Kauai

Introducing Kauai

Kauai , the fourth largest of the Hawaiian Islands and the oldest of the eight major islands, boasts a 90- mile coastline . Kauai is the tropical heart of Hawaii, brimming with outdoor activities, attractions, and culture.

Kauai, the oldest and northernmost of the Hawaiian Islands, is surrounded by rolling valleys, lush peaks, and jagged cliffs. Centuries of development have shaped tropical rainforests, a network of rivers, and cascading waterfalls. Parts of Kauai are only accessible by helicopter, offering panoramic views of the island's lush interior.

From the emerald cliffs of the Napali Coast to the sweeping Waimea Canyon, Kauai offers scenery unlike any other. Explore the island by land, boat, or helicopter for scenery you've only dreamed of. From Poipu Beach to Hanalei Bay, Kauai boasts 50 miles ( 90 kilometers ) of paradise-like beaches.

Visit the charming towns of Hanapepe and Koloa , where houses are dwarfed by coconut palms. Endless scenery awaits you on the " Hawaii Discovery Island . "

Beyond its stunning natural beauty, Kauai offers a wide variety of outdoor activities. Kayak the Wailua River. Snorkel at Poipu Beach . Hike the trails of Kokee State Park . Even zipline through Kauai's lush valleys. Its laid-back atmosphere, rich culture, and ancient log bridges give this island a truly timeless beauty. Travel to Kauai and discover its irresistible beauty.

Climate and best time to travel

Kauai is a great place to visit any time of year. The average temperature is between 20 and 28 degrees Celsius. The trade winds keep the weather pleasant year-round.

The whale watching season begins in December and ends in May . The best months for whale watching are from January to early April.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 days

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Kauai

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Kauai is the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands and is known for its untouched natural beauty. Historically, it is home to ancient Hawaiian culture, with significant archaeological sites, including ancient temples (heiau) and petroglyphs. Kauai is also renowned for its role in Hollywood films, with scenes from movies like "Jurassic Park" filmed on the island.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Kauai is part of the Hawaiian Islands, located to the northwest of Oahu. It can be reached by plane via Lihue Airport (LIH) from other Hawaiian islands or the mainland U.S. The island is small, so taxis, buses, and rental cars are the primary modes of transportation.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Kauai is an open-air destination with no specific opening hours. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. December to March tends to be wetter, particularly on the north shore.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There are no entrance fees for the island, but certain attractions like Waimea Canyon, state parks, and tours may have admission or activity fees. Tickets for activities like helicopter tours, boat rides, or ziplining can be purchased online or at local tour operators.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It’s advisable to book activities such as helicopter tours, boat trips, or popular hiking permits at least a few days to a week in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (winter months). For most other attractions, booking in advance is not necessary.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Kauai is a small island but offers a lot to explore. A minimum of 3-4 days is recommended to experience the main attractions, including hiking, beaches, and natural wonders like the Waimea Canyon. For a more leisurely experience with time to relax, 5-7 days is ideal.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Must-see highlights include the Napali Coast, Waimea Canyon, Hanalei Bay, the Wailua River, and the Allerton Garden. Kauai’s beaches, like Poipu Beach and Ke’e Beach, are also not to be missed. For a more immersive experience, the Kalalau Trail along the Napali Coast is a popular, albeit challenging, hike.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available for most of the island’s major attractions, including the Waimea Canyon and the Napali Coast. These tours are typically in English, but private tours may offer multilingual guides upon request.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Some of the best viewpoints on Kauai are the Kalalau Lookout in Waimea Canyon, the Hanalei Bay Overlook, and the Ke’e Beach Lookout. These spots offer breathtaking views of the island’s lush landscapes, cliffs, and beaches.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary could include: Day 1: Explore Waimea Canyon and its viewpoints. Day 2: Hike or take a boat tour along the Napali Coast. Day 3: Visit the beaches of the North Shore, including Hanalei Bay, and enjoy kayaking on the Wailua River. Day 4: Relax on Poipu Beach and visit the Allerton Garden.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Kauai does not offer light shows or night visits to most attractions. However, many resorts offer evening activities like hula performances, sunset dinners, and stargazing. The island’s lack of light pollution makes it a great place for astrophotography.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Kauai is less crowded compared to Oahu and Maui. The least crowded times to visit are during the off-peak months (April, May, September, and October). Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, particularly for hiking trails and popular beaches.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Most of Kauai’s popular beaches and state parks have basic facilities like restrooms and picnic areas. Food, water, and rest areas are available at most resorts, and there are many shops, especially in the larger towns like Lihue and Hanalei.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Kauai offers some accessible areas, including certain beach parks and the Kauai Museum in Lihue. However, some attractions, like the Kalalau Trail or the Napali Coast, are challenging due to rough terrain. For elderly or disabled visitors, it’s best to stick to paved areas and accessible beaches.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Most businesses on Kauai accept credit cards and mobile payments, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. However, it’s recommended to carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases in more remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are numerous restaurants and cafes across Kauai, ranging from casual food trucks to fine dining. Notable spots include The Beach House Restaurant (Poipu), Bar Acuda (Hanalei), and the Hanalei Dolphin Restaurant. Many resorts also offer dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available across the island, especially in resorts and local eateries. Halal food options are more limited but can be found in some restaurants, particularly in Lihue and Hanalei.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Popular accommodations near the island’s attractions include the Grand Hyatt Kauai (Poipu), the St. Regis Princeville Resort (Hanalei), and the Kauai Beach Resort (Lihue). There are also smaller inns and vacation rentals throughout the island.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the island of Niihau, which is accessible via boat tours. Additionally, you can explore the Koke’e State Park, which is nearby Waimea Canyon, or take a boat trip to the nearby Na Pali Coast.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are abundant in towns like Hanalei and Lihue. Typical souvenirs include Hawaiian jewelry, handmade crafts, Aloha shirts, and local food products like macadamia nuts and coffee.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The best transportation options after visiting Kauai are flights to other Hawaiian Islands (Maui, Oahu) or ferry services to nearby islands. Rental cars are ideal for exploring Kauai, and taxis or shuttle services are available for airport transfers.