I have a special place in my heart for Kauai – my husband and I went there on our honeymoon, and have been back a few times since then. It is, in our opinion, one of the most beautiful places in the world.
We’ve been to other islands in Hawaii, but Kauai is by far our favorite. It definitely has its tourist attractions, but it’s a lot more laid back and a LOT less crowded than Oahu. Here’s our list of the top 10 things you need to see or do in Kauai.
10. EAT
You KNEW there was going to be a list of our food spots, right?! Our top picks:
- Bubba’s burgers – a hot spot for frequent visitors to the island (including many well-known celebrities).
- Super Duper 2 – For the ice cream fan, the shakes at Super Duper 2 are incredible. Like visit-this-place-3-times-while-you’re-there incredible.
- Shrimp Station – For the world’s best coconut shrimp (look out, Red Lobster!). Don’t be alarmed by the outside appearance – it. is. GOOD.
- Hula Pie from Duke’s – this pie is all a part of the Hawaiian experience. With macadamia nut ice cream and a chocolate crust, it’s the perfect cool treat for the warmer weather. (Want to make it at home? Try our copycat recipe).
- Pink’s Creamery in Princeville – also a great place for ice cream lover’s (and their grilled cheese is amazing).
- Puka Dogs – the yummiest fruit relishes (try the pineapple!!) and Hawaiian mustard paired with perfectly grilled dogs and wrapped in delicious hot dog buns.
- Wishing Well Hanalei Shave Ice – have you ever had shave ice served over macadamia nut ice cream? Because it will change your LIFE. Go get some.
9. Snorkeling
There are plenty of beautiful places to snorkel in Kauai, and if you’re looking for things to do for free – this is at the top of the list! We snorkel a lot on the island so we bring our own gear (you can buy it here).
Our two favorite spots to snorkel are Ke’e Beach and Tunnels Beach. We saw tons of different kinds of fish, and even a turtle or two.
8. Smith’s Luau
It wouldn’t be a trip to Hawaii without a LUAU! Our favorite one on the island (by far) is the Smith’s Family Luau.
They have gorgeous gardens that you can walk through during the day, before the luau starts, and they even have an un-covering ceremony with the pig! Also, the pork they serve: amazing.
They have a fun show that same night as soon as the sun goes down with fire-dancing and a whole lot of hula.
7. Kayak the Wailua River
If you’re looking for a unique adventure, one of our favorites (every time we go!) is kayaking up the Wailua river. There are beautiful, scenic views – including a few spots you may recognize from your favorite movies – and it’s a really easy ride.
Once you kayak about a mile, there’s a short hike to a beautiful waterfall that’s only accessible if you kayak in.
If you’re looking for things to do with kids, this activity is not strenuous at all, and any age can participate. We had children, pregnant women, and a few much older guests and had no problem at all making it to the waterfall.
We’ve used Ali’i Kayaks every time we’ve gone and had a great experience.
**Note: you’ll want sunscreen AND bug repellant.
6. Waimea Canyon
Lovingly called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, Waimea canyon offers gorgeous views that can’t disappoint.
With free lookouts to admire the view from above, to guided tours and hikes, you can explore it any way you like – and cater your experience to your group (whether you have kids, are going solo, or just want to drive by).
5. Polihale State Park
A remote, wild beach on the western side of Kauai. It is a bit of a drive (and you probably want to avoid it if you’re driving a sedan – it can get a little rough), but the views are well worth it.
The serene beach is rarely crowded, and has a beautiful backdrop of the Napoli cliffs.
It’s a great spot to hit up when it’s raining elsewhere on the island, because the West side tends to be dryer (and rain is a lot less likely).
4. Helicopter Tour
The beautiful Na Pali coast can only be accessed two ways: by sea (we’ll talk about that one in a minute), and by air. There is no road access, so the only way you can see it is from the ocean, or from the sky.
While helicopter tours can get a little pricey, the views are WORTH IT. Kauai is known as the “Garden Isle” for good reason. Definitely a MUST DO – but bring dramamine if you tend to get queasy.
We used Sunshine Helicopter Tours last time on the island and had a wonderful experience.
3. Hike to Hanakapi’ai beach
We lovingly call this beach “secret beach”. It’s a two mile hike on the North shore from Ke’e beach (it definitely is a moderate hike with big inclines and declines, it might be better for older kids and adults), but once again, the views are breathtaking.
I think the views on the hike alone are worth it, but the beach is a great place to relax and just enjoy the views.
**You’ll want tennis shoes, water, snacks, and sunscreen for the hike.
2. Hike a little further to Hanakapi’ai Falls
This hike is definitely not for everyone. It can be pretty challenging, however, the waterfall at the end is one of the most beautiful sites I have ever seen.
You’ll definitely want good shoes, sunscreen, bug spray, and food (it’s an 8-mile round trip from Ke’e beach to the end). It can get a little muddy, so you don’t want to bring your favorite pair of sneakers.
1. Catamaran to see the Na Pali Coast
Every time we’ve been to Kauai, this has been our most favorite thing to do. We recommend this as the #1 activity to all of our friends, too!
This is a great activity for all ages – from kids to adults.
You get to see the beautiful Na Pali coast, learn about the history of the island of Kauai, see dolphins (they follow along with your Catamaran!), snorkel, enjoy the beautiful ocean, and maybe see a sea turtle or two.
It’s combination of all of our favorite things to do in Kauai – snorkel, sail, take in the beautiful scenery, and eat.
We always use Captain Andy’s when we go. We’ve only ever done a day cruise, but they do have a sunset sail as well, if you’re looking for something to do at night.
**note: you will probably want to take some seasickness medication if you get queasy (sometimes the water can get a little choppy).
Have you been to Kauai? What activities would you recommend? We’d love to hear below!
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