42 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN KAUAI

The island of Kauai is celebrated for its relaxed and grounded lifestyle. While it may not boast the sophistication or extensive amenities of the other Hawaiian islands, Kauai compensates beautifully with its stunning, awe-inspiring scenery!

Whether you’re soaring above the island on a helicopter tour, exploring its lush trails, or basking on its pristine beaches, Kauai promises adventure at every turn. Here is our list of 42 awesome things to do in Kauai!

>>> If also visiting Oahu, be sure to check out our 27 Top Things to Do on Oahu!

*This page contains links to our recommended activities. We receive a small commission for each booking made at no additional cost to you which helps maintain our blog!

42 Awesome Things to Do In Kauai

1. TAKE A CRUISE ALONG THE NA PALI COAST

Going to Kauai and not seeing the Na Pali Coast would be like going to Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower! No roads go through or along the Na Pali Coast, so outside of hiking in, the only other option is a boat or aerial tour.

We highly suggest a sunset cruise that will have you passing by the most dramatic parts of this coastline during the gold light hours.

>>>See our guide on 5 Epic Na Pali Coast Tours

>>>Book Your Na Pali Coast Cruise and Save!

2. TAKE A HELICOPTER TOUR

A helicopter tour will cover a ton of ground showcasing places like the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, Manawaipuna Falls (aka “Jurassic Park Falls”), the North Shore, and Wai’ale’ale Crater. If you are visiting Kauai for a short visit, there is no better way to see so much in such little time.

We suggest booking a “doors off” tour, where you will be exposed to the open air and provided with unobstructed views! Don’t worry, you will be strapped and buckled in!

>>>Reserve your helicopter tour

3. VISIT WAIMEA CANYON STATE PARK

Waimea Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” is located on the west side of the island and is one of Kauai’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Stretching 14 miles long, 1 mile wide, and over 3,600 feet deep, this dramatic canyon is a must-visit for anyone exploring the island. Its rugged red cliffs, lush green valleys, and cascading waterfalls create a stunning contrast of colors. Visitors can take in panoramic views from the Waimea Canyon Lookout, hike through diverse landscapes, or simply soak in the beauty of this geological masterpiece. It’s perfect for hikers or day trippers looking for a photo opportunity.

4. HIKE TO HANAKAPI’AI FALLS ALONG THE KALALAU TRAIL

Hanakapi’ai Falls is a breathtaking 300-foot waterfall on the Kalalau Trail that begins at Ke’e Beach on the North Shore of Kauai. The hike to the falls is not the easiest, but the reward at the end is worth it. The trail is approximately 8 miles roundtrip and in the rain, it can be quite muddy and slippery!

Check out our blog post on our journey to the falls.

5. VISIT WAILUA FALLS

Wailua Falls, nestled within Wailua River State Park on Kauai’s east side, is one of Hawaii’s most famous waterfalls. Easily accessible by car, it offers a stunning viewpoint without the need for a strenuous hike. Since there is no official trail to the bottom, less experienced hikers are generally advised not to attempt the descent. Many will recognize this iconic waterfall from films and TV shows, most notably Fantasy Island.

6. GO SNORKELING IN KAUAI’S DEEP BLUE WATERS

Kauai has several awesome snorkeling spots. We enjoyed the calm waters of Ke’e Beach on the North Shore where the Na Pali Coast ends.

Other great locations can be found at Haena State Park (North Shore), Tunnels Beach (North Shore), Anini Beach (North Shore), Poipu Beach (South Shore), Lydgate Beach Park (South Shore), and Prince Kuhio Beach (South Shore).

If you prefer a more guided experience, several snorkeling tour companies on Kauai will transport you to a few different snorkeling sights by boat and provide you with lunch and snacks as well!

>>>Book a Kauai Snorkeling Tour!

7. SEE GORGEOUS VIEWS AT KALALAU LOOKOUT

The Kalalau Lookout is sits over 4,000 feet above the Pacific Ocean and provides one of the most jaw dropping panoramas of the Na Pali Coast. It is easily accessible by car within Koke’e State Park. For the best views, be sure to visit on a clear (or mostly clear) day!

8. TAKE AN INTRODUCTORY SCUBA DIVE

Kauai has excellent shore dive and boat dive locations. Even those who have never experienced a Scuba dive can do an introductory dive alongside a dive master in some of the most beautiful waters on earth!

Jessica was able to experience her first scuba dive in the beautiful Sheraton Caverns. These are ancient collapsed lava tubes that have become home to coral and all sorts of sea life!

If you want to know more about Scuba diving in Kauai, check out our 5 recommended dives in Kauai for information on some of the top dive sites around Kauai.

>>> Book and Save on a Kauai Scuba Dive!

9. GO ON A WHALE WATCHING TOUR

Whale-watching tours are very popular in Kauai and you will venture out to sea for opportunities to see the humpback whales that migrate from Alaska in the winter months. The ideal time of year for whale watching is December through April. We not only saw whales from our boat, but we also heard them later in our trip while scuba diving, so in our opinion, if you are in Kauai at the ideal time your chances are very high of seeing these beautiful creatures!

10. RELAX AT THE MAJESTIC KE’E BEACH

Ke’e Beach is a hidden gem located on the North Shore where the most eastern side of the Na Pali Coastline ends. It is a breathtakingly beautiful beach nestled at the base of a lush coastal mountain range.

This more secluded beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a serene escape.

The crystal clear waters of Ke’e Beach are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving, and the beach is surrounded by lush greenery.

Visitors can explore the nearby Hanakapiai Falls along the Kalalau Trail or take a stroll along the beach to soak up the sun and enjoy the warm tropical breeze.

Please note that you will need to book in advance to visit Ke’e Beach as the area has become very congested with the travel boom that has occurred on Kauai in recent years. Reservations can be made here.

>>>Renting a Car in Hawaii? See Our 9 Hawaii Car Rental Tips

11. RELAX AT DONKEY BEACH

Donkey Beach is a 1,200-foot beach located on the eastern side of the island and is accessible by a short trek on a paved trail. One of the best things about Donkey Beach is that it is usually not crowded.

12. RELAX AT POIPU BEACH PARK

Poipu Beach is one of the more well known beaches in Kauai. It’s easy to see why when you arrive with its golden sands, calm waters, and vibrant marine life, perfect for families and snorkelers. Consistently sunny, it blends exploration and relaxation, with nearby amenities and stunning sunsets.

13. HIKE THE WAIPO’O FALLS TRAIL

The Waipo’o Falls Trail is a 3.6-mile in-and-out hike that provides some great lookout views of Waimea Canyon before arriving at the top of Waipo’o Falls. Unlike Hanakapi’ai Falls, you will be at the top of Waipo’o Falls and not at the bottom looking up at the falls, so keep this in mind.

The hike is not very difficult, so it would be a good option for a family hike. Plan for about two hours in total.

14. TAKE A SCENIC DRIVE

It’s tough to find a drive in Kauai that isn’t scenic, but one of our favorites is Kuhio Highway along the north shore. This stunning route winds through lush landscapes, taking you through the greenest part of the island. Along the way, you’ll pass iconic spots like Queen’s Bath, Ke‘e Beach, Kilauea Lighthouse, Tunnels Beach, Hanalei Bay, and the Kalalau Trailhead, all just off or along the highway!

15. HIKE THE KALALAU TRAIL

The Kalalau trail extends 11 miles (22 miles total being an out and back hike) along the NaPali Coast. It is one of the most jaw dropping and gorgeous hikes in all of the Hawaiian Islands! Those who take on this challenging trail need to be a good physical condition and prepared to camp overnight. Overnight permits are required.

16. HIKE THE KALEPA RIDGE

Kalepa Ridge is a breathtaking hiking trail that offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the rugged coastline, and the majestic mountains of Kauai. The trail is not for the faint-hearted as it has some high-exposure areas, so plan accordingly.

We did not hike this trail due to poor weather, but it should provide some of the grandest views of any place on Kauai. Jackson Groves, a hiking enthusiast who has hiked hundreds of stunning trails all over the world, provides an in-depth review of the trail at journeyera.com. Check it out!

17. VISIT ALLERTON GARDENS

The Allerton Botanical Gardens are spread over 80 acres and are home to a diverse range of plant species from around the world. Allerton Gardens was once the private estate of Robert Allerton but was later donated to the National Tropical Botanical Garden to be preserved for the public to enjoy.

Visitors can explore the gardens through guided tours and witness the incredible beauty of nature. The garden boasts several natural wonders, including towering rainforest trees, cascading waterfalls, bamboo groves, and serene pools.

Fans of the original Jurassic Park movie may recognize parts of the garden used in the film.

>>> Book and Save on the Allerton Botanical Gardens Tour

18. EXPLORE THE MAKAUWAHI CAVE

The Makauwahi Cave is part of a 17-acre archeological site, home to many fossils and geological formations that are still being studied. The cave is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm for free guided tours.

19. VISIT THE KAUAI PLANTATION RAILWAY

The Kilohana Plantation features 2.5 miles of railroad over a 100+ acre plantation where bananas, mangos, pineapple, sugarcane, and other crops are grown. Visitors can hop aboard a passenger train for a ride-along informative tour. The tour lasts about 40 minutes making it a great way to break up the day if needing a more relaxing activity.

20. VISIT THE KILAUEA LIGHTHOUSE

The Kilauea Lighthouse sits on a lava rock peninsula at Kilauea Point on the north shore providing a fantastic photo opportunity. The 52-foot-tall lighthouse was constructed in 1913. If you are anywhere along the north shore it’s well worth the stop for the view.

21. KOLOA ZIPLIINE TOUR

If soaring above the valleys and treetops on multiple ziplines sounds like fun then check out Koloa Zipline Tours!

>>>Book a zipline tour here!

22. VISIT QUEEN’S BATH

Queen’s Bath is a natural tide pool located in a lava rock formation on Kauai’s north shore. The pool is surrounded by cliffs and has a stunning ocean view; however, it is important to note that the pool can be dangerous during high tide.

23. WAILUA RIVER KAYAKING & HIKING TOUR

The Wailua River is famous for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and overall serene feeling. On this kayaking and hiking tour, you will experience all that and more as you paddle through the tranquil waters of the river and hike through the rainforest to Secret Falls for a dip in the water!

>>> Wailua River Kayaking & Hiking Tour

24. HANALEI RIVER PADDLE & SNORKEL

Another great Kauai activity is the Hanalei River Paddle and Snorkel tour. This guided tour will take you through the Hanalei River where you will make your way into the Beautiful Hanalei Bay. From here, you will snorkel the clear waters of Bay Reef Lagoon, a habitat for sea turtles and many tropical fish!

25. TAKE A SURFING LESSON

There is no better place in the world to take your first surfing lesson than Hawaii! One of the best places to learn is with a lesson at Hanalei Bay. The waves are generally not as aggressive in the bay, providing a great environment to practice the fundamentals under the care of a professional surfer. Another great location in a more central location is Poipu.

>>>Book a Kauai Surfing Lesson

26. ATV OFFROAD ADVENTURE

If you are looking for another great outdoor activity away from the crowds, check out an ATV tour where you will ride over plantation trails, see famous film set locations, visit the rocky coast at Mahaulepu Beach, and fish for bass on the Waita Reservoir. Be sure to bring a change of clothes because you will get dirty, especially if it recently rained!

>>> ATV Offroad Adventure Tour

27. HIKE MAHA’ULEPU HERITAGE TRAIL

The Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail is a scenic coastal hike on Kauai’s south shore, offering a perfect blend of rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and rich cultural history. Stretching about 4 miles round trip, the trail starts near Shipwreck Beach in Poipu and winds along the coastline, revealing limestone formations, sea caves, and panoramic ocean views.

28. HIKE THE OKOLEHAO TRAIL

The Okolehao Trail is on the North Shore near the town of Hanalei. It’s an in-and-out trail totaling 3 miles. Overall, most of the hike is heavily wooded with plenty of shade. The trail actually continues past the final trail marker and gets much more adventurous.

29. RELAX AT KALAPAKI BEACH

Kalapaki Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island. Located on Kauai’s east coast, this beach is tucked into a little cove about 1,300 feet long.

It is a must-visit for anyone who loves swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and has tree cover just off the beach, making it the perfect spot for an afternoon swim and picnic.

Kalapaki Beach is a great beach for kids and is easily accessible from anywhere on the island. Whether you are staying in a nearby hotel or just visiting for the day, you will love this beach!

30. HIKE THE HO’OPI’I FALLS TRAIL

The Ho’opi’i Falls trail is in the town of Kapa’a and will bring you past two beautiful waterfalls just outside of a quiet residential neighborhood. The total distance is about 2.5 miles.

There is a parking area on Kapahi Road for a few cars, but if full you will need to come back at another time unless you want to risk having your vehicle towed. People often come and go, so just come back 30 minutes or an hour later to see if there is an opening.

31. HIKE SLEEPING GIANT TRAIL

This incredible hike is located on the east side of Kauai, and it offers breathtaking views of the island’s lush greenery and picturesque coastline. The trail itself is around 3 miles long and has some moderate incline.

The hike is named after the mountain range that it traverses, which resembles a sleeping giant when viewed from afar. Along the way, you’ll encounter beautiful vistas, lush forests, and a variety of wildlife. There is also an opportunity to climb to the top of the Sleeping Giant’s head to be rewarded with a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.

One of the best things about the Sleeping Giant Hike is the diversity of the terrain. The trail takes you through dense forests and over rocky terrain, while also showcasing some amazing vistas over the island.

32. HIKE TO HANAKAPI’AI BEACH

Hanakapiai Beach is only accessible by hiking the Kalalau Trail. Black lava rock cliffs are present at the far end of the beach, which drop off into the ocean, creating some dramatic scenery.

Please note that the ocean conditions at Hanakapiai Beach can be dangerous, with strong currents and high surf.

33. GO BIKE RIDING ON KAPAA PATH

One unique way to explore Kauai is to beach hop via bicycle. Kapaa Path is a popular bike trail that spans part of the east coast of Kauai, providing visitors with an unforgettable bicycling experience.

The path is 8 miles long and offers great views of the ocean on one side and mountains on the other. You can rent a bicycle from one of the many rental shops in Kapaa and embark on a scenic journey along the Kapaa Path, stopping at food trucks and beaches along the way!

34. SNORKEL AT ANAHOLA BEACH

Anahola Beach Park is located on the northeast side of the island. It is a perfect place for those seeking a peaceful setting since it is hidden from the main road. You can also try some snorkeling as the reef protects it.

The beach park is supervised by a lifeguard; however, the beach is quite popular among the locals and can get crowded on the weekends.

35. VISIT THE FAMILY-FRIENDLY KEALIA BEACH

This long 3,600-foot beach and its long stretches of golden sand are located just off Hwy 46 near the town of Kapa’a. Kealia Beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike and includes amenities like restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, making it the perfect spot for a family or a picnic.

36. SEE A SUNRISE ON NUKOLII BEACH

If you are searching for a quiet and uncrowded beach, Nukolii is a great option. The beach stretches for two miles, is located just south of Kapaa, and has amazing morning sunrises to enjoy!

Be cautious as the currents, rocks, and surf make this spot less than ideal for swimming most of the year. During winter, the waves can get quite large. During summer, the conditions are better, but even then, swimming and snorkeling can be tricky.

Facilities at Nukolii Beach are pretty basic, with showers and bathrooms that vary in quality and availability. But the picnic tables offer a great spot to relax and enjoy the stunning views, especially during sunrise. It’s a secluded beach, so it is worth the drive from other parts of the island if in search of quiet.

37. VISIT THE MASSIVE BEACH AT POLIHALE STATE PARK

Polihale State Park features the last beach before the rugged Na Pali Coast begins. The entire stretch of beach is 17 miles long which means there will be plenty of room to isolate yourself if you are seeking quiet and solitude.

One thing to note is that it can get very windy and the fine sand on the beach can practically sandblast you on a windy day. Bringing a pair of light pants and a windbreaker jacket could be beneficial.

38. EAT AMAZING FOOD AT FOOD TRUCKS

Just like you must experience a 5-course meal in Italy, you must also experience the food truck scene in Kauai. The island has some AMAZING food truck options which is one of the best ways to eat on such a laid-back island with so many outdoor activities!

Unlike fast food, where one sacrifices quality for speed, the food trucks of Hawaii provide numerous highly-rated options (just look at the Google reviews!) for fairly cheap.

We had some of the most amazing Hawaiian barbecue while bike riding along the coast in Kapa’a. The towns of Wailua, Kapa’a, Lihue, and Koloa are all prime locations for excellent food truck options.

39. GO SHOPPING AT THE SHOPS AT KUKUI’ULA

The shops at Kukui’ula can be found in the town of Koloa. These quaint little shops have several clothing apparel and gift shops, a grocery store/pharmacy, an art gallery, and several restaurants. The shops are a great way to break up the day between activities or provide alternative plans if it happens to rain!

40. INDULGE ON HAWAIIAN SHAVED ICE

This is not your ordinary snow cone with finely crushed ice where most of the syrup collects at the bottom. The thinly shaved ice adds a whole other texture, allowing the ice to absorb the syrup better. If you opt to have ice cream in the center with sweet whipped topping you will be in heaven!

41. EXPERIENCE A HAWAIIAN LUAU

One of the best ways to experience Hawaiian culture is at a Luau gathering. The name Luah translates to “gathering meal”, and is a centuries-old feast and ceremony featuring hula dance and fire knife performances, all capped off with a grand meal!

>>> Reserve and Save on a Luau

42. KAUAI LOCAL TASTES FOOD TOUR

Whether you are a “foodie” or looking a nice meal after a fun day of activities, a Kauai Food tour is a fantastic way to sample local foods with some of the island’s best local chefs. The locations will vary by season.

>>> Reserve a Local Taste Food Tour

Bonus: Lodging Tip!

Many first-time visitors to Kauai are surprised at how long it can take to travel from one side of the island to the other. This is especially true when compared to Oahu, which has a more developed road system than Kauai.

When planning your itinerary, we suggest considering the locations of your planned activities in relation to where you are lodging. Most of Kauai’s hotels, resorts, and Airbnb’s are located on the south and north sides of the island, and getting from one side to the other is not as quick as many think. If you need ideas on where to stay, check out our Kauai lodging guide with our top recommendations for all budgets!

WRAP UP

Kauai offers a very unique vibe over the other islands. If outdoor adventure is what you seek, there is no better island to experience this than Kauai! Still, the island has much more to offer than just outdoor adventure. Kauai is also home to great food, beaches, shopping, and people!