A Journey Through Kauaiâs Beauty
When my wife and I first visited Kauai, we knew we were in for an unforgettable adventure. This beautiful island in Hawaii is often called the Garden Isle because of its lush tropical landscape, picturesque beaches, and insane waterfalls. Our trip started in Maui, and from there, we took a one-way flight on Hawaiian Airlines using JetBlue miles. The moment we landed, we felt the seclusion that sets Kauai apart from Oahu and the Big Island. The islandâs untouched beauty makes it one of the oldest and most special places to explore.
Exploring the Natural Wonders
If youâre looking for an island that truly feels like paradise, Kauai is the place to be. The Na Pali Coast is a mesmerizing coastline that can be seen only by hiking, taking a boat tour, or a flight tour. During our 4-day itinerary, we made sure to include this breathtaking location in our bucket list of places to visit. Waimea Canyon was another highlight, offering amazing views that made the entire trip worth it. We also decided to do a portion of the Kalalau Trail, which was both exciting and challenging, but the views were absolutely rewarding.
The Best Way to Travel Around
During our week in Kauai, we hired a campervan, which gave us the flexibility to travel around and camp at different locations each night. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, you can stay in one place and take day trips from there. There are several towns with great recommendations for accommodations, whether you choose to follow in our footsteps or plan your own adventure.
Capturing the Moments
For photographers, Kauai is a dream destination. Every corner of this island feels like a scene from a fantasy movie. We woke up to rainbows over the mountains and ended our days watching the sun dip behind the beaches. If youâre an adventurer or hiker, youâll find endless opportunities to explore.
Making the Most of Four Days
If youâre short on time, four days is the perfect amount to see the highlights of Kauai while still making time to relax. This guide will help you create an itinerary that covers everything without worrying about missing out. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to relive the magic, Kauai will always hold a special place in your hearts forever.
Recommendations for a Memorable Trip
This blog post provides some of the best tips for experiencing Kauai at its finest. From hiring a campervan to discovering the best ways to see the island, weâve included everything to ensure your 4-day itinerary is as seamless as possible. If you follow this rundown of what we did, youâre sure to have a never forget kind of trip.
What You Need to know about Kauai
đ Where is Kauai Located
Kauai is among the eight primary islands of Hawaii. The remaining seven include Niihau, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and Hawaii.
click this link here to view the chart on Google Maps!
â How to Get to Kauai
To fly to Kauai, you will land at Līhuʻe Airport (LIH), the main airport on the island. If you are travelling from certain locations, you may find a direct flight straight to Lihue. However, for those coming from places without a direct route, the best option is to catch a connecting flight from Honolulu on Oahu. The journey from Oahu to Lihue is short, taking only 25 minutes.
Depending on your departure city, your travel time may vary, but reaching Kauai is easy and convenient. Once you land at LÄ«huÊ»e Airport, youâll be ready to start your island adventure. With the airportâs central location, you can quickly access the best spots on the island and begin your 4-day itinerary without delay.
How many days do I need to visit Kauai
When planning your trip to Kauai, itâs important to consider how much time youâll need to fully enjoy the island. I recommend allowing at least 3 days minimum, but if you can spare 4 days, that would be ideal. This will give you enough time to visit the must-see sites without feeling rushed. From breathtaking beaches to scenic hikes, a 4-day itinerary ensures you get the best experience.
If you have the flexibility, a full week is even better, as it allows you to slow down and explore at a relaxed pace. However, with 4 days, you can still cover the islandâs highlights efficiently while enjoying a mix of adventure and relaxation.
đ Getting around Kauai
The best way to explore the beautiful island of Kauai is to rent a car. The islandâs landscapes are stunning, but getting to some of the most beautiful destinations can be hard without your own vehicle. Public transportation options are limited, and it is nearly impossible to get around efficiently without one. When visiting Kauai, having a rental gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace and reach locations that would otherwise be difficult to access.
I always use Rentalcars.com when finding a rental because it helps save money by comparing different rental car companies. If youâre planning a 4-day itinerary, itâs best to book your rental car in advance to ensure you get the best price. Whether you choose a standard car or a 4WD, both will allow you to visit the islandâs certain destinations with ease. A 4WD is not always required, but it can be useful for rougher terrains.
While there is a bus service that extends across the island from Kekaha to Hanalei, it is not the most efficient choice for short trips. The Kauai Bus is an option, but it can take significantly more time, which isnât ideal when you only have 4 days to explore. Instead, booking a rental car will be worth it, giving you flexibility and helping you make the most of your trip.
If you want to maximize your experience, make sure to check Discover Cars, which searches multiple providers to help you find the best deal. Having a car allows you to see Kauai on your terms, giving you the chance to enjoy the islandâs best sights without restrictions.
đ Van Life on Kauai
A great way to go travelling around Kauai is to hire a campervan. It gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace while staying close to nature. Instead of booking hotels, you can camp at different campsites, waking up to beautiful ocean views and stunning landscapes. This makes the trip more flexible and allows you to experience Kauai in a unique way.
This is exactly what my friends and I did, and we found it to be an amazing adventure. Driving through the island, stopping at scenic spots, and cooking meals under the stars made the trip even more special. We had the chance to see places we might have missed if we had stayed in one location.
If you enjoy outdoor adventures, van life on Kauai is such a rewarding experience. There are plenty of campsites to choose from, whether you prefer staying near the beach or deep in nature. Plus, having a campervan lets you explore hidden gems and avoid crowded tourist areas.
We had a lot of fun living in a campervan for a few days, and it made our Kauai trip unforgettable. If you love adventure, flexibility, and being close to nature, this is definitely one of the best ways to experience the island.
Where to camp on Kauai
During our week experiencing van-life in Kauai, we ended up staying in the same campground for the majority of the time. This wasnât what we had intended, but because we didnât research and book campgrounds in advance, we had limited options. I highly recommend planning ahead and securing permits early so you can enjoy camping in different places each night without any stress.
One of the best spots we stayed at was Kumu Camp, which is located right on the beach front. This area was a popular 4Ă4 driving beach, and in the middle of the night, we were woken up by vehicles with bright lights and music blasting. While it was a unique experience, choosing quieter campgrounds might be a better option for a peaceful nightâs rest.
There are 9 campgrounds spread around Kauai altogether, and all need to be reserved in advance. Out of these, 4 are county-run campgrounds, 2 are privately run, and 3 are state-run. To secure your spot, visit the appropriate websites based on the map key, which shows where each campground is located. The colour-coded system makes it easy to see which areas are county, state, or privately run.
đ Where to Stay on Kauai (if not camping)
Choosing the right place to stay is key to making the most of your 4 days in Kauai. I highly recommend splitting your stay between the north side and the south or west side of the island to explore different landscapes. Since there is no road that connects the north to the west, youâll need to drive around clockwise. The trip from Hanalei to Kekaha takes about 1.5 hours without traffic, so staying in multiple locations can save time.
đïž Staying on the North Shore
The North Shore is one of the most beautiful areas in Kauai, with picturesque beaches, lush greenery, and a mix of luxury and budget accommodations. However, it is also the rainiest part of the island, so keep that in mind when planning your trip. If you love hiking, the Kalalau Trail is located here, but it’s far from the Waimea Canyon and Kokeâe State Park.
If youâre looking for a budget-friendly option, The Sandpiper Village is a great choice. The property offers value for two people, with a pool and walking distance to the beach. Another good option is the Top Floor Condo in Paniolo Condominium Complex, which is comfortable and can fit up to four people. For a larger space, The Cliffs at Princeville is ideal, offering a full kitchen and two bathrooms.
For a special occasion, consider staying at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, a 5-star luxury resort that is the definition of LUXURY. It features direct beach access, a swim-up bar, a spa, and golf courses, making it one of the most exclusive stays on the island.
đ Staying on the South Shore
The South Shore is the sunniest part of Kauai, making it a great location for those who prefer consistent weather. Poipu and Koloa offer some of the best luxury resorts and budget vacation rentals.
For an affordable stay, Prince Kuhio Poipu Studio is a great deal for a small vacation rental near the beach. If youâre looking for something more upscale, the Sheraton Kauai Resort Villas offers studios and villas near Kiahuna Beach, with access to a fitness center, restaurant, bar, and pool.
If you want a truly luxurious stay, Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection is TO DIE FOR! This resort features 4 pools, a spa, a fitness center, and 2 restaurants, making it one of the best places to stay in Poipu.
đ Staying on the West Side
The West Side of Kauai offers a more remote experience, with fewer hotels and more vacation rentals. This area is the closest you can stay to Waimea Canyon State Park and Kokeâe State Park, unless you choose to camp. Many Na Pali Coast boat tours also depart from this region.
For larger groups, Hale Kekaha Palms Ocean View is a plantation-style home that can accommodate up to 5 people. Another cozy option is Hawaiian Charm Vacation Rental, which features a lanai and a full kitchen for preparing a home-cooked meal. If you prefer being by the beach, Waimea Beach Cottage is within walking distance to a black sand beach and the Waimea pier, making it a great spot for a family vacation.
đ Staying on the East Side
If you’re looking for an affordable and convenient stay, the East Side of Kauai is a great option. Areas like Kapa’a, Wailua, and Lihue offer hotels that are just a 30-minute drive from both the North Shore and the South Shore. While this area doesn’t have the most scenic beaches, it is home to several waterfalls and is a great base if you want to stay in one place for your 4-day itinerary.
For a balance of comfort and value, the Kauai Coast Resort at the Beach Boy offers direct beach access, a pool, and a restaurant. Another good pick is Kauai Shores Hotel, an oceanfront hotel with two pools and a beachfront dining experience.
đ Best time of year to visit
Kauai is beautiful all-year-round, but if you plan on swimming or snorkelling at the beaches, it’s best to avoid Winter. During this season, the ocean can get wild, with strong swells that make the waters extremely dangerous.
For fewer crowds, the best time to visit is between September and December or April and June. The dry season lasts from April to October, while the rainy season is from November to March. Planning your trip during these months ensures better weather and a more enjoyable experience.
đČ Leave No Trace
The seven Leave No Trace rules are essential to know to help preserve places like Hawaii’s beauty.
To refresh your memory on the seven Leave No Trace rules, visit the LNT website.
Tips for Visiting Kauai
To make the most of your 4 days in Kauai, be sure to book activities ahead of time, especially a Na Pali Boat Tour or a Helicopter Tour. These are some of the most exciting ways to see the island, and they can sell out quickly. You can find more amazing experiences on Viator. Also, keep in mind that restaurants and grocery stores in Kauai can be expensive, so if you want to save money, consider cooking some of your meals. A great way to do this is by stopping at Walmart in Lihue, which is cheaper than other stores. Since itâs near the airport, make it your first stop after you land to grab anything youâll need for your trip.
One unique thing about Kauai is the lot of roosters found all across the island. These birds are very vocal, and the chances of hearing them from your hotel are high. If youâre a light sleeper, I highly recommend bringing a white noise travel device to block out the sound. I use one on all my trips, but it was especially crucial in Kauai to cover the constant crowing.
Not all accommodations in Kauai have air conditioning, so if this is a necessity for you, make sure to read the list of amenities closely before booking your stay. Some places rely on ocean breezes, but if you prefer a cooler room, double-check before confirming your reservation.
6 Things You Need to Pack for 4 Days in Kauai
If youâre planning a trip to Kauai, packing the right essentials can make your experience more enjoyable. Since beaches can be hard to reach, and weather conditions can change quickly, youâll want to be well-prepared. From hiking sandals to a rain jacket, here are six important things to bring on your 4-day adventure.
One of the best ways to explore Kauaiâs beautiful beaches is by foot, but many of them require walking on rough terrain or even climbing down a rope. Leave your flip-flops behind and bring hiking sandals instead. They will give you better support and wonât hold you back when exploring places like Na Pali Coast. Another essential item is a dry bag, perfect for keeping your valuables safe from rains or while on a boat cruise. The Marchway waterproof dry bag comes in fun colors and a range of sizes from 5 liters to 40 liters. Iâve used the 10-liter teal version for years, and it has never failed me.
For those planning to spend time at the beach outside of check-in or check-out, a beach towel is a must. The best towels for travel are light, dry quickly, and take up little space in your suitcase. If youâre planning to go snorkeling, bring your own snorkel gear so you can fully enjoy the incredible marine life in Anini Beach and Poipu Beach. While most boat tours provide gear to borrow, having a set that fits you better is a huge advantage. Iâve used my snorkel set for multiple Hawaii getaways, and I highly recommend it.
Kauai is known for its loud roosters, which can be heard all over the island. If youâre a light sleeper, pack a small but powerful white noise device to help mask the sound. Trust me, this will make a difference! Lastly, donât forget a rain jacket. Kauai is one of the rainiest places on earth, and sudden showers can happen anytime. Having a rain jacket will ensure that the weather doesnât stop you from making the best of your 4 days.
The Ultimate Kauai 4 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Kauaiâs North Shore
My wife and I stayed at Marriottâs Kauai Beach Club Hotel during our trip, and it was a great property that wasnât too expensive. It was located right on the beach, just 10 minutes from the airport, which made it super convenient after we landed. Since we wanted to see as much of Kauai as possible, we rented a car like we did in Maui, and Iâd highly recommend doing the same to make the most of your time on the island.
After arriving late in the afternoon, we decided to take it easy and spent the evening at Kalapaki Beach, which was right in front of our hotel. The live entertainment offered by Marriott made for a relaxing start to our adventure.
Morning: Breakfast and Exploring Hanalei
We kicked off our first day with a delicious breakfast at Hanalei Bread Company, a local favorite. After eating, we took a walk to Hanalei Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the North Shore of Kauai. The long beach is perfect for a morning stroll, with lush green mountains surrounding the coastline. It’s also known for its pier, a great spot to sit and watch surfers catching waves. Since the beach is easy to reach, it can get crowded, so visiting early is the best option.
Hideaway Beach and Snorkeling at Anini Beach
Next, we hiked down to Hideaway Beach Viewpoint, one of the most beautiful and favorite spots of our 4 days in Kauai. The climb down was steep, requiring the use of a rope, so wearing supportive shoes is a must. If you’re planning to explore unique beaches like this, I suggest bringing walking sandals, as some of the best places are not always easy to get to.
After Hideaway Beach, we continued our adventure at Anini Beach, a popular snorkeling spot thanks to its wide reef. We made sure to visit during low tide, as the beach can become narrow when the high tide comes in. Donât forget to pack your snorkeling gearâmy go-to set for Hawaii worked perfectly here!
Scenic Views at Hanalei Valley Lookout
One of the quickest yet most worthwhile stops on the North Shore is the Hanalei Valley Lookout. The view overlooks the taro fields, Hanalei River, and the surrounding mountains. Itâs conveniently located on Highway 560, across from a shopping center in Princeville. Since we were driving past it multiple times during our 4-day itinerary, we made sure to stop when the weather was clear to get the best view.
Secret Beach and Kilauea Lighthouse
To end our afternoon, we visited Secret Beach (Kauapea Beach), a quiet, wide beach surrounded by rocks. From this beach, we caught a glimpse of the Kilauea Lighthouse, a historic landmark on the island. The walk to the beach takes about 10 minutes through a wooded path, but the effort is worth it for the peaceful atmosphere.
We finished our day by visiting the Kilauea Lighthouse, which sits at Kilauea Point. It’s open Wednesday-Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM, but even if you donât make it in time to enter, itâs still worth visiting for the viewpoint. Watching the sunset over the ocean from this spot was a perfect way to wrap up our first day.
Day 2: Adventure on the Water and Relaxing on the Beach
Start day 2 early by heading to Port Allen Marina Centre, where you can choose between a Na Pali Boat tour or a helicopter sight-seeing flight over the coastline. Seeing the Na Pali Coast is one of the best things to do in Kauai, so donât miss this experience.
If you prefer to see the island from above, youâll need to drive back to Lihue to meet your guide for an air tour. The Doors-Off Air Helicopter tour offers a 50-minute flight over stunning locations like Mt. Waialeale, Waimea Canyon State Park, Hanapepe Valley Lookout, and Manawaiopuna Falls, which is famous from Jurassic Park. Itâs an unforgettable experience that you may regret forever if you skip it!
Morning: Exploring the Na Pali Coast
If you choose to join a boat tour, youâll spend the morning exploring and photographing the Na Pali Coast from the water. This must-do activity lets you witness some of the most insane views of the island. my friends and I took a particular tour that included snorkelling with Hawaiian sea turtles, and we were lucky enough to spot dolphins along the way! All snorkelling gear was provided, and we were served a breakfast or lunch, depending on whether we took a morning or afternoon tour.
If youâre deciding between times, I highly recommend choosing a morning tour since the dolphins tend to be more active early in the day. Donât forget your cameraâthe views of the coastline from the water are absolutely breathtaking!
Afternoon: Relaxing at Poipu Beach
After an adventure of a lifetime, spend the afternoon relaxing at Poipu Beach. This beach is one of the most beautiful in Hawaii and was my favorite during our trip. It offers plenty of space, clean sand, and an abundance of marine wildlife. If you enjoy snorkelling, this is the perfect place to do it, as the bay is protected due to its crescent shape.
Keep an eye out for monk seals, as they are common here. If you stick around until the late evening, youâll be treated to spectacular sunsets over the ocean.
Evening: Dinner in Wailua
To end your day, grab dinner at one of Wailuaâs best restaurants before heading to your campsite or accommodation. Some great choices include:
Lava Lava Beach Club â A relaxed beachfront spot with fresh seafood and tropical drinks.
Napali Brewing Co. â A great place to try local craft beer.
Oasis on the Beach â A fine dining experience with incredible ocean views.
Bonus: A Quiet Walk at Anahola Beach
If you want a peaceful start to your morning, take a relaxing walk on Anahola Beach, a quiet stretch of sand on the East side of Kauai. We went at 10 AM before our flight tour, and we were the only people on the beach. It has a parking lot located right next to the shore, so itâs easily accessible. Youâll also find bathrooms and picnic tables nearby.
Explore Wailua River State Park and Waterfalls
A visit to Wailua River State Park is another must-see during your 4 days in Kauai. The first stop offers two viewpointsâone looking at Opaeka Falls and the other across the street, showing the Wailua River and surrounding mountains.
For a more active adventure, you can kayak along the Wailua River and take the Secret Falls Hiking Tour. If you love waterfalls, donât forget to check out Wailua Falls, another beautiful sight on your itinerary. Since thereâs no road connecting the waterfall viewpoints, youâll need to drive back through Wailua to get there. Thereâs a small parking lot, and you can walk up to the railing for a great view of the falls.
Bucket List Activity: Flying Over Kauai
One of the bucket list activities in Hawaii is taking a flight over Kauai. Itâs the only way to see some parts of the Garden Isle. You can choose between a helicopter tour or an airplane tour.
A helicopter tour lets you get closer to the natural wonders of Kauai, such as Manawaiopuna Falls, Waimea Canyon, and the Na Pali Coast. On the other hand, an airplane tour offers longer flight times and cheaper options.
During our trip, we opted for an airplane tour because it was cheaper than a helicopter tour, and we got a longer 60-minute flight. It was also a private tour, just us two and the pilot, which made it a more personal experience. Since we canât get enough of Kauai, weâre already planning to do a helicopter tour on our next trip!
If youâre prone to motion sickness, take medicine beforehand, as the ride can be bumpy in both the helicopter and airplane.
Relaxing at Mahaulepu Beach
After your flight tour, unwind at Mahaulepu Beach. This beach has soft sand and is surrounded by dark rocks and tidal pools. If youâre looking for a quiet, off-the-beaten-path destination, this is the perfect spot.
We first spotted Mahaulepu Beach during our airplane tour, and our pilot provided us with directions to get there.
To reach Mahaulepu Beach:
Drive along Poipu Road, passing the Hyatt Resort Poipu.
At the split, youâll see a horse stableâtake the left road.
Park as close as possible, as the dirt road gets bumpy.
Walk 5-10 minutes along the trail to reach the beach.
There are multiple sections of Mahaulepu Beach. The first area has soft sand, while the second offers scenic views of surrounding mountains and large dark rocks.
Day 3: Hiking, Scenic Views, and a Sunset Cruise
Your day 3 adventure in Kauai will be packed with breathtaking hikes, stunning coastal views, and an unforgettable boat cruise along the Na Pali Coast. Start the morning with a challenging but rewarding hike on the Kalalau Trail, explore the Waimea Canyon State Park, and finish the day with a relaxing sunset cruise.
Morning: Hiking the Kalalau Trail
Begin the day early at the Kalalau Trail, one of the most famous hikes in Kauai. This trail is located in the NÄpali Coast State Wilderness Park and starts at Keâe Beach, leading all the way to Kalalau Beach. If you’re an experienced hiker, you can attempt the entire 22-mile (35.9 km) trail, but keep in mind it requires a permit for an overnight backcountry camping trip.
For a day hike, you can choose to hike only to HanakÄpÄ«Ê»ai Beach or go further to HanakÄpÄ«Ê»ai Waterfall. This part of the trail is gorgeous, offering scenic ocean views and lush green cliffs. Make sure to book a pass in advance, as permits are limited per day. You can walk, bike, or take a shuttle to the entry point.
Midday: Enjoying Anini Beach and Lunch in Hanalei
After the hike, relax at Anini Beach Park, a great place to unwind and cool off in the water. If you’re into snorkelling, bring your gear as the sealife here is stunning. We even saw a seal lazing on the shore, which was exciting! Remember to keep a safe distance and respect wildlife, including turtles and sea lions.
For lunch, head over to Hanalei and enjoy a well-deserved meal. Stop by Kalypso Bar & Grill, Tahiti Nui, or Bar Acuda to experience some delicious local food. After all the hiking, youâve definitely earned a good meal!
Afternoon: Exploring Waimea Canyon State Park
Next, drive to Waimea Canyon State Park, also called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. The driving distance from Hanalei is approx. 30-45 minutes. The canyon is famous for its red and green canyon walls, river, and waterfalls.
Take your time stopping at the viewpoints along highway 550. The Waipoâo Falls Viewpoint is one of the best, offering a spectacular view of the waterfall cascading into the canyon. If you’re up for another adventure, you can take the 3.4-mile Canyon Trail that leads to the bottom of the canyon, but be prepared for a 3-hour round-trip hike. The trail can be muddy, so I recommend wearing boots for better traction.
Evening: Na Pali Coast Sunset Boat Cruise
For the perfect end to the day, embark on a Na Pali Coast Sunset Boat Tour. The boat cruise departs from Eleele, on the south coast of Kauai, and offers incredible views of the 4,000-foot cliffs along the Na Pali Coast.
If you’re visiting during summer, a boat tour is a great way to see this stunning coastline. You can choose from different tours, ranging from 4-6 hours depending on the experience you’re looking for. Be sure to book in advance so you donât miss out!
Some of the best options include:
Deluxe Na Pali Morning Snorkel Tour â This early cruise lets you explore the coastline, enjoy breakfast, and still have plenty of time for more activities later in the day.
Na Pali Coast Super Raft Adventure â A 4.5-hour adventure that takes you inside sea caves and offers a chance to see dolphins, whales, turtles, and other marine life.
Na Pali Coast Sunset Boat Tour â A catamaran cruise that includes dinner and drinks while watching the sunset over the ocean.
Alternative Plan for Winter Visitors
If you’re visiting in winter, the ocean can be rough, making boat tours unsafe. Instead, consider spending time relaxing on the beaches or hiking in Waimea Canyon and Kokeâe State Park. The cooler weather is perfect for exploring trails and enjoying Kauaiâs stunning landscapes.
Bonus: Support Local Farmers at Waimea Canyon
Before leaving Waimea Canyon, stop by the main lookout point, where local farmers sell delicious produce like mangos, star-fruits, and papayas. Buying from them is a great way to support locals and enjoy fresh, tropical fruits during your trip.
Day 3 is packed with adventure, from hiking the Kalalau Trail to taking in breathtaking views at Waimea Canyon and ending with a sunset cruise along the Na Pali Coast. Make sure to plan ahead, bring your snacks, water, and hiking boots, and most importantlyâenjoy every moment of this incredible journey!
Day 4: Scenic Hikes, Relaxing Beaches, and Hidden Gems
Your fourth day in Kauai will be a mix of incredible views, beach hopping, and exploring hidden spots. Unlike the previous days, Day 4 will be less intense, giving you time to soak in the beauty of the island. Start with a peaceful morning, followed by an exciting hike in Kokeâe State Park, and end the day by relaxing at some of the most beautiful beaches in Hanalei Bay.
Morning: Coffee and a Slow Start in Hanalei
Begin the day with a stop at Hanalei Coffee Roasters, where you can enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee alongside daily pastries, fruit bowls, and bagels. If youâre a coffee lover, this is a must-visit spot before heading out for the dayâs adventures.
Hiking in Kokeâe State Park
Once you’ve had breakfast, drive towards Kokeâe State Park, where you’ll find some of the most incredible views of the Na Pali Coast. The long road through the park takes you to different viewpoints, each offering a stunning look at mountains, valleys, and the ocean.
If youâre up for a hiking adventure, I highly recommend the Awaâawapuhi Trail. This 6.2-mile trail is difficult but rewarding, leading you to a breathtaking ridge overlooking the ocean and surrounding mountains. Be prepared for muddy conditions, and make sure to wear hiking boots for better grip.
Na Pali Coast Viewpoints
While in Kokeâe State Park, stop at some of the best Na Pali Coast viewpoints. The first stop is Kalalau Lookout, where the Kalepa Ridge Trail starts. This viewpoint offers an expansive look at the Na Pali cliffs meeting the ocean.
Further along the mountain road, youâll reach Puâu O Kila Lookout, where you can begin the Pihea Trail. Even if you donât complete the entire hike, walking a part of the trail will allow you to experience more scenic angles of the coast.
Midday: Snorkelling at Tunnels Beach
After your morning of hiking, head back towards Hanalei Bay and visit Tunnels Beach (also known as MÄkua Beach). This cool spot is perfect for snorkelling, with incredible underwater rock formations to explore. my friends and I spent hours here, completely mesmerized by the vibrant marine life.
Parking near Tunnels Beach can be tricky, so I suggest parking at Haâena Beach and walking from there. The walk along the beach is much more lovely than taking the roadside path.
đ€ż Tip: If you donât have your own snorkelling gear, you can hire equipment from Snorkel Bobâs Kauai Store, located in Kapaa and Poipu.
Afternoon: Exploring Hanalei and Queens Bath
After snorkelling, take some time to wander around Hanalei, a charming town with a relaxed vibe. Stop by Hanalei Pier, take some beautiful photos, and enjoy the laid-back energy of this historic town.
If youâre up for a short hike, visit Queens Bath, a natural ocean tidal pool carved into the lava rock coastline. If the water is calm, you can even take a dip and enjoy this unique hidden gem.
Late Afternoon: A Final Stop at Wailua Falls
Before ending your trip, take a scenic 1-hour drive towards Lihue to visit Wailua Falls. This waterfall is one of the easiest to access, as the viewpoint is right next to the parking lot. If you prefer, you could also visit this spot on Day 2, depending on how your itinerary plays out.
Napali Coast: The Ultimate Adventure
No trip to Kauai is complete without seeing the Napali Coast State Park. This iconic landscape was one of the settings for Jurassic Park, and as soon as you arrive, it will look familiar.
My wife and I were determined to hike this famous trail, but after making it three-quarters (3/4) of the way, park rangers informed us that we couldnât continue due to flooding from heavy rainfall the night before.
This hike is challenging, especially the first quarter mile, which includes steep uphill climbing. If you plan on attempting it, make sure to bring solid hiking shoes, plenty of water, and a couple of granola bars to stay energized. We saw a few hikers in flip-flops, struggling in the mud and wet rocksâplease donât make that mistake! You donât need the most expensive gear; even a $60 pair of hiking shoes will do the job.
Alternative Ways to See the Napali Coast
If youâre not up for a long hike, there are other ways to experience the cliffs of Napali. You can take a boat tour or helicopter ride to get a different perspective.
If you choose a helicopter, keep in mind that it usually takes four people, and those sitting in the rear may have blocked views compared to those in the front. Itâs something to be aware of when booking your flight.
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Conclusion
Kauai is a truly beautiful island, and if you ever get the chance to visit, make sure to soak in every single moment. It is one of those destinations that you will never forget. Even 5 years later, I still remember it like a dreamâone of the most stunning places I have ever visited in my entire life.
In a nutshell, Kauai is a special place, home to my favorite trail among all the ones I have hiked in Hawaii. I wish I had an extra day there, but I know I would have said the same even if I did. If you plan to visit, make sure to include it in your itinerary and explore at least three must-see places.
If you want to read more about my recent trip to Hawaiiâs Big Island, you can check it out. As always, thanks for reading, and I hope your adventure to Kauai is just as magical!