Things to Do in Kauai, HI - Kauai Attractions
Things to Do in Kauai
Known for its beaches and trails, this is the best of Hawaii. For sun and snorkeling, head to Poipu or Hanalei Bay; for hikes and views, don’t miss Kalalau Trail and Wailua Falls.
Explore popular experiences
See what other travelers like to do, based on ratings and number of bookings.
Book these experiences for a close-up look at Kauai.
Adventure Toursfromper adult$339
Dinner and Show Ticketsfrom$171per adult$153
Kayaking Toursfromper adult$115- fromper adult$238
Adventure Toursfromper adult$167- fromper adult$380
Catamaran Cruisesfromper adult$207- fromper adult$100
Swimmingfromper adult$206
Historical Toursfromper adult$167
State Parks
Canyon landscape with diverse hiking trails, panoramic lookouts, and red dirt waterfalls. Scenic drives lead to multiple viewpoints, showcasing the area's vibrant color palette.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Cacao farm tour through tropical groves with hands-on chocolate-making lessons, tastings of cocoa and exotic fruits, and insights into sustainable agriculture.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Beaches
Sandy beach with lifeguard-protected swimming zones, ideal for snorkeling amidst sea turtles and seals. Close to dining and rental options, plus regular sightings of monk seals.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Botanical garden with diverse, meticulously tended flora and tranquil ambiance. Includes chocolate and fruit tastings, with insights into chocolate's history.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Waterfalls
Tropical waterfall easily reached by car, with scenic views from various vantage points and a touch of TV nostalgia. Limited parking and popular with visitors.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
State Parks
Spectacular sea cliffs, hidden beaches, and sea caves define this coastal paradise, with trails for hikers and boat tours for marine life encounters and snorkeling adventures.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Beaches
Beaches
Wide sandy beach flanked by stunning mountain views, with calm waters ideal for swimming and family water activities. Features a pier for a distinct coastal experience.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Geologic Formations
Hiking Trails
Coastal trail featuring panoramic ocean views, a refreshing swim at a local beach, and cave explorations, with paths accommodating most fitness levels and family-friendly hiking options.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
What travelers are saying
- MaryToronto, Canada12 contributionsThe Waimea Canyon was spectacular! They call it the ‘Grand Canyon’ of the Pacific and it did not disappoint. The lookout points along the way were beautiful. The road was closed for the last lookout and it was a mile hike one way to get to so keep that in mind. In my view the first lookout was the best. Take your time and enjoy the sights.Written August 26, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- johnwhite70Grand Rapids, MI1 contributionOne of the highlights of our trip! The tour was both educational and fun, offering a deep dive into the entire chocolate-making process, from cacao tree to finished product. The lush scenery and the farm's dedication to sustainability made it even more special. Tasting fresh chocolate straight from the source was a highlight, and the friendly guides were full of fascinating information. If you're a chocolate lover or just want a unique, immersive experience in Hawaii, this tour is a must! Would definitely recommend!Written September 5, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- SoCalGal6Camarillo, CA93 contributionsThis beach was such a find for us! We started at the beach in front of the Sheraton and it was a bit rough for us to be honest! We were staying at the Koloa Landing Resort (check out my in depth review on that incredible Marriott Autograph Collection property) so we had access to umbrella rentals, etc. but we were looking for novice level seas, some snorkeling, swimming, that sort of thing. Our hotel recommended Poipu Beach and it was only a short, 4 minute drive by car and there is also a path to walk to it if you want.
First, get there early for parking! Second, bring shade if you need it unless you plan to sit under the canopy with picnic tables. It’s nice, but it’s a bit back from the beach. We rented an umbrella and although it got windy, our umbrella worked out great!
There is an active lifeguard tower and they are working hard to keep folks safe. Although there is a protected area to swim, there is also a section where the tides converge and they were constantly monitoring and using the megaphone to tell folks to come back in.
There is a cute little island just across the way and there were plenty of fish to see! We even saw them right up my close to the shore! And if you get lucky, you will see a turtle or two on the shore as it is mating season now and we saw 3 large turtles out there! Also, there is a place near the shaded picnic tables to spray yourself off, I just did not see any restrooms.Written August 26, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - nicholejolene1 contributionWhen we arrived it was pouring down rain. They had umbrellas to borrow and ponchos for sale (cheap! $2!). The staff was very knowledgeable and we got to try lots of different fruit treats in addition to the chocolate. Be sure to wear your bug repellent! They had some to use there but I still got bit.Written September 4, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Sightseer5423601 contributionI hiked only the 5 miles round trip to Hanakapi’ai Beach. I’m mostly paralyzed from the waist down from a spinal cord injury I suffered in a surfing accident. There were difficult parts, but nothing I couldn’t handle with the help of my son and my crutch. Just had to take it slow. Took almost 3 hours each way. It’s nothing an able bodied person can’t do as long as you take it at your pace and start early if you’re slow. Had a great time on the beach, climbing through the cave tunnel to the left to the other little beach And even a little swimming and bodysurfing with my son. Waves were fun 3+ ft with a few local bodyboarders out. It’s been on my bucket list since my injury 16 years ago. I would love to go to the waterfall, but don’t think I could do it in time to get back before dark. Probably won’t do it again since it was so long and strenuous, but thank God, I was able to, pull it off my longest hike for sure. Another hike that was fun on Kauai was Queens Bath. Super muddy and slippery after rains so be careful.Written July 1, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- mike6410Peoria, AZ146 contributionsWith so many waterfalls on Kauai; Wailua Falls was an easy choice for us to visit. We had just completed the Outdoor Adventures Mountain Tubing, and Wailua Falls is just a short trip up the road, and is easy viewing right from the side of the road. The falls did not disappoint. They were beautiful! Highly recommend visiting these falls. Although we did not have an issue with parking; spaces could be difficult to find.Written August 19, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- ShanaOahu, HI6 contributionsThis was breathtakingly beautiful. I would not recommend sandals. Wear tennis shoes or hiking boots. The clay trails could become very slippery with a little bit of rain. I’m extremely afraid of heights, so I did go all the way down to the lava rocks, but I got some beautiful pictures. Be mindful of the dangers, but I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this to others. I would NOT bring kids here!Written September 2, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Brandon KFlagstaff, AZ2,007 contributionsWe saw the Na Pali park on a Blue Ocean zodiac boat tour that went up and down the coast in a morning. The cliffs are enormous and you lose all sense of perspective looking up at them from the water. There are gorgeous hidden beaches and sea caves to explore as well. It can get rough out there on windy days if you take the water approach to seeing the park, but you need to get out there and see it for yourself. No words do it justice.Written August 27, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Vicki K4 contributionsGot there before 8 am and got a good parking place. Went out 10-15 minutes at a time and saw a bunch of beautiful fish. Also some people standing on the reef. WHY? A beautiful area.Written August 31, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- SoCalGal6Camarillo, CA93 contributionsStunning views, free parking, bathrooms and picnic tables with shade! A top Kauai beach destination!We were told by multiple locals that this beach was a must see and we could not agree more! It was our favorite beach for its shear beauty! The pictures do not do this beach justice! A few highlights for us were the free parking, easy flat walk down to the beach, tons of space to spread out, and very swimmable! The waves were much calmer than the Sheraton in Poipu and similar to what we saw at Kaihuna Beach (check out my reviews on those beaches to learn more).
The biggest negative is no shade, I mean none! It’s just a flat desert, lol! But there are bathrooms close by and it’s an easy to walk beach with absolutely stunning views. They even filmed a movie out here according to my mom! This beach is a must visit if you make it over to the north shore. We were staying on the south shore, but still made the drive because we knew it would be worth it! They also have a pretty neat food truck scene you can check out along the way so plan to stop for a meal or a shaved ice or ice cram from Lapperts! Oh and grab a coffee from Outpost at the back of Hanalei Market, you won’t be disappointed! Seriously, so much to do up there and I wrote reviews on all of our stops so feel free to check them out and then don’t miss out on Hanalei Bay!Written August 26, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Christine H22 contributionsGreat spot to see many spouts but go early to avoid crowds, sunrise in the background makes for a great photo. Visit the botanical gardens on your way out on the same road.Written July 29, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Nashville_brent_65Franklin, TN375 contributionsWe walked from our condo to the western entrance of the trail. Splendid views of the pacific from the cliffs.
Then we hiked through the Grand Hyatt’s gorgeous grounds to Shipwreck Beach.
We hiked through some trees up to the cliffs on the east side of the beach.
Then you can keep going east/north along the cliffs as far as you want.Written July 26, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above hotel descriptions. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in one of these AI-generated descriptions is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.