Kauai, known as the Garden Isle, is a tropical paradise in Hawaii. Kauai is one of the best destinations for tourists planning a short getaway—with its lush landscapes, stunning beaches, and laid-back vibe.
There are plenty of things to do in Kauai, so much so that it can be challenging to create an itinerary. To help you get started, we listed the top 10 activities you should consider to make the most of your trip to this paradise.
1. Explore Na Pali Coast
One of the first places we recommend visiting in Kauai is the Na Pali Coast. The area features scenic views of the towering green cliffs jutting out of the bright blue ocean. It also gives tourists easy access to hidden beaches and waterfalls that look like they were plucked straight out of a movie.
There are a number of activities you can do at the Na Pali Coast, including taking a boat tour, spotting dolphins and sea turtles, booking a helicopter ride, and hiking the famous Kalalau Trail.
2. Photograph the Spouting Horn
One of the most photographed locations in Kauai is the Spouting Horn, a blowhorn located on the southern shores. The Spouting Horn is a sunken lava tube that “spouts” water some 50 feet into the air. The constant spray attracts some visitors, but the lava tube’s best selling point is the unique sound it makes when it erupts.
3. Soak up the Sun on Poipu Beach
Poipu Beach is a paradise, especially for families traveling with children. The water at Poipu Beach is usually calm, making it an excellent place for swimming and snorkeling activities. In fact, there’s even a natural kiddie pool for the little ones!
Apart from swimming, Poipi Beach offers lucky tourists a fantastic bonus. On some days, you might be able to spot some Hawaiian monk seals lounging on the sand. That being said, we recommend against approaching them for safety purposes.
4. Visit Waimea Canyon State Park
If you’re looking for jaw dropping views of the Earth, then Waimea Canyon State Park should be included in your itinerary. The canyon features postcard views of red, brown, and green buttes, crags, and gorges stretching approximately 10 miles and going as deep as 3,000 feet. It’s so impressive that people call it the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”
There are two ways to explore Waimea Canyon. First, you can drive up to some lookout points for sweeping views of the park. If you’re feeling energetic, we suggest hitting the nature trails to get an up-close look at this natural wonder.
5. Paddle the Wailua River
Wailua River is Hawaii’s only navigable river, making it a unique addition to your itinerary. You can rent a kayak, paddle along the waters, and enjoy stunning views of the jungle paradise. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife.
6. Dive Into Tunnels Beach
Are you ready to swim with underwater locals? Tunnels Beach is the place to go! This area is a snorkeling haven, with divers often finding themselves surrounded by colorful fish darting in and out of lava tubes and sea turtles gracefully gliding by.
When you’re not in the water, you can relax on the sandy shores and gaze up at the impressive Mount Makana, which you might recognize as “Bali Hai” from old movies.
7. Chill Out in Hanalei Town
With all the adventures done, you’ll likely want some time to settle down and relax. Hanalei Town is the perfect place to do that.
The town serves as the heart of Kauai and is home to a wide range of locally-owned shops selling quirky finds and food trucks offering a variety of local and international dishes. When the sun starts setting, the town is also bathed in pink and orange hues, making it the perfect place for that Instagrammable shot.
8. Taste the Flavors of Kauai
Kauai’s food scene is a delicious adventure all on its own. There are plenty of great local dishes to try. If you’re craving seafood, head to Konohiki Seafoods in Lihue. If want to try all of the Hawaiian classic dishes such as poi, poke bowls, and lau lau, drop by Pono Market in Kapa’a. For dessert, visit JoJo’s Shave Ice in Waimea or Hanalei where they serve light and airy coconut shave ice with thick cream.
9. Drink Some Hawaiian Coffee
After finishing up a plate of mouthwatering eats, we recommend taking a sip of Kauai-grown coffee. Kauai coffee beans are grown in rich volcanic soil found on the southern short. Kauai coffee is known for having a smooth, balanced flavor with notes of chocolate and caramel.
10. Learn Hawaiian History at Kilohana Plantation
End your trip to Kauai with a visit to Kilohana Plantation. This historic sugar plantation is a hub for Hawaiian culture and history, with the estate centered around a historic Tudor-style mansion. Visitors can take tours around the tropical orchards, take historic train rides around the property, visit a rum distillery, participate in a theatrical luau, and eat at the on-site restaurant.
Explore Kauai With Hanalei Surf School
There’s so much more to explore on Kauai, from majestic waterfalls and traditional luaus to hidden beaches and cultural experiences. Each day on this island offers a new opportunity for wonder and excitement.
If you’re looking for a partner for your next trip to Kauai, Hanalei Surf School is a great choice. Hanalei is a leading surf school in Kauai, offering tourists access to affordable, high-quality surf and paddle board lessons and rentals taught by local pro surfers. Hanalei also offers charter tours of the stunning Na Pali Coast that end in the incredible Hanalei Bay.
Book a tour today!