12 Best Things to Do in Kaua’i, Hawai’i
Kaua’i, the oldest Hawaiian island, offers breathtaking natural beauty unlike anywhere else on earth. Known as the Garden Isle, this paradise features lush rainforests, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches that create unforgettable experiences for visitors.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, here are the absolute best activities to enjoy during your time on this magical island.
1. Hike the Nā Pali Coast
Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? The legendary Kalalau Trail stretches 11 miles along Kaua’i’s northwestern shoreline, revealing views you can’t find anywhere else on earth.
Most day-hikers tackle just the first 2 miles to Hanakāpīʻai Beach, which still delivers jaw-dropping coastal panoramas. The full trail requires permits and camping gear, but rewards brave hikers with secluded beaches and valleys that feel untouched by time.
Proper footwear is absolutely essential – these trails get slippery when wet. Bring plenty of water and start early to avoid afternoon heat.
2. Explore Waimea Canyon
Often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this natural wonder stretches 14 miles long and plunges 3,600 feet deep. The striking red soil contrasts beautifully with the lush green vegetation, creating a photographer’s paradise.
Morning visits offer the clearest views before afternoon clouds roll in. Several lookout points along Waimea Canyon Drive provide easy access to breathtaking vistas without strenuous hiking.
For the more adventurous, numerous trails wind through the canyon, ranging from easy walks to challenging descents. The Canyon Trail to Waipoo Falls (about 3.6 miles roundtrip) is particularly rewarding.
3. Relax at Poipu Beach
Looking for the perfect family beach day? Poipu Beach Park on the sunny south shore consistently ranks among America’s best beaches for good reason. The calm waters in the protected cove make it ideal for little ones, while the adjacent area offers decent snorkeling and boogie boarding for older kids and adults.
Hawaiian monk seals frequently visit, lounging on the warm sand. Keep a respectful distance from these endangered animals – they’re protected by law.
Convenient amenities include restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and lifeguards. The beach gets crowded midday, so arrive early to claim your perfect spot.
4. Visit Wailua Falls
Remember the opening scene of Fantasy Island? These majestic double falls were featured in the show’s iconic intro. Just a short drive from Lihue, Wailua Falls drops about 80 feet into a misty pool below, creating one of Kaua’i’s most accessible natural wonders.
Early morning visits often reveal stunning rainbows in the mist. The viewing area requires zero hiking – simply park and walk a few steps to the railing. For the best photos, bring a polarizing filter for your camera to cut through water glare.
Though swimming is technically prohibited due to dangerous currents, the falls are still absolutely worth seeing from the safe viewing area.
5. Kayak the Wailua River
Gliding along Hawai’i’s only navigable river offers a unique perspective of Kaua’i’s lush interior. The peaceful Wailua River winds through tropical landscapes that feel straight out of a movie set – because they often are!
Many kayak tours include a stop and short hike to Secret Falls (Uluwehi Falls), where you can swim in the refreshing pool beneath a 120-foot cascade. Self-guided rentals are available, but guided tours provide fascinating cultural and historical context about ancient Hawaiian sites along the route.
Wear clothes that can get wet and bring water shoes with good traction for the sometimes muddy hike to the falls.
6. Snorkel at Tunnels Beach
Want to swim with sea turtles and tropical fish? Makua Beach, better known as Tunnels, features a massive reef system with underwater lava tubes that create a snorkeler’s paradise. The reef’s horseshoe shape provides protection from waves during summer months.
The shallow inner reef works perfectly for beginners, while the outer reef offers more adventure for experienced snorkelers. Parking can be challenging, so arrive early or be prepared to walk a bit from roadside spots.
If possible, bring your own snorkel gear to avoid rental hassles. Always check conditions before entering – winter brings dangerous north shore swells that make this spot unsafe for swimming.
7. Take a Helicopter Tour
If your budget allows, a helicopter tour delivers absolutely unmatched views of Kaua’i’s most inaccessible wonders. About 70% of the island can’t be reached by road, making a helicopter the only way to witness many of its most spectacular landscapes.
Most tours last 45-60 minutes and showcase the breathtaking Nā Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and numerous waterfalls hidden deep in mountain valleys. The “doors-off” option provides incredible photo opportunities without glass reflections.
Morning flights typically offer the clearest views before clouds gather. Motion sickness can be an issue, so consider taking medication beforehand if you’re prone to queasiness.
8. Experience a Luau
No Hawaiian vacation feels complete without experiencing the islands’ rich cultural traditions through music, dance, and food. Several excellent luaus operate on Kaua’i, offering an evening of entertainment that shares Hawaiian history and Polynesian culture.
Beyond the spectacular fire dancing and hula performances, the feast itself becomes an adventure. Traditional dishes like kalua pig (cooked in an underground oven), poi (taro paste), and lomi lomi salmon provide a taste of authentic Hawaiian cuisine.
Most luaus offer an open bar and last about three hours. Book well in advance – the best ones sell out quickly, especially during peak tourist season.
9. Sail Along the Nā Pali Coast
For those who prefer water to hiking trails, boat tours along the Nā Pali Coast reveal perspectives you simply can’t get any other way. The emerald cliffs rising dramatically from the ocean create a landscape that seems almost mythical.
Summer months (May-September) offer the calmest conditions, while winter brings rougher seas but also the possibility of whale sightings. Many tours include snorkeling stops and lunch, with options ranging from rigid inflatable boats (faster but bumpier) to larger, more stable catamarans.
Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and maybe a light jacket – the ocean spray can make things chilly even on warm days.
10. Visit Limahuli Garden
Step back in time at this extraordinary botanical garden nestled in a valley on Kaua’i’s north shore. Ancient agricultural terraces built by early Hawaiians still function today, showcasing indigenous plants that arrived with the first Polynesian settlers.
The self-guided tour takes you through diverse ecological zones, from coastal plants to forest species. Spectacular ocean views complement the lush landscape, creating perfect photo opportunities.
Beyond its beauty, Limahuli serves as a living museum preserving endangered native plants. The garden’s conservation work helps protect Hawai’i’s unique botanical heritage from invasive species and climate change – your admission fee supports these important efforts.
11. Explore Kōke’e State Park
Craving cooler temperatures and misty forests? Head up to Kōke’e State Park, where the elevation (about 4,000 feet) creates a refreshingly different ecosystem from Kaua’i’s coastal areas. The park offers over 45 miles of hiking trails through native forests and along canyon rims.
The Kalalau Lookout provides heart-stopping views into the valley and out to the ocean. Nearby, the small but informative museum offers exhibits on the area’s natural history and sells detailed trail maps.
Weather can change quickly at this elevation – bring layers and rain protection. Early morning visits often provide the clearest views before clouds roll in.
12. Stroll Through Hanalei Town
Charming doesn’t begin to describe this north shore gem with its laid-back vibe and stunning mountain backdrop. Historic buildings house unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants serving everything from fresh poke to gourmet ice cream.
Don’t miss the historic pier at Hanalei Bay – it’s perfect for sunset photos with surfers catching waves in the background. The Saturday farmers market offers local produce, handmade crafts, and a chance to chat with residents.
After exploring the town, grab some picnic supplies and head to the beach. Hanalei Bay’s two-mile crescent of sand provides plenty of space to spread out and soak in the north shore’s dramatic beauty.