Kauai is one of the most ancient islands in the Hawaiian archipelago. Because its geology has been established for such a long time, it’s also one of the lushest: full to the brim with tropical forests, tumbling waterfalls, and sparkling, wildlife-filled bays. Kauai is nicknamed the “Garden Isle,” after all! It’s not a large island, but it has a lot to offer travelers willing to hire a car for their vacation. If you like hiking, you’ll want to add Kauai, Hawaii, to your list of top destinations. From the Koke’e State Park to the Napali Coast, you’ve got trails galore, most with stunning views out over jungle-capped peaks or azure-hued coastlines.
If adventure sports are more of your thing, head to Wailua River State Park for a spot perfect for kayaking or check out the mountain bike trails across the island. Foodies will love the access to fresh seafood and locally grown tropical produce. The fertile volcanic soils of the island support abundant growth, and as such, there are numerous farmer’s markets to visit. Those wanting to learn more about Kauai’s native flora and fauna can head to Limahuli Garden or Allerton Garden or go bird-watching at the historic Kilauea Lighthouse.
If you’re looking for things to do in Kauai, or you’re curious to see if it’s the right spot for your next vacation, watch on for our top picks in this perfect all-season destination.
Kilauea Lighthouse
The Kilauea Lighthouse is located inside a nature preserve that works closely with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This means that there’s an abundance of native animals to observe, especially birds. Borrow some binoculars for free from the information center and be on the lookout for everything from the red-footed booby to migrating whales. The lighthouse was built in 1912 and served to help both ships and planes navigate the island. It’s also close to Secret Beach, so plan for a sightseeing trip and a swim to round out your day.
Queen’s Bath
Have you ever wanted to float in a crystal clear rockpool? Queen’s Bath is the place to do it! On Kauai, waves and wind have eroded parts of a lava shelf, carving a series of inviting pools. Be careful, though. If the weather isn’t great, heed the warning signs and don’t take a dip. You don’t want to be washed out to sea! There’s a bit of a hike to get to these baths, including scaling a muddy cliff, so this attraction may not suit older or younger family members.
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Kalalau Trail
No matter how long your trip to Kauai is, you need to ensure you get in at least half a day on the Kalalau Trail. Why? The views over the ocean and the hibiscus flowers and lush tropical vegetation that line the walking paths are unparalleled. Serious hikers hike the entire 11 miles and camp overnight on a remote beach before walking back again (a reservation is needed), but you don’t have to do all of that if you’re not feeling that adventurous. Instead, plan to tackle the first half-mile or so. But be prepared—the trail can be muddy and is mostly uphill for the first bit.
Koloa Zipline
Are you looking for a bit of a thrill with all the safety of a harness? Then add the Koloa Zipline to your itinerary. There’s little to fear with this exciting tourist attraction! Once on the launch podium, you’ll be strapped in, and all that’s left is to jump—and admire the view as you sail along above the trees and the beautiful Waita Reservoir. You can choose your stance: hands-free, upside down, or clinging on for dear life! This is one of the island’s longest ziplines, featuring an astonishing eight (yes, eight) tracks.
Hanalei Bay
Did you watch The Descendants, featuring the one and only George Clooney? Then you might recognize Hanalei Bay from that movie! This bay is one of the best spots on the island to grab a sunset photo: plan to pose on the wooden pier. Take the family snorkeling to see iconic Hawaiian green sea turtles and other ocean wildlife, or head out on a tour paddle tour of the Hanalei River. Don’t forget to stop in the tiny town of Hanalei for a genuinely local lunch or dinner, too.
Wailua River State Park
If you’re looking for accessible hiking options in Kauai, take a chance on Wailua River State Park. There are easy trails through ancient rainforests, kayak and paddleboard rental options, and even sit-down river tours. History buffs will be pleased to note that the park is also packed to the brim with local historical and cultural sites. Since the native Hawaiians once considered the river sacred, there are several temples and notable royal sites to admire. At the Wailua Complex of Heiau, a National Historic Landmark, you’ll spot petroglyphs carved into the rocks and ancient ruins and birthing stones. The park is also home to the Wailua Falls and Opaeka’a Falls: more on these accessible waterfalls coming up next!
Wailua Falls and Opaeka’a Falls
These are the falls that many people come to Kauai to see! If you visit in the morning, you might be lucky enough to see the rainbows these majestic waterfalls are known for. But even without the rainbows, admiring the 80-foot drop is enough to inspire awe in even the most experienced traveler. You can drive to both of these falls, so it makes an excellent trip for families with little ones.
Napali Coast
Did you know that Kauai’s Napali Coast is nicknamed the Eighth Wonder of the World? Aside from the stunningly surreal coastline views (which, by the way, aren’t accessible by car), there are sea caves and secret beaches to explore and dolphins to spot. That’s why we highly recommend chartering a boat to get you out on the water. It’s truly the best way to experience this once-in-a-lifetime location. Failing that, hitting the trails on foot is also an option—but make sure you’re fit as the paths in this area are challenging.
Farmers Markets
Kauai is well known for its locally grown vegetables and tropical fruit, and there are farms and plantations all over the island. Because of this, there’s likely a farmer’s market going on nearby no matter where you stay! Head to the Kauai Culinary Market for food and live music, the Hale Halawai Farmers Market for the freshly made mango salsa, and the Anaina Hou Community Park for the banana and pineapple slushies.
Glass Beach
Do you love beachcombing? Then you’ll be thrilled by a visit to Glass Beach. The small cove is located nearby an industrial area in Port Allen, and from time to time, abundant amounts of colored sea glass washes up on its sandy shores. While you shouldn’t take any of the glass away with you, it’s still a beautiful sight when the sun hits the colored glass.
Makuna (or Tunnels) Beach
If you’re an experienced snorkeler or scuba diver, there’s no better place to hit the water on Kauai than Makuna Beach, also known as Tunnels Beach. At low tide, expect to see a vast array of tropical fish species, colorful coral, lots of sea turtles, and maybe even a rare Hawaiin monk seal. The golden sand, palm trees, and easy accessibility make this an excellent beach for swimmers and sunbathers.
Spouting Horn Park
Spouting Horn Park is so-called due to a blowhole carved into the rocks by the ferocious ocean of this coastline. Some people say the sound the water makes as it’s forced into the hole is otherworldly—at the very least, it’s a dramatic sight when the water wooshes up through the blowhole toward the sky. There’s a walking trail, public bathrooms, and a water fountain at Spouting Horn Park, making it a great road trip stopover spot.
Limahuli Garden and Preserve
Those looking to dive deep into the history of native Hawaiian culture will do well to add Limahuli Garden and Preserve to their travel itinerary. There are 700-year-old taro terraces and a canoe garden featuring plants the ancient Polynesian settlers brought from their original homelands. Not only that, but the valley itself is one of the most biodiverse in Hawaii: you’ll see plants and animals found nowhere else in the world.
Allerton Garden
Another garden to add to your Kauai bucket list is Allerton Garden. This garden is part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden network and is dedicated to saving, studying, and cultivating the world’s rarest tropical plants. At various times, the garden was owned by a Hawaiian Queen, a sugar plantation magnate, and an artist and architect. Head there to see towering trees with immense root systems, bamboo groves, and a cut-flower garden—all interspersed with unique bronze sculptures.
Waimea Canyon and Koke’e State Park
These two parks are right nearby each other, so you can plan a day trip (or more) to explore both of them. Waimea Canyon State Park is often dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” though it’s decidedly more green than its desert-located cousin. You can drive through the canyon, stopping to enjoy the views as you wish. If you want to get some hiking in, choose one of the 18 rainforests, falls, and coastal trails running through the nearby Koke’e State Park.
Poipu Beach Park
Poipu Beach Park is arguably one of Kauai’s most famous bays, likely due to its unique geography. A nearby sandbar creates a lagoon suitable for toddlers to splash about in, while older kids and adults can enjoy the small waves of the bay itself. There are no hourly restrictions on this beach, so plan to arrive early to nab a spot under one of the many palm trees that line the shore. At one end of the beach, there’s also a resort area full of hotels, restaurants, and shopping options. Oh, and if you’re lucky, you may spot a monk seal or two as well!
Do you think this is a comprehensive list of things to do in Kauai? Or would you add some places, events, or sites we’ve missed? Debate the not-to-be-missed areas and share your secret scenic spots in the comment section below. If you want to watch more videos like this one, head over to the ViewCation channel and subscribe. Hit that notification bell while you’re there. Oh, and don’t forget to give this video a thumbs up and share it with your friends and family.