The Ultimate 5-Day Kauai Travel Guide

Are you in search of the ultimate Kauai travel guide? Look no further! Nestled in the heart of the Hawaiian islands, Kauai is a haven of natural wonders waiting to be explored. Few destinations rival its breathtaking beauty, characterized by lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and rugged cliffs. This hidden gem boasts secluded beaches with pristine sands, mesmerizing geological formations sculpted over millennia, and the most stunning azure waters imaginable.

Kauai’s diverse landscape offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination that surpasses all expectations. Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor excursions or serene moments of tranquility, Kauai has something for everyone. From the rugged grandeur of the Napali Coast to the serene majesty of Waimea Canyon, each corner of Kauai offers a tapestry of awe-inspiring vistas and immersive experiences. That’s why I’ve crafted “The Ultimate Kauai Travel Guide” to ensure you experience the perfect trip and make unforgettable memories in this paradise on earth!

About Kauai Hawaii

Did you know that Kauai is the oldest Hawaiian island, with a history dating back over 5 million years? Aptly nicknamed “The Garden Isle,” Kauai’s lush landscapes and vibrant flora immediately captivate visitors upon arrival. Unlike its more developed counterparts, Kauai maintains a tranquil, laid-back atmosphere that invites relaxation and exploration. The island’s air is imbued with a delightful floral fragrance, an indescribable essence that became one of the highlights of my Kauai experience.

Best Things to Do in Kauai

While all opinions and recommendations are always my own, my content on this blog post may contain affiliate links for hotels I’ve traveled to, tours I’ve completed, and products I recommend. This means I get a small commission (at no additional cost to you) if you book a stay or purchase a product after clicking one of these links. As always, I am so thankful for your support so I can continue to offer free resources!

Explore The Na Pali Coast

Located on the Northwest side of Kauai, this stunning and untouched piece of nature is a true natural wonder of the world. I believe that the Na Pali Coast is reason enough to visit Kauai. It’s known for its dramatic cliffside views, cascading waterfalls, and insane hiking views that will leave you absolutely speechless. Below I’ve listed a couple of ways to experience the Na Pali Coast in this Kauai Itinerary

Na Pali Coast Boat Tours

Kauai Boat Tours are the easiest way to access the Na Pali Coast. This was another highlight of our trip! We sailed along the Na Pali coast, followed a school of dolphins, swam in the ocean, ate delicious food, drank unlimited beers and wine, and were in good company the entire time. We would highly recommend this boat tour for booking your Kauai Tours adventure! If you ask them nicely, they might even let you drive the boat.

Kauai Helicopter Tours

The prettiest views of all of Kauai are best seen from a Kauai helicopter tour! I couldn’t recommend booking this experience more! Each tour is typically a 60 to 90-minute helicopter ride through the valleys of the Na Pali coast. You’ll be rewarded with 360 views of this rugged coastline – it’s truly an otherworldly experience. Click here for the best-reviewed helicopter tour!

Visit the Waimea Canyon

The Waimea Canyon is known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” and once you visit, you’ll see why. Waimea is Hawaiin for “reddish water” and the canyon is given its name because of the red soil that encompasses Waimea Canyon. Measuring 10 miles wide and 3000 feet deep there are hiking trails, waterfalls, and sweeping views that will make you feel as though you stepped onto another planet. My favorite was the red dirt falls pictured below!

There are four trails in total that you can hike here:

• Cliff Trail: Easy
• Canyon Trail: Moderate
• Black Pipe Trail: Moderate
• Kukui Trail: Difficult

Visit Queens Bath

Queens Bath is a myriad of ancient tide pools located in the town of Princeville, Kauai. There is a small hike to get to this natural wonder so it’s typically secluded. It’s very important to go only when the tide is low otherwise the current could be very dangerous. The baths are typically closed during the winter and through May so it’s only accessible during the summer months. Finally, I dedicated an entire post to getting to Queens Bath. So check out my “How to Get to Queens Bath” post. Finally, it was our favorite visit of this Kauai Travel Guide.

Visit the Coconut Coast

Kauai’s east side is referred to as the coconut coast. Amongst the clusters of coconut trees (hence the name), you’ll find historic places, amazing beaches, and memorable attractions. The most populated parts of the island are located on the coconut coast, Wailua and Kapaa. Here are the main things to do when visiting the east side of Kauai:

• Opaekaa Falls
• Wailua River
• Fern Grotto
• Kapaa Town

Explore Hanalei Bay + Pier

Nestled on the North Shore of Kauai lies the enchanting town of Hanalei, a destination brimming with irresistible charm. Its allure is undeniable, boasting a picturesque crescent-shaped bay, a bustling pier, and an array of delectable food trucks. Yet, what truly sets Hanalei apart is its breathtaking backdrop of the majestic Na Pali Coastline, a sight that leaves visitors in awe of nature’s grandeur.

Recognized by Vogue as the trendiest town in Hawaii, Hanalei lives up to its reputation with its unique blend of laid-back vibes and vibrant energy. During our visit, Hanalei captivated us so completely that we returned for a second time, unable to resist its magnetic allure. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in the culinary delights served up by the famed food trucks, open only for lunch from 11 am to 2 pm, adding yet another layer to the unforgettable Hanalei experience.

Hanalei Restaurants

For such a small town there are tons of places to indulge in a good meal. Below I’m sharing the top spots to grab a bite when visiting:

• Hanalei Gourmet
• Postcards Restaurant
• Wake up Delicious
• Frederico’s Mexican Cuisine
• Tahiti Nui (try the PB&J burger)

Hiking in Kauai

There are endless hikes located on the island of Kauai. Since you only have 5 days I would pick 3 hikes in total. Below I’m sharing the top hikes you need to check out:

• Awa’awapuhi Trail
• Nualolo Trail
• Kuilau Ridge Trail
• Honopu Ridge Trail
• Makawehi Lithified Cliffs Trail
• Sleeping Giant Trail
• Canyon Trail
• Kalalau Trail: the most famous of all the Kauai trails. The trail actually consists of three trails:
  • The 4-mile roundtrip hike to Hanakapi`ai Beach
  • An eight-mile roundtrip hike to a gorgeous waterfall
  • 11-mile hike to the Kalalau Valley with sweeping views of the Na Pali coast. In order to hike the entire 11-mile trail, you’ll need a permit in order to do so.

You can also camp during the summer months! Head to The Napali Coast State Park Site to check out more information on camping and the trails.

Kauai Travel Guide: Best Beaches in Kauai

Secrets Beach

The name says it all. This secluded beach isn’t readily accessible, partly because locals prefer to keep it under wraps. But with a bit of determination, the trail isn’t difficult to find. A brief 10-minute downhill hike leads you to a pristine, untouched shoreline, offering panoramic views of the majestic Kilauea Lighthouse. Enclosed by lava rock walls and frequented by playful dolphins, this hidden gem also boasts a charming surprise—a small waterfall tucked away just a mile down the beach. Trust me, you won’t want to pass up the opportunity to discover this hidden paradise.

Anini Beach

Renowned for its calm waters protected by one of Hawaii’s largest coral reefs, Anini offers an idyllic setting for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding year-round. Its expansive golden sands stretch for two miles along the coastline, providing ample space for strolls and sun-soaked relaxation. As you explore the shoreline, you’ll encounter a mesmerizing mosaic of vibrant marine life thriving within the reef’s intricate ecosystem. From colorful tropical fish to graceful sea turtles, Anini’s underwater world is a delight to behold. Whether you’re seeking adventure or seeking solace, Anini Beach invites you to immerse yourself in the tranquil rhythms of nature and create unforgettable memories amidst its pristine shores.

Tunnels Beach

Tunnels Beach, nestled along the ruggedly beautiful North Shore of Kauai, is a picturesque haven renowned for its stunning underwater landscape and dramatic coastal scenery. Named after the iconic underwater lava tubes that dot its crystal-clear waters, Tunnels Beach offers a captivating snorkeling and diving experience like no other. As you venture beneath the waves, you’ll discover a kaleidoscope of marine life, from vibrant coral gardens teeming with tropical fish to graceful green sea turtles gliding gracefully through the turquoise depths.

Beyond its vibrant underwater world, Tunnels Beach also boasts a pristine stretch of golden sand framed by lush tropical foliage and towering emerald cliffs. The beach’s secluded location and serene atmosphere make it an ideal spot for sunbathing, picnicking, or simply soaking in the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding landscape.

To reach Tunnels it’s about 25 minutes north of Hanalei and there is a small parking lot that fills IP quickly. However, do not park on the residential streets as they are known to ticket cars without a permit. Finally, one of my favorite sunsets I’ve ever witnessed in Hawaii was at tunnels so make sure to visit then.

Polihale Beach

Polihale Beach and State Park is located in West Kauai and is the longest beach in Kauai coming in at 17 miles long. It’s known for its glistening white sand and dunes.

Ke’e Beach

Located by the Na Pali coast this beach is known for its draw-dropping beauty and many movies including The Pirates of the Caribbean have been filmed here. It is near the Kaula trail which is known for being one of the most beautiful hiking spots in the world. It gets very busy during the high season so you get here early morning to secure a parking spot.

Best Waterfalls in Kauai

Wailua Falls

Wailua Falls is a triple waterfall that is a major tourist spot. Most people don’t realize that you can hike down to the bottom of the falls. You have to be brave enough to trek 300 feet down through mud and brush. It was probably one of the hardest things I have ever done in my life but man was it rewarding. To be able to experience Wailua Falls from below was one of the highlights of our trip and easily my favorite part of this Kauai Itinerary!

Hanakapiai Falls

Unfortunately, we did not make it to Hanakapiai Falls because it is quite a trek. But it’s another famous waterfall in Kauai. The trek is an 8-mile roundtrip hike to access the 300 ft waterfall. Do note: you will need a permit to access the parking to hike to the Hanakapiai Falls, check them out here. Permits tend to sell out super fast so my best advice would be to book it a month in advance (they don’t allow you to book out further).

Opaekaa Falls

The most accessible waterfall on this list, Opaekaa Falls is 150 feet, located on the east side of the island, and has a great scenic point for you to view this beauty.

Where to Stay on Kauai

There are many options when it comes to staying in Kauai. You can either stay in a luxury resort or rent a quaint Airbnb. We rented one the first time we visited and loved it because many of them come equipped with snorkeling gear, beach towels, chairs, and other beach accessories. If you want more of the resort type below are my top picks for stays on Kauai:

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa ($$$): A true luxury experience in the heart of Kauai. We stayed at the same resort in Maui and felt so relaxed and the customer service was incredible!

The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas ($$$): Located on the north shore of Kauai, this hotel is on a tranquil part of the island. There is not much to do (other than Hanalei) but that is the whole point of being on Kauai. This resort is 5-star and is the perfect romantic getaway! You even have your beach access.

Marriot Kauai Beach Club ($$): Located in Lihue (which is also where the airport is) is this incredible resort. The prices are reasonable and it’s the perfect spot for kids as they have their pool!

What to Pack for Kauai Hawaii

Kauai is warm year-round and can be very wet during some months so make sure to have these on hand for your trip:

• Bathing suits! If you overpack anything in your suitcase let it be this. Being that Hawaii is full of beautiful beaches, ocean activities, and multiple waterfalls you’ll always want to have bathing suits handy! I always find great suits at Summersalt, Cupshe, and Revolve.
• Water Shoes are super helpful especially when visiting waterfalls and on muddy hikes. These ones from Columbia will last a long time!
• A sturdy pair of flip-flops that you can also wear on a quick hike. These Olukai Sandals are my go-to and have lasted me years and are the most comfortable.
• Sunscreen: This GOOP FACE SUNSCREEN BRUSH is perfect for traveling because it adds SPF to your face all while not messing up your makeup. It’s my new holy grail product and you need to add this one to your packing list!
• Shorts: For the ultimate classic jean shorts check out these Levis.
• Basics: I always find the best basics at either Free People or Abercrombie. It’s nice to have some neutral tees and tanks handy during your stay.
• Flowy Dresses: These really come in handy when the temperatures are high in the spring/summer. My favorite white dress for photos is linked here, here + here.
• Workout sets: I love getting mine from Lululemon because they last forever. If you’re on a budget, Amazon has some amazing Lululemon dupes that you can shop here.

Where to Eat in Kauai

Federico’s Mexican Food: a great casual restaurant to stop at for lunch in Hanalei or an early dinner. There always seems to be a bit of a line but that’s how you know it’s good! We had the burrito and tacos and recommend them both!

Da Crack, Poipu: casual Mexican stand that has delicious fish tacos, garlic shrimp, and burrito bowls. Da Crack is located in a parking lot but the food is amazing.

Sushi Girl Kauai: On the north shore of the island, this place is dedicated to gluten-free and is a great option for some fresh seafood and even a sushi burrito. A nice option for splurging on vacation.

Kountry Style Kitchen Restaurant, Kapaa: Kountry Style Kitchen is a classic brunch spot on the south shore of Kauai. Be prepared to wait for your table but it’s so worth it! They give you cornbread with every meal and I couldn’t recommend the macadamia nut pancakes more.

Porky’s Kauai: Porky’s came highly recommended and is so delicious! Food trucks are always a hit or miss but this one was great! It’s near the Waimea Canyon so it’s a great place to stop off for lunch on your way in or out.

Pono Market: known for its delicious poke that is fresher than ever!

I hope you enjoyed my “The Ultimate Kauai Travel Guide” and that it helps you plan the perfect trip! Don’t forget to check out my Most Beautiful Places in Kauai: a Photography Guide if you’re planning a visit!

Need help packing for Kauai? I’ve got you covered – check out my “Ultimate Hawaii Packing Guide“. And as always please leave any questions in the comments below!

Aloha,

Courtney

pin this Kauai Itinerary post for later