Things to do & places to visit in Kauai, Hawaii, United States

Relaxing and pristine Kauai (the Garden Island) is the least commercially developed of the Hawaiian islands. Waterfalls, scenic drives and more than 60 beaches dot the landscape. Some beaches have great snorkeling, others offer child-friendly tidal pools and some are perfect for all kinds of water sports. Dry-land activities include hiking the Kalalau Trail on the Na Pali coastline, taking a day trip to Waimea Canyon and experiencing life on a sugar plantation at Grove Farm Homestead Museum.

Kauai island in Hawaii, United States. Timezone: Pacific/Honolulu, current date and time: Friday, April 26, 2024, 21:38.

Top things to do (15)

• Lookouts
• Nature & Wildlife Areas
• Parks
• Distilleries
• Historic Walking Areas
• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Scenic Drives
• State Parks
• Waterfalls
• Hiking Trails
• Gardens
• Religious Sites
• Beaches
• Farms
• Geologic Formations

Top places to visit (26 attractions)

1. 5.0 Kalalau Trail (1.711 reviews)
   - Breathtaking - don’t hesitate
   Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails
   
   
   End the day with some of the best camping in Hanakoa and Kalalau—this 11-mile trail along the Northern Na Pali coast is challenging but incredibly scenic. See more..
   
2. 5.0 Kauai Path (852 reviews)
   - Beautiful Scenery Along Kauai Path
   Hiking Trails
   
   
   We loved riding the paved Kauai bike path during our vacation. Unfortunately, I can't tell you the name of the bike rental shop we hired our bikes from as there was no name for the shop front and the owner said they don't actually want to go on Trip Advisor. However, we did hire our bikes easily for 2 hours near a car park facing the beach along the path, and it cost approximately $60 for our family of four. The coastline is really beautiful and it was an easy ride for our family. As other people said we simply wished this paved path was a longer distance. We highly recommend riding the Kauai Path! See more..
   
3. 5.0 Kalalau Lookout (619 reviews)
   - Must-see
   Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas
   
   
   At almost 4,000 feet high, this lookout point in Kokee State Park offers breathtaking views of the vast Kalalau Valley and Na Pali coast. See more..
   
4. 5.0 Hanakapiai Falls (506 reviews)
   - Incredible Experience
   Waterfalls
   
   
   We found this hike to be an incredible experience. But a few warnings, make sure you have a parking permit or a shuttle ride or both (from gohaena.com). And make sure you have plenty of time for this hike, at least six or seven hours, depending on how long you want to spend at the falls. We are both experienced hikers and were surprised at how long this hike took. Also, bring at least two liters of water per person and snacks. It was well worth the trip, we would highly recommend this hike, it was the highlight of our Kauai visit. See more..
   
5. 5.0 Na Pali Coast (113 reviews)
   - NaPali Coast….Exceptional Natural Beauty
   Beaches
   
   
   If you ever have an opportunity to visit Kauai, Hawaii I would highly recommend a trip to the NaPali Coast. It appears that there are a variety of tours to view the NaPail Coast. Some people take a rafting excursion, others take a helicopter/small plane tours, and then there are those who attempt to hike the eleven miles on the quite challenging Kalalau Trail. I believe the Sierra Club has rated the NaPali Coast Kalalau Trail a 9 out of 10 for hiking difficulty. I chose the aircraft (60mins.) option and I must admit it was an amazing trip because it was the easiest option. I was thrilled to see one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. The NaPail Coast definitely equals unimaginable beauty. I suggest you add this adventure to your bucket list. It is well worth your time. However, please do your research before booking any tour because tour choice can make of break your experience. Enjoy your visit to the NaPali Coast!! See more..
   
6. 4.5 Poipu Beach Park (4.899 reviews)
   - Come a half hour before sunset to see turtles
   Beaches • Parks
   
   
   Located on Kauai's sunny shores, this beach is particularly popular for swimming, bodyboarding, surfing, and snorkeling. (And if you're lucky, you can spot Hawaiian monk seals here, too.) See more..
   
7. 4.5 Wailua Falls (3.550 reviews)
   - Beautiful falls, but hard to get a good picture
   Waterfalls
   
   
   This two-tiered 80-foot-tall waterfall located near Lihue is famous for being featured in the 1970s TV series, Fantasy Island. These spectacular falls are easily accessible—no hiking required—and can be seen from the nearby carpark. Visit after rainfall when the falls are exceptionally impressive, or in the morning for a chance to catch a rainbow when the light is just right. Be careful though—it's not recommended to hike to the base of the falls as it's steep and slippery. You can see the falls on a day trip or from up above on an air tour of Kauai. – Tripadvisor See more..
   
8. 4.5 Kauai Coffee Company (2.084 reviews)
   - Stop by and grab a bag of fresh beans.
   Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Farms
   
   
   This Hawaiian coffee estate is the largest coffee farm in the U.S. Enjoy guided tours with tastings and learn about the coffee production process. See more..
   
9. 4.5 Hanalei Beach (1.867 reviews)
   - Hanalei Beach
   Beaches
   
   
   Located in the center of the bay and at the mouth of the Hanalei River, this beach is popular for swimming and water sports. See more..
   
10. 4.5 Queen's Bath (1.619 reviews)
    - Worth the hike!
    Geologic Formations
    
    
    Once a bathing spot for the royals, this stunning natural pool is now a popular summertime attraction. To get there, you'll need to take a 15-minute hike across slippery lava rocks, so wear a good pair of shoes. In summer, the pool resembles a large hot tub and the waters are calm and clear. During winter, however, the water can be treacherous, so avoid visiting during those months; the pool may even be closed. Before you go, be sure to check the surf report online, and only attempt the hike down if the waves are less than four feet high. – Tripadvisor See more..
    
11. 4.5 Lydgate State Park (1.404 reviews)
    - Buy an Underwater Camera before your trip
    Parks
    
    
    Situated near the mouth of the Wailua River in the east, the two protected bays are a favorite for snorkelers and windsurfers. See more..
    
12. 4.5 Allerton Garden (1.290 reviews)
    - Allerton garden and luau
    Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Gardens
    
    
    NTBG’s Allerton Garden Garden is located on the south shore of Kauai in the picturesque Lawai Valley. Tours run daily and include a ride from the Visitors Center in Poipu along a scenic coastal route and continue along the valley rim on a former sugarcane train railbed. Visitors disembark on the valley floor to explore this former private estate, named by National Geographic Traveler magazine as one of the 50 places to see in a lifetime. Plants form the walls of outdoor rooms, the canopy of trees the ceiling. Housed within are elegant statuary and water features. A popular spot for photos is the ‘Jurassic trees’, with their massive curving roots.National Tropical Botanical Garden is a nonprofit institution, dedicated to saving and studying tropical plants. See more..
    
13. 4.5 Shipwreck Beach (1.214 reviews)
    - Take the long trail hike!
    Beaches
    
    
    Shipwreck is beautiful but can be dangerous for swimming. We'd recommend taking the Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail starting at Shipwreck Beach to the Makawehi Bluff to see the Waiopili Heiau Historic Site. Bring water as you'll get thirsty along the trek. See more..
    
14. 4.5 Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail (996 reviews)
    - Scenic but hot!
    Hiking Trails
    
    
    This two-mile coastal trail across the cliffs of southern Kauai starts from Shipwreck Beach on Keoneloa Bay to the quiet Mahaulepu Beach near Kawailoa Bay. See more..
    
15. 4.5 Polihale State Park (964 reviews)
    - Stunning empty white sand beach on the Napali Coast
    State Parks • Beaches
    
    
    A historical state beach park with breathtaking views and landscape. See more..
    
16. 4.5 Tunnels Beach (941 reviews)
    - Great beach…Difficult access
    Beaches
    
    
    Also known as Makua Beach, Tunnels Beach gets its nickname from the maze of lava tubes found throughout its expansive reef. Here, you'll find lots of marine life—large schools of reef fish, turtles and even wild dolphins—making it one of the best spots for snorkeling in Kauai. Visit during summer for calm waters or during winter when it becomes a surfer's paradise. You can also simply stroll down the white sand beach and enjoy views of the scenic green peaks of Mount Makana to the west. Tours of Kauai often include a stop here; you can even fly over the beach on a helicopter tour. – Tripadvisor See more..
    
17. 4.5 Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge (936 reviews)
    - Coastal views are incredible!
    Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas
    
    
    ***Plan ahead and get your reservation online*** If you have a National Park Pass, be sure to bring it with you and use for your reservation (it only costs $1 for up to 4-people). You currently cannot go in the Lighthouse, but they have done a great job to make the grounds accessible and safe. There were so many sea birds and a few seals in the cove. If it's a sunny day, bring a hat or wear sunblock, as everything is pretty much unshaded. Binoculars would be great for those who want to check out the shoreline for animals and the nearby cliffs for birds. I didn't go during whale season, but I heard you can see a lot of them in the winter/spring. See more..
    
18. 4.5 Anini Beach (929 reviews)
    - Xmas holiday- have the Anini Beach to ourselves
    Beaches
    
    
    This well-shaded, sinuous beach is home to one of the largest fringing reefs in Hawaii, and an excellent spot for swimming and snorkeling. It’s one of the safest beaches on Kauai, making it especially popular amongst families with kids. Green sea turtles, Hawaii’s state fish (triggerfish), and tropical reef fish are examples of common marine life you can spot in the area. For those keen on trying watersports, windsurfing is exceptionally popular due to the steady winds. Otherwise, roll out your beach gear on one of the tranquil sandy inlets and enjoy the privacy. Come early and score a picnic pavilion for splendid views. – Tripadvisor See more..
    
19. 4.5 Koloa Rum Company (889 reviews)
    - Enjoyable tasting experience!
    Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Distilleries
    
    
    For the first time in history, Rum is being distilled legally on the island of Kauai. Visit Koloa Rum's Premier Tasting Room and Company Store at Kilohana Plantation in Puhi, Kaua`i where our award winning Premium Hawaiian Rums are available. Also popular are our rum cakes, rum fudge sauce, Kukui Brand Mai Tai Mix, jams, jellies, syrups, Koloa Rum logo wear and other unique Hawaiian made products. Open daily at 10:00am. All tastings and alcohol sales require a valid photo ID and all individuals must be 21 years or older to enter the tasting room. Please enjoy responsibly! See more..
    
20. 4.5 Sleeping Giant Trail (870 reviews)
    - Sleeping Giant will wake you up
    Lookouts • Hiking Trails
    
    
    Named for its unusual shape, this Nounou Mountain trail in east Kauai is a challenging 3.4 mile trek—but the views at the top? Worth it. See more..
    
21. 4.5 National Tropical Botanical Garden (791 reviews)
    - Otherworldly
    Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Gardens
    
    
    NTBG’s McBryde Garden and Allerton Garden are located on the south shore of Kauai in the picturesque Lawai Valley. Individual tours of each garden run daily and include a ride from the Visitors Center in Poipu along a scenic coastal route and continue along the valley rim on a former sugarcane train railbed. Visitors disembark on the valley floor to explore these outstanding gardens. McBryde, NTBG’s flagship garden, is home to the world’s largest collection of native Hawaiian flora, many endangered or having gone extinct in the wild. It is a “botanical ark”, filled with palms, flowering trees, ornamental flowers, and unusual plants from the tropical world. Allerton is a former private estate, named by National Geographic Traveler magazine as one of the 50 places to see in a lifetime. Plants form the walls of outdoor rooms, the canopy of trees the ceiling. Housed within are elegant statuary and water features. A popular spot for photos is the ‘Jurassic trees’, with their massive curving roots.National Tropical Botanical Garden is a nonprofit institution, dedicated to saving and studying tropical plants. See more..
    
22. 4.5 Hanalei Valley Lookout (765 reviews)
    - Early morning Rainbow
    Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Lookouts • Scenic Drives
    
    
    Early in the morning, I stopped at the Hanalei Valley lookout on my way to the Okolehao Trail. I was in no rush to leave the area, so I fed the hen and her chicks a banana. A rainbow appeared to compliment the view of Hanalei Valley. See more..
    
23. 4.5 Limahuli Garden and Preserve (718 reviews)
    - Worth the time and money
    Friday: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Gardens
    
    
    If you love nature, you will appreciate this preserve. They provide a booklet that describes the items along the path. I especially appreciated learning about how they have preserved native plants from the interior of the island that are near extinction and impact of immigration to the island. A reservation is a must, as parking and access is limited. See more..
    
24. 4.5 Hanalei Bay (580 reviews)
    - Beautiful Beach!!
    Beaches
    
    
    This crescent-shaped bay in Kauai is the largest bay on the north shore, with stunning views and gorgeous beaches. Start at Black Pot Beach and head towards Hanalei Pier—an unmistakable landmark jetty made famous by the classic film, South Pacific—before walking towards Hanalei Pavilion Beach Park. Find a good spot along the bay to set down your towels—you can have a picnic, kayak, sunbathe, and even snorkel if the waters are calm (the waves can be rough during winter). Stay until sunset for exceptionally amazing views of Mount Makana in the distance. Hanalei Bay is a featured stop on many Kauai boat tours; some even help you to look for green sea turtles. – Tripadvisor See more..
    
25. 4.5 Kauai's Hindu Monastery (452 reviews)
    - A mindful time
    Religious Sites
    
    
    This is not a tourist destination so much as a deliberate choice to be within a working monastery where beauty and reflection reward you deeply. Not to be rushed but truly savored. It is wise to submit a request to sit/meditate in the small temple in the last hour the grounds are open to the public each day. You will be amply rewarded in quietude. See more..
    
26. 4.0 Spouting Horn (5.548 reviews)
    - Worth the short drive from the Poipu Beach area
    Geologic Formations
    
    
    This blowhole on Kauai's south shore near Poipu shoots seawater through its natural lava tube up to 50 feet in the air. See more..