Best Places to Visit on Kauaʻi

Kauaʻi, known as the Garden Isle, is an Island within the Hawaiian archipelago that captivates the senses with its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and local cuisines. If you’re planning a trip to this enchanting island, be sure to explore these best places that showcase the essence of Kauaʻi. 

Before we dive into the must-visit places on Kauaʻi, let’s explore the concept of “pono”. Pono is a Hawaiian term that encompasses balance, harmony, and righteousness. It encourages us to live respectfully. As you explore Kauaʻi, keep this principle in mind, and let it guide your interactions, decisions, and experiences. While visiting, the best way to sustain Hawaiʻi is to support local businesses, respect Hawaiʻi's people and land, and always live with Aloha. Supporting local businesses in Hawai’i helps stimulate the local economy, provides opportunities for more local businesses to thrive, and creates and sustains local jobs.

Local Restaurants

• Hanalei Bread Company: Indulge in freshly baked goods and açai bowls while enjoying the laid-back vibe of Hanalei. 
• The Dolphin: Feast on locally sourced seafood and Pacific Rim cuisine with breathtaking ocean views. 
• Bar Acuda: Savor tapas-style dishes made from local ingredients in a cozy, intimate setting. 
• Hanalei Food Trucks: Variety of food trucks 
• Kapaʻa Food Trucks: Variety of food trucks 

Major Tourist sites

• Nā Pali Coast 

The iconic Nā Pali Coast is a natural wonder, renowned for its breathtaking emerald cliffs, sea caves, and cascading waterfalls. While you can admire its beauty from various viewpoints, embarking on a hike or taking a boat tour provides an unparalleled experience of this coastal masterpiece. 

• Waimea Canyon 

Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, Waimea Canyon is a sight to behold. Its vibrant red and green hues create a stunning contrast against the deep blue sky, offering spectacular photo opportunities and invigorating hiking trails.

• Spouting Horn 

Witness the natural phenomenon of Spouting Horn, where ocean waves rush into a lava tube, producing an impressive blowhole that shoots water into the air. It’s a mesmerizing display of nature’s power and creativity. 

• Limahuli Garden and Preserve 

For those interested in the island’s botanical treasures, Limahuli Garden and Preserve offers an opportunity to explore native plants, cultural artifacts, and captivating views of the north shore. 

• Farmers’ Market 

Hale Halawai Farmers Market in Hanalei: Saturdays from 9am to 12pm. Large market with a mix of clothes, crafts, fresh produce and prepared food. 

Kukuiʻula Kauaʻi Culinary Market in Poʻipū: Wednesday from 3:30pm to 6pm. Outside the shopping center. Range of produce, foodie gifts, hot food stalls and treats.  

Anaina Hou Community Park on North Shore: Saturdays from 9am to 12pm. Smaller, with a mix of fresh produce, clothes, prepared foods and crafts.  

Hikes

• Wailua Falls 

A short hike leads to the magnificent Wailua Falls, where water cascades down a double-tiered drop into a tranquil pool below. The scene is nothing short of magical and has even been featured in various films and TV shows. 

• Kalalau Trail 

The Kalalau Trail offers an exhilarating 11-mile hike along Kauaʻi’s Nā Pali Coast. With stunning cliffs, waterfalls, and hidden beaches. This challenging trail showcases the island’s natural beauty. Be sure to prepare well and secure necessary permits for this unforgettable adventure. 

• Sleeping Giant 

The Sleeping Giant trail is a popular Kauaʻi hike, named after the mountain’s resemblance to a reclining giant. The moderate trek takes you through lush scenery and rewards you with stunning panoramic views from the summit of Nounou Mountain. It’s a must for nature lovers and hikers seeking both a challenge and breathtaking vistas. 

• Waimea Canyon 

Hike through lush forests, rocky landscapes, and stunning viewpoints in the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific. For all types of hikers, these trails offer a memorable experience. Don’t forget water, good shoes, and weather gear. 

Beaches

• Poʻipū Beach Park 

Poʻipū Beach is a family-friendly destination known for its calm waters, making it an ideal place for snorkeling, swimming, and observing sea turtles. The nearby Poʻipū Shopping Village provides shopping and dining options. 

• Hanalei Bay 

Hanalei Bay is a picturesque crescent-shaped beach that exudes serenity and charm. With its sands, gentle waves, and majestic mountains as a backdrop, it’s a perfect sport for swimming, sunbathing, and water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. 

• Tunnels Beach 

Nestled on Kauaʻi’s North Shore, Tunnels Beach is a snorkeler’s haven. Its underwater lava tubes provide exceptional snorkeling opportunities, revealing a world of vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations. Set against lush mountains, it’s a picturesque spot for aquatic exploration and relaxation.  

• Mahaʻulepu Beach 

Secluded on Kauaʻi’s southern coast, Mahaʻulepu Beach boasts golden sands, turquoise waters, and stunning cliffs. A tranquil haven for nature lovers, it offers a serene escape amidst breathtaking views. 

Responsible Travel

Please do your part to be a responsible and respectful guest on the island. Here are a few suggestions:  

• Obey signs such as “no trespassing” and “no parking” 
• Don’t touch, feed or get too close to turtles, monk seals or other wildlife 
• Don’t stop on the road, however good the photo opportunity – always find a safe place to pull over 
• Don’t litter or take any sand or rocks with you 
• Support local businesses

Kauaʻi is a destination that captivates the senses and touches the soul. Its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and the concept of pono combine to create an unforgettable journey. By savoring local cuisine, exploring iconic sites, embarking on hikes, and relaxing on stunning beaches, you’ll find yourself immersed in the spirit of Kaua’i. So go forth with an open heart, support local businesses, be respectful to Hawaiʻi's people and land, and live with Aloha.