Hanalei Bay Beach in Kauai via @finduslostOf all the Hawaiian islands, Kauai is by far my favorite. It boasts incredibleΒ 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 theΒ Big Island, which makes itΒ seem a bit more untouched. This Kauai travel guide hasΒ a little bit of something for everyone: whether you are looking for something adventurous, family-friendly, or simply relaxing!

*Note: This Kauai guide has been updated as of July 2019 to reflect the re-opening of Kauai’s North Shore, which was previously closed due to flooding.

PRESET COLLECTIONS USED IN THIS BLOG POST: GREEK ISLANDS COLLECTION,Β INDIA COLLECTION

5+ DAYS

β€”

BEST TIME TO VISIT – JUNE THROUGH SEPTEMBER IS HIGH SEASON
WEATHER – TEMPS ARE WARM YEAR-ROUND WITH TROPICAL RAIN
GETTING AROUND – RENTAL CAR
CURRENCY – US DOLLARS
LANGUAGES – ENGLISH
NEARBY AIRPORTS – LIHUE AIRPORT (LIH)

Hanalei Bay Beach in Kauai via @finduslost
Tege Tege Shave Ice Truck For Delicious Organic Fruit Ice Kauai Hawaii Travel Guide via Find Us Lost
Hanalei Bay Beach at Sunset in Kauai via Find Us Lost
Kauai's North Shore Lookout over Hanalei Bay via Find Us Lost
Surfers at Hanalei Bay Beach in Kauai via Find Us Lost
Hanalei Bay Beach Sunset Hawaii Kauai Travel Guide via Find Us Lost
Kauai stars over Hanalei Bay at night via Find Us Lost

Left to right from top: surfers atΒ Hanalei Bay beach; walking path on the North Shore; Hanalei Bay beach just before sunset; Tege Tege Shave Ice Truck,Β sunset at Hanalei Bay Beach; the lookout point over Kauai’s North Shore; surfers in Hanalei; sunset at Hanalei river; mountains in the North Shore; stars over Hanalei.

Where to Stay

Kauai’s North Shore is my favorite part of the island β€” it has beautiful beaches, mountains, and is much less crowded than other parts of the island. Tip: this part of the island gets more tropical rain, but if you drive over to the southern side it’s usually sunny! I’ve always preferred staying in rental homes in Kauai for a more local feel, so you’ll find some of my favorite spots below.

Hotels in Kauai

Wyndham Bali Hai – $$ – this hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Princeville, just shy of Hanalei Bay. It’s perfect for those looking to have all the amenities of a modern hotel (pool, hot tubs, tennis courts) with plenty to explore nearby. It’s also just a short walk away from Queen’s Bath.
Hanalei Surfboard House – $$$ – this two room beachfront B&B with eclectic vintage decor is in a prime location just minutes from Hanalei town.
Westin Princeville – $$$ – stunning villas atop an oceanfront cliff across eighteen acres of lush land.
Hanalei Colony Resort – $$$ – if you want to be steps away from the ocean, stay here. It’s located on a quieter part of Kauai’s North Shore and close to Hanalei Town.
St. Regis Princeville – $$$$ – if you want to splurge, this is the place to do it! The sunset views are breathtaking and the location right on Hanalei Bay is unbeatable. The St. Regis hotel is also located right next to Hideaways, one of our favorite lesser-known beaches.

Houses in Kauai

Homes in 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 the most picturesque region of Hanalei.

Hanalei Bay Condo – $$$ – bright, clean living steps away from the best sights in Hanalei.
Tutu’s Cottage – $$$$ – a cozy bungalow steps from downtown Hanalei and the beach.Β 
Pali Ke Kua – $$$$ – a top-rated home in Princeville with nearby pool facilities.Β 
Sea Turtle Cottage – $$$$ – this family-friendly home is a 2 minute walk from the beach.
Hale Naninoa Home – $$$$ – a spacious family home with an open layout, oceanfront on one of Kauai’s best beaches.
Oceanfront Hanalei – $$$$ – 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 in Hanalei Hawaii Landscape Kauai Travel Guide via Find Us Lost

Taro fields outside of our rental house in Hanalei town.

Hanalei Bay Beach Sunset Hawaii Kauai Travel Guide via Find Us Lost

Sunset from Hanalei bay beach, looking towards the St Regis.

Backyard Hammock in Hanalei Bay Kauai Travel Guide via Find Us Lost

A hammock in the backyard of our rental house on Kauai’s North Shore.

Where toΒ Eat

Pink’s Creamery – our favorite spot to grab ice cream on the North Shore. Their banana macadamia nut flavor is my favorite!

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.

Pink's Ice Cream in Hanalei Bay Kauai via Find Us Lost

Ice cream from Pink’s in Hanalei Bay.

Tege Tege Shave Ice Truck For Delicious Organic Fruit Ice in Kauai Hawaii via Find Us Lost

Strawberry shave ice from the Tege Tege Truck.

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.

Mermaids Cafe Ahi Fish Burritos Kapaa Kauai Hawaii Travel Guide via Find Us Lost

Ahi tuna burritos from Mermaids Cafe.

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.

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.

Poke Bowls at Sushi Girl in Kauai Hawaii | Travel Guide via Find Us Lost

Eating fresh pokΓ© at Sushi Girl.

Poke Bowl from Sushi Girl Kauai Hawaii Travel Guide via Find Us Lost Selena Taylor Travel Blogger

Sushi Girl’s pokΓ© bowl – my favorite.

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.

Pono Market –Β the locals love this spot for traditional Hawaiian food. My tip: go early, theΒ Pork Lau Lau is a must-try and often sells out before 12:00pm!

Ama – a newer addition to Hanalei Bay, Ama serves up delicious ramen and appetizers with a breathtaking view of the mountains. Perfect for a date night or group dinner.

The Food Trucks – one of our favorite places to grab lunch is at the food trucks in Hanalei! Local staples include Trucking Delicious, Turmeric, and Fresh Bite Kauai. We also love the tacos at Pat’s Taqueria and poke bowls at Hanalei PokΓ© (both are located in the Big Save parking lot).

Tumeric, one of the many food trucks in Hanalei.

Where toΒ Swim

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.

Surfing at Sunset Hanalei Bay Beach Hawaii Kauai Travel Guide via Find Us Lost

A sunset surf session at Hanalei Bay Beach.

HideawaysΒ Beach – if you don’t mind a trek down, HideawaysΒ Beach is often quieter than most beaches on Kauai and has beautiful views. Tip: valet for free at the St. Regis or the lot in frontΒ of the path.

Hideaways Beach Path in Hanalei Hawaii Kauai Travel Guide via Find Us Lost

The path down to Hideaways Beach.

Hideaways Beach in Hanalei Hawaii Kauai Travel Guide via Find Us Lost Selena Taylor

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 

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)!

Sunset at Polihale State Park Beach Kauai Travel Guide via Find Us Lost

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.

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!

Ke’e Beach – when the water conditions permit, Ke’e Beach is great for snorkeling. In the evening,Β grab a beach towelΒ andΒ watch the sunset along the Na Pali coastline.Β *A reservation is now 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. More information here.

Where to Go

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!

Hike to the top of Ho'opi'i Falls Kauai Swimming Hole Kauai Hawaii Travel Guide via Find Us Lost

The top of Ho’opi’i Falls, overlooking the swimming hole.

Waimea Canyon – for incredible views of Kauai’s mountainous landscape, drive to Waimea. You can also hike theΒ Waimea Canyon Trail.

Hanapepe Town – Hanapepe is a sleepy little town with quaint shops and restaurants on the South side of the island.

Wailua Falls – a scenic overlook lets you view Wailua Falls from above. You might also catchΒ a glimpse of some wild warthogs here!

Wailua Falls Scenic Overlook Kauai Travel Guide Find Us Lost

The lookout at Wailua Falls.

Hanalei Bay Beach at Sunset in Kauai via Find Us Lost

Sunset at Hanalei Bay Beach.

Downtown Hanalei Bay – this small downtown is set amongst a beautiful backdrop. You can browse shops, grab lunch at the local food trucks, or head to the beach from here.

Downtown Hanalei Bay Kauai Hawaii Travel Guide via Find Us Lost

Downtown Hanalei Bay is the perfect place to spend a relaxed afternoon.

What to Do

Ride in a helicopter. There are a few companies that offer hour-long helicopter tours on the island, but if you’re feeling extra adventurous I’d book an open door tour.

Go on a hike. Some of my favorites are the Waimea Canyon Trail and the Sleeping Giant Trail. *Note: Due to the April 2018 flood, the Nā Pali Coast trail is currently inaccessible. 

Best Poke Bowls from Sushi Girl Kauai Hawaii Travel Guide via Find Us Lost Selena Taylor Travel Blogger

One of our favorite things to do – go hiking and grab lunch from a local spot like Sushi Girl.

Take surf lessons. Kauai is a great place to learn! I suggest taking lessons from a local. Our friend Teva offers lessons for beginners – mention ‘Find Us Lost’ and he’ll give you 20% off your first surf lesson! Contact him here.

Go paddle boarding. I recommend renting paddle boards in Hanalei town (try Hanalei Surf Co) andΒ taking them out on the Hanalei River.

The Na Pali coast from a Helicopter Kauai Travel Guide via Find Us Lost

Views of the Na Pali coastline from our open door helicopter.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding in Hanalei Bay on the North Shore Kauai Hawaii Travel Guide via Find Us Lost Selena Taylor Travel Blogger

Paddle boarding on Hanalei river.

More Things to Do in Kauai

One of the best ways to see the Nā Pali coast is with a helicopter tour or boat tour. The coastline on this part of the island is incredible and not to be missed. Visiting Waimea Canyon will also allow you to see more of the beautiful landscapes of Kauai. This part of the island is fairly out of the way, so allot at least a half day depending on where you’re driving from. You can also book a tour of Waimea.

What to Bring

  • Dresses in flow-y fabrics. I tend to wear maxi dresses in Kauai the most, since it’s so humid.
  • Cotton tops that are machine-washable. I love these classic Madewell tanks because I can throw them straight in the wash.
  • Plenty of swimsuits. I typically wear a swimsuit every day. The relaxed island vibe is the way to go.
  • A hat and beach bag. The hat is definitely needed here! I carry this baseball cap with me anytime we go on beach vacations, since it’s easy to pack.Β A beach bag is a must for beach days, or when you want to carry aΒ change of clothes and hikingΒ shoes with you.
  • Reef-friendly sunscreen. Kauai recently banned sunscreen that damages coral reefs, and this supergoop sunscreen is one of the few brands I’ve found that fits the bill and is consistently reviewed well. This is the face sunscreen equivalent.
  • Your camera! A GoPro and GoPro dome is also a must if you want to take underwater photos (the water is clearest if you take a boat out). Our travel photography gear post details out all the camera gear we use.

Kauai's North Shore Lookout over Hanalei Bay via Find Us Lost
Sandy beach in Kauai Hawaii via Find Us Lost

The Complete Kauai Travel Guide feat. Best Restaurants Food Beaches via Find Us Lost
The Complete Kauai Travel Guide feat. Best Restaurants Food Beaches via Find Us Lost
The Complete Kauai Travel Guide feat. Best Restaurants Food Beaches via Find Us Lost

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Want more Kauai inspiration? Check out our post about Hanalei Bay.