Of all the Hawaiian islands, Kauai is by far my favorite. It boasts incredible mountain landscapes, crystal-clear water, quaint restaurants, and beautiful waterfalls. The locals are friendly and tourists don’t seem to linger around on the beaches as much as on Maui or the Big Island, which makes it seem a bit more untouched. This Kauai guide has a little bit of something for everyone: whether you are looking for something adventurous, family-friendly, or simply relaxing!
PRESET COLLECTIONS USED IN THIS BLOG POST: GREEK ISLANDS COLLECTION,Β INDIA COLLECTION
5+ DAYS
β
BEST TIME TO VISIT β JUNE THROUGH SEPTEMBER IS HIGH SEASON
WEATHER – TEMPS ARE WARM YEAR-ROUND WITH TROPICAL RAIN
GETTING AROUND β RENTAL CAR
CURRENCY β US DOLLARS
LANGUAGES – ENGLISH
NEARBY AIRPORTS – LIHUE AIRPORT (LIH)
Left to right from top: Hanalei Bay beach; Wishing Well Shave Ice; Tege Tege Shave Ice truck; local flowers; sunset at Hanalei Bay Beach; Ke’e beach at sunset, the NΔ Pali coastline as seen from a helicopter, Wailua Falls as seen from a helicopter.Β
Where to Stay on Kauai
Kauaiβs North Shore is my favorite part of the island β it has beautiful beaches, mountains, and is often less crowded than other parts of the island. This part of the island gets more tropical rain, but if you drive over to the southern side it’s usually sunny! I tend to prefer staying in rental homes in Kauai for a more local feel.
Hotels on Kauai
Wyndham Bali Hai – $$ – this hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Princeville, just shy of Hanalei Bay. It’s perfect for those looking to have all the amenities of a modern hotel (pool, hot tubs, tennis courts) with plenty to explore nearby. It’s also just a short walk away from Queen’s Bath.
Westin Princeville – $$$ – island villas atop an oceanfront cliff across eighteen acres of lush land.
Hanalei Colony Resort – $$$ – for a stay that’s steps away from the ocean, stay here. It’s located on a quieter part of Kauai’s North Shore and close to Hanalei Town.
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay – $$$$ – if you want to splurge, this is the place. The sunset views are breathtaking and the location right on Hanalei Bay with a private section of beach is unbeatable. The 1 Hotel (previously the St. Regis) is also right next to Hideaways, one of our favorite lesser-known beaches.

The view of Hanalei Bay from the 1 Hotel.
Houses on Kauai
Homes on Kauai are often more conveniently located than the hotels. It’s important to note that supply is limited, so most book up months in advance and aren’t as budget-friendly as some hotel options. However, where you stay in Kauai can dictate your entire experience! Here are some of my favorite finds, all located in and around the most picturesque region of Hanalei.
Puamana Maluhia – $$$ – this 2-bedroom condo is a beautiful option in the heart of Princeville.
Pali Ke Kua – $$$$ – a top-rated home in Princeville with nearby pool facilities.Β
Sea Turtle Cottage – $$$$ – this family-friendly home is a 2 minute walk from the beach.
Hallor House – $$$$ – just north of Hanalei by tunnels beach, this 3-bedroom home is the perfect island cottage for a family.
Nihilani Apartments – $$$$ – fully equipped island-style apartment living, with access to a pool and hot tub in Princeville.
Hale Naninoa Home – $$$$ – a spacious family home with an open layout, oceanfront on one of Kauai’s best beaches.
Oceanfront Hanalei – $$$$ – arguably one of the beautiful properties on the island, this modern house hosts up to 8 guests on the beach.
View Additional Hotels and Homes on Kauai’s North Shore

Taro fields outside of our rental house in Hanalei town.
Where to Eat on Kauai
The north shore of Kauai is small, but there’s a variety of great food options if you know where to look. Here are some of my favorite restaurants in Hanalei Bay and nearby in Kilauea.
Hanalei Bread Co – this bakery & coffee shop is a staple of Hanalei, and almost always crowded. Beat the line by going at opening. Some of my favorite food items here are the breakfast sandwich (I order it on sourdough) and the salmon toast.
Ama Restaurant – this ramen spot is probably our most frequented ‘fine dining’ restaurant on the island, as it’s an easy crowd-pleaser for groups and the atmosphere looking at the mountains is hard to beat.

Sushi Girl’s pokΓ© bowl – my favorite.

Ama restaurant, a great spot for groups and couples.
Dolphin Fish Market – a small kitchen in the back offers tasty to-go options, like crab sushi rolls and pokΓ© by the pound. Stop by at night for a sit-down dinner and views of the river.
Bar Acuda – for fine dining, this tapas bar has it all. Atmosphere and a variety of dishes for every taste will make you want to return again and again.
Wishing Well Shave Ice & Coffee – you’ll find organic fruit shave ice at the truck, and a full-service coffee shop around the corner across from Slow Yourself Down. A great place to spend a lazy morning or afternoon (I love their mango smoothies) as the coffee shop has toy trucks and excavators out front, a huge hit for anyone with young kids.
Pink’s Creamery – a great spot to grab ice cream on the North Shore. Their banana macadamia nut flavor is my favorite.
The Food Trucks – perfect for an easy lunch in Hanalei. Spots include Trucking Delicious, Turmeric, and Fresh Bite Kauai. I’ve also heard people swear by Holey Grail Donuts, though I’m not a big donut fan. You’ll also find classic Greek dishes down the street at Tiki Tzatziki, next to the big save market.

One of the many food trucks in Hanalei.
Located in or near Kilauea, 20 minutes down the road from Hanalei
Sushi Girl – a local’s favorite hole-in-the-wall, Sushi Girl is perfectΒ to grab lunch to-go in Kilauea. They have delicious pokΓ©, and some of my favorite fresh daily specials.
Kauai Juice Co – originally a spot for locally made kombucha, Kauai Juice Co expanded to include a full coffee bar and lunch menu. They have multiple locations and are great for grab and go.
Trilogy Coffee – I almost always grab a pastry from this small coffee shop when I stop in Kilauea. My favorite is their homemade pumpkin bread.
Located in or near Kilauea, 40 minutes down the road from Hanalei
Verde – a cozy Mexican restaurant right off the main road in Kapa’a. I recommend their spicyΒ pineappleΒ Margherita and tacos.
Mermaids Cafe – a great cafe in Kapa’a to stop and sit outsideΒ for lunch. My favorite is their Ahi Cilantro Wrap.

Ahi tuna burritos from Mermaids Cafe.
Pono Market – the locals love this spot for traditional Hawaiian food. My tip: go early, the Pork Lau Lau is a must-try and often sells out before 12:00pm! And if you’re looking for a quick fix near the airport, local favorite Konohiki Seafoods also has delicious pork lau lau and to-go sushi.
Tege Tege Shave Ice –Β a must if you like shave ice. Tege Tege uses only organic fruit, and they have unique flavorsΒ like green tea and passionfruit.
Where to Swim on Kauai
Hanalei Bay – the long stretches of beach and beautiful mountain views make Hanalei Bay an easy favorite. When the weather is good, you’ll find surfersΒ at every skill level here.
Food options nearby: yes, there are plenty of options within walking distance in Hanalei town. You’ll also find food trucks open from time to time near the pier.

Dusk at Hanalei Bay beach on the North Shore.

A surfer at Hanalei Bay. The best waves for beginners are near the pier.
HideawaysΒ Beach – if you don’t mind a trek down, Hideaways Beach is often quieter than most beaches on Kauai and has beautiful views. Tip: valet for free at the 1 Hotel HanaleiΒ or the lot in frontΒ of the path.
Food options nearby: no, the closest option for food is the 1 Hotel Hanalei but it’s a trek back up.

The path down to Hideaways Beach.

Views of Hideaways beach.
Tunnels Beach – this beach gets its name from the lava tubes which lie just below the surface of the water. It’s a great beach to watch experienced surfers, and also has aΒ nearby cave you can explore. *No parking reservation needed to visit this part of the North Shore (there are passes required to visit Ke’e Beach, which is further north). However, I recommend going early in the morning as parking spots are limited. You will be ticketed if you park outside of designated areas.Β
Food options nearby: sometimes there are food trucks nearby, but they have unreliable hours. Best to pick up or bring your own food or snacks.
Polihale State ParkΒ – this beach is located on the west side of the island,Β and you’ll need a four-wheel drive to get there since it requires driving on a dirt road. Once you arrive, sunset views and a long stretch of beach awaits. Beware though: it’s easy toΒ get your car stuck if you drive on the sand (I know from experience)!
Food options nearby: no, I recommend bringing food or snacks with you.

Sunset at Polihale State Park beach.
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’ll often see people snorkeling here.
Food options nearby: yes, one beach bar.
Secret Falls – this hidden waterfall is a trek, but so worth it. Prepare to traverse some muddy paths and cross a river to visit this spot!
Food options nearby: no, I recommend bringing food or snacks with you.
Ke’e Beach – this reservations-only beach is located at the base of the Na Pali coast trail. It’s the most beautiful place on the island to watch the sunset, so I highly recommend visiting if you can. When the water conditions permit, Ke’e Beach is also great for snorkeling.*You can purchase entry passes up to 30 days in advance of visiting. More information here.
Food options nearby: no, I recommend bringing food or snacks with you.

Sunset at Ke’e beach, looking towards the NΔ Pali coastline.
Where to Go on Kauai
Queen’s Bath – this natural pool fills up with water from ocean throughout the day and is known for being one of the more beautiful spots on the island. It’s possible to swim here, but I recommend extra caution as waves from the ocean coming in can be unpredictable and dangerous. My tip: wear sneakers for the hike down and go early if you want to avoid the crowds.
Ho’opi’i Falls –Β it’s a short hike through the jungleΒ to get to Ho’opi’i. You can jump into the lower falls and swim in the river when the water is calm — it’s one of my favorite things to do!
Waimea Canyon – for incredible views of Kauai’s mountainous landscape, drive to Waimea or book a tour of Waimea. You can also hike the Waimea Canyon Trail.
Wailua Falls – a scenic overlook lets you view Wailua Falls from above. You might also catchΒ a glimpse of some wild warthogs here!

The lookout at Wailua Falls.

The fresh fruit stand next to Kauai’s Mini Golf and Botanical Garden.
Hanapepe Town – Hanapepe is a sleepy little town with quaint shops and restaurants on the South side of the island.
Kauai Mini Golf & Botanical Garden. Not your average mini-golf course! It’s a journey through Hawaii’s natural history disguised as a family activity. Alongside the holes is a stunning botanical garden that showcases native Hawaiian plants, waterfalls, and cave systems. If you have time, be sure to grab a pineapple frostie next door at Aloha Ola Farmstand.
Downtown Hanalei Bay – this small downtown is set amongst a beautiful backdrop. You can browse the local shops, grab lunch at the food trucks, or head to the beach from here.

Downtown Hanalei Bay is the perfect place to spend a relaxed afternoon.
What to Do on Kauai
Go on a hike. Some of my favorites are the Waimea Canyon TrailΒ and the Sleeping Giant Trail. The NΔ Pali Coast trail (also known as the Kalalau trail) is a popular hike but you’ll need to plan ahead for this one as a permit is required in advance through this website, and you must shuttle in to access the trailhead. Allot at least a half day if you plan to hike even a small portion of the trail, and make sure to bring food, water, and good hiking shoes (the trail is almost always muddy).
Book a small boat tour. Kauai’s NΔ Pali coastline is one of the most otherworldly and recognizable coastlines in the world. What most Kauai visitors don’t realize is that the terrain is so mountainous and inaccessible, most end up missing it! If you don’t plan on hiking the NΔ Pali Coast trail, I highly suggest booking a small boat tour to experience the jaw-dropping mountains, waterfalls and tucked away beaches up close. Most boat tours also offer dolphin spotting, snorkeling and sunset dinners, so this is a great option for families and couples.
Visit a Farmer’s Market. You’ll find produce, fresh coconuts, homemade frosties, and to-go plates and more at the Hanalei Farmers Market on Saturdays and the Waipa’a Farmers Market on Tuesdays.
Take surf lessons. Kauai is a great place to learn, and as a beginner I’ve loved practicing here! I suggest taking lessons from a local spot on the island or booking a surf lesson from a certified instructor.

Surfers at Hanalei Bay on Kauai.
Get drinks with a view. The bar at the 1 hotel Hanalei offers one of the most incredible views of the mountains. I love going here around 5pm for a cocktail and a bite to eat (the bar menu is mainly sushi). Pro tip: book in advance and request a table on the balcony for the best view.
Explore the botanical gardens. My favorite botanical garden on Kauai is Limahuli. Located on the North Shore, this 1,000-acre botanical garden showcases ancient Hawaiian agricultural terraces and rare native plants against the dramatic backdrop of Makana Mountain. I recommend booking in advance on the Limahuli website and going early if you can as it tends to get hot later in the day, though you will find that there is plenty of shade
Ride in a helicopter. There are a few companies that offer hour-long helicopter tours on the island, which is another way to see the NΔ Pali coastline.

Views of the NΔ Pali coastline from our helicopter tour.
Go paddle boarding. I recommend renting paddle boards in Hanalei town (try Hanalei Surf Co) andΒ taking them out on the Hanalei River.
Experience a Kauai Luau. While they might seem touristy, catching an authentic luau is hands-down one of the most memorable ways to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture. These evening celebrations combine mouthwatering traditional foods with hula performances that tell stories of the island’s rich heritage.
Monasue Says
I have been moved by all of your photos. I absolutely love them. I am planning a trip to Kauai in sept thru mid Oct. Your information has helped my plan my stay. Thank you
mynordicroom Says
There is obviously a lot to realize about this. I consider you made certain good points in features also.λ©μ΄μ λμ΄ν°
Kelsey Says
Hey Selena , this is one of the more beautifully written and detailed blog posts I have seen about Kauai. Although I am very curious where is the walking path on the North shore on the second photo down in the blog? Thank you so much ! Mahalo -Kelsey
Selena Clark Says
Hey Selena love all the travel ideas for Kauai. We will be traveling in less than a month and we are super excited! I especially appreciated your tips on each specific beach and what we might want to bring along.
(FYI my name is also Selena and actually came from Hawaii when my dad was stationed in Hawaii for the Navy.)
Selena Says
Post authorSo nice to meet a fellow Selena! Have the best time on Kauai. It is such a beautiful & peaceful place. x
Alicja Says
Hi Selena, your blog is very beautiful. I am planning a trip to Kauai and I will use your tips for sure π I surf and I really would like to try surfing in Kauai. How was it for you? I am a little bit afraid of sharks…did you hear anything alarming or had any experience with them in Kauai?
Selena Says
Post authorThanks Alicja! I haven’t had any trouble with sharks, or heard of anyone who personally has. However, I know for a fact that if a shark is spotted nearby that the locals notify each other of its whereabouts. It’s a small island, so word gets around fast! I’m not sure of your skill level, but if you’re going with a local surf instructor (whether beginner or advanced) they wouldn’t be taking you in the water if that was the case.
Hope that’s helpful! Enjoy the island.. it’s absolutely gorgeous.
Carrie Cobb Says
Your blog is so beautiful! We are headed to Kauai this summer to celebrate our daughter’s high school graduation! When I used your filters for the kind of trip we were looking for, your picture of Kauai popped up, with the condos we will be staying at up on the cliff in the background of your picture. I took that as an excellent sign! I would encourage you to keep doing the work you are doing, and I congratulate you and your husband on the decision to settle down in Amsterdam. It looks amazing! Best wishes to you, and thanks for all of the inspiring photos!!
Selena Says
Post authorThanks so much Carrie! I so appreciate you letting me know how you found me too…always curious! Enjoy the trip, Kauai is absolutely magical. x
Nicole Says
Hi! My friends and I are going to Kauai and plan on hiking a lot! Looking into the Secret Falls hike and it says you need to kayak to get there…is there a path to hike on along the river instead of kayaking?
Love this post!
Selena Says
Post authorI believe you have to kayak and walk!
Marie Says
Looking to book a trip to Hawaii, Oahu and Kauai. Our plan is to rent a RV (westfalia kind of style..) and explore the island of Kauai. Any tips for camping with a RV and informations about camping permit?
Thanks!
Selena Says
Post authorSounds like an incredible advneture! I wish I could help but unfortunately I’m not very useful here, I haven’t camped in Kauai.
JJ Says
Where is the road in the pinned photo? The one with the skate board?
Selena Says
Post authorHey JJ, I’m actually not sure of the name but it’s on the north shore of Kauai after Kapa’a – sorry I’m not more help!
Whitney of GoFam Travel Says
Great post and beautiful photos of Kauai- the best of the Hawaiian Islands!
Selena Says
Post authorI agree π
Kari Shaleen Says
Thank you for this wonderful guide! We are planning our first trip to Kauai this coming April and are looking forward to many of the things you did. I would just like to point out that the Sun Bum sunscreen you linked is NOT reef safe! It contains Octocrylene which has been determined to cause damage to the coral reefs.
Selena Says
Post authorWow Kari – thank you so much! I just got so deep in researching this further and I can’t believe the amount of large sunscreen brands advertising ‘reef safe’ sunscreen right now that contain this ingredient. I’ve updated the link, and I’m on a hunt to find more affordable options as well. Thank you!
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Shelle Spicer Says
We head to Hawaii in 3 weeks for my daughter’s wedding on the beach at Waikiki but going to Kauai for the first week. We’re staying on the south coast close to Poipu beach. Look forward to using all the tips in this guide!
Selena Says
Post authorThat sounds wonderful, congrats to your daughter! As someone who also got married in Hawaii, she couldn’t have chosen a better destination. π
Enjoy every minute! xx
Cecilia Says
Hi! I’m planning a trip to Hawaii and want to go to Kauai. I was using your guide but I was wondering what to do about mobility. Should we rent a car? can we catch a bus if we do decide to stay on the North part of the island? We need guides to the other islands as well!
Selena Says
Post authorI would highly recommend renting a car — there’s one main road in Kauai that loops around the island, and most activities are a drive away.
Noted on the other guides. π Enjoy Kauai!
Kasey Says
Next time check out thus awesome Airbnb / itβs called The Surfshack Kauai! You would LOVE it
Selena Says
Post authorOoh thanks for the tip! xx
Danielle Says
Just read your post and am so excited to check out the places you recommended. We go to Kauai in May and are so excited! I tried clicking on the link for surf lessons with the local friend of yours, Teva, but it said the page could not be found. Do you have more info re: contacting him for beginner lessons?
Thanks so much!
Selena Says
Post authorHi Danielle – I’m excited for you. π Kauai is so beautiful, I hope you get to spend some time on the North Shore (my favorite part)!
Thank you for calling that to my attention, here’s the new link: https://www.blak-bear.com/contact-us
Have a wonderful trip xx
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Sydney Leung Wai Says
Hi,
I just came across your blog. Your photography is so majestic. Thanks for sharing your love of traveling. Im a viewer from Hawaii :)I see you have some presets for sale. I was wondering which specific presets you used on your Kauai blog post. Especially the two pictures with the food trucks. I love the vintage style! Would love to hear back from you and possibly purchase π
Mahalo!
Sydney
Selena Says
Post authorHi Sydney! Thanks so much, I’m so glad you found us, and really appreciate the compliment. π
I used the ‘Milos’ preset from our Greek Islands collection on the food truck photo with me in the pink dress. The other food truck photo (of Tege Tege) is actually from a couple years back, but the preset that would most closely match it is ‘Austria’ from our Europe collection or ‘Plaka’ from the Greek Islands collection. I edited a number of photos in this guide with presets from the Greek Islands collection, so that will give you more of the look you’re after! Hope that helps! xx
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Mahtab Says
Hi Selena and Jacob!
My dad will turn 60 in 2019 and I would like to surprise him with a 2 week trip to Hawaii.
Kauai is for sure the one island that I have put on the list to visit but I was wondering what other island I could add. What would you recommend? We are true nature lovers and not so much into laying on a beach, so to say…. Would love to hear your advice on this!
Thanks so much!
Mahtab
Selena Says
Post authorHi Mahtab! That sounds like one epic gift! I would highly recommend adding Maui to your itinerary — we love it for the Road to Hana (a beautiful scenic drive along the coastline), beautiful beaches, and great hotels.
Enjoy!
Joanne Says
Love this so much! My husband and I are going to Kauai in a week, and we are definitely going to check these places out!! Also if you donβt mind me asking, what kind of camera/lens do you use to take pictures? I love them so much <3
Selena Says
Post authorThanks Joanne! π We use a Sony A7RII and a 35mm 1.4 lens. Have the best time in Kauai! xx
Emma Says
Hi Selena,
My Partner and I are planning a trip in September. I was wondering if there was an airbnb or house you have rented before that you particularly LOVED in Kauai?
Thanks for the amazing travel website. Its amazing!
Selena Says
Post authorHi Emma! We love Hanalei Bay the most, and in terms of our favorite places – definitely beachfront. The most gorgeous home options are on Weke Rd or nearby (but they can get pricey!). I’d recommend checking early and snapping something up if you find it. π You could also try checking these sites for homes:
https://booki.ng/2CC3FMJ
https://vacations.hawaiilife.com/kauai-vacation-rentals?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI4bb3oNfG2AIVxJ8bCh0QBAOwEAAYBCAAEgL4QvD_BwE
Good luck!
Lucy Says
Great post! I really want to know where the picture of you walking down on stairs with lush greenery on back was taken? I believe itβs the 4th picture in this post. Thanks!
Selena Says
Post authorThanks Lucy! It’s the stairs down to Hideaways Beach. π
Shayla Says
Are you able to share the house rental that you stayed in while in Hanalei? Thanks!
- Selena Says
Post authorHi Shayla – we actually stayed with family there, so unfortunately the place isn’t for rent. But I’d recommend looking up properties on Weke Road which is right on Hanalei Bay, there’s a number of options there and that location will give you the easiest beach & town access. π Hope that helps!
Ida Pahus Says
Looks like such a beautiful place! And your pictures are soo dreamy!
http://livelifefullyalive.com/
- Selena Says
Post authorThanks so much Ida :)!
Angie Says
WOW! I love your posts and pictures. So beautiful and inspirational. How do you edit your pics?
- Selena Says
Post authorThank you! I edit all our photos in lightroom. I’ve created my own filters at this point just based on what I tend to like the most. I almost always boost contrast, bring down highlights, and add vibrance and sharpness. Hope that’s helpful!
Mileen Zarin Says
Can’t wait to use this guide for your wedding week π xo
- Selena Says
Post authorWOOHOO!! π
Jessie Squires Says
Thank you for sharing this! I am planning a trip to Kauai for my husband and I this year. Definitely will be referencing the tips you provided here!
- Selena Says
Post authorHow exciting! I hope the tips are useful. Kauai really is one of our favorite places — have a great time!