10 Bucket List Adventures in Kauai
Known as the “Garden Island”, Kauai is one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Kauai is the oldest Hawaiian island and home to 111 miles of coastline. Its rugged terrain is perfect for adventure seekers, as the island has miles of hiking trails, many waterfalls, and pristine beaches. For the true Kauai experience, you have to add these ten bucket list adventures to your itinerary.
Surrounded by lava rock, Queen’s Bath is an aqua colored tidal pool. The trail to reach Queen’s Bath is about .80 of a mile out and back. It is a bit rough, and we wouldn’t recommend hiking in flip flops. There are not many parking spots, so arrive early! We stayed in Princeville and ended up walking from our Airbnb. It is not safe for swimming during Kauai’s winter season (November-March) or during high tide. There is a warning sign posted as soon as you get down to the pools. We ended up watching the waves crash against the lava rock and seeing lots of sea turtles on our visit.
Tunnels Beach is considered the best beach for snorkeling in Kauai. With its golden sand and lush green backdrop, it is also one of the prettiest. The easiest place to park is at Haena Beach Park. It is a popular beach, and we found the parking lot to be full by 9:30/10:00 each morning. On the way to the beach you will pass through the town of Hanalei. If you forgot to pack snorkel gear, rentals are available at Hanalei Surf Co.
One of our favorite experiences on the island was a doors-off helicopter tour with Jack Harter Helicopters. This one hour scenic tour took us all over the island to see waterfalls, the famous Napali Coast, and Waimea Canyon. The views from the air were incredible. Our pilot was so knowledgeable, and everyone at Jack Harter Helicopters was amazing. We can’t recommend this tour enough.
A one mile canopy of eucalyptus trees lines Maluhia Road, as you drive from Kauai’s North Shore to the South Shore. The sunlight peeking through the trees makes this short drive magical. There aren’t really any spots to pull over for a picture, and it can be a busy road. We snapped a quick picture from the car before fully taking in this famous Kauai sight.
You can’t visit Kauai without getting shave ice at least once (or more), and The Fresh Shave did not disappoint. They use all natural ingredients to create an amazing combination of flavors. Their shop is such a cute place with plenty of outdoor seating. Just watch out for the chickens; they might try to steal a bite.
The Kalalau Trail is by far one of the best ways to see the Napali Coast, and it is one epic adventure in and of itself. In total, the trail is 11 miles (one way). Running along the Napali Coast, the trail ends at Kalalau Beach. If you intend to hike the entire trail, it does require an overnight camping permit. From Haena State Park to Hanakapi’ai Beach is only 2 miles (one way), and does not require a permit.
Our favorite beach on Kauai, Secret Beach is hidden and requires a hike down to it. The trail was very similar to the Queen’s Bath hike-short but kind of rough. You are rewarded with a secluded beach. We only saw a few people when we were there and easily found a spot that made it feel like we had the whole beach to ourselves. You can also see the Kilauea Lighthouse from the shore.
Located on a wildlife reserve, the Kilauea Lighthouse can be visited with a timed entry reservation. Tickets are $10, but tours are currently not available. Reservations can be booked at recreation.gov.
If you’re driving around the island, be on the lookout for the town of Hanapepe. This town inspired scenes in the Disney movie, Lilo and Stitch. There is a mural off the main road naming the town as the “home of Lilo and Stitch”.
Known as “the Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, Waimea Canyon is a colorful gorge. Waimea Canyon State Park offers a scenic drive and scenic lookout points. It is also home to Red Dirt Falls, a series of waterfalls cascading down the red dirt hills.
Bonus: Visit the town of Hanalei
Hanalei was our favorite town in Kauai. Stop by Outpost Coffee for a macadamia nut latte and sip it on the porch. Hanalei Poke featured on the Food Network show “Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives” is the perfect lunch spot for some of the best poke bowls on the island.
Kauai is an amazing island to explore. We hope you are able to experience some of these adventures during your time in Kauai!
