ULTIMATE 3-DAY KAUAI ITINERARY

Kauai, also known as the “Garden Isle,” is arguably the most stunning of the Hawaiian Islands. With so much to see, how can you fit it all into a short trip? While 5-7 days is ideal, you can experience much of Kauai in just 3 days with the right itinerary.

Our 3-Day Kauai Itinerary

The Best Time to Visit Kauai

Kauai experiences heavy rainfall from November to early April. For the best weather, visit between April and October, when it’s drier and sunnier. Peak tourist season runs from June to August, so visit during May, September, or October for fewer crowds and more affordable accommodations.

Day 1- South Side

Our 3-day itinerary begins on the south shore of Kauai but feel free to switch days around if it fits your plans better.

Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon is nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”. Once you arrive you will see why as it is one of the more visually distinct areas of Kauai with its deep red and brown canyon walls covered in lush greenery.

One could visit Waimea Canyon only for the scenic drive and lookouts and come away with a sense of awe; however, if feeling a little more adventurous and time permitting, we recommend the Waipo’o Falls hike!

This in-and-out hike is just over 3.5 miles and should be doable for those in reasonable physical condition. The hike should take around 2 hours at a moderate pace.

The trailhead is located at the Pu’u Hinahina parking lot and winds through a lush forest that provides some shade along the way. As you journey up the trail, you will be treated to two breathtaking viewpoints of Waimea Canyon.

One thing to note about the hike is that you will not actually see Waipo’o Falls since the trail takes you to the top of the falls. Don’t consider this a letdown though, because the canyon views are amazing! Plus, if you have your heart set on seeing a beautiful waterfall up close, that is reserved for another day in this itinerary!

>>> Directions to Waimea Canyon State Park

>>> Directions to Waipo’o Falls Trailhead

Na Pali Coast Sunset Cruise

The Na Pali Coast is one of the most profound sites in the world and seeing it is a must! The towering coastline cliffs plunging into the Pacific, the majestic waterfalls, and the secluded beaches provided some of the most dramatic scenery we have ever seen!

You will sail out of Port Allen on a spacious catamaran and be served a meal as you cruise down the beautiful Na Pali Coast.

One reason a sunset boat tour is so high on our list of things to do in Kauai is that by the time one reaches the most climatic scenery, it will be the perfect early golden hour lighting for fantastic photos.

On the way back to the port, you will be treated to a beautiful sunset reflecting off the water while enjoying a glass of wine!

>>> Book a Napali Coast Sunset Cruise Here!

Day 2 – East Side and North Shore

For the second day, we suggest going to the town of Kapaa on the east coast for a coastal bike ride and then to the North Shore to visit a few picturesque sights.

Bicycle riding on Kapaa Path

Bike riding along the 8-mile Kapaa Path was one of the most relaxing activities for us in Kauai. The bike path extends from south Kapaa to Donkey Beach, providing a breezy, beautiful, and relaxing adventure down the eastern coast of Kauai. Along the way, you will pass Waipouli Beach, Kapaa Beach, and Kealia Beach before ending at Donkey Beach.

There are a few bike rental shops along the path, but we used Hele on Kauai, which rents traditional bikes, electric bikes, tandem bikes, and trikes.

We recommend bringing a swimsuit and snorkeling gear in a backpack to catch some ocean time at the various beaches along the way.

Kapaa also has a great food truck scene for some cheap and delicious eats along the way!

Kauai also has a great food truck scene, so keep them in mind along the way for some cheap and delicious eats!

Visit the Kilauea Lighthouse

Located on Kauai’s North Shore, the Kilauea Lighthouse offers fantastic photo opportunities and a quick, easy stop. Built in 1913, this lighthouse once guided ships and is now part of the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge.

The Kilauea Lighthouse was manned until 1974 when it became automated. It is now maintained by the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge.

Hanalei Bay

Hanalei Bay is located on the North Shore, just west of Princeville. The round-shaped bay is over two miles long, with most of it a serene beach. Visitors to the bay will also be blessed with beautiful views of the jungle-covered mountains behind the beach.

Given the length of the beach, there should be plenty of room to stake your claim. The surf at Hanalei Bay is generally calm, but there can be some modest waves for surfing and bodyboarding. Overall, Hanalei Bay is a prime location to relax and get some solid beach time.

>>> Directions to Hanalei Bay

Queen’s Bath

Queen’s Bath is a tide pool nestled in a lava rock formation just north of Princeville. When the surf is calm, visitors can enjoy a swim in the crystal clear turquoise waters; however, as a rule of thumb, the surf here is usually high from October through May, so if visiting during this time of the year, it is recommended to stay out of the water. With that said, even if you have no plans to swim, this little gem of Kauai is worth a visit!

Getting to Queen’s Bath requires a short quarter-mile hike from the trailhead located at 3797 Punahele Rd. in Princeville.

To get there, walk down the tree-covered path that begins at the trailhead until reaching the rocky shoreline. There will be an inlet almost directly in front when exiting the tree line, but this is not Queen’s Bath. Instead, turn left and walk about 600 feet to the tide pool.

>>> Directions to Queen’s Bath

Day 3 – Ke’e Beach and Hanakapiai Falls

Day 3 will consist of a half-day hike to the 300-foot Hanakapiai Falls and time at Ke’e Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii!

The Kalalau trailhead, which takes you to Hanakapiai Falls, begins at Ke’e Beach, so both activities begin in the same place. One could do either first, but most choose to start the hike early and unwind on the beach afterward.

>>> Directions to Kalalau Trailhead

Ke’e Beach

Of all the beaches in Kauai, Ke’e Beach was our favorite as it was the most beautiful and relaxing! Situated in Ha’ena State Park, the views of the cliffs down the Na Pali coastline are simply amazing, especially at sunset!

When the surf is calm, the water will be crystal clear, providing some good snorkeling opportunities as well. The beach also has bathrooms and fountains, making it a great place for families.

One thing to keep in mind is getting to Ke’e Beach can be a trek, especially if arriving from the south side of the island, which will take upwards of an hour and a half. To get to Ke’e Beach once arriving in Princeville, take Hwy 560/Kuhio Hwy until it dead ends at Ke’e Beach.

Also, due to limited parking and the increased popularity of the beach and hiking the Kalalau Trail, a permit is required to park at the beach.

>>> Permits can be acquired in advance here.

Hanakapiai Falls hike

The Hanakapiai Falls hike is part of the 11-mile (17.7 km) Kalalau Trail that ventures deep into Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park.

Most day hikers only hike the 4 miles (6.4 km) to Hanakapiai Falls before returning the way they came, making the total trip 8 miles (12.8 km). Those who venture past the falls are typically overnight campers and come equipped for the journey.

The hike begins at Ke’e Beach and immediately ascends to an elevated trail looking down the Na Pali Coast with an incredible view of Hanakapiai Beach below.

If the full 8-mile hike is a bit much, we recommend tackling the first 2 miles of the trail for the spectacular views down the coastline!

Once you reach Hanakapiai Beach, the trail will divert inland from the Kalalau Trail and follow the Hanakapiai Stream to the falls. You will have to cross an ankle-deep stream soon after turning inland, so be prepared to get your feet wet.

See our in-depth guide on hiking Hanakapiai Falls for more information on this great hike!

Where to Stay on Kauai

When visiting Kauai, choosing the best area to stay depends on your preferences. The North Shore (Princeville, Hanalei) offers lush landscapes, secluded beaches, and luxury resorts.

The South Shore (Poipu) is perfect for families with its sunny weather, great beaches, and outdoor activities.

The East Coast (Kapaa, Wailua) is centrally located, offering easy access to the entire island and affordable accommodations. For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, the West Side (Waimea, Hanapepe) gives you access to Waimea Canyon and a quieter atmosphere.

Tip: Kauai’s highway system is not as well developed as Oahu or Maui, so getting from one side of the island to the other will take much longer. Plan accordingly!

Where to Eat on Kauai

Kauai offers diverse dining experiences, from fresh seafood to local Hawaiian cuisine. Here are some recommendations:

Duke’s Kauai in Lihue for fish and tropical cocktails.
Bar Acuda in Hanalei serves tapas with local ingredients.
The Beach House in Poipu offers stunning sunset views with Pacific Rim cuisine.
Hamura Saimin in Lihue offers authentic Hawaiian noodles.
Koloa Fish Market is a must-visit for fresh poke.
Jojo’s Shave Ice in Waimea is perfect for a sweet treat.
Finally, don’t skip the food trucks! Every major town will have them, but we found some that were fantastic in Kapaa and Waimea.

Kauai Packing List

Water shoes – Kauai’s beaches can get very rocky. Water shoes will help protect the bottom of your feet.
Hiking shoes – Hiking Shoes or boots with good tread is important. The trails can get very muddy and slippery after a rain.
Rain jacket – Rain can appear quickly in Kauai
Reusable water bottle – Help keep Kauai clean with a reusable water bottle
Dry bag for water activities – We use Earth Pak dry bags. Highly recommend!
Portable phone charger – Great to have for the long flight to Kauai
Camera or GoPro – You will probably want to record your epic journey to Kauai.
Daypack for hikes – A regular backpack will be fine for day hikes.
Reef-safe Sunscreen – Hawaii banned any sunscreen containing oxybenzone or octinoxate. Ensure any sunscreen you purchase before your trip is free of these reef-harming chemicals. Any sunscreen sold in Hawaii should be safe.
Light sweater or jacket – Evenings can be cool and breezy. Best to pack a light sweater or jacket.

Other Things to do on Kauai

Kauai is a hiker’s paradise with the Napali Coast and Waimea Canyon at the heart of it all.

Read our Best Hikes on Kauai where we cover the island’s most beautiful trails.

Also, consider your options for Scuba diving. Even if you are not a certified diver you can still take an introductory dive with a certified dive master.

Read our Five Amazing Dives on Kauai post to learn more!

If you want us to throw everything at you then read our 42 Awesome Things to do in Kauai!

FAQ

What are the top beaches to visit on Kauai?

Poipu Beach for swimming, Tunnels Beach for snorkeling, and Hanalei Bay for beautiful views. Polihale Beach offers more solitude and stunning sunsets.

What is the weather like in Kauai throughout the year?

Kauai has a tropical climate, with temperatures typically ranging between 70-85°F. The rainy season runs from November to March, while April to October is drier.

How expensive is a vacation to Kauai?

Kauai can be expensive, especially for accommodations and activities. Budget around $150-$300 per day for mid-range options, though costs can vary depending on your preferences.

See our Where to Stay on Kauai guide for lodging ideas for all budgets!

Do you need to rent a car to explore Kauai?

Yes, renting a car is the best way to explore Kauai’s hidden beaches, hiking trails, and scenic routes, as public transportation is limited.

Read our post on Renting a Car in Hawaii for tips and what car rental service we recommend.

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