Kauai, the Garden Island | Vacation Inspiration | Aqua Aston Hotels

Top Six Things to Do on Kauaʻi

Best Kauaʻi Attractions, Activities, and Experiences

Kaua'i, the Garden Isle, is the oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands. It’s more rustic than Oʻahu and Maui, and has a laid-back, “small town” feel with plenty of natural beauty and charm. Here, you’ll find stretches of white sand beaches, winding mountain trails, dramatic waterfalls, and sky-high cliffs. It’s a nature-lover’s paradise and despite its petite size, there’s plenty to do to fill your Kauai coffee cup. Here’s six must-do activities and sites to put on your list.

Tour the Nā Pali Coast

Go By Boat or Plane

If you do nothing else while visiting Kauaʻi, take a boat or air tour along the Nā Pali coast which means “cliffs” in Hawaiian. Considered one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines, the towering cliffs and hidden valleys of Nā Pali are unforgettable and you can view them from a whale-watching catamaran or the cockpit of a tour plane.

Local tip: if you opt for a helicopter, many tours also include additional aerial routes including Waimea Canyon, Hanapēpē Valley, and Mānāwaiopuna (Jurassic Falls).

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Hike the Kalalau Trail

Rugged but rewarding

One of the most adventurous things to do on Kauaʻi is to hike the Kalalau Trail, connecting Ke’e Beach to Kalalau Beach along the Nā Pali Coast. It’s a challenging 22-mile round trip that takes you to tucked away gems like hidden valleys and secret waterfalls. Word of caution: the Nā Pali trail is meant for seasoned hikers and backpackers are recommended to get an early start to beat the heat.

Local tip: If you plan to camp, you’ll need a permit and can post up at Hanakoa or Kalalau but not anywhere along the trail.

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Visit Wailua Falls

A picture-perfect waterfall

You don't have to hike miles and miles to see Kauaʻi’s beauty. Take a shortcut with a short drive from Lihue, the county seat of Kauaʻi, to reach Wailua Falls. There’s a viewing area right by the parking lot where you can admire one of the most famous double-tiered waterfalls in the world. Legend has it that warriors used to leap into the pool below to prove their mettle.

Local tip: Early mornings mean fewer crowds and a better chance at seeing a rainbow form amongst the mist.

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Explore Waimea Canyon

The Grand Canyon of the Pacific

Drive up to Waimea State Park to view what Mark Twain dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Stay on the road and you’ll reach the dense rainforest-filled Kalalau Valley. Two unique environments and climates are just minutes from one another. That’s the juxtaposition of Kauaʻi.

Local tip: There are two popular hiking trails: the Waimea Canyon Trail and Cliff Trail. Both hikes can be done in half a day with unique canyon viewpoints.

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The White Sands of Polihale

Formed by Quartz-Rich Sediment

Polihale Beach and State Park is where you'll find the longest stretch of white sand beach in the state. It’s the last beach on the west side of the island and the beginning of the Nā Pali Coast. Take a friend or partner to catch a vibrant sunset that fades into an endless night sky.

Local tip: Polihale Beach is meant to be enjoyed from the shore. Swimming is strongly discouraged due to its frequent rip currents, shore breaks, and large waves. Even the calmer Queen’s Pond can be risky, (no lifeguards), so visitors should check conditions and avoid swimming if unsure.

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Watch Monk Seals & Turtles at Poʻipū Beach

Wildlife Spotting at its Best

Poʻipū Beach Park is one of the most popular locations on Kauaʻi, where you can picnic, swim, snorkel, and boogie board. It’s also one of the few spots where you can see the endangered Hawaiian monk seal and watch sea turtles (honu) bob in the waves.

Local tip: Boogie board at Brennecke’s Beach for a better chance to see honu sharing the next wave with you.

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