The island of Kauai is a dream destination with a natural sweetness and, in my opinion, is the best island in Hawaii for vacation! With more adventures on the island of Kauai than you could possibly do on a single trip, you’ll have plenty to choose from. Here’s the best things to do in Kauai, Hawaii!
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After visiting Kauai a handful of times over the years, I’ve decided to create a travel guide with the top activities on the island. Pick and choose your activities based on how much you want to see and do during your time on the island.
Kauai, AKA the Garden Isle, is one of the most magical places on earth, I just know it! Whether you’re visiting on your honeymoon, with kids or just for a fun getaway, you’re going to fall in love with this place.
👉Don’t have time to read the whole article? This is the best Na Pali Coast boat tour! Also get the complete Kauai travel guide for everything you need to see and do on Kauai!
Best things to do in Kauai Hawaii
This guide is packed with the best things to do in Kauai, from epic hikes and waterfalls to snorkeling spots and local hot spots that’ll make you want to stay forever.
Let’s dive in!
1. Have a beach day
After the long flight over the Pacific to get to Hawaii, you need a day to sit and soak in the sun. I’d recommend hitting a local beach to relax for the day.
Nothing beats a lazy beach day on Kauai, and it’s easily one of the best things to do in Kauai for free! The island’s beaches are unreal, and each one offers something different.
My favorite beaches in Kauai are…
- Poipu Beach on the south shore is perfect for swimming, spotting sea turtles, and maybe even seeing a monk seal napping in the sand.
- Kiahuna Beach right next door is slightly less busy and ideal if you want to relax or take a surf lesson.
- Hanalei Bay is pure magic with its turquoise water and mountain backdrop. It’s one of the most scenic spots on the island and perfect for swimming in summer.
- Anini Beach and Tunnels Beach (Makua) are great for snorkeling.
Remember to grab your water shoes as some beaches may be rocky!
2. Explore Koke’e State Park and Waimea Canyon
You can’t talk about what to do in Kauai without mentioning Waimea Canyon, often called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. It’s massive, stretching 14 miles long and nearly 3,600 feet deep. The views are breathtaking, with red cliffs, green valleys, and waterfalls cascading in the distance.
Drive through Koke’e State Park to see several lookouts, or stop at the Waimea Canyon Lookout for the classic view. It’s one of those moments where you’ll take way too many photos and still feel like none do it justice.
You could actually spend an entire week (or more) hiking Waimea Canyon, experiencing a new part of the canyon each day. But for a shorter stay on Kauai, try to pick a day when it’s not raining and head over to the canyon for unforgettable views and a hike you’ll remember forever.
Before you hike, drive up route 550 and stop at lookouts all along Waimea Canyon. Take a deep breath and take in the sight of the vast canyon. It’s truly incredible! You can grab some fresh island fruits and banana bread or other treats at various stops, too.
3. Hike the Waimea Canyon Trail
While you’re visiting Koke’e State Park, hike the Waimea Canyon Trail down to the top of dual waterfalls.
The last time we did this hike, it took us about three and a half hours total, and was a steep, muddy trail.
It’s the kind of hike that challenges your leg muscles and reminds you what you’re there for. Once we came to the clearing and saw the Waimea Canyon and its vivid colors, it was all worth it. The dual waterfalls were just a bonus to the incredible view!
Read all the details of the Waimea Canyon Trail Hike here
Things to take with you:
- Hiking shoes (these are so comfy, water resistant and perfect for hiking)
- Bottled water (you’ll need more than you think – it gets hot in the canyon)
- Bug spray and sunblock
- Rain gear just in case
- Backpack (I love this small one – durable and folds down for luggage space)
4. Marvel at the Kalalau Lookout (one of my very favorite things to do in Kauai for free)
The Na Pali Coast is just on the other side of Waimea Canyon in Kauai, so I’d recommend driving the entire way up to Kalalau Lookout in Koke’e State Park, to overlook the Na Pali Coast. As you stand above the clouds and see the deep ocean blues, the red, green, purple and orange of the cliffs, you’ll seriously wonder if this is the most beautiful sight you’ve ever seen.
It’s truly jaw-dropping!
Grab a hiking trail map at Koke’e state park, and ask the guides which trails are safe to hike, as it varies based on the season and weather. I’ve hiked in the park on clear days and on rainy, muddy days, so be sure to ask a park official which trails are open when you go!
The map will tell you the duration and intensity of each hike so you can pick your trail accordingly. Some of the hikes can be extremely treacherous so trust the guides and map and don’t get in over your head.
5. Check out the Red Dirt Waterfall
On your way out of the canyon, stop at the small roadside waterfall surrounded by rust-colored soil. The Red Dirt Waterfall is a quick stop but a super cool sight, especially after rain when the water glows orange against the red clay.
It’s one of those things to do in Kauai for free that’s surprisingly photogenic. Just be careful walking around as the dirt stains everything!
6. Learn how to make Haku Leis (one of the most unique things to do in Kauai)
This activity is perfect for groups or families! A fun tradition in Hawaii is to wear a beautiful haku lei!
One of my trips to Kauai, my group had Kauai Flower Crowns help us create beautiful haku leis, which we then wore for a Flytographer photoshoot!
If you want to learn the art of lei making, book a class and enjoy a fun activity while on the island. I’m certain this is one of the most unique things to do in Kauai, without a doubt.
Book a photo shoot:
The best souvenir, booking a photo shoot while traveling preserves memories of your vacation! I love Flytographer because the photo sessions are fun, easy and affordable. you can get $25 off if you book through this link.
7. Take a whale watching in Kauai (during season)
I’d highly recommend traveling to Hawaii during whale season and take a whale watching tour! I’ve been to Kauai multiple times during whale season and it’s so magical!
The large, majestic creatures breed and play in the warm Hawaiian waters between December – April with the peak months being January and February.
If you’re lucky you’ll catch views of humpback whales in Kauai from the shoreline. But to catch the best view, book a whale watching tour where you’ll go out in the deep waters to see the large beautiful whales closer up.
Our whale watching tour saw whales breaching out of the water and slapping the water with their pectoral fins and also spotted two pods of dolphins, which played and swam alongside the boat.
👉Book it now: Kauai whale tour
Don’t forget to take a dry bag (I have this one in orange and it goes with me on all my beach trips) and a GoPro with float strap or waterproof case for your phone (this case is my favorite for cell phone photos – affordable and has never leaked).
8. Go snorkeling
If you’re not traveling to Kauai during whale season, an alternative is to snorkel until your heart is content.
Tunnels Beach on the north side of the island is perfect for snorkeling in the summer and fall. The winter and rainy season may create waves too large for snorkeling here. Sea turtle sightings are common while snorkeling at Tunnels beach.
Lawai Beach on the south side of the island is one of the most popular snorkeling destinations in Kauai.
Be sure to pack an underwater GoPro with a float strap for awesome footage!
9. Enjoy a helicopter tour of Kauai
Eighty percent of Kauai is inaccessible by car, so a helicopter tour is the best way to see the island. There are several options for tour companies offering helicopter rides to see the island by air. They book up so you’ll want to reserve a time in advance.
Note that the helicopters are small so you’ll likely get a 4 or 6 passenger helicopter, allowing everyone to experience a great view of the island. However keep that in mind when scheduling large groups.
Our helicopter tour went over a majority of the island, including inside the Waimea Canyon and the cliffs of the Na Pali Coast. The landscape is so lush and green – now I know why they call it the ‘garden isle’ with all its beauty!
I couldn’t even count how many waterfalls we went over, I saw so many. The tour also includes a sighting of the famous waterfall from Jurassic Park, Manawaiopuna Falls.
Kauai gets a lot of rain and it was rainy on part of the helicopter tour, but from the air that just meant it we saw a ton of rainbows. And they’re so bright when you’re flying right through them!
The helicopter also dropped into the Mt Waialeale crater, the rainiest place on earth, getting over 400 inches of rain per year. I was shocked that the rainiest place on earth is in Hawaii!
A couple people in my group got sick on the helicopter, so if you’re prone to motion sickness this is probably not the activity for you. However if you can work through it you will get the view of your lifetime!
The helicopter tour on Kauai was one of the most incredible experiences of my entire life.
👉Book it now: helicopter tour
10. Hike the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail
This is one of my favorite hikes on Kauai. It’s an easy hike in Kauai that you could do it in flip flops, but would probably be more comfortable in shoes or water shoes. The trail is about two miles long, but you definitely get great views without going the whole way.
Park at Shipwreck Beach, and look for the opening in the trees, near the cliff. There’s the start! The trail goes up the cliff and along the coast. The path doesn’t really have signage or guardrails, so use caution.
I love hiking Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail because every turn is a new, different view of the coast of Kauai. The waters are deep blue and you can see for miles up the coast or out to the ocean. Enjoy your time by climbing down the rocks to get to the water, soaking our feet in the cool ocean, watching sea turtles and enjoying the view.
This hike is easy enough to do with kids or inexperienced hikers, too.
Hiking the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail in Kauai is perfect for soaking up all that Hawaii has to offer, as you admire the beautiful coast on the south side of Kauai. After your hike you can also enjoy some swimming at Shipwreck Beach. The sand is soft and the water is bright blue!
Check out the full guide on hiking the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail
11. Go tubing in the Mountains of Kauai
The tunnels and irrigation tubes of an old sugar plantation makes quite a memorable adventure as you tube down them. The scenery is straight out of Jurassic Park (quite literally – part of the first movie was filmed here!)
The backcountry tubing tour is about 3 hours long, including a short tour of the property and a picnic lunch. The tubing adventure is a great experience if you’re looking for things to do in Kauai on a rainy day!
It’s also a great activity for larger groups, as our tour had over a dozen people in it.
Just be sure to wear a swimsuit with rash guard (to protect your skin from the tube)!
For a complete Hawaii Packing List, visit this post.
More of what to do in Kauai, Hawaii
Can you even believe this list?! More adventure and beautiful sights yet to come on this list!
12. See Wailua Falls
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After you go mountain tubing in Kauai, head up the road to check out Wailea Falls. It’s a short drive from the old sugar cane plantation, and an easy trip up to see the waterfall.
Wailua Falls isn’t accessible by foot, but there’s a large overlook to check out the falls. My favorite part was the constant rainbow coming from the mist off the falls.
This is a quick stop, but a powerful waterfall so definitely deserving of this list of the best things to do in Kauai.
13. See the famous Hanalei Bay and pier (a must-do in Kauai)
One of the most iconic spots in all of Kauai is Hanalei Bay. A famous backdrop for many movies, this beautiful spot is a location in Kauai you absolutely must visit at least once!
On the east side of the bay, the ocean is super shallow and calm and it’s a great spot for wading in the water or even for little kids to swim. The waves get larger as they have a direct path from the ocean to the shore – in the center of the cove.
Most days, you’ll find food trucks along the parking areas, making an easy way to have a picnic lunch at the beach!
14. Visit the Kilauea Lighthouse
Tour the century-old lighthouse, while taking in panoramic views of Kauai. The Kileuea Lighthouse is on the northern part of the island, so you could pair it with a trip to Hanalei Bay or Tunnels Beach.
It’s part of the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, home to seabirds, monk seals, and sometimes even whales offshore.
The lighthouse is part of a timed entry system, so be sure to make a reservation to ensure you get to visit when it works with your schedule!
15. Kayak and hike to Secret Falls
This one you can do on your own or with a tour guide. You’ll rent a kayak and head over to the Wailua River. You’ll park the kayaks on the shore and hike up to Secret Falls (also known as Uluwehi Falls).
We unfortunately haven’t had a chance to experience the Secret Falls yet (planning it for the next trip to Kauai though!)
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16. Boat tour of the Na Pali Coast (one of the top things to do in Kauai)
Seeing the Na Pali Coast via boat tour is something everyone should do at least once. The cliffs rise thousands of feet straight from the ocean, with hidden beaches and a plethora of waterfalls cascading down the rugged coastline.
Take a catamaran or zodiac boat tour for a closer look. Many tours include snorkeling stops and a chance to see dolphins or sea turtles along the way.
Note: this tour is best done in the summer months. The The Na Pali Coast is on the northwestern part of Kauai so the waters can be too dangerous for boats during high winds in the winter months.
👉Book it now: Na Pali Coast by boat
17. Hike the Kalalau Trail
The Kalalau Trail is one of Hawaii’s most famous hikes and one of the most challenging if you hike the full trail! At 11 miles, this isn’t for the faint of heart.
HOWEVER, if you’re looking for amazing views while keeping your sanity, the first 2 miles of the Kalalau Trail is an extraordinary experience. You’ll get a good taste of the NaPali Coast with its stunning views, and a beach to rest and recover.
It starts at Ke’e Beach on the north shore and follows the Na Pali Coast for 11 miles each way to Kalalau Beach.
Even if you just hike the first 2 miles to Hanakapiai Beach, it’s worth it for the views.
👉Note that reservations are required to access the trail and parking area and they sell extremely quickly!
Full guide to hiking the Na Pali Coast via the Kalalau Trail
18. Experience a Traditional Luau
A luau is one of the most memorable cultural experiences in Hawaii. I’ve been to 4 Hawaiian luaus over the years, and each one is a fun, unique experience.
On Kauai, you’ll find several amazing luaus that include dinner, storytelling, music and hula dancing. It’s a great way to connect with Hawaiian culture… and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love endless pineapple and mai tais?
I recommend booking your luau as soon as you book your trip as they do sell out!
19. Eat the absolute best food on the island
Okay, so this is an easy one to do, but the island of Kauai has some of the most fresh, delicious food you’ll have in Hawaii…or anywhere! I couldn’t create an article about what to do in Kauai without mentioning the food.
First, there’s Hula Pie, which you absolutely must have! Then all the fish tacos and alll the acai bowls your little stomach can take!
Here are a few of my favorite spots to eat in Kauai:
- Little Fish Coffee
- Keoki’s Paradise
- Leahi Health (vegan food)
- Da Crack Mexican Grinds
- Brennecke’s
Here’s a full guide to the best places to eat in Kauai!
20. See the Sprouting Horn blowhole
Is it even an island vacation without seeing a blowhole? Just like one of the top things to do in Grand Cayman, seeing the blowhole in Kauai is a fun, quick experience.
The Spouting Horn is a natural blowhole on the south shore near Poipu, where waves shoot through a lava tube and spout high into the air. It’s fun to watch, and it even “whistles” as the water rushes through.
There’s a viewpoint with railings, making it easy to stop by and take photos. You may even see local vendors nearby selling handmade jewelry and souvenirs, too.
21. Go ziplining above the trees (one of my very favorite things to do in Kauai!)
If you’re craving an adrenaline rush, go ziplining in Kauai! You’ll soar over lush forests while taking in views you can’t get any other way. My husband and I love ziplining, including Monteverde Costa Rica and Maui, so we just had to experience it in Kauai during our last trip!
Located in Koloa, ziplinin is a fun way to see more of the island and perfect for couples, families or groups looking for something adventurous to add to their itinerary.
👉Book it now: ziplining in Kauai
22. Go off-road UTVing
Right next door in Koloa is an awesome UTVing adventure!
UTVing through Kauai’s backcountry includes guided off-road tours take you through jungles and scenic overlooks that most visitors never see. Learning about the land you see while UTVing is fascinating, too.
Expect to get dusty (or muddy!) as you zip through the trails… it’s part of the fun. The Koloa tour even stops at filming locations from Jurassic Park!
23. See the taro fields in near Princeville
As you drive into Hanalei Valley near Princeville, pull over at the Hanalei Valley Lookout for one of the most peaceful views on the island. You’ll see lush taro fields (an ancient Hawaiian crop), winding rivers, and mountains fading into the clouds.
It’s a quick stop but one of those little moments that reminds you how special Kauai is. If you’re headed into Hanalei town afterward, grab an acai bowl or shave ice!
24. Take the tree tunnel road
With over 500 Eucalyptus trees, this road is flanked in lush foliage and is a cool experience. I always try to take this road (Highway 520) when I’m going between Kapa’a and Poipu.
It’s a scenic drive, although the most dense tree coverage is the first mile off the highway, then the drive turns into lush greenery as you view the mountains in the distance.
Things to do in Kauai – that’s a wrap!
Kauai is a dreamy island with natural landscapes and is one of the best adventure vacations in the US.
The island’s beauty has been captured by Hollywood countless times, yet it’s small-town vibes are laid back and genuinely humble. Kauai is not the Hawaiian island to go to if you’re looking for high-end shopping. But if you’re looking for adventures at every turn, you’ve found the right place!
I hope you found this list of things to do in Kauai inspirational for your next trip. Whether this is your first trip to Hawaii or you’re coming back for more, the Hawaiian islands never disappoint!
Related content:
28 Best Places to Eat in Kauai (Amazing Restaurants You Can’t Miss)
20 Insanely Beautiful Kauai Drone Photos That Will Make You Want to Visit NOW
What to Pack for Hawaii: PERFECT Hawaii Packing List (+ What to Leave Behind)
What to Wear in Hawaii for Midsize Women (Swimwear, Outfit Ideas & More)
20 Best Kauai, Hawaii Beaches that Promise Amazing Views
Best Snorkeling Kauai – 10 Beautiful Beaches You’ll Love
Stunning Kalalau Trail – Hiking the First 2 Miles to Hanakapiai Beach
Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail – the Underrated Hike on Kauai You Need to See
Hiking Waimea Canyon Trail: Everything You Need to Know
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Natalie
Saturday 30th of May 2020
I’m from Oahu! So have a slight bias towards Hawai’i haha but surprisingly I haven’t been to all the islands yet!
Nikki
Sunday 31st of May 2020
Aw Natalie Oahu is gorgeous too! But I gotta tell you Kauai is my fave ;)
Margarida Vasconcelos
Saturday 30th of May 2020
Ohh I would love to visit Kauai, thanks for sharing this guide.
Nikki
Sunday 31st of May 2020
Oh it's just so beautiful! Always worth the trip!!
Jen Nilsson
Saturday 30th of May 2020
It's been a long time since I visited Kauai, but I feel like I missed so much! I wish I would have read your post before my trip. I'm definitely pinning this for my return trip. Thanks for the tips!
Nikki
Sunday 31st of May 2020
So glad you found it helpful, Jen! Hope you get there soon!
madhu sharma
Saturday 24th of August 2019
Kauai is in my bucketlist, thanks for sharing this useful itenerary.saving for future.
Nikki
Sunday 25th of August 2019
You're so welcome, Madhu. It's a beautiful island with a lot to discover. :) Hope you get there soon!
Jacomijn - Safe and Healthy Travel
Saturday 17th of August 2019
Those are some great active trips to do! I would love to take that hike! And...tubing seems like a great adventure!
Nikki
Sunday 18th of August 2019
It was truly a great time, Jacomijn! Kauai is full of adventure and I love it!