30 Best Things to Do in Kauai Right Now
Are you going to Kauai and need recommendations on the best things to do? You’ve come to the right place! We have compiled a list of the top activities to do while you’re in Kauai.
Whether you’re a thrill seeker looking for hikes and water sports or a relaxed traveler looking to enjoy the island’s beautiful beaches and scenery, Kauai has something for everyone.
Best Things to Do in Kauai Map
Top Things to Do on Kauai
Without further ado, here are the top things to do on Kauai:
(1) See the Napali Coast
Did you even go to Kauai if you did not see the Napali (or Nā Pali) Coast? This 17-mile stretch of stunning coastline is one of the most breathtaking in the world. There are several ways to experience it: by boat tour, helicopter, hiking (experienced hikers), or a guided kayak tour.
Our two favorite ways to see the Napali Coast are by boat or helicopter. Being on a boat allows you to be up close and personal with the coastline while exploring the stunning caves and sea arches. On the other hand, a helicopter tour gives you a bird’s-eye view of this magical coastline.
No matter your chosen option, it will be an experience you’ll always remember!
Air Kauai Helicopters offers a Doors Off Air Kauai Helicopter Tour if you need tour recommendations. If you are looking for a boat tour, we recommend Holo Holo Charters.
(2) Visit Waimea Canyon
Nicknamed “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon is a must-see for all visitors to Kauai. This 14-mile gorge is filled with rugged cliffs and vibrant colors, making it an unforgettable sight.
Visitors can take a scenic drive along the canyon and pull off at various lookout points to enjoy the incredible views. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are also plenty of hiking trails to explore.
For the more adventurous travelers, Waimea Canyon is also an excellent destination for hikers and mountain bikers. There are several trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. This is a great way to explore this stunning natural beauty up close and personal.
If you are looking for a unique experience or have a special occasion to celebrate, booking a helicopter tour that goes over the canyon is a great choice. While seeing the canyon from land is impressive, you will get a whole new perspective going over it from the air. We recommend Air Kauai Helicopter Tours.
(3) Relax on the Beach
Kauai is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and what better way to experience them than by relaxing? Poipu Beach, Tunnels Beach (in the summer), and Hanalei Bay are our favorite beaches in Kauai.
Soak up the sun, take a dip in the perfect blue waters, or enjoy the sound of the waves crashing on the shore. No matter what you decide to do, spending time at one of Kauai’s gorgeous beaches will be an experience you’ll never forget.
(4) Explore Ha’ena State Park
Ha’ena State Park is a must-see for all visitors to Kauai. This park is home to some of the island’s most spectacular natural beauty, including the famous Kalalau Trail and Ke’e Beach.
This area is also known as the end of the road (the highway ends here). So if you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax and soak up the beauty of Kauai, this is it.
The Kalalau Trail is a 22-mile trail that winds along the Napali Coast. It’s considered one of the most beautiful hikes in the world, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of pristine beaches, lush green valleys, and cascading waterfalls.
While at the park, make sure to stop by Ke’e Beach. This beach has perfect blue waters with gorgeous lush scenery and is an ideal spot for swimming (summer) and just taking in the beauty of Kauai.
Note: reservations are required for visitors to enter Ha’ena State Park. You can book your reservations up to 30 days in advance. Guests can choose to drive to the park or take the shuttle. Parking passes are very difficult to get, so most people opt for the shuttle.
We tried getting parking passes the day they were available online, but they were sold out before we could check out. We opted for the shuttle and loved it.
No matter how long you spend in Ha’ena State Park, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.
(5) Go to a Luau
A visit to Kauai is only complete by attending a traditional Hawaiian luau. This unique experience combines delicious food with Polynesian-style entertainment.
At the luau, you can try traditional Hawaiian dishes like kalua pig and poi (mashed taro root) and local favorites like poke and lomi salmon. The entertainment is also an unforgettable experience, with live music, hula dancing, and fire shows.
We have had the opportunity to attend the top luaus on Kauai, and our two favorites are the Smith’s Family Luau and the Auli’i Luau. Both offer an authentic Hawaiian experience filled with culture, music, and delicious food.
(6) Visit Limahuli Garden and Preserve
Limahuli Garden and Preserve is a National Tropical Botanical Garden located on the North Shore of Kauai close to Princeville and Hanalei. This garden is home to some of the rarest native Hawaiian plants in the state and stunning views of valleys and sea cliffs.
In addition to its beauty, Limahuli Garden also has a special significance in Hawaiian history and culture. This is the site of an ancient Hawaiian village and remains one of the few places where you can still see many original Hawaiian plants growing in their native setting.
Visitors can explore the gardens alone on foot or take a guided tour with one of the knowledgeable staff members. Either way, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.
We visited the gardens after spending the day at Ha’ena State Park since they are close to each other. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploring Kauai’s stunning natural beauty.
If you take the shuttle to Ha’ena State Park, you can ask your driver to drop you off at the Limahuli Garden and Preserve to avoid driving there and securing another parking pass. If you decide to drive to the gardens, reserve your pass online in advance.