Kauai is often referred to as the “Garden Isle” of Hawaii. It is one of the least developed, but I think most beautiful. It is known for its lush landscapes, rugged cliffs, stunning beaches, and adventurous outdoor activities. There are some pretty strict rules preventing development, so don’t expect high-rise hotels or condos to be available any time soon.
My husband and I love Kauai; we’ve visited the island 4 times. The lack of development can make it a bit more expensive than some of the other Hawaiian islands, but with careful planning we’ve been able to do it in a reasonably affordable manner. Below is a list of all the top things I recommend checking out when planning a trip to Kauai.
17 Must-See Places in Kauai
1. Go Snorkeling at Tunnels Beach
Tunnels Beach (Makua Beach) is one of the best snorkeling spots in Kauai. It offers crystal-clear waters and an extensive coral reef system full of marine life. I actually got to swim with sea turtles at this beach! Remember, do NOT TOUCH the turtles! It’s illegal.
Nestled on Kauai’s north shore, this beach provides both beginner and experienced snorkelers with the perfect underwater adventure, where you can swim alongside colorful fish, sea turtles, and occasionally spot monk seals. The reef’s intricate tunnels and caverns also create an exciting underwater landscape to explore and help give the beach its name.
It’s also less crowded than some of Kauai’s other beaches, largely due to lack of immediate parking, but keep winding in and out of the small lots by the houses until you get lucky. It’s worth it! Also, the experience here is similar to Ke’e Beach, but it doesn’t require a pre-reserved permit.
2. Wailua Falls Hike
The Wailua Falls hike offers a relatively short yet steep descent to one of Kauai’s most iconic and easy to access waterfalls. This hike is not officially maintained (or even officially open to the public), so hikers should proceed with caution, especially after rain. While the trail can be challenging and muddy, the reward is an up-close view of the stunning 80-foot twin falls cascading into a crystal-clear pool.
The trail itself is only a couple hundred yards, but plan on it being straight down on the way there, and straight up on the way back. For those looking to avoid the steep trek, the falls can also be admired from a viewing area at the top, offering a beautiful perspective without the hike.
3. Kee Beach
Kēʻē Beach is located at the end of Kauai’s northern shore (yes, the road ends). It is a serene and picturesque spot known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.
The beach is perfect for snorkeling, especially during the summer months when the waters are calm. It also marks the starting point of the famous Kalalau Trail, making it a popular destination for hikers. However, visitors should be cautious of strong currents in winter, as conditions can become dangerous.
To visit Kēʻē Beach you now need to make a reservation, and spots are severely limited! The beach is in Hāʻena State Park, which aims to preserve the natural beauty and manage visitor impact. You need to reserve and entry pass as well as a parking pass.
Reservations can be made online and are required even for those not parking on-site, as shuttle services also require a reservation.
4. Kalepa Ridge Trail
After nine trips to Hawaii and countless hikes, I’ve found a new winner for the best trail: the Kalepa Ridge Trail. This hike offers nonstop, jaw-dropping views that I didn’t think could fit into a single trail!
When people think of incredible views of the Napali Coast, they usually think of the Kalalau Trail. While that trail is famous for good reason, getting a permit is tough, and not everyone is up for the 22-mile trek with overnight camping.
On my last visit to Kauai, I couldn’t secure a permit for Kalalau and thought my only option to see the Napali Coast was an expensive (but worthwhile) helicopter tour, then I discovered the Kalepa Ridge Trail! Not only does it offer breathtaking views of the Napali Coast, but it takes you along a ridge where you can see those iconic ridges nearly the entire time. Best of all, no permit is required!
However, it is technically an unmaintained and unofficial trail, so hike it at your own risk!
5. Spend the Day at Hideaway Beach
Every time we go to Kauai we always hit up Hideaway beach. It is one of my absolute favorite beaches in Kauai. I love the small beach vibes. I like that it is super secluded. I also love the snorkeling here! You can expect to see lots of beautiful coral, sea turtles, tons of fish and so much more.
The only downside of this beach is the parking. It is extremely limited. Check out our full guide on how to find parking here.
6. Makaleha Falls Hike
I will be the first to admit the Makaleha Falls hike is not for everyone. I absolutely loved the adventure of hiking and swimming at the falls, but my husband completely hated it!
The trail is loosely marked and you’ll find yourself trudging through mud and crossing streams up to your knees. For me, the unique challenges of this four-mile trek (yes, it’s four miles—despite what some might say) made it exciting and fun, but those same challenges made my husband want to head back to the hotel.
I enjoyed the challenge of carefully navigating to avoid getting lost in the rainforest, but my husband prefers wide, easy trails you can jog on—which this definitely is not. On this trail, you’ll be climbing over rocks, ducking under branches, and constantly checking your direction, so jogging is out of the question!
If you love an adventure and don’t mind getting a little dirty, I highly recommend this waterfall hike in Kauai. Read more of the hike details here.
7. Take a Boat tour of the Napali Coast
A boat tour of the Nā Pali Coast is an unforgettable way to experience Kauai’s most iconic and dramatic coastline. This boat tour is the one I recommend as it also offers opportunities for snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, where you can encounter tropical fish, dolphins, and sea turtles.
For those looking to fully appreciate the Nā Pali Coast’s awe-inspiring landscapes of “spined cliffs”, a boat tour provides an up-close and unique vantage point that is not accessible by land.
8. Cliff Jump at Shipwrecks beach
Shipwrecks Beach should be on everyone’s Kauai itinerary for its dramatic coastline, breathtaking cliffs and excellent cliff jumping. Though the waves here can sometimes be rough making jumping unsafe, it’s an ideal spot for those looking to soak up the rugged beauty of Kauai’s south shore.
For adventure seekers, Shipwrecks Beach also serves as the starting point for the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail, a scenic coastal hike that offers stunning views of limestone cliffs, tide pools, and ancient Hawaiian cultural sites. This trail is perfect for those wanting to explore Kauai’s natural beauty and historical significance, all beginning from this iconic beach.
9. Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail
Hike the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail along Kauai’s southern coastline. This was one of me and my husbands favorite hikes in Kauai. It is moderate level of difficulty hike takes you past ancient archaeological sites, limestone cliffs, and hidden beaches. The views are outstanding the entire way! The hike starts at Shipwrecks beach and stays relatively flat pretty much the entire way.
Read more on the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail here. 10. Explore the Queen’s Bath
I love Kauai’s Queen’s Bath! While it might sound strange to want to visit a spot named after a place where royalty supposedly bathed, it stops feeling odd once you see what it really is.
Formed by waves crashing against lava rock, the water gathers in a natural pool that is about the size of a swimming pool. The water is crystal-clear and perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot Hawaiian day. You can access this stunning pool via a short hike in the Princeville area of Kauai.
A couple of quick warnings: the trail to Queen’s Bath has some challenging sections, and wave conditions can sometimes make the pool unsafe for swimming. Located in the Princeville resort area on the northern coast, it’s about 15 minutes from Hanalei and an hour from the airport. Even if you’re not staying in Princeville, this hidden gem is definitely worth a visit on your way to the Napali Coast. Read more about visiting the Queens Bath here (with hike details and parking limitations).
11. Waimea Canyon Trail
The Waimea Canyon Trail to Wiliwili Po’o (also known as Waipo’o Falls) offers a breathtaking hike through Kauai’s “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” The 3.6-mile round-trip trail takes hikers along the canyon’s rim, offering stunning views of the red and green canyon walls and dramatic vistas below.
The trail ends at the top of the 800-foot Waipo’o Falls, where hikers can enjoy a tranquil pool and a small waterfall before the steep drop-off. While the hike is moderately challenging, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the natural beauty and grandeur of Waimea Canyon.
12. Moloa’a Beach
Considering how popular Kauai is, it’s surprising that some spots remain underrated. Moloa’a Beach is one such hidden gem, despite its incredible beauty and the fact that it was a filming location for the famous TV show Gilligan’s Island.
During my first trip to Kauai and all my research, I never came across this beach! Even now it is still hard to find quality information about it. In my opinion, this only adds to its allure. Every time we’ve visited, we’ve had the place almost entirely to ourselves.
13. Swim at Haena Beach
Hāʻena Beach is one of my favorite spots on Kauai’s northern shore. The view is absolutely breathtaking, with golden sand stretching out in front of towering green cliffs.
What makes it so special is the variety of experiences available. Hāʻena Beach Park is right next to Tunnels Beach, so they share many of the same perks. You’ll find perfect spots for sunbathing, waves, and calm areas with colorful reefs for incredible snorkeling.
14. Hike the Pihea Trail
Looking to soak in the breathtaking views of the famous Napali Coast without tackling an insanely difficult hike? Let’s face it, most of the Napali hikes are intense!
The Pihea Vista Trail offers a much easier option with a high payoff of stunning Napali views. It’s a safer trail compared to others, though there are still some steep ledges to watch out for. Even if you don’t hike the full 1.6 miles, you’ll be treated to incredible views along the way, as they’re visible to your left throughout most of the hike!
15. Explore Kauai’s Waimea Canyon
Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon offers dramatic, sweeping views of red cliffs and deep valleys. It’s a fantastic spot for hiking, with several trails offering different levels of difficulty. This is one of Kauai’s most iconic landmarks, offering both easy viewing points and challenging hikes. It’s a must-visit for any Kauai itinerary.
I note this differently than some of the hikes because some of the best views can be had from the side of the road. You don’t need to worry about doing any hike to enjoy some insane views!
16. Red Dirt Falls
Visit Red Dirt Falls is a unique waterfall flowing over red, iron-rich rocks in Waimea Canyon. This striking sight provides an excellent photo opportunity, especially in contrast with the lush green surroundings. The combination of red soil and cascading water creates a surreal and dramatic landscape that’s perfect for photographers and adventurers.
It’s not that big, but it is directly off the main road so it is easy to access.
17. Donkey Beach
Located on the eastern shore of Kauai, Donkey beach is accessible via a short walk down a paved path from the main road, giving it a hidden-away vibe. While the strong currents make it less ideal for swimming, the beach is great for sunbathing, walking along the shoreline, or simply enjoying the stunning ocean views. It’s a beautiful, off-the-beaten-path spot that offers tranquility away from the more popular beaches.
This beautiful beach is often nearly empty, likely because it requires a 0.4-mile walk from the parking lot and the typically strong waves make swimming unsafe. While it was once known as a nude beach, it’s no longer the go-to spot for that scene. However, if you’re looking for a scenic, peaceful beach to relax and take in the ocean views, this could be the perfect spot for you. Read more on Donkey Beach here.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Kauai
What is the best time to visit Kauai?
Kauai is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from April to October. This season offers sunny weather and ideal conditions for outdoor activities.
How long should I stay in Kauai?
Forever! Jk, but a stay of 5-7 days is ideal for exploring Kauai’s top attractions and enjoying its beaches, hikes, and cultural sites.
Do I need a car to get around Kauai?
Yes, renting a car is highly recommended. Kauai’s attractions are spread out, and public transportation is extremely limited.