Kauai is the Garden Isle – lush + green + Na Pali Coast + most jungle of any Hawaiian island. 5 days perfect.
Top Things to Do in Kauai
1. Na Pali Coast catamaran tour
Cost: $150-250.
4,000-ft cliffs from the sea. Sunset variant best.
2. Waimea Canyon (‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’)
Cost: Free.
10 miles long. Multiple lookouts.
3. Hike Kalalau Trail (Na Pali Coast)
Cost: Free if 1st 2 miles.
2-mile hike to Hanakapi’ai Beach.
4. Helicopter tour over Na Pali (the only way to see most)
Cost: $250-400.
1-hour flight. Most beautiful flight in world.
5. Eat at Bar Acuda or Tahiti Nui
Cost: $60-100/person.
Best Kauai dining.
6. Snorkel Tunnels Beach (north shore)
Cost: Free.
Best snorkel on north shore. Summer only – winter waves dangerous.
7. Drive Highway 56 (Hanalei to Princeville)
Cost: Free.
Most beautiful drive in Hawaii.
8. Kayak the Wailua River to Secret Falls
Cost: $60-90 kayak rental.
4-hour trip.
9. Visit Hanalei Town (Pirates of Caribbean filming)
Cost: Free walking.
Small surfer town. Best food trucks.
10. Walk Hanalei Bay (2-mile beach)
Cost: Free.
Best beach in Hawaii for sunset.
11. Day trip Polihale State Park (longest beach)
Cost: $5.
17 miles of beach. End of road = 4WD required.
12. ATV tour through Kipu Ranch (Jurassic Park, Pirates filming)
Cost: $150-200.
4 hours. Movie set tour.
13. Hike Sleeping Giant Trail
Cost: Free.
1. 8-mile loop. 1,000-ft elevation.
14. Eat shave ice at Hee Fat General Store
Cost: $5-8.
Best Kauai shave ice.
15. Visit Wailua Falls (drive-up)
Cost: Free.
80-ft twin falls. Used in ‘Fantasy Island’ opening.
Practical Tips for Kauai
Sun protection: Caribbean sun is intense. Reef-safe sunscreen, hat, UV shirt essential.
Beaches: All beaches in Caribbean are public by law. Hotels may try to gate access – know your rights.
Tipping: 15-18% at restaurants. All-inclusive often have service charge included. Tip housekeeping $5-10/day.
Hurricane awareness: Travel insurance critical June-November. Watch weather forecasts.
Where to Stay in Kauai
All-inclusive resorts dominate the Caribbean. Boutique hotels in historic centers offer more authentic experience. Book 4-6 months ahead for peak season (December-April).
FAQ
Is Kauai safe for tourists?
Kauai is generally safe in tourist areas. Standard travel precautions apply – watch valuables, avoid going alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
How many days do I need in Kauai?
Kauai deserves at least 5-7 days. Most travelers do all-inclusive resorts that include activities.
What’s the best time to visit Kauai?
December-April is high season (peak weather + peak prices). May-November is hurricane season (lower prices, more risk).
Do I need a passport?
Yes – US passports required for Caribbean travel. Most countries allow visa-free entry for 30-90 days for US passport holders.
What’s the currency?
USD widely accepted. Local currencies also used. Use ATMs for cash. Cards accepted at hotels + resort restaurants.
Related Guides