Things to Do in Kauai
Plan your days in Kauai, your way
Start with the big one: Waimea Canyon in the morning, a lookout or two, and one easy trail among the red ridges.
Lunch in Kapaa — a plate lunch from a roadside spot, then shave ice for the walk back through town.
An afternoon on Poipu Beach, swimming, sunbathing, and watching turtles haul out on the sand like they own the place.
Golden hour at the Hanalei Valley lookout, taro fields glowing green below the mountains.
Dinner in Hanalei town — fresh fish, a cold drink, live music drifting from somewhere down the street.
A slow morning at the farmers market, tasting fruit you can't name and taking home something you can't find at home.
The Wailua River by kayak or boat, easy paddling to a waterfall or a fern grotto, effort optional.
One beach nobody told you about, found by pulling over where the locals' cars are parked.
A sunset at the Spouting Horn, blowhole roaring, sky going orange, the island showing off gently.
A little famous, a little hidden, a lot of good food — the full Kauai sampler, no extremes required.
Top attractions and places to eat in Kauai
Waimea Canyon State Park
A vast state park often called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," featuring dramatic eroded canyons, hiking trails, waterfalls, and lookouts. Travelers visit for the scenic drives and hikes through striking geological landscapes.
park · 4.9 rating · $5
Poipu Beach Park
A popular family-friendly beach park on Kauai's sunny south shore, known for its protected swimming areas, snorkeling, and frequent sightings of Hawaiian monk seals. Travelers go to swim, sunbathe, and observe marine wildlife.
park · 4.8 rating
Wailua Falls
This two-tiered 80-foot-tall waterfall located near Lihue is famous for being featured in the 1970s TV series, Fantasy Island.
waterfall · 4.5 rating
Kauai Plantation Railway
A scenic train ride through the Kilohana plantation grounds featuring farmland, orchards, and farm animals. Travelers enjoy a leisurely, family-oriented look at Kauai's agricultural heritage.
attraction · 4.6 rating
Hanalei Beach
Located in the center of the bay and at the mouth of the Hanalei River, popular for swimming and water sports.
beach · 4.8 rating
Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park
A dramatic stretch of towering sea cliffs, hidden beaches, and narrow valleys along Kauai's rugged northwest coast, accessible only by foot, boat, or air. Travelers come for its iconic scenery, the Kalalau Trail, and coastal wilderness.
park · 4.8 rating
Princeville Botanical Gardens
A privately run botanical garden on Kauai's north shore featuring tropical plants, orchards, and chocolate tastings on guided tours. Travelers come for lush garden walks and cacao education.
attraction · 4.8 rating
Kalalau Trail
An 11-mile trail along the Northern Na Pali coast that is challenging but incredibly scenic, with some of the best camping in Hanakoa and Kalalau.
park · 4.8 rating
Queen’s Bath
A natural tidal pool carved into volcanic rock on the north shore of Kauai near Princeville, reached by a steep muddy trail. Travelers visit to swim in the sheltered pool and see the dramatic coastline, though ocean conditions can be extremely dangerous.
attraction · 4.3 rating
Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail
A two-mile coastal trail across the cliffs of southern Kauai from Shipwreck Beach to the quiet Mahaulepu Beach.
trail · 4.7 rating
Tunnels Beach
Also known as Makua Beach, gets its nickname from the maze of lava tubes found throughout its expansive reef.
beach · 4.6 rating
Anini Beach
A well-shaded, sinuous beach home to one of the largest fringing reefs in Hawaii, one of the safest beaches on Kauai.
beach · 4.5 rating
Chicken in a Barrel
A casual Kauai barbecue joint famous for its barrel-smoked chicken and other slow-cooked meats. Travelers come for hearty, affordable island barbecue.
restaurant
Brennecke's Beach Broiler
A casual oceanfront restaurant across from Poipu Beach known for grilled seafood, burgers, and tropical drinks with ocean views. A popular spot for a relaxed meal near the water.
bar
Anatta's Thai Street Food
A casual spot dishing up Thai street-food staples like curries and noodle dishes on Kauai. Travelers stop here for quick, authentic Thai flavors.
restaurant