Things To Do In Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi
Discover the enchanting beauty of Kauaʻi! Find the best destinations and attractions on the island. From stunning beaches to breathtaking hikes, plan your perfect getaway. Uncover hidden gems and local favorites in Kauaʻi's vibrant towns. Start planning your trip today!

🗺️For best experience zoom intomap and explore.We’re Hawaiian Host, the premium chocolate brand from Hawaiʻi, and we’re living up to our name as the Host of Hawaiʻi.

Kauaʻi is nicknamed “The Garden Isle” due to its lush and vibrant tropical rainforests and beautiful gardens. If you’re looking for an escape from city life, Kauaʻi is the place to go. Unplug and immerse yourself in nature. As your hosts, we’ve got you covered. We’ve put a list of our favorite beaches, eateries, hikes, and activities you must try. Let’s dive in!

Click on images on this page to view on Google Maps.

What to do

5 popular activites

Photo Credit: Adobe Stock | Maridav

Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park

This is an iconic moment! The Nā Pali Coast is known for its breathtaking beauty due to the dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The rugged coastline stretches for approximately 17 miles (27 kilometers) and is renowned for its stunning vistas and picturesque landscapes. It is accessible by boat, hiking, or helicopter, this is a sight you won’t want to miss. (See on map.)

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Photo Credit: Valentina Khalimon | Getty Images/iStockphoto

Wailua River

What once was reserved for only royalty, can now be enjoyed by everyone. This is the adventurer’s dream. Water ski, paddle board, wakeboard, kneeboard, hydrofoil, canoe, kayak, swim, fish or simply float through the river. If you don’t have access to equipment, rentals are available along the bank. (See on map.)

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Photo Credit: MNStudio | Adobe Stock

Waimea Canyon State Park

Prepared to be awe-struck. Referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, the park offers dramatic and colorful canyon landscape -vibrant hues of red, orange, and green, giving you a dazzling photo op. The park also has lush vegetation, waterfalls, and scenic lookouts. Take a tour through the canyon, including by bike, or in the air with an epic helicopter ride. (See on map.)

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Photo Credit: ItStartedOutdoors

Kauai Coffee Company

Want to learn everything about the coffee-growing process? Take a tour to explore the plantation, see the coffee trees, and learn about cultivation, harvesting, and processing techniques used to produce their coffee. Check out the visitor center and do a complimentary coffee tasting to try different roasted flavors and seasonal blends. (See on map.)

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Photo Credit: Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Association

Kōloa Rum Company

Calling all rum lovers! Learn about the rum-making process and the history of rum in Hawaiʻi. Even if you’re not sure if you’re a rum lover, try it out by enjoying a tasting room of different expressions, including white, gold, dark, spiced, and flavored rums. With numerous awards and recognized by publications in the spirits industry under their belts, this will surely impress. (See on map.)

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What beaches to visit

5 stunning beaches

Kauaʻi is home to numerous stunning beaches, each with its own unique beauty and charm. Immerse yourself in the magic of our waters.

Helpful tips:

  • Please kokua and help us care for our islands.
  • Remember to buy coral safe sunscreen to protect our coral reefs!
  • Please respect the animals. If you’re lucky and come across a sea turtle or seal resting ashore, please do not stress the animal by trying to get its attention or disturbing it.
  • Always stay hydrated and bring water and snacks.
  • Check the weather reports and make sure water conditions are safe.
Photo Credit: PhyllisPhotos | Adobe Stock

Hanalei Bay

This picturesque beach with a crescent-shaped shoreline and golden sand has a backdrop of lush green mountains. It’s a great spot to set your towel down and picnic, sunbathe, kayak, and even snorkel if the waters are calm (the waves can be rough during winter). Hang out for sunsets to get the best views of Mount Makana in the distance. (See on map.)

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Photo Credit: Avenly Lane Travel

Tunnels Beach

This is it! One of the best snorkeling and scuba diving spots in Kauaʻi. Underwater you’ll find reefs, lava tubes, and tunnels, hence the name "Tunnels." These formations create the most vibrant and diverse marine ecosystem! If you’re lucky, you’ll see the Hawaiian Monk Seal napping on shore. You must stay at least 50 feet (15 meters) away from monk seals on shore and in the water. Spot the state fish, the humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa! It looks like the bigger fish on the left! (See on map.)

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Photo Credit: Expedia

Poipu Beach

Imagine soft white sand between your toes. Lapping turquoise waters nearby. This beach is divided into two sections: the livelier Brennecke's Beach, which is popular for bodyboarding and experienced surfers, and the calmer Poipu Beach Park, which is for swimming and snorkeling! You’ll find these marine residents at this beach: Hawaiian Monk Seal, Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, and abundant array of colorful reef fish. (See on map.)

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Photo Credit: The Hawaiian Islands

Keālia Beach

The long stretch of white sand is perfect for a long beach stroll watching the sun rise or set, whale watching during winter, or for a nice dip in the ocean. This beach is also a popular surf spot and on calmer days great for bodyboarding. (See on map.)

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Photo Credit: Kekaha Beach Sunset Reflections | Stephen Vecchiotti

Kekaha Beach

Don’t miss out on this one! Famous for its stunning sunsets views, the west-facing beach provides the most incredible vantage point to witness the phenomenal vibrant colors of the sun setting over the ocean. Take an evening walk and have a beach picnic. This is also a great spot for surfing and fishing. You’ll be able to see the island of Niʻihau from shore. Definitely a great beach to end your day! Tip: Bring a box of our Hawaiian Host chocolates and enjoy on the beach – new core memory! (See on map.)

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What 5 restaurants to check out

Whether you're craving local Hawaiian cuisine, fresh seafood, international flavors, or gourmet dining, Kauaʻi has something to satisfy every palate.

Photo Credit: The Beach House

The Beach House

“Philosophy: Take some good old-fashioned Hawaiian hospitality, blend it with a Pacific Rim food experience and add an outstanding view to deliver an experience that delights all the senses.” They are committed to sourcing fresh, local ingredients. They are also an incredible wedding venue for all your destination wedding needs!

Must Try: Coconut Shrimp a mouthwatering appetizer featuring large prawns coated in crunchy coconut crust

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Photo Credit: Da Crack Mexican Grinds Yelp

Da Crack Mexican Grinds

Known for serving delicious and flavorful Mexican cuisine with an emphasis on freshness and customization. They offer a variety of dishes, including tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and more. The menu features both meat and vegetarian options, with choices like carne asada, grilled fish, shrimp, chicken, and even tofu for plant-based eaters.

Must Try: Fish Tacos

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Photo Credit: @Hukilau_Kauai photo courtesy of Weekend Digital Marketing

Hukilau Lanai

With numerous accolades and recognitions for its culinary excellence, they have been featured in many publications and have earned praise for their high-quality cuisine and commitment to sustainable practices. They prioritize working with local farmers, ranchers, and fishermen to create their menu, which showcases the flavors of Hawaiʻi through a farm-to-table approach.

Must Try: Wally’s Steak Crown Royal

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Photo Credit: @DukesKauai Instagram

Duke’s Kauai

Paying homage to Duke Kahanamoku, the Hawaiian legend and surfing pioneer, the decor reflects a beachside ambiance with a relaxed and casual vibe, with views of the crystal blue waters of Nawiliwili Bay. Come eat like a beach boy!

Must try: Slow Roasted Prime Rib & Wild Mushroom & Spinach Ravioli

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Photo Credit: @BaracudaHanalei Instagram

Bar Acuda

Specializing in tapas-style dining, with small plates designed for sharing and flavor exploration. This way you’ll be able to try a diverse selection of dishes, creating a unique and interactive dining experience. Featured in Goop, Frommer’s, Travel+Leisure, San Francisco Chronicle, and AFAR, this is a must stop in Hanalei’s most stunning location!

Must try: Blackened Kauai Shrimp with saffron fennel broth, roasted cherry tomatoes, cannellini beans, and preserved lemon.

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Where to hike

5 unforgettable hikes

Kauai boasts an unparalleled collection of stunning hiking trails that highlight the abundant, captivating beauty of the island.

Important Tip:

Remember to come prepared with proper hiking gear, water, sun protection, and to respect the environment by following any posted guidelines or regulations.

Photo Credit: Mercury News

Sleeping Giant (Nounou Mountain) East Trail

This 3.4-mile round trip hike with breathtaking views known as the Sleeping Giant! Legend has it that a giant feasted so much that he laid down for a nap and never woke up. Hike the face of this fabled giant and hope you donʻt wake him up! If you're looking to see the Sleeping Giant himself, head down and youʻll see his profile from anywhere in Kapaʻa. (See on map.)

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Photo Credit: Trip Advisor

Hanakāpīʻai Falls Trail

The trail is approximately 8-mile round trip, so plan ahead of time and come prepared! This hike takes you through the lush and scenic valley to the breathtaking falls. Take our word for it - the stunning waterfall at the end is worth the hike! (See on map.)

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Photo Credit: Journey Era, an adventure blog by Jackson

Awaʻawapuhi Trail

Located at Kokeʻe State Park, this 6-mile roundtrip hike is a scenic and moderately challenging trail that offers beautiful panoramic views of the Nāpali Coast and the Pacific Ocean.

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Photo Credit: Arrived

Māhāʻulepū Heritage Trail

Shipwreck Beach to Punahoa Point – Located near Koloa, this 3.7 mile roundtrip hike offers a seaside trail along Kauaʻi's southern coastline from Shipwreck's Beach on Keoneloa Bay to Māhāʻulepū Beach near Kawailoa Bay. Discover rugged sea cliffs, secluded coves, tide pools, sculpted lava formations, native plants, and petroglyphs. So much to see!

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Photo Credit: Avenly Lane Travel

Canyon Trail to Waipoʻo Falls

This trail is a popular rainforest hike located in Kokeʻe State Park, running 3.0 mile out-and-back near Kekaha. This is 2 hour hike is popular with families! It may get muddy after significant rain, but it offers great photograph opportunities (Instagrammable moment alert!). Please make sure to keep this, and all trails clean and maintained for those who come after you.

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Where to "Pau Hana"

Top 5 faves

Pau Hana, pronounced {pow hah-nah}, is a time spent after a day’s worth of work, a time meant for relaxation and socialization with friends and family. It’s a time to come together to drink good drinks and eat good food at half the price. Good times guaranteed. 

Photo Credit: Oasis on the Beach

Oasis on the Beach

It’s all in the name. While sitting oceanside at Waipouli Beach Resort, you can order a signature cocktail like Pineapple Martini or Kauaiian Punch and experience relaxation like no other. (See on map.)

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Photo Credit: Hawaiian Islands

Brennecke’s Beach Broiler

While at Poipu Beach grab Kauaʻi style pupus (appetizers) and a variety of cocktails and mocktails. Try Brennecke's World Famous Mai Tai or if you’re in the mood for a mocktail, opt for Christine’s Virgin Mai Tai. (See on map.)

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Photo Credit: Poipu Shopping Village

Keoki’s Paradise

This is a local and visitor favorite! It’s refreshing atmosphere, with open-air dining, tropical surroundings, and live hula almost every night welcomes everyone with aloha. (See on map.)

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Photo Credit: Sam's Ocean View Facebook

Sam’s Ocean View

It’s the place to come together for good food, drinks, vibes, and views! With globally-inspired dishes like steak chimichurri and sensational cocktails like lilikoʻi jalapeño margaritas and Kauaʻi Rum Mai Tai’s you won’t have a more perfect time on this ocean-front bar.

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Photo Credit: Kalypso Kauai

Kalypso Island Bar & Grill

Check out the casual tavern atmosphere of a bamboo bar and porch seating and enjoy a Hawaiian-style menu & tropical drinks. Pure, sun-kissed bliss.

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Hawai'i foods to try

5 ono grindz

These are local favorites and are unique to the islands.

Exploring the local cuisine is a fantastic way to experience the flavors and cultural influences that make Hawaiian food so unique. There is more inpsiring, delicious, and Instagrammable food out there so go explore and try something new!

Photo Credit: @KauaiBakery Instagram

Malasadas

Youʻll never forget these! Portuguese style donut without a hole, covered in sugar, and can be served without or with a delicious filling like dobash or guava! Tastes best hot & fresh.

Our top pick: Kauai Bakery & Coffee (voted Best Bakery + Best Malasada) (See on map.)

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Photo Credit: @KoloFishMkt Instagram

Poke

This is the freshest you'll ever eat! Poke is diced raw fish (traditionally ahi tuna) cut into cubes and available in many variations. Popular types of poke include shoyu (soy sauce), spicy, and limu (seaweed).

Our top pick: Koloa Fish Market (See on map.)

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Photo Credit: Wailua Shave Ice Facebook

Shave Ice

That's right, there's no D in shave. Made by shaving down a block of ice, then adding sweet syrup flavoring like strawberry, banana, and blue raspberry. Add other sweet ingredients like sweetened condensed milk, azuki beans (red beans), even ice cream! Shave ice is as refreshing as it sounds and is the perfect treat after a long beach day.

Our top pick: Wailua Shave Ice (See on map.)

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Photo Credit: Pono Market Yelp

Musubi

A food that has it's own festival – how can this be wrong when it's so right? Traditionally, a piece of spam either sandwiched in between or on top of a block of rice and wrapped together with a piece of nori (dried seaweed). This delicious treat is wrapped making it the perfect snack on the go.

Our top pick: Pono Market 

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Photo Credit: @Kountry.Kitchen Instagram via @Chichenofthesea

Loco Moco

A must-try local favorite! A bed of rice, topped with homemade hamburger patties, any-style eggs, and gravy all over.

Our top pick: Kountry Style Kitchen Restaurant

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Map Making BTS

It was our greatest pleasure hosting you. Get excited for all the adventures you'll go on and memories you'll make in paradise.

Did you know that each island has it's own color and flower?

Spot the difference by exploring all the other islands below.

Take a piece of paradise home

For over 95 years, it’s a tradition, that people buy Hawaiian Host chocolates as gifts and souvenirs whenever they visit. That’s why we are “Hawai‘i’s Gift to the World”. In the end, did you even visit Hawaiʻi if you didnʻt buy a Hawaiian Host chocolate?

Pro Tip: Buy a box at your nearest retailer, head to the beach and enjoy our confections as you relax on the sandy beach. It’s a vibe, we promise.

AlohaMacs

Considered an edible postcard from paradise! Featuring our finest macadamias coated in our silky, premium milk chocolate, this Island original makes a delightful souvenir for everyone on your gift list. This is perfect for sharing aloha with family and friends, not to mention a sweet way to treat yourself!

Flavors: Milk Chocolate and Dark Chocolate.

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The Founder’s Collection

Premium chocolate and uniquely crunchy macadamias, made just like our founders, Mamoru and Aiko Takitani, intended.

Flavors: Milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, Matcha Chocolate, White Chocolate, and Honey Coated.

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The Paradise Collection

Savor a blissful moment of paradise with our Paradise Collection. Each unique island-inspired flavor contains a combination of premium chocolate and macadamia nuts.

Flavors: Toasted Coconut Milk Chocolate, Hawaiian Honey Milk Chocolate, Kona Coffee Milk Chocolate, and Sea Salt Toffee Dark Chocolate.

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Maui Caramacs

A beloved treat, the iconic macadamia shares the spotlight with rich, buttery caramel. To make our famous Maui Caramacs, we smother macadamias in our custom-made caramel and then cover them in smooth milk chocolate. Perfect for sharing aloha with friends and family (but buy one for yourself or you’ll regret it!).

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Flavors of Aloha Bars

These delicious bars are inspired by the Islands. Tropical Sunrise Swirl blends white chocolate with delicious passionfruit and mango; Island Bounty combines coconut with milk chocolate; Pau Hana is a pretzel-meets-chocolate-and-mac-nuts party; Rocky Road to Paradise combines marshmallow and sea-salt with milk chocolate; and Surfer’s Breakfast takes crunchy granola and Kona coffee and swirls it in dark chocolate.

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