Otherworldly is a great way to describe the natural beauty of Kaua’i. Verdant, tropical, and surrounded by cliffs, the island’s appeal is totally multi-faceted. Epic adventure options abound here, but embracing the low-key, quiet lifestyle of the “Garden Island” (as the locals call it) can be just as appealing.
Welcome to the island of Kaua’i. (Photo Credit: Jordan McQueen)
The Garden Island may just be the best island. (Photo Credit: Jordan McQueen)
Markedly less busy than some of the other main islands of Hawaii, parts of Kaua’i, steeped in history, feel almost untouched. Whatever you choose to do during your time on the island, you’ll do it surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes, white sands, and tropical flora, amid the rhythmic crashing of island waves.
Here are some of the best things to do on the island of Kaua’i.
Take a Hike
Dozens of top-notch hiking trails snake around the island’s coast and interior, offering views of giant, crashing waves and misty, verdant valleys.
Hiking Kaua’i is one of the best ways to experience its beauty. (Photo Credit: Sarah Elizabeth)
Here are a few of the island’s best hikes, many of which are loved by locals:
- Kalalau Trail – a two-mile hike open for day-use that takes you to a stunning beach for massive wave spotting (just be cautious here – it’s safer to look, not touch, the breakers here).
- Ke Ala Hele Makalae – a beautiful (paved!) coastal trail perfect for walking, jogging, and bike riding.
- Mahaulepu Heritage Trail – take a guided hiking tour to Makauwahi Cave Reserve, home to the largest limestone cave in Hawaii, and one of the state’s most significant archaeological sites.
Called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” because of massive size, Waimea Canyon extends over ten miles long and is three thousand feet deep. Waimea Canyon State Park is filled with drive-up lookouts, hikes, bike rides, and waterfalls.
The beauty of Waimea Canyon is ethereal. (Photo Credit: Sebastien Gabriel)
The breathtaking gorge was formed by the process of erosion by the Waimea River. For those who want to explore on foot, the Iliau Nature Loop Trail (moderate level) is excellent.
Get to the Chopper
If you have friends who’ve visited Kaua’i, it’s likely that they booked a helicopter tour of the island – and for good reason. It’s a top tourist activity because it offers views of places that you can only see from the air, including stunning waterfalls and dense jungle.
For the best views, hire a helicopter to see the island in its entirety. (Photo Credit: Jordan McQueen)
Brave visitors rave about “doors off” helicopter tours – if you’re adventurous enough, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime way to see Kaua’i, especially the dramatic Waimea Canyon.
Ride Waves and Explore the Water
Water sports and water exploration opportunities are plentiful on Kaua’i. Visitors love kayaking the Wailua River, taking a surf lesson, and diving or snorkeling at Anini Beach Park, which is easy with rentals and guide companies. Here, the waves break far from the sandy shores, so snorkelers can enjoy calm waters and a colorful reef.
Exploring the waters of Kaua’i is an absolute must. (Photo Credit: Belle Collective)
One other, more leisurely, water activity people love is tubing the irrigation canals that served the old sugar cane industry. Riding on a floating inner tube, you’ll wind your way through jungle and coconut groves, sometimes even going through dark tunnels.
Eat Your Heart Out
Farmer’s Markets are big on Kaua’i, and you can find one every day of the week on the island, selling local tropical fruits, vegetables, honey, and local chocolates.
The upscale dining scene in Kaua’i focuses on local ingredients and sustainability at restaurants like Hukilau Lanai and Tidepools. For a down-to-earth local food experience, find a “plate lunch” at places like Smiley’s Local Grinds and Wailua Drive In.
For the freshest fruit of your life, try the local produce. (Photo Credit: Fiona Smallwood)
Be sure to try some fresh poke and shave ice – two Hawaiian classics.
Take a Day Trip to Hanalei Beach
Recently named one of TripAdvisor’s Best Beaches in the US and a popular filming location for movies, Hanalei Beach, on the famous North Shore of Kaua’i, is worth seeing.
Hanalei is a small town, and its crescent-shaped beach is great for surfer-watching, amid a lush backdrop with stunning views of the green-covered mountains and plenty of space to relax and soak up the sun.
Rent a car and drive to Hanalei Beach on the North Shore — it’s worth it. (Photo Credit: Cristofer Maximilian)
With options like these, your time on Kaua’i is sure to be as adventure-filled (or as relaxing) as you want it to be.
With Coco Palms, A Kimpton Resort opening in 2026, there’s even more reason to start thinking about a visit to Kaua’i.
