Kauai, also known as the Garden Isle, is a nature lover’s dream. It also ended up being our favorite island on our multi-island Hawaiian honeymoon. Kauai feels slightly less commercial than the other Hawaiian islands we’ve visited. The locals are friendly and the impacts of tourism are slightly less noticeable, especially on the picturesque north shore. With its gorgeous beaches, quaint restaurants, crystal-clear water, beautiful mountain landscapes, and breathtaking waterfalls, Kauai is a clear winner for your honeymoon or simply your next island escape.
5+ days
Best Time to Visit: June to September is high season, but there’s truly no bad time to visit Hawaii
Getting Around: Rental Car
Currency: US Dollars
Where to Stay
The tropical north shore is my favorite part of the island and it’s where I would recommend making your home base. It has lush mountains, the most beautiful beaches, and provides the only access to the Napali Coast.
Westin Princeville $$$ – villas perched on a beautiful seaside cliff.
Makai Club Resort $$$ – a simple, casual resort located in Princeville, which offers cottages and condos.
Princeville Resort $$$$ – if you’re going to splurge, you’ll want to do it here. The amenities and location right on Hanalei Bay are unmatched.
Grand Hyatt Poipu $$$$ – a luxurious south shore option. If you’re seeking a better chance of a mostly sunny forecast in a high-end resort setting, this is the place to be.
For more affordable and often more conveniently located options, be sure to check out house rentals such as Coconut Cottage, or try the multitude of options on AirBnB, such as these:
Renovated Studio $ – a simple, clean studio apartment conveniently located in Princeville.
Contemporary Family Condo $$ – a spacious home base in Princeville.
Garden Cottage $$$ – a quaint surf shack with a prime location in Hanalei Bay.
Where to Eat
Bar Acuda – a popular tapas restaurant with a great atmosphere. It can get busy, even on weeknights, so I’d recommend making a reservation here.
Ama – the sister restaurant of Bar Acuda, Ama serves up delicious Japanese-style ramen noodles with outdoor seating and incredible mountain views. Tip: don’t forget to wear bug spray!
Kauai Juice Company – refreshing cold-pressed juices and kombucha, also offering locally made gifts to bring home to friends and family members.
Aloha Juice Bar – a Hanalei juice stand serving fresh smoothies, açaí bowls, and juices seven days a week.
Pink’s Creamery – our favorite ice cream shop in Hanalei with a variety of flavors and dairy-free options. The chocolate macadamia flavor is my favorite!
Lappert’s Ice Cream – handmade Hawaiian ice cream and bakery, with locations on Maui and Oahu.
Hanalei Bread Company – the perfect place to grab a coffee, pastry, or breakfast sandwich.
Sushi Girl – a no-frills sushi stand with some of the most delicious poke bowls in town. There’s not much seating so I’d recommend taking your order to go and enjoying it on the beach!
Dolphin Fish Market – an extensive menu with lovely views of the river. Also offers great to-go options in the back.
Tege Tege Shave Ice – the perfect post-beach treat, using only organic fruit.
Rainbeau Jos – a food truck near the airport that has developed a cult following through serving up made-to-order smoothies, bagels, and coffee.
Tidepools – upscale Hawaiian cuisine in open-air thatched huts at the Grand Hyatt Poipu. Perfect for a date night on the south shore!
Brunch at the Makana Terrace – an impeccable breakfast and brunch buffet at the Princeville Resort featuring incredible views of Hanalei Bay, the Napali Coast, and the open ocean. Come hungry!
Where to Swim
Hideaways Beach – there’s a short, steep hike down to this beach, but it’s well worth it. You can valet for free at the St. Regis or try your luck in the nearby parking lot and then locate the access point just before the gatehouse of the Princeville Resort.
Hanalei Bay – a long stretch of sand with gorgeous mountain views. A great place to surf no matter your skill level.
Poipu Beach – a great beach for families to snorkel and potentially spot sea turtles on the sunny south shore.
Anahola Beach – one of the best options on the island for boogie boarding.
Polihale State Park – on the west shore, it’s a bit of a trek to drive out here, however, you’re rewarded with a long stretch of sand to watch the sunset. Note: you’ll need 4 wheel drive as you must take a dirt road to get here.
Ke’e Beach – the perfect place to watch the sunset along the Napali Coast. A reservation is needed to visit Ke’e beach and the start of the Kalalau trail. You can purchase entry passes up to 30 days in advance of visiting. You can find more information here.
Where to Go
Queen’s Bath – this natural pool fills with ocean water throughout the day. If you choose to swim here, use extreme caution, and ensure conditions are safe for swimming. I’d recommend sneakers for the hike down and go early to beat the crowds.
Visit downtown Hanalei Bay – there are many shops and restaurants to peruse. I took home a straw beach hat.
Hanalei Pier – one of our favorite places to stroll and watch the sunset over Hanalei Bay.
Wailua Falls – a scenic viewpoint allows for stunning views of the falls. You can also checkout nearby Opaekaa Falls which is a short drive away.
Hanapepe Town – a quaint, sleepy town in the south side of the island.
Waimea Canyon – go here to take in stunning views of the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’ and experience the rugged side of Kauai. Note: this side of the island requires a long drive, specifically if you’re driving from the North Shore. Be sure to allocate most of your day to venture out here.
What to Do
Take a Helicopter Tour. Kauai is definitely worth the splurge to view from above! Although there are multiple companies that offer helicopter tours, we would recommend Blue Hawaiian. You can book them here. Or if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, opt for an open-door helicopter tour.
Take Surf Lessons. Kauai is a great place to learn!
Go Stand Up Paddle Boarding. You can rent from Hanalei Surf Co and head straight to Hanalei Bay beach or the river.
Take a Boat Tour. Another great way to take in the spectacular views of the Napali Coast is by boat. I’ve had both Capt Andy’s and Holo Holo Charters personally recommended to me by friends.
Go for a Hike. Taking a hike is one of our favorite things to do on the island! Some great options include Waimea Canyon Trail or Sleeping Giant. Check out the famous Kalalau Trail if you are looking to take in the epic views of the Napali Coast. Note: Access to the Kalalau Trail is frequently closed due to construction and occasion flooding. Find up-to-date information here.
