The smallest and oldest Hawaiian island, Kauai is also the most laid back and rural. Called the Garden Island, it rains nearly every day and is covered in lush rain forests. Head here for quiet beaches and rugged landscapes away from the maddening crowd.
Kauai is remote and the beaches and trails are a distance from each other. Rent a car for your visit to the island.
EAT
Foodland Princeville Get groceries before heading to your rental in Princeville or Hanalei Bay.
Pono Market This small, humble market on the Kuhio Highway in Kapaa has incredibly fresh poké.
Tiki Iniki Tiki-style bar and grill in Princeville with Hawaiian food and fun cocktails.
DRINK
Tahiti Nui Polynesian dive bar and restaurant in Hanalei. Go for happy hour or dinner.
PLAY
Anahola Beach Quiet, locals’ beach on the northeastern face of the island.
Hanalei Bay This natural bay is stunning. Spend an afternoon at the beach and then walk south a few blocks into Hanalei town for happy hour.
Queen’s Bath This natural tide pool in Princeville is beautiful, but can be a treacherous hike and dangerous. Admire the pool versus swimming in it, as this spot has been responsible for dozens of deaths.
Kapaa Town Quiet town on the eastern shore with a handful of shops and restaurants. Visit the the Wailua and Opaekaa falls, both just off the road.
Kalalau Trail Starting from Ha’ena State Park, this 11 mile trail is not for the faint of heart. While difficult, the hike rewards with stunning views of the NaPali coast and is the only way to access its lookouts and hidden beaches, including the beautiful Hanakāpī‘ai Beach.
Kayak Wailua Take a guided kayak tour through the rain forest and down the Wailua River.
Kealia Beach Long beach north of Kaapa Town.
NaPali coastline Kauai’s ancient, jagged coastline is eerily surreal… and familiar (it was featured in Jurassic Park). To appreciate it’s magnificence, take a catamaran day cruise and snorkel trip with Captain Andy’s.
The Sleeping Giant Another hiking trail. However, the Sleeping Giant himself is best viewed from a distance.
Waimea Canyon The “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” is seriously awe-inspiring. Admire the red canyon walls and waterfalls from one of the look-outs, hike through the Waimea Canyon State Park, or take a helicopter tour through the canyon.
STAY
Rent a house or condo in Hanalei or Princeville depending on the size of your group. Both are near world class beaches, restaurants and nightlife.
