4th of July

Question

This will be our 5th time on the island coming up. Is it me or are things pretty quiet for the 4th of July? We are staying on the North Shore and our kids are asking what we are doing. Any recommendations? I appreciate any suggestions!

Answer

Yes, Kauai tends to be quieter for the 4th of July compared to larger islands like Oahu or Maui. While there are some public celebrations, the North Shore is more residential and laid-back, so you may notice fewer big events or fireworks displays.

That said, there are still ways to enjoy the holiday and make it special for your kids:

Beach picnic: Pack a picnic and head to a nearby North Shore beach such as Hanalei Bay or Tunnels Beach. Many families gather on the sand to enjoy the ocean, play games, and watch any small local fireworks that might be visible.
Community events: Some towns like Kapaa and Lihue host small community parades or celebrations in the morning and afternoon. These can include live music, food booths, and kid-friendly activities.
Sunset cruises: Consider booking a sunset sail or boat tour. Even if it’s not 4th-of-July specific, it can feel festive and is a great way to enjoy the coastline.

If you don’t mind driving a bit, you can also check out events elsewhere on the island:

Fireworks in Lihue or Poipu – some resorts and public areas hold small fireworks shows in the evening.
Local festivals – check Kauai County Parks & Recreation closer to the date for updated listings of any public 4th of July events.
Hiking or nature outing – make it a special day by exploring a family-friendly trail in Waimea Canyon or along the North Shore, then end with a beach swim.

Since it’s a quieter holiday on Kauai, planning a mix of beach, picnic, and possibly a local parade or fireworks will give your kids a memorable 4th of July experience without the crowds.

4th of July

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