Top Activities to Explore During Your Stay on Kauai: Travel Guide

Kauai Highlights Map

Top Activities to Explore During Your Stay on Kauai: Travel Guide

Use this map of Kauai's highlights to easily plan out your trip. Use the top left button to show and hide different layers -- just click icons on the map to see place names. Save the map to your Google Maps or open it in a new window for a larger view!

Best Things To Do In Kauai Guide

1. Kayak Wailua River

Paddle your way through lush landscapes and ruins on Kauai's Wailua River. While self-guided tours are possible, many tour operators also offer kayaking expeditions.

1. Waimea Canyon (Hawaii's Grand Canyon)

Discover the unique red and green volcanic formation of Waimea Canyon, also known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Hiking trails and lookout points provide stunning views of this ravine-like valley.

1. Na Pali Coast

Marvel at the stunning Na Pali Coast with its steep cliffs and green mountains, which rise dramatically from the ocean. Options for exploring include land, sea, or air adventures like sailing, helicopter tours, or hiking the Kalalau Trail.

1. Cool off with Hawaiian Shave Ice

Try this popular Hawaiian dessert at places like Kalalea Juice Hale for an awesome refreshing treat.

1. Hiking Kokee State Park

Venture into Kokee State Park to explore various hiking trails with incredible views of the Na Pali Coast. In addition to the popular Kalalau Valley Lookout, hikers can also find campsites and other lookout points.

1. Meditate at Kauai’s Hindu Temple

Experience a cultural exchange at the beautiful Kauai Hindu Temple, an architectural gem overlooking the Wailua River below.

1. Swimming at Tunnels Beach

Enjoy amazing snorkeling and colorful fish at Kauai's popular Tunnels Beach on the North Shore. Beautiful mountainscapes provide the perfect backdrop for iconic Instagram photos.

1. Jurassic Park Falls

Recreate Jurassic Park scenes by taking a helicopter tour to Manawaiopuna Falls, one of the film's famous waterfall locations. Some guided tours even land at the base for a closer look.

1. Try a Hawaiian Poke Bowl

Sample the delicious traditional Hawaiian raw fish dish, poke, at popular restaurants and food trucks across the island.

1. Surfing at Hanalei Bay

Catch some waves at the picturesque Hanalei Bay, a surfer's paradise and scenic backdrop for the famous song 'Puff the Magic Dragon.'

1. Kilauea Point Lighthouse

Check out the stunning Kilauea Point Lighthouse during your visit to the quaint town of Kilauea. An essential stop for incredible views and an opportunity to spot rare bird species.

1. Hula Dance Performance

Witness the centuries-old hula dance tradition, which continues to be a vital part of Hawaiian culture. Many resorts offer hula performances, or you can try finding one at a place like the Wai'oli Hui'ia Church.

1. Sunbathing at Poipu Beach

Relax on the beautiful sandy shores of Poipu Beach, a popular destination for aquatic wildlife spotting like seals, whales, and turtles.

1. Cliff Jumping at Shipwreck’s Beach

Test your adventure side by cliff jumping at Shipwreck's Beach, an exciting way to spend a day nearby Poipu Beach.

1. Visit Queen's Bath

Explore the dramatic rocky tide pools of Queen's Bath on the North Shore with caution, as strong waves can be dangerous.

1. Food Trucks in Kapaa

Indulge in incredible local food at Kapaa's popular food truck scene, offering a variety of regional flavors. Notable spots include Nixtamal Kauai, Shave Ice Tege Tege, and Porky's Kauai.

1. Historic Art Walk in Hanapepe

Uncover local art and culture during Hanapepe's Art Night on Friday evenings. Live music, food trucks, and craft vendors add to the vibrant ambiance of this charming town.

1. Bike Koloa Heritage Trail

Follow the Koloa Heritage Trail through lush green landscapes to discover historic sites related to sugar and pineapple plantations.

1. Moir Gardens

Wander through the diverse Moir Gardens, featuring cacti, succulents, and more in this unique Hawaiian oasis.

1. Alekoko Fishpond

Admire the ancient Alekoko Fishpond, a historic landmark constructed by Menehune mythical workers in legends.

1. See the "Wettest Spot on Earth"

Explore the foggy landscapes and unique plantlife of Mount Waialeale, the wettest spot on earth, by helicopter tour or one of its two accessible trails.

1. Wailua Falls

The picturesque Wailua Falls are easily accessible and offer a stunning view for photographers and sightseers alike.

1. Beachfront Camping at Polihale Park

Spend a night under the stars at Polihale Park's scenic beachfront camping site, which allows alcohol and campfires. Keep in mind that the rough 4X4 road may only be suitable for the most adventurous drivers.

1. Secret Beach (Kauapea Beach)

Discover the hidden gem of Kauapea Beach, often referred to as "Secret Beach," which offers a tranquil escape from the crowds.

1. Grand Hyatt Resort Pools

Experience luxury and relaxation in the Grand Hyatt Resort's beautiful tropical pools, saltwater lagoon, and lazy river. Day passes can be purchased for non-guests.

1. Wai'oli Hui'ia Church

Marvel at the stunning Wai'oli Hui'ia Church, with its amazing location amid lush gardens and the quiet backdrop of chirping birds.

1. Kauai's Glass Beach & Cemetery

Uncover the unique shoreline of Kauai's Glass Beach, featuring multicolored sea glass, and nearby cemeteries with old red headstones.

1. Visit Mark Zuckerberg's Beach

Explore the public beach under Mark Zuckerberg's 700-acre estate, Pila'a Beach, offering a challenging yet rewarding hike for adventurous souls.

1. Maliauhi Tree Tunnel

Drive through the scenic Maliuhi Tree Tunnel, a typically green oasis amidst the lush landscapes of Kauai.

1. Wild Chicken Spotting

Keep an eye out for the abundant population of wild chickens that roam Kauai's streets and beaches.

1. Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail

Hike Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail for picturesque ocean views, sea turtles, and giant land tortoises.

Transportation Around Kauai

1. Rental Car

Rent a car to have the best flexibility for exploring remote spots on the island. It is recommended to reserve your rental in advance due to high demand during peak seasons. Customers can book their rental through Discover Cars, which searches both local and international car rental companies to find the best deals.

1. Bus

The Kauai public bus system provides an inexpensive option for travel, although its destinations are mostly limited to local neighborhoods. A single ride costs $2, and you can purchase a one-day pass ($4), monthly pass ($45), or visit the Kauai Bus website for more information.

1. TaxiKauai has taxis available near the Lihue Airport, although they can be difficult to hail elsewhere. LYFT, Uber, and shuttle services can also be booked, with fares starting at $3 for the first tenths of a mile, then becoming $0.30 cents per additional tenth of a mile thereafter.

Where to Stay on Kauai

Kauai's accommodations can be quite expensive due to the island's small size and high demand. Here are a few options for places to stay on Kauai:

Budget:

1. Kauai Palms Hotel

Midrange:

1. Hanalei Bay Resort

Luxury:

1. Grand Hyatt Kauai

Useful Kauai Travel Tips & Advice

1. The island's tropical climate means frequent daytime showers, so bring a rain jacket or umbrella.
2. Car rentals are in high demand during peak seasons in winter and summer, so it is recommended to reserve your rental in advance.
3. Kauai locals can be territorial, and it is essential to respect private properties and roads when exploring the island. Be sure to carefully read property and road signs, and never trespass.
4. Wild chickens are common in many parts of Kauai and are considered pests by some residents. Take care when driving near them, as they can sometimes wander in the road.
5. Beaches in Kauai's Hanalei Bay are suitable for swimming mainly during the summer months, as winter waves can be powerful and dangerous. Always swim carefully and check for beach advisories before entering the ocean.
6. Savor the island's unique lifestyle and food-and-drink culture by trying a distinctively Hawaiian dessert such as Shave Ice and experiencing traditional dining like Poke Bowls and Hula Dance Performances.
7. Explore various shopping experiences, from local art walks in Hanapepe to food truck scenes in Kapaa, ensuring a rich and immersive cultural experience during your trip.
8. Reflect on the importance of different industries on the island, including finance, transportation, and agriculture, by learning about historical sites related to sugar and pineapple plantations on trails like the Koloa Heritage Trail.

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