Kauai Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary
Explore the lush rainforests, dramatic sea cliffs, and pristine beaches of Hawaii's oldest island, a paradise for nature lovers and relaxation seekers alike.
Kauai, known affectionately as the “Garden Isle,” is the oldest and arguably the most dramatic of the main Hawaiian islands. Defined by sharp, jagged emerald cliffs and deep vermillion canyons, it offers a landscape that feels prehistoric and untouched. Unlike its bustling neighbor Oahu, Kauai operates on “island time,” where the roosters roam free and no building is allowed to be taller than a coconut tree.
From the misty heights of Koke’e State Park to the sun-drenched sands of Poipu, the island is a study in contrasts. Whether you are hiking the mud-slicked trails of the North Shore or drifting down the Wailua River, Kauai invites you to slow down and reconnect with nature in its rawest form.
Seasonal Weather Guide
Plan your perfect getaway with our detailed seasonal forecast.
The Spirit of the Garden Isle
Kauai’s history is distinct from the rest of Hawaii; it was the only island never conquered by King Kamehameha, joining the kingdom eventually through diplomacy rather than war. This independent spirit remains today. The culture here is deeply rooted in the ‘aina (land), evident in the expansive taro patches of Hanalei and the preservation of sacred heiau (temples) scattered across the coast.
Geologically, Kauai is a masterpiece of erosion. Over six million years, rain and wind have carved the volcano into the stunning sculptures seen today, most notably the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon. These natural wonders are not just tourist backdrops but are central to the island’s identity and the daily life of its residents.
Things to Do
Unforgettable experiences await you.
Na Pali Coast Catamaran Snorkel
Sail along the legendary 4,000-foot sea cliffs that can only be viewed by sea or air, stopping to snorkel in crystal clear waters teeming with turtles.
Waimea Canyon Lookout
Drive up to the 'Grand Canyon of the Pacific' to see vibrant red soil contrasting with deep green valley walls and cascading waterfalls.
Smith Family Garden Luau
Experience an authentic Hawaiian feast and hula performance set within a 30-acre botanical garden in the Wailua River valley.
Tasting Tour at Koloa Rum Company
Sample single-batch Hawaiian rum made from local sugar cane and rainwater at the historic Kilohana Plantation.
Love what you see? Get a personalized itinerary tailored to your interests, budget, and travel style.
The Icons You’ll Want to See
Waimea Canyon State Park - Known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, this 10-mile long gorge is over 3,000 feet deep. The main lookout offers parking and restrooms. Entry is $5 per person plus $10 for parking.
Na Pali Coast - Stretching 17 miles along the North Shore, these cliffs are inaccessible by car. You can view them via a boat tour (approx $150-$200), helicopter (approx $325), or by hiking the Kalalau Trail.
Hanalei Bay - A classic crescent bay framed by mountains. Perfect for swimming, learning to surf, or watching the sunset from the historic pier. Free access, but parking fills up early.
Wailua Falls - A spectacular double-tiered waterfall that drops 80 feet. It is famous for being in the opening credits of “Fantasy Island.” Located just 4 miles inland from Lihue, viewed easily from the parking lot.
Spouting Horn - Located on the South Shore near Poipu, this lava tube shoots ocean water up to 50 feet in the air during swells. There is a paved viewing area and local vendors nearby. Free parking and entry.
Essential Guide
Everything you need to know.
Must-Visit Spots
Local Cuisine
Where to Stay
Travel Tips
Insider Tips
Planning Your Visit
Getting around Kauai requires a rental car. Public transportation (The Kauai Bus) is reliable but limited in scope and does not allow large luggage, making it impractical for airport transfers or reaching remote trailheads. The island is essentially a horseshoe shape; you cannot drive all the way around due to the Na Pali Coast. Driving from the far north to the far west takes about 2 to 2.5 hours.
Pack for microclimates. You might be in a swimsuit in Poipu (South) but need a rain jacket and sweater for the cool, misty elevations of Waimea Canyon or the rainy North Shore. Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen, bug spray for hikes, and broken-in hiking shoes if you plan to tackle the muddy trails.
When to Visit
Choose the perfect time for your adventure.
Peak Season: Summer & Winter Holidays
Pros
- Consistently warm beach weather in summer
- Best whale watching in winter
- Calm North Shore waters in summer
Cons
- Highest accommodation prices
- Crowded beaches and trailheads
- Rental car shortages possible
Shoulder Season: Spring (Apr-May) & Fall (Sep-Nov)
Pros
- More affordable airfare and hotels
- Manageable crowds at major attractions
- Pleasant trade winds
Cons
- Unpredictable rain showers
- Some tour operators reduce schedules
- Ocean conditions in transition
Off-Peak: Late January & February
Pros
- Lowest prices of the year
- Quiet atmosphere
- Stunning waterfalls due to rain
Cons
- Highest chance of multi-day rain
- Rough ocean conditions
- Cooler evenings
Kauai is a destination that stays with you long after you wash the red dirt off your shoes. It is not a place for nightlife or high-speed thrills, but rather a sanctuary for beauty and peace. Whether you catch a double rainbow over Hanalei or watch the sunrise from the eastern coast, the mana (spiritual power) of the island is undeniable.
Sample Itineraries
The Classic Kauai Explorer
A well-rounded journey hitting the major north and south shore highlights.
Day 1: Arrival & South Shore Sun
- Morning: Arrive at Lihue Airport (LIH), pick up your rental car (approx $60/day), and drive 30 minutes south to Poipu to check into your hotel.
- Afternoon: Relax at Poipu Beach Park where you can often spot endangered monk seals napping on the sand, then grab a Puka Dog ($9) for a late lunch.
- Evening: Enjoy a sunset dinner at the Beach House Restaurant ($150 for two) featuring unparalleled ocean views and Pacific Rim cuisine.
Day 2: The Grand Canyon of the Pacific
- Morning: Drive west early to Waimea Canyon State Park ($10 parking + $5 entry), stopping at the main lookout and the Pu’u Hinahina lookout for panoramic views.
- Afternoon: Continue up the road to Koke’e State Park and hike the Canyon Trail to Waipo’o Falls (3 miles roundtrip), bringing a packed lunch to eat at the rim.
- Evening: Drive back down and stop in Hanapepe Town for their Friday Night Art Walk if timing aligns, or have a casual dinner at Japanese Grandma’s Cafe ($60 for two).
Day 3: The Lush North Shore
- Morning: Drive north to Kilauea Lighthouse ($10 entry) to see seabirds and dramatic cliffs, then grab coffee and pastries at Kilauea Bakery.
- Afternoon: Spend the day at Hanalei Bay, swimming by the pier and shopping in the charming town, followed by a fresh poke bowl lunch from The Dolphin ($20).
- Evening: Watch the sunset from the Hanalei Pier and enjoy a tapas-style dinner at Bar Acuda ($120 for two), but be sure to make reservations weeks in advance.
Day 4: River & Rainforest
- Morning: Take a boat tour up the Wailua River to the Fern Grotto ($30/person) or rent kayaks to paddle to Secret Falls.
- Afternoon: Drive to seeing the roadside grandeur of Wailua Falls and Opaeka’a Falls, then stop for shave ice at Wailua Shave Ice ($8).
- Evening: Attend the Smith Family Garden Luau ($140/person) for an immersive evening of roasted pig, hula dancing, and Hawaiian history.
Day 5: Departure
- Morning: Enjoy a final sunrise walk along the Kapa’a Bike Path and grab a hearty breakfast at Kountry Kitchen ($40 for two).
- Afternoon: Pick up souvenirs at the Lihue serene Kilohana Plantation before heading to the airport.
- Evening: Depart Lihue Airport.
Adventure & Hiking Escape
An active itinerary focused on trails, water activities, and rugged nature.
Day 1: The Kalalau Trail Teaser
- Morning: Using your pre-booked reservation ($35 parking), park at Ha’ena State Park and hike the first 2 miles of the Kalalau Trail to Hanakapiai Beach.
- Afternoon: Hike 2 miles further inland to the towering Hanakapiai Falls if weather permits, then hike back to Ke’e Beach to cool off in the ocean.
- Evening: Drive back to Hanalei for a well-earned burger and local beer at Bubba Burgers ($35 for two).
Day 2: Na Pali by Sea
- Morning: Board a rigid-hull zodiac raft from Port Allen for a high-speed adventure tour ($180/person) exploring sea caves along the Na Pali Coast.
- Afternoon: After snorkeling with turtles on the tour, return to shore and drive to the Kauai Coffee Company estate for a self-guided walking tour and free sampling.
- Evening: Grab takeout from a food truck in Koloa and eat at Spouting Horn park while watching the blowhole at sunset.
Day 3: Canyon Ridges
- Morning: Drive to Koke’e State Park and tackle the Awa’awapuhi Trail (6 miles roundtrip), which offers a dizzying view 2,000 feet down into the Nu’alolo Valley.
- Afternoon: Recover with a casual lunch at Koke’e Lodge ($40 for two) and visit the small natural history museum next door.
- Evening: Drive down to Salt Pond Beach Park in Hanapepe for a relaxing evening swim in the protected pools.
Day 4: East Side Kayak
- Morning: Rent a kayak ($40/person) in Wailua and paddle 2 miles upriver, then hike 20 minutes through rainforest to reach the base of Uluwehi (Secret) Falls.
- Afternoon: Paddle back and grab a massive plate lunch at Mark’s Place in Lihue ($15) before heading to the airport.
- Evening: Depart Lihue Airport.
Explore Neighboring Areas
Ready to visit Kauai Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary?
Let AI build your perfect itinerary in seconds.