Witness Mount Waialeale
Often called the wettest spot on earth, Mount Waialeale is a set of sweeping cliffs. Every year, Kauai’s second tallest mountain receives round 450 inches of rain. In actual fact, within the Nineteen Eighties, it as soon as obtained over 660 inches!
It’s no shock then that Waialeale means “overflowing water”. You’ll be a fortunate traveler to see the summit because it’s typically encased in clouds. Whereas climbing to the height isn’t widespread, it’s recognized to be residence to historic ruins.
There are two trails on the japanese facet. One among them, a 5-mile hike to Blue Gap, rewards hikers with an up-close view of the weeping wall. Whereas these exploring in a helicopter ought to be sure to fly over Mount Waialeale.
23. Attempt Shave Ice
You can’t come to Hawaii and never attempt shave ice. It is without doubt one of the hottest treats within the Hawaiian Islands. Shave Ice is a reasonably easy dessert however a satisfying one after climbing or a day on the seaside. Primarily, it’s shaved ice that’s topped with a flavored syrup and is usually served with a scoop of ice cream within the center.
In case you are in Kauai we suggest Waikomo Shave Ice in Poipu or Hee Fats Normal Retailer which has a few of the finest Shave Ice on the island. Irrespective of the place you get it you gained’t remorse it.
FAQ
Methods to get to Kauai Hawaii?
Kauai’s Lihue Airport could be discovered on the island’s east coast. Due to Kauai’s rising reputation, many airways provide direct providers from mainland USA.
Nonetheless, it’s simply as widespread to fly into Honolulu Airport on Oahu earlier than altering planes. The flight time between the 2 islands is a brief 25-minutes.
There is no such thing as a public ferry that connects Kauai to the opposite Hawaiian islands. For those who’re prepared to splash the money, then you possibly can constitution a ship between every vacation spot.
Getting round Kauai?
Like all Hawaiian Islands, Kauai has restricted public transport. Guests will discover a vary of guided excursions, however with the intention to discover on a whim, you’ll want a rental automotive. You’ll be able to comapre Rental Automobile Costs Right here for the very best deal.
This can can help you drive from the North Shore to the South Shore with out problem. Though you possibly can discover Waimea Canyon and Koke’e State Park with any car, it pays to hire a 4WD. Your choices will open up, permitting you to enterprise additional off the vacationer path.
Drivers will even need to have a map of Kauai pre-downloaded onto their Google Maps. This can can help you not get misplaced in instances of spotty service.
Finest time to go to Kauai?
The climate in Kauai stays extremely secure all year long. The winter “dips” to the mid-70s (24c) with summer season reaching the mid-80s (29c). So that you’ll at all times have the ability to get pleasure from some balmy climate.
The wettest a part of the yr is through the winter, however storms have a tendency to return and go shortly. They’re additionally principally restricted to the East and North coasts, aka the windward facet of Kauai. The leeward facet is often drier.
Due to the commerce winds, the ocean is calmer through the summer season with the swell selecting up within the winter. Nonetheless, there are some seashores that stay swimmer-friendly all through.
In the end, there’s by no means a foul time to go to Kauai. The summer season comes with nice swimming, hotter hikes, and costlier inns. Winter is barely cooler, swimming is tough, however you’ll get pleasure from epic surf and whale watching.
The place to remain in Kauai?
Price range
Kauai Seashore Home Hostel is positioned on the beachfront in Kapaa. Select between price range dorms and personal suites. Benefit from the free Wi-Fi and an out of doors pool whereas being inside strolling distance of outlets and a number of seashores.
Mid-Vary
Easy, clear, and reasonably priced but proper on the Pacific Ocean, Kauai Shores Resort is worth for cash. The fundamental two-story resort is comfy with fundamental king bedrooms and a personal balcony. Benefit from the on-site pool whereas being steps from retailers, eating places, and the seaside.
Luxurious
With views of the majestic Na Pali Coast, 1 Resort Hanalei Bay is the selection for an opulent trip. Every room has island decor with the views streaming in. While you aren’t out touring, chill out within the unimaginable infinity pool that appears over the bay.