Hello Traveler, explore the best things to do in Kauai for your next adventure. Kauai, also known as the “Garden Islands,” is a tropical gem located in the center of the Hawaiian Islands. I love its nickname; Kauai boasts lush green, clear water beaches and waterfalls that leave memories for everyone of any age. Be it a thrill-seeker, beach bum, or cultural enthusiast – this piece of paradise has it all.

While other busy spots, like Oahu or the shores of Maui, are always full of exciting activities with tourists, Kauai is a notch lower in energy. Activities on offer range from hiking through the Emerald Valley to discovering secluded sand and reef beaches within the island and participating in water sports at pristine beaches.

Only a trip to the beautiful island of Kauai would be complete with tasting the delicious local cuisine, such as fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and Hawaiian delicacies.

I’ll cover the best things to do in Kauai this blog, from must-see attractions to hidden gems when you visit Kauai. For a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or an adventure, a solo guide will help one make the most of their time in Garden Isle. Are you ready to visit in Kauai? So start your unforgettable journey now!!

Discover Best Things To Do In Kauai

Here are the 16 top things to do in Kauai for whatever adventure you’re looking for.

1. Explore the Na Pali Coast

The Na Pali Coast is one of the top tourist attractions in Kauai. For nature lovers and adventurers in love with nature, Kauai’s Na Pali coast offers some of the most beautiful scenery one can ever dream of in a lifetime. It is a popular choice among those who prefer trekking to hike the Kalalau Trail.

Besides hiking, you can see the beauty of its green hills through boat trips and helicopter tours. Coral reefs are very colorful, so when one goes snorkeling or scuba diving, there is always something interesting in the ocean. See secluded beaches, underwater caves, and a variety of wild marine life, such as dolphins or sea turtles.

How to Reach: Book a boat tour from Hanalei or Port Allen. Alternatively, hike to viewpoints from Kalalau Trail.

2. Hike the Kalalau Trail

The Kalalau Trail is among the things that make it on most people’s list of breathtaking and challenging hikes worldwide. It runs 11 miles from Ke’e Beach to Kalalau Beach along the Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii. It passes through rugged terrain that offers breathtaking views of lush valleys, towering sea cliffs, pristine beaches, and rainforests.

Along the way, you can explore Hanakapiai Beach and Hanakapiai Falls. With steep climbs, narrow paths, and rocky terrain, the trail is physically demanding and ideal for experienced hikers. A permit will be required for hiking outside of Hanakapiai, especially overnight stays at Kalalau Beach. Things to do in Kauai are every hiker’s dream.

How to Reach: Ke’e Beach in Haena State Park is the trailhead. Permits are required for overnight hiking.

3. Visit Waimea Canyon State Park

Waimea Canyon State Park is one of Kauai’s most spectacular, brilliant hiking trails. Be sure to take in the various lookout points, such as Waimea Canyon Lookout and Puu Hinahina.

Canyon Hiking Trail to Waipo’o Falls is a 3.5-mile round-trip trail that offers spectacular views of the falls. Bird watching and photography are popular here as the park is home to native Hawaiian flora and fauna.

How to Reach: Drive along Highway 550 to access the park’s lookout points.

4. Snorkel at Tunnels Beach

Tunnels Beach is a snorkeler, diver, and beachcomber’s dream on Kauai’s North Shore. The clear waters are known for their great diversity of marine life and coral formations, providing the best places for underwater exploration. The beach is a beautiful place to relax and watch the sunset with breathtaking views of the golden sands.

The winter months are the best time for surfing and windsurfing in the area. Swimmers and snorkelers should exercise caution due to strong water currents. There are many things to do in Kauai at Tunnels Beach.

How to Reach: Drive to Haena and park at the nearby lot. Arrive early to secure a spot.

5. Swimming in Queen’s Bath

Queen’s Bath is a saltwater tide pool that is one of the attractions on the Hawaiian island of Kauai. Nestled among the lava rock formations, it is an outstanding place to sunbathe with stunning coastal views.

But this is one of those places in Hawaii that should be visited during the calmer summer months when the water conditions are safe. During the winter, the area can be treacherous for anyone with high surf and strong currents.

Always check the tides and weather beforehand and enjoy this lovely Hawaiian gem. This is the best thing to do in Kauai for a fantastic adventure.

How to Reach: Take a short hike from a parking area in Princeville.

6. Relax at Poipu Beach

Poipu Beach is Kauai’s South Shore’s ultimate relaxation and adventure experience. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or surfing in its clear waters or relax on the sandy shores. Take a short walk to the nearby Spouting Horn, a natural blowhole, or Allerton Gardens and Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail.

Best of all, take advantage of the opportunity to see Hawaiian monk seals and sea turtles in their natural habitat. Visiting Poipu Beach is one of the best attractions to do in Kauai.

How to Reach: Located on the south shore, accessible via Poipu Road.

7. Explore the Hanalei Bay Beach

Hanalei Bay Beach, located in the northern part of Kauai, is a beautiful place famous for its crystal-clear waters, lush green hills, and white sandy beaches. Offers swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, and surfing. One can opt for sunbathing or picnicking in the sandy landscape.

A short distance from this place is the Limahuli Gardens and Reserve, which offers a lush garden environment especially suitable for botanical lovers. A kayak can go under Hanakoa Falls or up the Wailua River to enjoy the views. These are the top things to do in Kauai.

How to Reach: Drive to Hanalei and find parking near the pier or park.

8. Kayak Tour on the Wailua River

Kayaking down the Wailua River on Kauai is a fantastic adventure. You can take time paddling through the water and hike to the beautiful Secret Falls-Uluwehi on a jungle path with tropical landscapes, high mountains, and lush rainforests.

Most tours also include ancient Hawaiian sites like the Sacred Fern Grotto and enlighten one about the island’s cultural heritage. Wailua River Kayak Tours caters to the needs of both novice and expert paddlers.

The kayaking is calm yet adventurous, with great opportunities to observe the wildlife like exotic birds and fish. The Wailua River kayak tour is the most popular things to do on Kauai.

How to Reach: Kayak rentals and guided tours are available from local operators in Kapaa.

9. Visit the Fern Grotto

The Fern Grotto is a tropical cave covered with ferns situated along the Wailua River in Kauai. It is an attractive site for nature lovers. One can reach it via a scenic riverboat ride. It is an excellent place to rest and enjoy the island’s scenic beauty.

With its serenity and picture-perfect backdrop, Grotto usually hosts wedding events. Enjoy the coolness of the sound of the waterfall cascading over the ferns to add to the serenity. A must if one needs to take in the natural landscape of Kauai and indulge in its tradition.

How to Reach: Book a riverboat tour departing from the Wailua Marina.

10. Car Trip the Tree Tunnel

The Tree Tunnel on Maluhia Road is a must-see along Kauai’s scenic drive, which creates a tunnel-like effect over 500 tall eucalyptus trees. Located on the way to Koloa and Poipu, these trees were planted in 1911.

While driving, there will be an environment that surrounds you that will be calm and sunny as the sun’s rays filter through the leaves of these trees. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Kauai, as it will give them an exceptional experience.

How to Reach: Drive along Maluhia Road to enter the picturesque tunnel.

11. Explore the Koke’e State Park

To the northwest lies the beautiful Koke’i State Park, with beautiful scenery, lush forests, and various hiking trails. The relaxed and misty atmosphere makes the place more attractive and arouses people’s interest in nature.

You can take in scenic trails like Awapuhi and Kalalau Lookout, which have great views of the Na Pali Coast. Rare native plants and birds abound in the park, a favorite bird-watching spot. Cooke State Park is the top attraction in Kauai for adventurers and nature lovers.

How to Reach: Drive past Waimea Canyon State Park along Highway 550.

12. Summit of Mount Waialeale

Wailele Volcano is a slope volcano on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, considered one of the wettest places on Earth. Its summit is 5,148 feet (1,569 m) above sea level. Spectacular landscapes with lush green vegetation and many waterfalls result from this excess rain.

Despite the wet conditions of the summit, it is not easy to access, presenting a challenge for most hikers. I recommend experienced hikers to summit it.

How to Reach: Access is limited; book a helicopter tour for the best experience.

13. Kalapaki Beach

Kalapaki Beach is one of the most beautiful half-moon-shaped beaches in Kauai. The calm waters, perfect for swimming and paddleboarding, will keep you engaged in various beach activities throughout the day.

This place also boasts gentle shores, which makes it a good place for new surfers. The area will offer you an awe-inspiring view of the sunset, Which is one of the best things to do in Kauai and the Hawaiian Islands.

How to Reach: Located near Nawiliwili Harbor in Lihue.

14. Discover Spouting Horn

One natural attraction on Kauai’s South Shore is the Spouting Horn. This blowhole results from waves pouring through lava tubes and forcing seawater to roar into the air, sometimes 50. The spouting horn is best seen at high tide when the waves are strongest.

Spectacular coastline and sunset views can also be seen in the surrounding area. Spouting Horn is a huge tourist attraction, so why should you see it?

How to Reach: Located on the south shore near Poipu.

15. Tube Down Kauai’s Historic Canals

If you want an amazing adventure in Kauai, this is for you. Kauai’s historic canals dug by hand in the early 1900s for irrigation today offer a different adventure.

You will have a beautiful and relaxing adventure like never before as you travel through tunnels, open waterways, and lush tropical landscapes. From family people to couples and fun-seekers, tube riding is a popular Kauai thing to do.

How to Reach: Book a tubing tour through local adventure companies.

16. Explore the Princeville Botanical Gardens

Princeville Botanical Garden is a nine-acre family-owned wonderland on the North Shore of Kauai, Hawaii. Tropical plants, flowers, and exotic fruit trees make up this exotic landscape in the region. Native species, brightly colored flowers, and medicinal plants draw visitors through this rich tapestry.

With waterfalls, streams, and terraced gardens, the Princeville Botanical Garden is a dream destination for nature lovers.

How to Reach: Located in Princeville, tours are by reservation only.

Best Time to Visit in Kauai

The best time to visit Kauai depends on your interests:

Winter (December to February): Ideal for whale watching and escaping colder climates.

Spring (March to May): Perfect for fewer crowds and mild weather.

Summer (June to August): Great for families and water activities.

Fall (September to November): Best for deals and pleasant temperatures.

Kauai Travel Tips

Pack light layers: Weather varies by region, so bring layers and waterproof gear.

Rent a car: Public transportation is limited, and many attractions require a rental car.

Plan: Popular activities such as the Kalalau Trail or Wailua River cruise often require reservations.

Respect nature: Always stay on designated trails and avoid touching marine life.

Stay hydrated: Bring a reusable water bottle and sunscreen for outdoor activities.

Things to Do in Kauai FAQs

Q: Is Kauai family-friendly?

A: Absolutely! Poipu Beach and Kalapaki Beach are great for families.

Q: Can you visit the Na Pali Coast without hiking?

A: Yes, boat tours and helicopter rides are excellent alternatives.

Q: Are there free activities in Kauai?

A: Many beaches, waterfalls, and hiking trails are accessible.

Q: Is Kauai suitable for solo travelers?

A: Kauai is safe and offers plenty of solo-friendly activities like kayaking, hiking, and guided tours.

Q: What is the No. 1 attraction in Kauai??

A: While there isn’t a single “No. 1” attraction in Kauai, the Na Pali Coast is undoubtedly one of the island’s most breathtaking and popular destinations.

Best of luck with your trip to Kauai. Since you are traveling to the Hawaiian Islands, I will tell you to visit the Oahu, Hawaiian Big Island, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, and Niihau islands. Be sure to talk to Tales of Journey about your Kauai travel experience.

I look forward to your feedback!!

Happy Travel!!