[2023 GUIDE] The 25 Best Things to Do in Kauai | Hawaii

The best things to do in Kauai are some of the best attractions in Hawaii.

Kauai, also known as the “Garden Isle,” is the fourth largest of the Hawaiian Islands. It is a popular vacation destination known for its stunning natural beauty, rugged coastline, tropical rainforests, and beautiful natural beauty beaches. There are many activities to enjoy on Kauai, such as hiking through Waimea Canyon, which is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” or visiting the Na Pali Coast, a beautiful stretch of coastline that can be explored by boat or on foot.

Other popular activities include snorkeling, surfing, and visiting the island’s many beautiful beaches. There are also a variety of cultural and historical attractions on Kauai, such as the Old Koloa Town, which offers a glimpse into the island’s plantation history, and the historic Hanalei Pier, which is a popular spot for fishing and picnicking.

The 25 Best Things to Do in Kuai

1. Hike through Waimea Canyon, known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”

Waimea Canyon, also known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” is a must-see attraction on Kauai. Located on the island’s western side, the canyon is approximately 10 miles long, one mile wide, and more than 3,000 feet deep. The canyon was formed by the erosion of lava rock by the Waimea River and is known for its stunning red and orange rock formations.

Several hiking trails through the canyon, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes, offer breathtaking views of the canyon and the surrounding landscape. In addition to hiking, the canyon is a popular spot for sightseeing and photography. The Waimea Canyon State Park is open daily from 7:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; admission is $5 per vehicle.

2. Explore the rugged beauty of the Na Pali Coast by boat or on foot.

The Na Pali Coast is a beautiful stretch of coastline on the northwest side of Kauai that is known for its rugged beauty and remote location. The coast is only accessible by boat or hiking the Kalalau Trail, which follows the coast for 11 miles. The coast is home to many beautiful beaches, such as Ke’e Beach and Kalalau Beach, as well as sea cliffs, waterfalls, and valleys.

The best way to experience the Na Pali Coast is by taking a boat tour, which allows you to see the coast’s many features from the water. Many boat tours also offer snorkeling and other water activities. If you prefer to explore the coast on foot, the Kalalau Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike that offers stunning views of the coast and the surrounding landscape.

3. Snorkel in crystal clear waters around the island.

Snorkeling is popular on Kauai due to the island’s crystal clear waters and abundant marine life. Some popular snorkeling spots on the island include Tunnels Beach, Poipu Beach, and Anini Beach. Tunnels Beach, located on the island’s north shore, is known for its coral reefs and colorful fish. Poipu Beach, located on the island’s south shore, is known for its calm waters and sea turtles.

Anini Beach, also located on the island’s north shore, is known for its shallow reefs and variety of fish species. When snorkeling, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and to follow basic safety guidelines, such as staying within your depth limits and not touching the coral or marine life. It’s also a good idea to bring sunscreen and to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Snorkeling equipment can usually be rented from beach rental shops or your hotel.

4. Surf the waves at one of Kauai’s many popular surf spots.

Surfing is popular on Kauai due to the island’s excellent waves and year-round warm water temperatures. Some popular surf spots on the island include Hanalei Bay, Waimea Bay, and Pua’ena Point. Hanalei Bay, located on the island’s north shore, is known for its long, slow-breaking waves and is suitable for beginner and intermediate surfers. Waimea Bay, also located on the island’s north shore, is known for its larger, more powerful waves and is suitable for experienced surfers.

Pua’ena Point, located on the island’s south shore, is known for its fast-breaking waves and is suitable for experienced surfers. When surfing on Kauai, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and to follow basic safety guidelines, such as wearing a leash and not surfing alone. It’s also a good idea to check the surf conditions and to only surf within your ability level. Surfing equipment can usually be rented from beach rental shops or your hotel.

5. Relax on one of the island’s many beautiful beaches, such as Poipu Beach or Hanalei Bay.

Kauai is home to many beautiful beaches that offer a variety of activities for visitors. Some of the most popular beaches on the island include Poipu Beach, Hanalei Bay, and Tunnels Beach. Poipu Beach, located on the island’s south shore, is known for its calm waters and is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling.

Hanalei Bay, located on the island’s north shore, is known for its long, crescent-shaped beach and is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Tunnels Beach, also located on the island’s north shore, is known for its coral reefs and is a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. Other famous beaches on the island include Anini Beach, known for its shallow reefs and calm waters, and Kalapaki Beach, known for its wide, sandy beach and excellent surf conditions.

6. Visit Old Koloa Town to learn about the island’s plantation history.

Old Koloa Town is a historic town on the south shore of Kauai that offers a glimpse into the island’s plantation history. The town was founded in the 1850s as a center for the island’s sugar industry and was home to the first sugar mill on Kauai. Today, the town is a charming mix of historic buildings and modern businesses, including art galleries, shops, and restaurants.

Visitors to Old Koloa Town can take a self-guided walking tour of the town’s historic sites, such as the 1835 Waioli Mission House and the 1894 St. Raphael Church. The town is also home to the Old Koloa Sugar Mill, which is now a shopping center that features local products and art. Old Koloa Town is a great place to learn about the island’s history and to experience the local culture.

7. Go fishing from the historic Hanalei Pier.

The Hanalei Pier is a historic pier located in the town of Hanalei on the north shore of Kauai. The pier was built in the late 1800s as a center for the island’s fishing industry and is now a popular spot for fishing and picnicking. The pier is a great place to watch the sunset or to look for whales and dolphins, which can often be seen swimming in the waters around the pier.

The pier is also a popular spot for people to go swimming, although it is advised to be cautious as there are no lifeguards on duty. In addition to fishing and swimming, the pier is also a popular spot for photography and is a great place to take in the views of Hanalei Bay and the surrounding landscape.

8. Play a round of golf at one of Kauai’s many courses.

Golf is a popular activity on Kauai due to the island’s beautiful courses and year-round warm weather. There are several golf courses on the island that offer a variety of challenges for players of all skill levels. Some of the most popular courses on the island include the Princeville Makai Golf Club, the Poipu Bay Golf Course, and the Kauai Lagoons Golf Club.

The Princeville Makai Golf Club, located on the island’s north shore, is a challenging course known for its stunning ocean views. The Poipu Bay Golf Course, located on the island’s south shore, is a championship course known for its beautiful scenery and challenging fairways. The Kauai Lagoons Golf Club, located on the island’s east side, is a resort course known for its wide fairways and beautiful ocean views. Golfers on Kauai can also find rental clubs and lessons at many of the island’s courses.

9. Visit the Kilauea Lighthouse and watch for whales and dolphins.

The Kilauea Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on the north shore of Kauai in the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. The lighthouse was built in 1913 and is now a popular tourist attraction. Visitors to the lighthouse can take a self-guided tour of the grounds, which offer stunning views of the surrounding coastline and the Pacific Ocean.

The lighthouse is also a popular spot for whale and dolphin watching, as these animals can often be seen swimming in the waters around the lighthouse. In addition to the lighthouse, the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is home to various bird species, including Hawaiian seabirds, migratory shorebirds, and endangered nene geese. The refuge is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and admission is $5 per person.

10. Explore the island’s botanical gardens, such as the Allerton Garden or the Limahuli Garden.

Kauai is home to several beautiful botanical gardens that offer a variety of plant species and stunning landscapes. Some of the most famous gardens on the island include the Allerton Garden, the Limahuli Garden, and the McBryde Garden. The Allerton Garden, located on the island’s south shore, is a beautiful garden created in the early 1900s by Robert Allerton and John Gregg Allerton. The garden features a variety of plants, including tropical flowers, palms, and fruit trees, as well as several sculptures and water features.

The Limahuli Garden, located on the island’s north shore, is a botanical garden dedicated to preserving and showcasing the native plants of Hawaii. The garden features a variety of plant species, including native ferns, flowers, and trees. The McBryde Garden, located on the island’s south shore, is a botanical garden known for collecting rare and endangered plants from around the world. Each of these gardens is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Kauai.

11. Attend a traditional Hawaiian luau to experience the island’s culture and cuisine.

Attending a traditional Hawaiian luau is a fun and authentic way to experience the culture and cuisine of Kauai. A luau is a celebration that typically includes traditional Hawaiian food, music, and dance. Many luaus on Kauai also offer activities such as lei making, hula dancing lessons, and coconut husking demonstrations. Some popular luaus on the island include the Smith Family Garden Luau and the Luau Kalamaku.

The Smith Family Garden Luau is a traditional luau that takes place in the gardens of the Smith Family Ranch on the island’s north shore. The luau features a buffet of Hawaiian food, traditional music, dance performances, and activities such as lei-making and hula dancing lessons. The Luau Kalamaku is a luau that takes place at the Kilohana Plantation on the island’s east side. The luau features a buffet of Hawaiian food, traditional music, dance performances, and a fire knife dance show. Attending a luau is a great way to learn about Hawaiian culture and enjoy a unique dining experience on Kauai.

12. Take a helicopter tour of the island to see its stunning natural beauty from the air.

Taking a helicopter tour is a great way to see Kauai’s stunning natural beauty from the air. Helicopter tours offer a unique perspective of the island and allow you to see sights that can’t be accessed by car or on foot. Many helicopter tours on Kauai offer a variety of routes and options, such as tours of the island’s coastlines, waterfalls, and valleys. Some popular helicopter tour companies on the island include Blue Hawaiian Helicopters and Sunshine Helicopters.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters offers various tours ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours and include options such as a tour of the Na Pali Coast and the Waimea Canyon. Sunshine Helicopters offers various tours ranging from 30 minutes to 3 hours and include options such as a tour of the island’s north shore and the Hanapepe Valley. Taking a helicopter tour is a unique and unforgettable way to experience Kauai’s natural beauty.

13. Go horseback riding through the island’s beautiful countryside.

Horseback riding is a popular activity on Kauai that allows visitors to experience the island’s beautiful countryside and natural beauty. Several stables on the island offer guided horseback riding tours through the island’s forests, valleys, and along the coastline. Some popular horseback riding tours on the island include the Princeville Ranch Stables, the Kipu Ranch, and the Silver Falls Ranch.

The Princeville Ranch Stables offer guided horseback riding tours through the forests and along the coastline of the island’s north shore. The Kipu Ranch offers guided horseback riding tours through the forests and along the island’s south shore waterways. The Silver Falls Ranch offers guided horseback riding tours through the forests of the island’s east side. Horseback riding is a great way to experience the beauty of Kauai and to learn about the island’s history and culture.

14. Take a boat tour to see the island’s famous caves and sea caves.

Taking a boat tour to see the island’s famous sea caves is a popular activity on Kauai. The island is home to many sea caves accessible by boat and offers a unique and breathtaking experience. Some popular sea cave boat tours on the island include the Na Pali Coast Boat Tour and the Waimea Canyon Boat Tour. The Na Pali Coast Boat Tour takes visitors along the coast to see the island’s sea caves and other natural features.

The Waimea Canyon Boat Tour takes visitors along the coast to see the island’s sea caves, other natural features, and the Waimea Canyon. These boat tours usually include a variety of amenities, such as snorkeling equipment and refreshments, and offer the opportunity to see various marine life, such as dolphins and whales. Taking a boat tour to see the island’s sea caves is a unique and unforgettable way to experience the beauty of Kauai.

15. Go stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking on one of the island’s many waterways.

Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking are popular activities on Kauai due to the island’s many waterways and beautiful scenery. Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking offer a unique and enjoyable way to explore the island’s coastlines, rivers, and other waterways. Some popular spots for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking on the island include the Hanalei River, the Wailua River, and the Hule’ia River.

The Hanalei River, located on the island’s north shore, is a beautiful river suitable for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. The Wailua River, also located on the island’s north shore, is a popular spot for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking and offers a variety of routes through the island’s forests and valleys. The Hule’ia River, located on the island’s east side, is a beautiful river that is suitable for both stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking and offers a variety of routes through the island’s forests and valleys. Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking equipment can be rented from beach rental shops or your hotel.

16. Visit the Kauai Museum to learn about the island’s history and culture.

The Kauai Museum is located in the town of Lihue on the east side of Kauai that offers a variety of exhibits on the history and culture of the island. The museum features exhibits on the island’s ancient history, including its geology and early inhabitants, and exhibits on its plantation history and modern culture. The museum also has a collection of art and artifacts from the island’s native Hawaiian culture.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibits and events. The Kauai Museum is open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and students, and free for children under 6. The museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Kauai and to explore the island’s rich heritage.

17. Take a tour of National Tropical Botanical Gardens

The National Tropical Botanical Garden is a botanical garden located on the south shore of Kauai that is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the diverse plant life of tropical regions around the world. The garden features a variety of plant species, including palms, tropical flowers, and fruit trees, as well as several rare and endangered species. The garden is home to several different gardens and trails, including the Allerton Garden, the McBryde Garden, and the Limahuli Garden, each of which has its own unique features and plant collections.

In addition to its gardens and trails, the National Tropical Botanical Garden also offers a variety of educational programs and events, such as guided tours, workshops, and lectures. The garden is open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, and admission is $20 for adults, $10 for children, and free for children under 3. The National Tropical Botanical Garden is a beautiful and educational place to explore the diversity of tropical plant life.

18. Visit the Fern Grotto, a beautiful natural amphitheater surrounded by lush foliage.

The Fern Grotto is a popular tourist destination located in the Wailua River State Park on the island of Kauai in Hawaii. The grotto is a natural cave adorned with a variety of lush tropical plants, including ferns, which give it its name.

One of the most popular ways to visit the Fern Grotto is by taking a boat tour of the Wailua River. The boat tour takes visitors up the river to the grotto, where they can get off the boat and explore the cave on foot. The boat tour also includes a stop at Wailua Falls, a beautiful waterfall located just a short distance from the Fern Grotto.

Once you arrive at the Fern Grotto, you can take a leisurely walk through the cave, marveling at the variety of tropical plants adorning the walls and ceiling. The Grotto is also home to a number of birds and other small animals, which can often be seen flitting about among the plants.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Fern Grotto is also an important cultural site for the native Hawaiian people. It is said to be a place of great spiritual significance and has been used for many traditional Hawaiian ceremonies throughout the years.

19. Go scuba diving to see the island’s colorful marine life.

Scuba diving in Kauai is a beautiful way to see the island’s colorful marine life up close. The crystal clear waters of Kauai are home to a wide variety of marine species, including tropical fish, sea turtles, dolphins, and even whales during the winter months.

One of the best places to go scuba diving on Kauai is the Na Pali Coast, known for its rugged coastline and abundant marine life. The coast is home to a number of dive sites that offer the opportunity to see a variety of marine species, including brightly colored tropical fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins and whales.

Another excellent spot for scuba diving in Kauai is Tunnels Beach, known for its expansive coral reefs and diverse marine life. Tunnels Beach is home to a number of dive sites that offer the chance to see a wide variety of marine species, including colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and even octopuses.

20. Visit the Waioli Mission House and learn about the history of Christianity on the island.

The Waioli Mission House is a historic house museum located in the town of Hanalei on the island of Kauai in Hawaii. The house was built in the 1830s by New England missionaries who had come to Hawaii to spread Christianity among the native Hawaiian people.

The Waioli Mission House is a two-story wooden building built in the New England style of architecture, with a gabled roof and clapboard siding. The house was initially constructed as a home for the missionaries and their families, but it was also used as a school and a place of worship.

Today, the Waioli Mission House is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of early missionaries in Hawaii. The house has been restored to its original appearance and is filled with various antique furnishings and artifacts from the early 19th century.

Visitors to the Waioli Mission House can take a guided tour of the house, which includes a visit to the various rooms and a chance to learn about the history of the house and the missionaries who lived there. The house is surrounded by beautiful gardens, which are also open to visitors and offer a peaceful place to relax and take in the beauty of the island.

21. Hike through the Kokee State Park to see the island’s beautiful forests and waterfalls.

Kokee State Park is a 4,345-acre park located on the island of Kauai in Hawaii. The park is situated in the Kokee area of the island, which is known for its rugged, mountainous terrain and beautiful natural surroundings.

Kokee State Park is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, offering various trails that wind through the park’s dense forests and scenic ridges. The park is home to many rare and endangered plant and animal species and is essential for scientific research and conservation efforts.

One of the most popular attractions in Kokee State Park is the Kalalau Lookout, which offers panoramic views of the Kalalau Valley and the Pacific Ocean. The lookout is accessible via a short hike from the park’s main parking area, and it is a popular spot for taking in stunning views and watching the sunset.

In addition to its hiking trails, Kokee State Park also offers a variety of other outdoor activities, including picnicking, birdwatching, and stargazing. The park is also home to many campgrounds, making it a great place to spend the night and enjoy the island’s beauty.

22. Take a boat tour to see the island’s dolphins and other marine life.

A boat tour is a beautiful way to see the island’s dolphins and other marine life up close. Kauai is home to a wide variety of marine species, including dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and a variety of tropical fish.

A number of boat tour companies offer the chance to see dolphins and other marine life on a tour of the island. These tours typically take place on a comfortable, stable boat. They are often guided by knowledgeable naturalists who can provide information about the marine life you will see on tour.

During the tour, you will have the opportunity to see dolphins swimming and playing in the water, often coming up close to the boat. You may also see other marine life, such as whales, sea turtles, and tropical fish.

In addition to the marine life, boat tours of Kauai also offer the chance to see the island’s beautiful coastline and breathtaking natural scenery. The tours often include stops at famous landmarks and attractions, such as the Na Pali Coast and the Fern Grotto.

23. Visit Wailua Falls, a stunning 80-foot waterfall accessible by car.

Wailua Falls is a beautiful waterfall located on the island of Kauai in Hawaii. The falls are located on the Wailua River, which flows through the center of the island, and they are one of the most popular tourist attractions on Kauai.

The Wailua Falls are 80 feet tall and are known for their dramatic, picturesque setting. The falls are surrounded by lush, tropical vegetation, and they are often visible from the road as you drive along the river.

One of the best ways to see Wailua Falls is by taking a boat tour of the Wailua River. The boat tours often include a stop at the falls, where you can get off the boat and take a short walk to the base of the falls. From here, you can get a close-up view of the falls and take some beautiful photos.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Wailua Falls are also an important cultural site for the native Hawaiian people. The falls have long been revered as a place of spiritual significance, and they have been used for traditional Hawaiian ceremonies throughout the years.

24. Go ziplining through the island’s forests and valleys.

Ziplining through the island’s forests and valleys in Kauai is an exciting and thrilling way to experience the beauty of the island. Kauai is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including its lush tropical forests and stunning valleys, and ziplining offers the chance to see these breathtaking landscapes from a unique perspective.

There are a number of zipline companies that offer tours of the island’s forests and valleys. These tours typically include a number of different ziplines that take you through the trees and over the valleys, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The ziplines are typically set up in a series, with each one taking you to a new location. Some ziplines are relatively short and offer a quick thrill, while others are much longer and take you on a long journey through the trees.

25. Visit the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge to see a variety of bird species.

Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful and important wildlife habitat located on the island of Kauai in Hawaii. The refuge is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including many rare and endangered species, and it is an essential place for conservation efforts.

One of the main attractions of Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is the Kilauea Lighthouse, which stands at the tip of the point and offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding landscape. The lighthouse was built in 1913 and is now a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a chance to learn about the history of the area and see some of the island’s most beautiful views.

Conclusion

There are countless things to do in Kauai, from exploring the island’s stunning natural beauty to experiencing its rich culture and history. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, such as hiking, stand-up paddle boarding, boat tours, or cultural activities, such as luaus, museum visits, and cultural workshops, there is something for everyone on Kauai. With so many exciting and diverse things to do, it’s no wonder that Kauai is a popular destination for travelers from around the world.