Introduction to Kauai
Kauai, also known as the “Garden Isle,” is one of Hawaii’s most breathtaking islands. With lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches, it’s an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to relax in paradise. Kauai is the smallest of Hawaii’s four main islands, so it’s easy to see a lot of it in a short amount of time.
Best Time to Visit
- April to June & September to November: These months offer great weather, fewer crowds, and better prices.
- December to March: Peak tourist season with higher prices and more rain, but great for whale watching.
- July & August: Warm weather and popular with families, so expect more crowds.
Getting to Kauai
- Kauai’s main airport is Lihue Airport (LIH).
- Direct flights are available from major U.S. cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle.
- Inter-island flights from Honolulu take about 30 minutes.
Where to Stay
- Princeville and Hanalei Bay: Lush landscapes, great beaches, scenic views and luxurious resorts and hotels.
- East Side (Kapaa, Lihue): Convenient location with a mix of beaches, waterfalls, shopping with some lower cost housing options.
- South Shore (Poipu, Koloa): Sunnier weather, luxury resorts, and family-friendly beaches.
- West Side (Waimea, Hanapepe): Quiet and remote, with easy access to Waimea Canyon and boat tours of the Nā Pali coast.
Top Things to Do
Outdoor Adventures & Sights
- Nā Pali Coast: Take a boat tour, helicopter ride, or hike the Kalalau Trail (reservation and preparation required!) for stunning views of one of the most photographed coasts in the world.
- Waimea Canyon: Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this scenic spot offers breathtaking overlooks and hiking trails.
- Wailua Falls & Opaekaa Falls: These are iconic waterfalls with easy to access viewpoints.
- Hanalei Bay: A picturesque bay perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and surfing. Enjoy stunning views of classic Hawaii mountains in the background.
- Kilauea Point Lighthouse: This is a must-see on the north side of the island outside of Princeville. You can either view the lighthouse from a viewpoint or buy a ticket to visit it up close.
- Queen’s Bath: A quick hike brings you to this picturesque view of a pool of water surrounded by volcanic rock. Watch the tides as this can be dangerous during high water times.
- Poipu Beach: Family-friendly beach with snorkeling and frequent turtle sightings.
- Ke’e Beach: This is inside Haena State Park which requires advanced reservations for either parking or a shuttle. It offers great views of the coast without having to hike the Kalalau Trail.
Activities & Experiences
- Helicopter Tours: Aerial views of Kauai’s dramatic landscapes.
- Boat Tours: Get a close up view of the Nā Pali coast with a boat tour launching from Waimea.
- Kayaking the Wailua River: Paddle through lush scenery to reach the Secret Falls.
- ATV Tours: Off-road adventures through Kauai’s jungles and movie filming locations.
- Snorkeling & Scuba Diving: Explore vibrant marine life at Tunnels Beach or Niihau.
Food & Dining
- Puka Dog (Poipu): Hawaiian-style hot dogs with tropical flavors.
- Hanalei Dolphin (Hanalei): Fresh seafood and sushi.
- JoJo’s Shave Ice (Multiple Locations): A must-try Hawaiian treat.
- Kilauea Fish Market (Kilauea): Delicious poke bowls.
- The Beach House (Poipu): Oceanfront dining with a romantic atmosphere.
Transportation
- Renting a car is the best and easiest way to explore Kauai.
- Limited public transportation is available, but it’s not ideal for sightseeing.
- Biking is a great option in areas like Kapaa.
Packing Tips
- Light, breathable clothing is essential as it’s often warm and humid.
- Don’t forget swimwear!
- A rain jacket is helpful just in case of inclement weather, especially on the east and north sides of the island.
- Reef-safe sunscreen (Hawaii bans sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate).
- Hiking shoes for any trails you’d like to hike.
- Waterproof phone case and dry bag, especially if you’d like to go on a boat or kayak.
- Snorkeling gear if you prefer your own, though you can also rent or buy this there.
Final Tips
- Respect Nature: Stay on marked trails and avoid touching marine life.
- Plan Ahead: Popular tours and activities can book up quickly.
- Stay Hydrated: The tropical climate can be dehydrating, so drink plenty of water.
Kauai is a paradise waiting to be explored. Whether you’re hiking through its rainforests, relaxing on its beaches, or indulging in its local cuisine, this island will leave you with unforgettable memories!