29 Things to do in Kauai
Planning a trip to Kauai? Here are the best things to do in Kauai right now!
Kauai isn’t too big. You can easily drive from one side to the other in a few hours.
1. Take a flight over the Na Paoli coast
Take a Sightseeing Flight over Napali Coast & Waimea Canyon. Fly over Kauai’s breathtaking scenery on the 65-Minute Grande Deluxe Air Tour. This helicopter tour offers an unmatched aerial view of Waimea Canyon, the Nā Pali Coast, and several hidden waterfalls. You’ll also learn about the island’s rich history and mythical lore from expert guides while taking in the diverse landscapes of this stunning island.
If you want a comprehensive view of Kauai’s beauty in a short time, this helicopter tour is ideal. It provides access to locations that are impossible to reach on foot.
Other popular helicopter tours available:
Kauai 65-Minute Grande Deluxe Air Tour
2. Mount Waialeale
Kauai’s Mount Waialeale holds the title of the “wettest spot on Earth,” with an annual rainfall of over 450 inches. This unique location offers an otherworldly landscape and an intriguing stop for adventure seekers looking to explore Kauai’s lush and verdant side.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day, thrilling adventures, or cultural experiences, Kauai has it all. Here are the 20 best things to do in Kauai to help you make the most of your visit.
3. Luau Kalamaku
This Luau Kalamaku is unlike anything you have ever seen before. Set in the historic Kilohana Plantation, Luau Kalamaku is an unforgettable cultural experience. Watch mesmerizing Hula dancers, dazzling fire poi ball twirlers, and awe-inspiring traditional fire knife dancers as they perform against the backdrop of rich Hawaiian history.
Enjoy a lavish buffet filled with local delicacies while being immersed in vivid storytelling that captures the spirit of Hawaii. If there’s one cultural event you can’t miss in Kauai, it’s this spectacular luau.
Make sure you book your tickets in advance because these shows are likely to sell out. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the show for free.
4. Go Snorkeling!
Book your tour here – Na Pali Morning Snorkel Tour
If you aren’t interested in snorkeling at the Na Pali coast there are so many other snorkeling tours I recommend in Kauai. This one is amazing because the tour limits the group size to only 6 people, making it amazing to avoid the crowds.
Head for Kauai’s pristine south shore reefs to see tropical fish, sea urchins, and sea mammals. You may also see a turtle nesting on the beach or a Hawaiian monk seal basking in the sun.
Read more about Kauai’s Ultimate Guided Shore Snorkeling Adventure here.
5. Explore the giant Moreton Bay fig trees in Allerton Gardens
Tour the Allerton Garden, one of Kauai’s most beautiful botanical gardens. The garden features a mix of tropical plants, fountains, and towering banyan trees. Many parts of the garden have been used as filming locations, including scenes from Jurassic Park.
The garden’s iconic banyan trees, famously featured in movies like Jurassic Park, create a magical and serene environment, perfect for leisurely strolls.
Visitors can explore this botanical masterpiece on a Small Group Tour, which provides an intimate experience of the garden’s stunning features, including hidden pools, sculptures, and vibrant tropical plants. The tour offers fascinating insights into the garden’s history and its role in conservation efforts. Whether you’re a plant enthusiast or a film buff, Allerton Garden promises an unforgettable journey through one of Kauai’s most beautiful settings.
Book the Allerton Garden Small Group Tour.
You can’t miss the tall curving roots of the Moreton Bay fig trees made famous in the movie Jurassic Park. Book your tour to see the world famous fig tree roots here.
6. Wailua River Kayak to Secret Falls
Paddle down the tranquil Wailua River, one of Kauai’s only navigable rivers, on a Wailua River Kayak Tour. Along the way, stop at the Fern Grotto and Secret Falls, both hidden gems surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. This tour combines adventure with serene beauty, perfect for those wanting to explore Kauai’s interior.
This tour is perfect for nature lovers who want a mix of kayaking and hiking. You’ll discover peaceful spots that are off the beaten path, far from the island’s more crowded attractions. Book your spot here.
Book your tour: Wailua River Kayak & Hiking Tour to Secret Falls
7. Rainbow Eucalyptus tree at Keahua Arboretum
Visit the Keahua Arboretum to see the mesmerizing Rainbow Eucalyptus Trees. The trees’ multicolored bark appears almost painted, with hues of green, red, orange, and blue, making it a must-see for nature lovers and photographers.
These colorful trees are a rare sight and provide a magical experience that’s perfect for photos and peaceful walks in nature.
9. Kalalau beach
Kalalau Beach is one of the most secluded beaches in Kauai. Kalalau Valley from a boat on a sunny day, Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii
10. Kalalau Trail, Nā Pali Coast State Park
The Kalalau Trail is one of Kauai’s most iconic hiking routes, offering a challenging yet rewarding trek along the Nā Pali Coast. The 11-mile trail takes you through dramatic ridges, valleys, and coastal cliffs, ending at Kalalau Beach. Be prepared for steep climbs and breathtaking views.
For experienced hikers, this trail is a must. It offers unparalleled views of the Nā Pali Coast and provides a true sense of adventure.
11. Koloa Zipline
You can’t take a trip to Kauai without trying one of the most epic adventures the island offers. Ziplining is one of the top tourist attractions in Kauai. I highly recommend booking this zipline tour. You won’t regret it. Check out the almost 2,000 reviews here.
For thrill-seekers, the Koloa Zipline offers an exhilarating ride over Kauai’s stunning landscapes. This course features eight lines, with some of the longest ziplines in Hawaii, allowing you to soar over treetops, valleys, and rivers. Perfect for families and adrenaline junkies alike.
Book the Koloa Zipline Tour12. Visit the Red Dirt Waterfall
Located in Waimea Canyon State Park is the red dirt waterfall. A cascading waterfall of fresh water over the iron-rich basalt rock on the west side of the island of Kauai.
13. WAIPO’O FALLS
Waipoo Falls drops a whopping 800 feet to the bottom of Waimea Canyon.
14. Tunnels Beach
One of the most beautiful beaches in Kauai. If you get lucky you can even see a Monk Seal at Tunnels Beach.
15. Poipu Beach
Located on Kauai’s sunny south shore, Poipu Beach is one of the island’s most popular and family-friendly spots. The calm waters make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling, and you may even spot endangered Hawaiian monk seals resting on the shore.
Poipu Beach is perfect for families, providing safe swimming conditions, nearby amenities, and opportunities to see wildlife.
16. Manawaiopuna Falls in Kauai
Famous as the iconic waterfall scene from Jurassic Park, Manawaiopuna Falls is a breathtaking sight you can only fully experience from a helicopter tour. This exclusive view offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for nature and film lovers alike, combining cinematic history with Kauai’s stunning natural beauty.
17. Poipu beach Monk seal
An endangered Hawaiian Monk Seal rests on Poipu beach at sunset in Kauai, Hawaii
18. Enjoy the View at Hanalei Valley Lookout
Overlooking the taro fields of Hanalei Valley, the Hanalei Valley Lookout offers one of the most stunning panoramic views on the island. The green valley, flanked by mountains and waterfalls, creates a picture-perfect scene.
This is a must-stop for photographers and nature lovers. The view is easily accessible and offers a quick yet breathtaking stop.
19. Explore Ke’e Beach
One of the top things to do in Haena. Ke’e Beach on the Na Pali Coast of Kauai.
20. Hike the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail
21. Visit Glass Beach in Port Allen
Visit Glass Beach, a unique shore covered in colorful sea glass created by years of waves tumbling discarded glass. Located in Port Allen, this beach offers a fascinating mix of natural and man-made beauty.
22. Fern Grotto
Take a Full-Day Tour with Fern Grotto River Cruise along the Wailua River to visit the famous Fern Grotto, a natural lava rock cave covered in lush ferns. The cruise includes Hawaiian music and storytelling along the way.
Kauai: Full-Day Tour with Fern Grotto River Cruise
23. Spouting Horn Blowhole
Watch the Spouting Horn Blowhole in action, where ocean waves force water through a lava tube, creating a powerful and dramatic spout of water. It’s especially impressive at high tide. This natural wonder is one of Kauai’s most famous and entertaining sights, perfect for a quick stop during your day of sightseeing.
24. Visit Secret Beach
Also known as Kauapea Beach, Secret Beach is a secluded spot on the north shore. Its golden sands stretch for miles, providing a peaceful and private beach experience. If you’re looking for a quieter beach to escape the crowds, Secret Beach is the perfect place to relax and unwind.
25. Visit Hanalei
Hanalei Pier, Hanalei.
26. Explore Secret beach (Kauapea Beach)
Secret Beach, officially known as Kauapea Beach, is a beach in Kalihiway and Kīlauea on the north shore of the island of Kauai, Hawaii. The beach is known for its size, seclusion, and beauty.
27. The Kilauea Lighthouse
Kilauea Wildlife Refuge
28. Maniniholo Dry Cave
29. Pua Poa Beach
What is your favorite thing to do in Kauai? Let us know in the comments below!