Kauai 101: Activities, Adventures & Aloha
Lush, green, and peaceful, with waterfalls, dramatic cliffs (like the Nāpali Coast), and a slower pace. Perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone wanting a quiet, romantic escape.
Where to Stay
Luxury: 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, Grand Hyatt Kauaʻi (Poʻipū),
Mid-range: Koa Kea Hotel & Resort, Hanalei Colony Resort, Marriott's Kaua'i Beach Club
Unique: Treehouse-style vacation rentals in Princeville or Kapaʻa
Beaches
Hideaways beach (snorkeling when calm seas)
Queens Bath (beware of currents, not recommended for children)
SeaLodge Beach (only on a calm day!)
Secret beach
Tunnels on North Shore for snorkeling- can be dangerous, check tides and wind
Hanalei Bay & Hanalei Town
Anini beach by princeville for snorkel
Things to Do
Hike part of the Nāpali Coast (Kalalau Trail-2mi hike reservations required, book in advance this will sell out)
Take a boat tour of Nāpali Coast
Helicopter Tour
Explore Waimea Canyon (“Grand Canyon of the Pacific”)
Visit Hanalei Bay and quaint Hanalei town
Kayak the Wailua River
Chase waterfalls like Wailua Falls and ʻOpaekaʻa Falls
Hanakapiai Falls 8 mi RT hike
The waterfall from Jurassic park, Mānāwaiopuna Falls, is on Kauai, you can only view from helicopter.
Koloa Rum Company: Visit the tasting room for some Hawaiian Rum
Zip-lining for incredible lush forest and ocean views
Where to Eat
JoJo’s Shave Ice (Hanalei)
Bar Acuda (Hanalei, upscale tapas)
Kintaro (local sushi favorite)
The Beach House (Poʻipū sunset dining)
Tahiti Nui (Live music, Famous Mai Tai’s, go early get the coconut shrimp and the Ahi Carpaccio!)
Java Kai - açaí bowls and coffee, macadamia nut latte
Sleeping Giant Grill for best fish tacos (get the fried ono)
Hamura's Saimin (Lihue)- Hawaiian ramen - this is how it's made in Hawaii