Kauai Travel Guide

There’s just something about lush, untamed landscapes and secret beaches that make me weak in the knees. I’ve always been drawn to wild hikes, sleepy surf towns and beach cultures that make you feel as if you’ve wandered into a new and untouched world.

Perhaps that’s why I immediately felt so connected to the Hawaiian island of Kauai, which is so appropriately nicknamed “The Garden Island.”

Napali Coastline.

With nearly 97% of its land still undeveloped, Kauai seems like the Hawaii you might dream it was 50 years ago. It’s equally rustic and romantic...nothing but dense jungle, rugged mountains, secret surf spots, and old school towns with tight-knit communities. Many scenes for Jurassic Park were filmed here, and that just adds to the magical and wild sense of ancient jungle and adventure on this magnificent island. 

Lukas and I were lucky enough to spend 11 nights on the island, and our time there couldn’t have been any more enchanting. From the moment our plane touched down in Lihue’s little airport, it was clear that we had arrived somewhere very very special. We were blessed to have arrived with recommendations and tips from close friends who know the island well, so we were stoked to jump into our adventure and start exploring immediately. None of this would have been possible without those tips, so a big Mahalo (thank you) to Jon, Elizabeth, Mark and Avalon!

After picking up our rental Jeep (seems to be the standard here...seriously, they’re ALL OVER the island), we were promptly referred to the Happy Hour and views at Timbers Resort. Longboards and Piña Coladas were had, and we enjoyed the infinity pool overlooking the ocean. We had our first introduction to the many chickens and roosters that populate the island and were ready to settle in. Our Hawaii home was Kauai Shores in Kapa’a, on the east side of the island just north of Lihue airport. We chose this area so that we could be equal driving distance to the sunny southside and the mountainous north shore. After an amazing Ahi Tuna dinner at the beachside Lava Lava Beach Club we settled into bed so that we could rest up for our early morning hike. The next week and a half was the most delightful combination of early morning hikes, fresh fish lunches, afternoon surf sessions and sunset beach drinks. This vacation was better than either of us could have ever imagined, and we’d both recommend Kauai in a heartbeat to anyone looking for the trip of a lifetime. Read on for some of our favorite spots and key Kauai tips...enjoy!

Where to Stay

Kauai’s North Shore was our favorite part of the island, but we loved staying on the east side with easy access to the entire island. Tip: Many parts of the island get regular tropical rain, but if you drive over to the southern side you’ll usually find sunshine! 

Kauai Shores Hotel – If you want to be steps away from the ocean and have access to the entire island, stay here. It’s located in one of the cutest towns, Kapa’a, and just north of the Lihue airport. Favorite part of our stay? The adorable beachside restaurant/bar Lava Lava Beach Club, where we enjoyed countless mai-tai’s and pina coladas with our toes in the sand. 

House Rentals – There are plenty of homes for rent on Kauai and the ones I saw were all decently priced with great beach access. I recommend doing a search on both Vrbo and Airbnb for homes near Hanalei or Princeville, two beautiful areas of the North Shore. 

Princeville Resort – If you want to splurge, this is the spot to do it! The views of Hanalei Bay are breathtaking and the proximity to Princeville, Hanalei and the Napali Coast can’t be beat. 

Where to Swim + Surf

Hanalei Bay – One of the most beautiful beaches I have ever had the pleasure of swimming and surfing at! The long stretch of beach and beautiful mountain views make Hanalei Bay an easy favorite. When the weather is good, you’ll find surfers at every skill level here.

Poipu Beach – When the North Shore is rainy, chances are Poipu Beach on the South Shore is getting hit with sun. It’s a great family-friendly beach and you might even catch a glimpse of some dolphins playing in the waves! 

Anini Beach - This quiet stretch of sand is perfect for swimming and relaxing. Located on the north shore, it’s a short drive from the Princeville city center and is super quiet during the week. The water here is quiet enough that we saw many families with young kids splashing around, and even spotted a young girl paddle-boarding with her pup in tow. 

Where to Hike

First things first,  download the App AllTrails. This super handy guide provides trail maps and recent reviews, so you won’t be left stuck in the mud on a recently rained out path, or wondering where to turn to get back to your car. Download the trail you’re going on while still connected to wifi and your phone will be able to access directions even when you’re far from civilization and the internet. Last pro tip - the earlier you can start these hikes, the better. You’ll pretty much have the trails to yourself, and will get the chance to enjoy views in the early morning light. Ok, now grab your camera and lace up your hiking boots….these trails in Kauai were EPIC!

Secret Falls – This hidden waterfall is a bit of a trek, but so worth it. Prepare to kayak down the Wailua River, traverse some muddy paths and cross a river to visit this spot! We grabbed a kayak off the main road in Kapa’a and were given directions to the hike. Bring plenty of water, snacks and bug spray for this jungle adventure. After your kayak back from the falls you will be SO READY for a Longboard beer and a sandwich. 

Sleeping Giant Trail - This hike was tough, but gorgeous! The best advice I can give you is to arrive as early as you can so you can enjoy a stunning view of sunrise from the top. Say good morning to all of the roosters and snap pics with the 360 degree views of the island. 

Ho’opi’i Falls – Located near Kapa’a, it’s a short hike through the jungle to get to the Ho’opi’i falls. You can jump into the lower falls and swim in the river when the water is calm. Bring bug spray, a camera, and don’t feed the chickens. ;)

Kalalau Trail - You’ll grab a shuttle to the Kalalau Trail, so make sure to book your parking and shuttle permits in advance. Epic and breathtaking are the only words that serve this hike justice. You’ll see views of the Napali coast and stumble upon some beautiful beaches. Bring your camera, water and snacks. 

Waimea Canyon – The Grand Canyon of the Pacific, this is a must see! For incredible views of the island’s mountainous landscape, drive to Waimea. You can also hike one of the many Waimea Canyon Trails. 

Where to Eat 

Bar Acuda – A beautiful tapas bar on the north shore that has it all, and was easily the best meal Lukas and I have ever enjoyed. The atmosphere is cozy and the menu offers a variety of dishes for every taste. We recommend ordering the pizzette, papas ajos, ahi carpaccio, bison meatballs and make sure you sip on their sunset fire cocktail if you like mezcal. 

Java Kai - Located in Kapa’a this spot has tasty coffee, yummy wraps, salads and a solid breakfast sandwich!

Olympic Cafe - Also in Kapa’a, this is a solid lunch or brunch spot to hit up after a rigorous hike. Their Ahi Burrito is delicious but MASSIVE! 

Lava Lava Beach Club - Right next door to where we stayed at Kauai Shores, this beachside restaurant was a staple for us. You can sit by the beach and enjoy your drinks and meal with your toes in the sand...just beware all the birds that will try to snatch your yummy food. Their poke, breakfast sandwiches and ahi dishes were to die for and I can confidently vouch for their Mai Tai’s and Piña Coladas. 

Makana Terrace - This luxurious restaurant is located inside the Princeville Resort. Definitely recommend coming here for sunset drinks and a very special dinner. 

Sushi Girl – This local favorite came highly recommended to us from multiple friends. It’s a super cute hole-in-the-wall on the north shore and is perfect for grabbing lunch on-the-go. You can’t go wrong with their delicious poké and daily specials.

Tahiti Nui - Solid spot for happy hour after surfing in Hanalei. Order all the Mai Tai’s and a side of coconut shrimp. Thank me later…

Kalypso - Another tasty lunch spot in Hanalei. Their margaritas are strong and the memory of their Ahi Tostadas still makes my mouth water. 

Other Things To Do

Farm to Table Dinner in Princeville - This was a really tasty, fresh and locally made meal at a gorgeous farm in Princeville. Everything was super fresh and beverages are BYOB. Make sure you bring plenty of bug spray… we got eaten alive as we were eating our dinner. ;)

Snorkeling with Sea Turtles - We had the most amazing snorkeling excursion with the team from Kauai Sea Riders. Sarah and Elijah were wonderful guides - showing us everything from ancient sea turtles to a barracuda, colorful fish and even young seals! 

Surfing Lesson - Lukas and I were lucky enough to have been referred to a rad local guy (Mahalo Makani, you rock!), who guided us through some baby waves at Hanalei Bay and then let us keep our surfboards for the rest of our trip. We definitely recommend hitting up the local surf shops and get their advice on where to surf. If you’re still a beginner I’d advise investing in a lesson or two so that you have an idea of where it’s safe for you to catch some waves.

Rent Bikes - We were lucky enough to have free bike rentals included at our hotel, and there was the most beautiful bike path that stretched all the way up the length of the beach in Kapa’a. Grab a bike, ride around town and enjoy the views!

I hope this guide convinced you to visit Kauai for yourself! For more guides and unique destinations around the world you can sign up for my newsletter to get updates every time a new guide blog is posted AND you can follow my day-to-day travels on Instagram. I’m always on the go, chasing the sun and I love sharing my favorite spots with you. Now go outside, get salty, and stay stoked!