The Complete Guide to Kauai for an Exceptional Trip

Known as the garden isle, Kauai is one of the eight stunning islands that make up the state of Hawaii. Travelers come from around the world to enjoy Kauai’s beaches, weather, and laid-back pace that can free anyone from life’s worries. Although part of the United States, Hawaii has a variety of unique traditions and customs that locals still uphold to this day, making it feel like you’re visiting another country altogether. This complete guide to Kauai will help you plan your perfect escape to the gorgeous island.

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When To Go

Kauai has a steady weather pattern throughout most of the year, ranging from 70° to 85°F (21° to 29°C). Due to its location in the tropical zone, Kauai technically only has two seasons – dry and rainy. Both of which contain warm temperatures compared to other parts of the world. The dry season is during the summer, and the rainy season is during the winter. Even when traveling in the dry season, travelers should expect brief rain showers throughout the year. I’ve included a summary of each season in my guide to Kauai to help with the planning process.

Winter

Although winter is considered the rainy season, it’s one of the busiest times to visit. These months are when travelers leave their cold cities and retreat to a tropical destination; especially leading up to the holiday season. Thankfully, the rain showers are very short, so they shouldn’t put a damper on your experience. The one thing that might, however, is the price tag since this is one of the most expensive times to visit Kauai.

Spring

The rainy season ends in March, but the beginning of April marks the start of their dry season. April through mid-June is one of the best times to visit Kauai due to its reliable weather and reasonable prices.

Summer

Mid-June through August is another hectic season for Kauai. School is out, and the island is flooded with happy families enjoying their well-deserved beach vacation. However, this will drive the prices up, and you will see an increase in crowds. Book your accommodations in advance if you want to travel to Kauai during the summer.

Fall

The prices and crowds decrease once the summer vacationers flee, making the fall a great time to visit Kauai. The weather is consistently stunning until the rainy season begins in November.

If you need a comprehensive packing list for all your travel needs, I’ve got you covered! I created the ultimate packing list for your upcoming adventures, including carry-on essentials, toiletries, clothing, and location-specific items.

How To Get Around

While it is possible to get around Kauai by utilizing a tour bus, shuttle, and the occasional taxi, renting a car will make your experience ten times better. A car gives you the freedom needed to explore the beautiful island on your own time. There are only two main roadways throughout Kauai, making it extremely easy to navigate. Given the shortage of rental cars, booking your car with plenty of notice is highly recommended.

For those who typically rely on Uber or Lyft as their primary form of transportation, you will have no such luck in Kauai. Rideshare options are sparse at best, which could leave you stranded somewhere on the island. 

Know Before You Go

I’ve compiled some helpful information in this guide to Kauai to ensure you have a smooth journey while planning your trip and exploring the island.

• It rains all year long, regardless of the season. Thankfully, the rain is brief, but packing a raincoat is essential for a comfortable trip.
• You can’t drive around the entire island. The Nā Pali Coast in the northwest region is stunning yet rugged, so a road connecting the two shores isn’t possible.
• Speaking of driving, Kauai has several one-lane bridges over the various streams and rivers. The local practice of driving is referred to as “aloha” by alternating traffic every five vehicles.
• Haena State Park requires a reservation for those looking to explore its spectacular Nā Pali Coast views.
• Hawaii banned all sunscreen that isn’t reef-safe back in 2021. You can find a list of reef-safe sunscreen here.
• Swimming in the ocean can be unpredictable, even for the most seasoned swimmers. It’s always best to check with a lifeguard about the current swimming conditions before taking a dip.
• Tons of chickens roam all over the island of Kauai. Literally, everywhere you can imagine. There are a few theories about how and why these birds came to be; however, the most important takeaway is that the chickens are protected by law, so you cannot harm them in any way.

Ready to pack your bags for paradise? Check out my Kauai packing list blog post or my digital Kauai packing list that you can download for free!

Regions of Kauai Guide

Kauai is split into five separate regions, each offering something unique to see and experience. I’ve created a highlight section in this guide to Kauai that outlines the main sights, where to stay, and where to eat for each part of the island. If you’re interested in hiking, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite trails at the end of this post.

Lihue

Your journey will begin by flying into Lihue airport, most likely eagerly awaiting the beach and a refreshing cocktail. Lihue is the cultural and commercial capital of the island. There are also some fantastic resort and beach options, making this the perfect starting point for your trip.

Main Sights

• Wailua Falls: An iconic double waterfall featured in the opening credits of the TV show Fantasy Island. You can ditch the hiking boots since this attraction is easily accessible directly off the road.
• Kalapaki Beach: This kid-friendly beach is an excellent spot for swimming and surfing. It backs up to the popular Marriott Kauai Beach Club Resort, close to some shops and restaurants.
• Kauaʻi Museum: A local museum showcasing local artists that tell a story about the rich Hawaiian culture and history.
• Grove Farm: Once a well-known sugar plantation is now a historic agricultural site on Kauai. They have a select number of weekday tours available to those looking to learn more about this local establishment.

Where To Stay

• Luxury: Marriott’s Kaua’i Beach Club
• Mid-Range: The Kauai Inn
• Budget: Tip Top Motel

Where To Eat

Start your day off on the right note by stopping at one of the local cafes. Aloha Roastery is a simple cafe serving up delicious coffee and pastries. Rainbeau Jo’s is a colorful organic coffee truck known for an iced coffee drink called the Sleepy Giant.

For breakfast, check out Aloha Liege Waffles & Espresso. This food truck is a must if you’re a fan of waffles (I mean, who isn’t). The waffles are Belgian-inspired but with a Kauai twist. I recommend the MacDaddy waffle and a sunrise latte.

There’s no better spot than Duke’s for dinner. This classic beach bar and restaurant is next to the Marriott on Kalapaki Bay. It’s a great happy hour spot, offering chill vibes and live music – the perfect Hawaiian evening.

South Shore

The beautiful and sunny South Shore is a popular part of the island due to its kid-friendly beaches and abundant resorts. There are a variety of charming small towns, great restaurants, and fun shops to keep you busy.

Main Sights

• Poipu Beach: It wouldn’t be a proper guide to Kauai without featuring one of the most beloved beaches locally and worldwide! This sunny oasis is a fantastic family-friendly spot for snorkeling, body surfing, or relaxing by the water. Poipu also has a lifeguard onsite and additional amenities, including bathrooms, showers, and a paved parking lot.
• Old Koloa Town: This historic town was previously home to one of the island’s first sugar mills. It’s home to a dozen cute shops, restaurants, and a weekly farmers market on Saturdays.
• Spouting Horn: An impressive blowhole behind some lava rocks on the South Shore.
• Explore the Towns: Besides Old Koloa Town, travelers should check out Kalaheo, Lawai, and Omao.
• Drive through the Tree Tunnel: A scenic tunnel of eucalyptus trees lines ​​Maliuhi Road, connecting Poipu and Old Koloa Town.

Where To Stay

• Luxury: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
• Mid-Range: Sheraton Kauai Resort Hotel
• Budget: Makahuena at Poipu

Where To Eat

Koloa Fish Market came highly recommended to us before our trip to Kauai, so we knew we needed to see if it lived up to the hype. The market is a counter-serve operation, and no seating is available. That doesn’t matter since the quaint Old Koloa Town is nearby, with picnic tables at your disposal. While the lines and wait time can be long, it’s well worth it. Koloa Fish Market tied for first place for my favorite poke we tried in Kauai. Details on the other restaurant are below in my guide to Kauai.

If you’re in the mood for something more romantic, Tidepools could make any guest swoon. The restaurant is set over a lagoon with a gorgeous ocean view. Guests can expect fantastic Hawaiian, seafood, and steak dishes in a private open-air bungalow. The ambiance is 10/10.

While we didn’t have the opportunity to stop here on our trip, Da Crack was another favorite that came up a lot in my research. There’s nothing swanky about the outside of this establishment. However, I’ve heard they have the best burritos on the entire island.

Koloa Rum Company will hit the spot if you’re in the mood for a refreshing cocktail after a long day of exploring. This colorful distillery was founded in 2009 and is known for creating tasty single-batch rums from local sugarcane. They also have a tasting room and shop with ready-to-drink cocktails and other rum-based goodies such as rum cakes and rum fudge sauce – yum!

East Side

This side of the island is populated with groves of coconut palms near the resorts, giving it the “Royal Coconut Coast” nickname. There are many superb sightseeing locations, hiking trails, and outdoor activities; get ready for some fun.

Main Sights

• Old Kapaa Town: This town has a charming downtown area full of shops, restaurants, and weekly events. Check out Sweet Shop by the Sea for artisanal chocolates and specialty treats.
• Wailua River: A tranquil river that is surrounded by a lush landscape. The river is fed by ‘Opaeka‘a waterfall and Wailua waterfall, both of which are accessible if you take a river tour. Speaking of tours, there are several fun activities travelers can partake in, including kayaking, canoeing, boat cruises, and tours to the Fern Grotto.
• ‘Opaeka’a Falls: This calming waterfall can easily be seen from an accessible viewpoint off the side of the road, no hiking is required.

Where To Stay

• Luxury: Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort Hotel
• Mid-Range: The ISO
• Budget: Castle Kauai Kailani

Where To Eat

One of the most well-known coffee shops on the island is Java Kai Cafe. The teal blue storefront welcomes you in, where you can order various coffee drinks and breakfast or lunch while admiring the local art. If you’re craving a healthy pick-me-up, head to Kauai Juice Co. for their outstanding juices, kombucha, and healthy snacks.

Kountry Kitchen is an ideal breakfast joint on the island. It’s a casual and comfortable restaurant serving island-style and classic American breakfasts.

When in Hawaii, ordering poke is a must. Pono Market has you covered. Don’t be worried about the simple exterior; this place delivers incredible poke and fried chicken that will leave a smile on your face.

A trip to the island’s East side isn’t complete without stopping at Wailua Shave Ice. This famous food truck serves various flavors of mouth-watering shave ice with assorted toppings. Pull up a seat at one of their classic red picnic tables and enjoy your tasty treat.

North Shore

This part of the island is perfect for those who love a mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s home to one of the island’s top sights, the spectacular Nā Pali Coast. It wouldn’t be a comprehensive guide to Kauai without mentioning the 17-mile stretch of the coast made up of rugged cliffs, lush valleys, and waterfalls. The North Shore is also known for its stunning and expansive beaches, along with some impressive hiking trails (more details towards the end of the guide to Kauai).

Important Tip: Most boat ports are on the island’s South Shore. If you want to book a boat tour of the Nā Pali Coast, you need to book it during your days traveling in the South. We had a pleasant experience with Blue Dolphin Charters, but I’ve also read positive reviews about Holo Holo Charters and Blue Ocean Adventure Tours.

Main Sights

• Hanalei Town: Hands down, my favorite town on the entire island. This peaceful area is full of charm, terrific shops, art galleries, and even better food. This is a perfect town to stay in as a home base while exploring the North Shore.
• Queen’s Bath: A quick yet challenging 0.8-mile hike will lead you to an exquisite natural tide pool. The hike can be slick, so wearing gym shoes or hiking boots is recommended. Once you get to the coast, you’ll be blown away by the views. One important note is that taking a dip in the pools is extremely dangerous, so please admire the beautiful views from the safety of the lava rocks on the shore.
• Kilauea Lighthouse: This lighthouse in the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge used to act as a beacon for ships but now has an automatic light. It’s a classic Kauai photo spot off of the northern coast.
• Hanalei Valley Lookout: A popular viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the Namolokama mountain and its many waterfalls streaming down the sides.
• Waiʻoli Huiʻia Church: This lovely church is hard to miss with its green wooden panels, stained glass windows, and mountain backdrop. The church was built in 1837 and is now considered a historic landmark and a symbol for the town of Hanalei.

North Shore Beaches

The North provides travelers with an array of beach options, so I compiled a list in this guide to Kauai for easy planning.

• Hanalei Beach: An expansive white sand beach that is great for swimming, surfing, bodyboarding, and relaxing. You can also find the historic Hanalei Pier located off the beach.
• Tunnels Beach: The ultimate beach for snorkeling and watching the sunset.
• Ke’e Beach: A quaint beach with calm swimming waters located at the farthest end of the North Shore.
• Anini Beach: The perfect relaxing oasis for those looking to avoid large crowds and read a good book.

Where To Stay

• Luxury: The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Hotel Villas
• Mid-Range: Club Wyndham Ka Eo Kai
• Budget: Makai Club Resort

Where To Eat

The North Shore is overflowing with a ton of phenomenal dining options. No place compares to Hanalei Bread Company for breakfast. They serve fantastic coffee, pastries, and breakfast dishes in an open-air cafe.

If you’re still in the mood for a sweet morning treat, Holey Grail Donuts serves hand-crafted taro donuts fried in coconut oil. Nothing beats a refreshing juice from Akamai Juice Company or Aloha Juice Bar on a warm Hawaiian day.

Ready to find out what restaurant tied for my favorite poke in Kauai? None other than Hanalei Poke! This counter-serve poke was featured on Diners, Drivers, and Dives Standout Seafood episode. It was a standout experience, indeed.

Sushi Girl is a hole-in-the-wall food truck serving sushi (duh) and poke bowls. This is a perfect lunch spot in the cute town of Kīlauea.

You will want to book a reservation well in advance to enjoy the exceptional dining experience at Bar Acuda. This tapas-style restaurant is easily the best meal we ate on the entire trip. Everything on the menu is delectable, so you can’t go wrong. Do yourself a favor and order the steamed clams with an extra side of bread.

AMA Restaurant offers bowls of ramen, bao buns, and cocktails on a beautiful open-air patio. AMA is in the same restaurant group as Bar Acuda and was another fan favorite from the trip.

There’s no better way to end your day than with a sweet treat. Grab a scoop of ice cream from Pink’s Creamery or Lappert’s. Or further your newfound shave ice addiction with a stop at Wishing Well Shave Ice. They operate out of a funky converted school bus at the entrance of Hanalei and sell unique flavors of shave ice, coffee, açai bowls, and souvenirs.

Time for a nightcap? Tahiti Nui has some of the best Mai Tais on the island in a laid-back Hawaiian setting. Kalypso Island Bar & Grill is a classic sports bar with first-rate happy hour specials.

West Side

If you’re ready for a hiking adventure, then the West Side might be your favorite corner of Kauai. Although only an hour from Lihue, it feels like a different island altogether. The famous Waimea Canyon State Park, also known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” is located in this part of the island, along with the lush Kōkeʻe State Park. 

Main Sights

• Waimea Canyon State Park: An expansive mountain top gorge with sweeping views. The park stretches 14 miles long, 1 mile wide, and more than 3,600 feet deep. The main lookouts include Waimea Canyon Lookout and Pu’u Hinahina Lookout.
• Kōkeʻe State Park: A mountainous park with waterfalls, wildflowers, bird life, and panoramic ocean and valley views. The main lookouts include Kalalau Lookout and Pu’u O Kila Lookout. There’s a Natural History Museum for those looking to learn more about the park and its history on the island.
• Polihale Beach: This remote beach is beautiful but difficult to access. The only way to get there is by driving down a 5-mile unpaved road to access the longest stretch of beach on the island. It’s a good fishing spot or a nice place to watch the sunset.

Where To Stay

• Luxury: The Lodge at Kukuiʻula
• Mid-Range: Waimea Plantation Cottages
• Budget: The West Kauai Inn

Where To Eat

If you haven’t guessed by reading my guide to Kauai, my morning doesn’t officially start until I’ve had a cup of coffee or a latte. Aloha’n Paradise has some of the best espresso drinks on this side of the island. They also have an art gallery in their charming cafe that features local artists.

Porky’s is a very well-known name in Kauai. Not surprisingly, they serve various pork-based dishes, including pulled pork sandwiches, grilled cheese with pork, and a Hawaiian-style rice bowl.

All the barbeque fans visiting the island should stop at Da Booze. This unassuming local joint has an excellent selection of classic burgers as well as some Hawaiian favorites.

Last but not least, Island Taco features mouth-watering tacos, burritos, and homemade chips and salsas. Delicious. 

Don’t forget to check out my Kauai packing list blog post or my digital Kauai packing list that you can download for free!

Kauai Hiking Trails

One of the best parts about traveling to Kauai is the mixture of relaxation and adventure. As much as I love a good beach day, I like to balance that out with a hike or outdoor activity. You can find all the hiking trails in Kauai on the AllTrails app, but I’ve listed some of our favorites below in this guide to Kauai:

• Ho’opi’i Falls Trail: 2.4 miles out and back.
• Waimea Canyon to Waipo’o Falls Trail: 3 miles out and back.
• Sleeping Giant Trail: 3.4 miles out and back.
• Kuilau Ridge Trail: 3.6 miles out and back.
• Hanakapi’ai Beach via the Kalalau Trail: 3.7 miles out and back. This portion of the trail does not require a permit.
• Kalalau Trail: 22 miles out and back. This hike requires a permit which can be obtained here.

If you decide to hike, you should come prepared with a reusable water bottle and follow the Leave No Trace Left Behind Principles.

Plan on hiking in Kauai? Check out my Complete Hiking Packing List post that outlines the hiking ten essentials you need in your pack for a safe journey outdoors.

Final Thoughts

It’s hard not to fall in love with Kauai. This dreamy Hawaiian island is the perfect escape for a lovely vacation, regardless of the season. The weather is perfect, there’s a blend of beaches, hiking trails, outdoor activities, and as an added bonus, a booming food scene. Kauai is a worthy addition to any bucket list.

Have you been to Kauai? If so, what was your favorite side of the island? Let me know in the comments! Or is Kauai still on your bucket list? If so, I hope my guide to Kauai can assist you in planning your getaway.

Looking for more hiking adventures? Check out my blog posts about Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Yosemite National Park!