29 Best Things to Do on Kauai, Hawaii
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Kauai is one of those places that just sticks with you. It’s lush, wild, peaceful—and honestly feels like stepping into a real-life postcard! If you’re looking for the best things to do on Kauai, I’ve got you covered. I’ve been lucky enough to visit Kauai a couple of times now, and I swear I fall more in love with it every time.
Fun fact: about 97% of Kauai is undeveloped land, and a big chunk of it is only accessible by foot, boat, or air. So if you’re someone who loves adventure, nature, or just being somewhere that feels untouched—you’re going to be obsessed!
Whether you’re planning your first trip or heading back for more, I’ve rounded up some of the best things to do on Kauai so you can make the most of your time on this magical island.
If you’re planning to hop around the islands, don’t miss my 2 Weeks in Hawaii Island Hopping Guide to help you make the most of your time across Maui, Oahu, and beyond.
A quick note before we dive in: I’ve organized this post by region—North Shore, South Shore, East Side, and West Side—to help you get a better sense of where things are on the island. For each section, I’ve listed a few of the main towns or areas.
This isn’t an all-inclusive list of every spot in each region, but it should help give you a better idea of where things are located, especially if you’re more familiar with town names than directions.
Things to Do on Kauai’s West Side (Waimea)
1. Na Pali Coast Raft Tour
This may just be THE best thing to do on Kauai (okay maybe tied with a helicopter tour!)! The Na Pali Coast is easily one of the most iconic spots on the island—and seeing it by raft? Game changer. From the moment we zipped out on the water, it was non-stop fun. Sea caves, waterfalls, dolphins, turtles, snorkeling, and even getting to take a little dip.
This 6-hour tour flies by, thanks to the incredible views and hilarious guides. Ours had us cracking up the entire time and even played photographer so we could live in the moment and still leave with great pics.
Pro tip: Book the 7 AM tour! It’s early, but you’ll beat the crowds and still have the afternoon free.
This does book up, so be sure to book in advance!
2. Waimea Canyon State Park
Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon is a must for any Kauai itinerary. The colors here are unreal—deep reds, greens, and earthy oranges stretch for miles. You can hike, hit up scenic overlooks, or just do a drive-through if you’re not up for too much walking (no judgment).
Before you go, download the Shaka Guide app. It’s a GPS-guided audio tour that works offline and makes the whole drive 10x more interesting. It gives you cool stories, local tips, and even tells you which stops are worth pulling over for.
3. Kokeʻe State Park
If you’re already heading up to Waimea Canyon, you might as well keep driving a little farther—Kokeʻe State Park is just beyond it, and it’s 100% worth the extra miles. This area feels even more peaceful and secluded, with cooler temps, misty forest vibes, and some of the best views on the island (especially if the clouds cooperate).
You’ll find tons of hiking trails up here, ranging from chill strolls to more intense treks like Awaʻawapuhi or the Canyon Trail to Waipo’o Falls. Even if you’re not big on hiking, there are several scenic lookouts that don’t require much effort. And the drive alone? Stunning.
There’s also a small museum and lodge with a restaurant if you’re craving a bite or just want to warm up with a coffee.
Pro tip: Bring layers! It’s noticeably cooler up here compared to the coast, especially if you’re catching sunrise or hanging around in the evening.
Things to Do on Kauai’s North Shore (Princeville + Hanalei)
4. Hanalei Valley Lookout
You have to stop here—even if it’s just for a few minutes. This roadside viewpoint gives you a stunning look at the lush taro fields, mountains, and river winding through Hanalei Valley. It’s one of those places that doesn’t feel real. Quick stop, big reward.
5. Waiʻoli Huiʻia Church
This sweet little green church in Hanalei is the oldest functioning church on Kauai, and it’s full of character. Built in the 1830s, it still hosts services today. Whether or not you’re into history, it’s a peaceful and photogenic stop that gives you a glimpse of local life.
6. Tunnels Beach (Makua Beach)
Tunnels is one of the best snorkeling spots on Kauai’s North Shore. The beach is gorgeous, with a backdrop of those dramatic mountains you picture when you think of Kauai.
Heads up: Parking here is tricky. We couldn’t find a spot at the actual Tunnels lot, so we ended up parking at Haena Beach Park and walking over. Even that took a little patience, but once you’re in the water surrounded by colorful fish and coral, you’ll forget all about it. Bring your snorkel gear and take your time exploring!
7. Explore Hanalei Town
I love this town so much! Hanalei is hands-down one of the most charming spots on Kauai’s North Shore. It’s got that laid-back surf town vibe with the cutest local shops, great restaurants, and so much character packed into one little area.
We grabbed poke from Hanalei Poke, which hit the spot after a morning at the beach. And you have to stop at Wishing Well Shave Ice—they’ve got açaí bowls, smoothies, coffee, and more. We went with smoothies and they came in the cutest mason jar glasses that you get to keep. Such a fun (and practical) little souvenir to bring home!
8. Relax at Hanalei Bay
Just steps from town is Hanalei Bay, and trust me, you’ll want to carve out time to just chill here. The beach is spacious, the waves are mellow enough for a casual swim, and the views? Unreal.
You’re surrounded by lush green mountains, especially beautiful in the late afternoon when the light hits just right. Bring a towel, kick back, and soak it in—Hanalei Beach is one of the best places to relax on Kauai.
And if you want to get active, there’s a Hanalei Bay kayak and snorkel tour!
9. Queen’s Bath
Just about 10 minutes from Hanalei, you’ll find Queen’s Bath—a natural tidal pool that honestly feels like Mother Nature’s version of an infinity pool. It’s surrounded by rugged volcanic rock and lush jungle, and when the conditions are right, it’s absolutely stunning.
The hike to get there is short but steep—around 0.5 miles—and it’s often muddy and slippery, so wear sturdy shoes and be prepared to get a little dirty.
Once you make it down, it feels like you’ve discovered a secret paradise. You can take a dip, wander around the tide pools, and just take in those dramatic views. BUT—and this is a big one—check AllTrails before you go. The trail and pool area are sometimes closed due to unsafe conditions, and you really want to make sure it’s safe before heading out.
With anything that involves the ocean, always check current conditions. Don’t just rely on blog posts or TikToks—Kauai’s waters can be dangerous, especially in winter months. Trust your gut and the signs posted.
10. Kīlauea Point Lighthouse
If you’re looking for things to do on Kauai’s North Shore, don’t skip Kīlauea Point Lighthouse. It’s perched on a stunning cliffside with panoramic views of the Pacific that are absolutely worth the stop. Think rugged coastline, powerful waves, and maybe even a few seabird sightings.
Heads up—it’s closed Sunday through Tuesday, so just make sure to check hours before you go. It’s close to spots like Queen’s Bath, so if you’re already in the area, this makes for an easy and beautiful detour.
11. Grab a Fruit Loop Matcha from The Haven
The Haven is the cutest little cafe and such a perfect pit stop if you’re heading toward Tunnels Beach or planning a North Shore day. I got their fruit loop matcha, and yes—it tastes just as fun as it sounds.
This spot is such a vibe, and the drinks are super unique. Definitely worth a stop to fuel up before the beach or a hike.
12. The Kalalau Trail + Na Pali Coast Views
The Na Pali Coast (Kalalau) Trail kicks off at Ke’e Beach in Ha’ena State Park and stretches a whopping 22 miles round trip. It’s known for being one of the most stunning hikes in the world, with views that seriously don’t look real.
But real talk? I wasn’t up for that level of a challenge this trip. If you’re not either, don’t worry—you can still soak in those epic views from a different angle. I did a raft tour, and the Na Pali coastline from the water? Absolutely breathtaking. Sometimes it’s about working smarter, not harder.
13. Get an Acai Bowl from North Shore Bowls
I was so obsessed with this spot. North Shore Bowls seriously knocked it out of the park! Keeping it real—I’ve never had a bad acai bowl in Hawaii, but this one just hit different. Super fresh, perfectly blended, and the toppings were loaded!
Things to Do on Kauai’s South Shore (Poipu)
14. Kauai Coffee Company
Kauai Coffee Company is one of the largest coffee producers in the US and an absolute must if you’re a coffee lover! You can take a self-guided walking tour through the orchard, learn about how their coffee is grown and processed, and of course—try allll the free samples. The gift shop has plenty of goodies too, so stock up while you’re there!
15. Makauwahi Cave Reserve
Hawai’i’s largest limestone cave and one of the coolest hidden gems on the South Shore! It’s a short trail (under 0.5 miles), and once you make your way down, you’ll discover a cave that’s not only gorgeous but rich in fossils and history. It’s low-key and doesn’t take much time, but it definitely makes an impression.
16. Shipwreck Beach
Located next to the Grand Hyatt, this beach has rugged cliffs and big waves—so while it’s not ideal for swimming, it’s an amazing spot to walk, relax, or watch surfers do their thing. You can also start the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail here if you’re up for a scenic walk along the coast.
17. Poipu Beach
A classic and super popular Kauai beach for snorkeling, sunbathing, and spotting sea turtles! This beach is great for families because there’s a protected lagoon area for swimming, plus plenty of nearby food spots. It can get crowded, but it’s popular for a reason.
18. Koloa Fish Market
Some of the best poke I’ve ever had—and some of the cheapest (that I found on the island)! Koloa Fish Market is a little local spot that is more of a grab-and-go, but the flavors are unreal. If I lived on the island, I’m pretty sure I’d be here every single day. I still dream about that ahi!
Things to Do on Kauai’s East Side (Kapa’a, Wailua, + Lihue)
19. Kapaʻa Bike Path
Riding this coastal path is such a peaceful way to start your day. We stayed at Kauai Shores, and they had complimentary beach cruisers, which made it even easier. The path runs right along the water with plenty of spots to stop and take in the view. It’s an easy, breezy activity if you’re looking for lowkey things to do on Kauai that still feel special.
We made a pitstop at Small Town Coffee, which was absolutely delish!
20. Java Kai
Java Kai is a staple on the East Side and totally lives up to the hype. Their coffee is made with locally roasted beans, and the breakfast menu is stacked.
I was obsessed with the Surfer Girl sandwich, and if you’re into sweet coffee, get the Mocha Anu blended drink. It’s basically dessert for breakfast. If you’re into foodie-type experiences when hunting for things to do on Kauai, this is a must.
21. Go Ziplining
Craving a little adrenaline? Ziplining with Outfitters Kauai is such a fun way to experience the island’s wild beauty. You’ll soar over lush valleys, waterfalls, and dense jungle canopies—with backdrops straight out of Jurassic Park and Indiana Jones.
They offer 10 ziplines, 4 tours, and the FlyLine Kauai Zipline, which is one of the longest zips in Hawaii! Whether you’re a first-timer or thrill-seeker, this is easily one of the most exciting things to do on Kauai.
22. Lava Lava Beach Club
Even if you’re not staying at Kauai Shores, this beachfront restaurant is worth a visit. You’re literally dining with your toes in the sand, and everything we ordered was amazing—we even came back a second time. It’s a great spot to wind down after a full day exploring Kauai’s East Side.
23. Tubing with Kauai Backcountry Adventures
This 3-hour tour with Kauai Backcountry Adventures starts with a bumpy 4×4 ride through lush plantation land with views of Mt. Waiʻaleʻale—one of the wettest spots on Earth. From there, you’ll grab a tube, pop on a headlamp, and float through a network of old irrigation canals and tunnels.
It’s peaceful, unique, and just the right amount of adventure. After your float, you’ll end with a picnic lunch and a chance to swim in a natural swimming hole. This is hands-down one of the most memorable things to do on Kauai.
24. Opaekaʻa Falls
If you’re looking for easy and scenic things to do on Kauai, this is a perfect little stop. Opaekaʻa Falls is one of the island’s most accessible waterfalls—no hiking required!
You just pull over and admire the view from the lookout. The falls are tall, powerful, and surrounded by lush greenery, making it a great photo op or peaceful pause between more active adventures.
25. Helicopter Tour
If you’re ready to splurge on what is probably one of the most unforgettable things to do on Kauai, a helicopter tour is an absolute must! You’ll soar over emerald valleys, towering waterfalls, and the jaw-dropping Na Pali Coast. Oh, and movie buffs—get ready to geek out over filming spots from Jurassic Park and Pirates of the Caribbean.
If you’re island hopping and can only pick one island for a heli tour, Kauai is the one. This is the cheapest helicopter tour I could find, and this one and this one are $100 more, but are the highest rated and most reviewed!
On a budget but still want those aerial wow-factor views? The Kauai airplane tour is a great alternative. It’s about half the price and gives you 20 extra minutes of soaring over the island.
26. Kōloa Rum Distillery
Located in Lihue, Kōloa Rum is the OG distillery on the island, and their free tasting includes tropical flavors like coconut, pineapple, and lime. They’re a single-batch, craft distiller that uses locally sourced ingredients and promotes sustainable agriculture. It’s first come, first served, so get there early if you want to lock in your tasting!
27. Kayak & Hike to Secret Falls with a Guide
This 5-hour tour gives you a fun mix of kayaking and hiking! You start by kayaking up the Wailua River—it’s super calm and scenic, so even beginners will feel comfortable.
After about two miles of paddling, you hop out and take a short hike through the jungle (about 45-minutes each way) to get to Secret Falls, a gorgeous 100-foot waterfall tucked away in the lush forest. You’ll definitely want water shoes or sandals with a good grip—it can get muddy!
Check availability and current pricing here!
28. Ho‘opi‘i Falls Trail
I loved this trail—it was the perfect mix of adventure and beauty. The 2.6-mile out-and-back trail is considered moderate and winds through the jungle until it opens up to a stunning waterfall. You can even take a dip once you get there!
If you’re into hikes that aren’t too intense but still feel rewarding, this is one of the best things to do on Kauai.
29. Experience a Luau
If you’re only visiting Kauai and won’t be hopping to another island, going to a luau is one of those must-do experiences. I actually did mine on Oahu, but if I were only visiting Kauai, this would’ve been at the top of my list.
Luaus are such a beautiful way to experience Hawaiian culture—from the traditional dances and music to the delicious buffet-style dinner. Two of the most popular options on Kauai are Luau Ka Hikina in Kapaʻa and Luau Kalamaku in Lihue.
Both have amazing reviews, showcase authentic Polynesian performances, and make for such a memorable evening. If you’re looking for cultural things to do on Kauai, this is a meaningful and festive way to spend a night. Just be sure to book early—these do fill up!
Where to Stay on Kauai
When figuring out where to stay on Kauai, I personally recommend Princeville or Kapaʻa—but I know some people also love Lihue for its convenience since it’s centrally located and close to the airport. Each area has its perks depending on the type of trip you’re planning and which things to do on Kauai are on your list!
- Kapaʻa – Kauai Shores Hotel – This is hands down one of my favorite places I’ve stayed on the island. It’s right on the beach, the location is super central for exploring both the North and South Shores, and they offer free bike rentals and morning yoga. The on-site restaurant, Lava Lava Beach Club, is so good—we ate there more than once. It’s also reasonably priced, which is always a win.
- Princeville – 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay – If you’re looking to splurge, this place is stunning. It’s easily one of the most beautiful properties I’ve ever experienced. The bay in front of the hotel is calm and swimmable, even during the winter months when most beaches are too rough. It’s peaceful, luxurious, and in one of my favorite areas of the island.
- Lihue – The Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort – This area is more commercial, but I get why people stay here—it’s super close to the airport and centrally located if you’re trying to explore the whole island. While I personally prefer Princeville or Kapaʻa, if you’re staying in Lihue, The Royal Sonesta is a solid pick with a great pool and beachfront views.
Getting Around Kauai
If you want to make the most of your trip—and trust me, with so many things to do on Kauai, you will—you’ll definitely need a rental car. The island is super spread out, and to really experience everything from the North Shore to the South Shore, you’ll want the flexibility to explore on your own time.
I highly recommend using Rentalcars.com to book your car. It’s super easy to compare rates from different companies and make sure you’re getting the best deal.
One of my favorite travel tips? Book a premium car and treat yourself to a convertible. We had the TIME OF OUR LIVES cruising around the island with the top down—sun on our faces, wind in our hair, and unbeatable views all around. If there’s ever a place to go full island mode, it’s Kauai!
Which of these Kauai activities are you checking out first?!
I hope this guide helped you get a better idea of all the amazing things to do on Kauai—from the lush North Shore to the sunny South Shore and everything in between. Every time I visit this island, I fall more in love with it.
Whether you’re hiking to waterfalls, soaking up the sun on a quiet beach, or sipping on a smoothie in Hanalei, Kauai has such a special way of slowing you down and grounding you.
Let me know what you’re most excited to check out—or if there’s something you love on Kauai that I didn’t include, I’m always looking for new spots for my next trip!
Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Hawaii blog posts:
Things to do on Oahu’s North Shore
