Kauaʻi Travel Bucket List
As you well know if you find yourself here, Kauaʻi has so many incredible sights, sounds, and experiences to offer visitors–from sparkling blue waters and waterfall-streaked mountains to incredible coastlines, foliage, marine life and food. Whatever your adventure level is, you’ll be sure to find something worth checking out on our bucket list below.
Kauaʻi Photography by Kit
See the Nāpali Coast
There are so many things that make the Garden Isle such a special place to visit, but in our biased opinion, the Nāpali Coast is #1. By land or sea, the views are spectacular. If you are more of a land lover, the Kalalau Trail is for you. Be sure to carve out at least a day to take on the trail. If you plan to hike to the first stopping point (2 miles in) at Hanakāpī‘ai Beach, a half-day should do it. The 11-mile hike is not as daunting as it seems, as you can just hike the first couple of miles and still enjoy gorgeous views and of course Hanakāpī‘ai Falls. Camping permits are available for those looking to break up the trek over the course of a day or so. Those who prefer their views from the sea can hop aboard any of our tours for a completely unforgettable experience. The undeveloped coastline with waves crashing along the shore is truly breathtaking, and no…it NEVER gets old.
Kauaʻi Photographer – Kit
Try our poke and shave ice
Trying out the local fare is always a great travel tip. Here, it’s fresh fish and our signature “Hawaiian snow cone,” shave ice. Poke is raw fish cut into cubes and served over rice. From wasabi poke to the classic shoyu, you will not find a more delicious and fresh poke bowl as you will here on Kauaʻi. Fun fact: Poke means to cut in Hawaiian, referring to how the fish is served. Some of our favorite poke bowl spots include Koloa Fish Market, Pono Market, and The Fish Express.
Snorkel at Poʻipū Beach
World-famous Poʻipū Beach Park on Kauaʻi’s south side is family-friendly with two lifeguard towers, and an easily swimmable sand bottom beach (with reef nearby for snorkeling.) With minimal effort, you can pop in the water and see a wide range of colorful tropical fish just steps from the shore. BONUS: This is a very common place to spot a Hawaiian monk seal and/or the Hawaiian green sea turtle. Remember to keep your distance from our endangered marine life, however. Encroaching on their natural habitat can be dangerous for them and for you.
Kayak to Secret Falls
Nothing says Hawaiian bucket list like standing at the base of a waterfall in the middle of the jungle. Secret Falls on Kauaʻi’s eastside is a fantastic day excursion to enjoy the Garden Isle by both land and water. Either with a tour group, or by renting a kayak at the base of the Wailua River, you will have the means to get to the trail head. While making your way down the river, you’ll pass Kamokila Village, (one of the many movie landmarks here on Kauaʻi,) best known from the movie Outbreak. After a 1.5 mile hike, you will welcome a refreshing plunge into the pool at the bottom of Secret Falls–a 120 ft waterfall surrounded by tropical foliage. Talk about a scene out of a movie!
Visit Hanalei Bay
There is nothing quite like Kauaʻi’s lush north shore, and Hanalei Bay is its hub. Past the fields of taro and winding river beneath a charming one-lane bridge into Hanalei town, is Hanalei Bay. Rich with history and family fun, Hanalei Bay is a must while on Kauaʻi. The backdrop of the “Puff the Magic Dragon” mountain range envelopes the bay as surfers and paddle boarders enjoying the crystal clear water. The iconic Hanalei Pier began as a means of trade between the islands, and now is the hangout of local fishermen and families enjoying a day at the pier. You’ll see plenty of keiki jumping off the pier into the pristine water below. Will you take the plunge?
See Waimea Canyon
The Grand Canyon of the Pacific is larger than life. 4,000 feet above sea level up the winding road to Waimea Canyon State Park and Kōkeʻe State Park boasts several lookouts to enjoy views of the canyon. The main lookout for Waimea Canyon is clearly marked and well worth the small donation to view. See our previous blog about a day in the mountains for more tips on lookouts and activities.
Attend a luau
As stereotypical as it may seem, attending a luau is a great way for visitors to familiarize themselves with Polynesian culture and food. Hula dancers and fire spinners alongside an authentically Hawaiian meal is a surefire way to enjoy your evening here on Kauaʻi. The music and chants associated with the oral and physical storytelling in Hawaiian culture is fascinating and very beautiful…plus, the food is ONO! Check out some top picks for luaus here.
