Lonely Planet Kauai

Kauaʻi

Contents

Plan Your Trip

Welcome to Kauaʻi

Kauaʻi’s Top Experiences

Need to Know

What’s New

Accommodations

Getting Around Kauaʻi

Month by Month

Itineraries

Eat & Drink Like a Local

On the Water

Diving & Snorkeling

Surfing

On the Land

Hiking & Biking

Green Kauaʻi

Kauaʻi by Air

Family Travel

Regions at a Glance

On The Road

LIHUʻE

History

Sights

Activities

Hiking Around Lihu‘e

Tours

Festivals & Events

Sleeping

Eating

Drinking & Nightlife

Entertainment

Shopping

KAPAʻA & THE EASTSIDE

Hiking, Cycling & Kayaking in Eastern Kauaʻi

Wailua

Waipouli

Kapaʻa

Anahola

Koʻolau Road

HANALEI & THE NORTH SHORE

Hiking on the North Shore

Road Trip > Kuhio Highway

History

Kilauea

ʻAnini

Princeville

Hanalei

Wainiha

Haʻena

Haʻena State Park

Na Pali Coast Wilderness State Park

POʻIPU & THE SOUTH SHORE

Hiking & Cycling on the South Shore

Road Trip > South Shore Driving Tour

Koloa

History

Poʻipu

Kalaheo

WAIMEA CANYON & THE WESTSIDE

Hiking in Western Kaua‘i

Road Trip > Waimea Canyon Drive

Port Allen & Around

Hanapepe

Waimea

Kekaha

Waimea Canyon State Park

Kokeʻe State Park

UNDERSTAND

Understand Kaua‘i

History

People of Kaua‘i

Hawaiian Arts & Crafts

Lei

Landscapes & Wildlife

SURVIVAL GUIDE

Directory A–Z

Accessible Travel

Customs Regulations

Discount Cards

Climate

Electricity

Food & Drink

Health

Insurance

Internet Access

Laundry

Legal Matters

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Maps

Money

Opening Hours

Post

Public Holidays

Safe Travel

Telephone

Time

Tourist Information

Visas

Volunteering

Work

Transportation

Getting There & Away

Air

Sea

Getting Around

Bicycle

Bus

Car & Motorcycle

Hitchhiking & Ride-Sharing

Taxi

Behind the Scenes

Our Writers

COVID-19

We have re-checked every business in this book before publication to ensure that it is still open after 2020’s COVID-19 outbreak. However, the economic and social impacts of COVID-19 will continue to be felt long after the outbreak has been contained, and many businesses, services and events referenced in this guide may experience ongoing restrictions. Some businesses may be temporarily closed, have changed their opening hours and services, or require bookings; some unfortunately could have closed permanently. We suggest you check with venues before visiting for the latest information.

Welcome to Kauaʻi

I always love arriving at one of the world’s most laid-back airports – an island-enforced transition to a state of unhurried relaxation. Picking up super-fresh poke at a local market or chatting with easygoing food-truck owners only magnifies my serene vibe, and I’m soon ready to jump into active adventures exploring Kauaʻi’s improbably scenic landscapes. Salty spray enlivens catamaran trips along the Na Pali Coast, while the island’s heritage and rugged interior combine on a tubing trip on historic irrigation channels. Sunset beers and pau hana happy hour snacks reinvigorate me for another supremely relaxing itinerary the following day.

Na Pali Coast Wilderness State Park | MNSTUDIO/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

By Brett Atkinson, Writer

twitterpng @travelwriternz instagrampng travelwriternz

For more about our writers

Kauaʻi’s Top 8

1HIKING IN PARADISE

Kauaʻi’s versatile Pacific trails meander through lush mountains and fertile valleys or plummet deep into a red-rock canyon. View-friendly trails take in clifftop vistas from remote and roadless coastlines, while other routes through primordial forests feature the natural surprise of spectacular waterfalls. Hiking opportunities include shorter routes that will have you back in time for a sunset cocktail, or the overnight adventure of a two-day hike.

Hanakapiʻai Falls | FOMINAYAPHOTO/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Kalalau Trail

Kauaʻi’s most popular trail traverses the unforgettable Na Pali Coast. Grab an early start from the cafes of Hanalei to kick off the 22-mile two-day round trip at Ke̒e Beach. Look forward to remote beaches, the spectacular Hanakapi̒ai Falls, and the vertiginous lava rock cliffs of the Kalalau Valley.

Kalalau Trail | PAVEL TVRDY/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Mahaʻulepu Heritage Trail

This trail segues from the popular beaches of Poʻipu to a far wilder stretch of coast, full of secluded coves, snorkeling reefs, blowholes and sea cliffs. Experienced South Shore surfers and kitesurfers carve the shallow reef break offshore.

Maha‘ulepu Heritage Trail | ALEXANDER HOWARD/LONELY PLANET ©

Kuilau Ridge & Moalepe Trails

A wonderful exploration of Wailua’s fertile highlands, the highlights of this scenic and beautiful trail include moss-cloaked glades, tropical ferns, and keyhole views onto Mt Waiʻaleʻale.

Bridge between Kailua and Moalepe trails | MATTHEW MICAH WRIGHT/GETTY IMAGES ©

Top Experiences

2BEACHES FOR ALL

When it comes to finding that ideal stretch of sand, Kauaʻi offers an embarrassment of riches. Whether you crave the rugged and all-natural, or something more easygoing and family-friendly, the island is a spectacular example of the paradox of choice. Thankfully, with time and judicious planning, you can explore many of Kauaʻi’s best. Relaxing, bodyboarding, or the underrated art of beachcombing all await.

Hanakapiʻai Falls | MATT MUNRO/LONELY PLANET ©

Lydgate Beach Park

A fun-filled playground for the kids, plus bathrooms, lifeguards, and two safe pools protected by a breakwater make Lydgate Beach a great option for families.

Hanalei Bay

Kauaʻi’s preeminent horseshoe bay is the ultimate destination for many travelers, and the global gods of surfing built their reputations on its half-dozen surf breaks. The beach superbly combines a wide sweep of white sand with jade mountain views.

Hanalei Bay | CHASE CLAUSEN/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Polihale Beach

Ancient Hawaiians thought Polihale was a spiritual beach, and nothing has changed. Sprawled at the base of the Na Pali cliffs, this is the perfect spot to relax and reflect after a lengthy hike or a busy trip. Suitably, it’s at the end of a long, bumpy dirt road.

Polihale Beach | NSTANEV/GETTY IMAGES ©

Top Experiences

3WATERBORNE ISLAND FUN

You’ve explored the land, you’ve chilled on the beach, now it’s time to get your aquatic adventure on. From boating to paddling, diving to surfing, Kauaʻi offers a multitude of ways to get wet and be happy. And as it’s such a compact island, it’s very practical to schedule a week of exciting adventures at diverse locations.

River kayaking

An essential Kauaʻi’ experience is paddling up the sacred Wailua River to secret waterfalls. Getting away in the quiet of early morning is the perfect way to start.

Kayaking, Wailua River | MICHAEL RUNKEL/GETTY IMAGES ©

Surfing

Kaua̒i is a great place to learn how to surf, especially on the more sheltered breaks of the South Shore. Small group sizes and free practice time make Poʻipu a good choice.

Going surfing | FATCAMERA/GETTY IMAGES ©

Sea kayaking

For experienced kayakers, the 12-hour, 17-mile paddle along the Na Pali Coast is a scenic blast of mind-boggling beauty. Beginners can learn to paddle on the more benign waters around Poʻipu.

Sea kayaking, Na Pali Coast | TEDJOHNJACOBS/GETTY IMAGES ©

Top Experiences

4NO ONE’S GOING HUNGRY

You’re sure to be eating local on Kauaʻi, an island with dozens of organic farms, grass-fed beef aplenty and a fishing fleet plying the waters offshore. Establishments across the island range from affordable and convenient food trucks to restaurants that pamper and plate with elegance. Factor in local coffee roasters, Kauaʻi’s very own kombucha and craft beer, and freshly squeezed juices for the ultimate in ongoing island sustenance.

Poke bowl (cubed raw fish mixed with shōyu, sesame oil, salt, chili pepper, ʻinamona or other condiments; Cliquez ici) | EQROY/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

The freshest of seafood

Poke, sushi and sashimi are all delicious staples on Kauaʻi. The in-store kitchen at Makai Sushi serves up some of the finest, and spiciest, poke on the island

A diverse culinary menu

Asian culinary influences fuse with traditional Hawaiian food around the island. The brilliant flavors at Saimin Dojo reflect the island’s social jigsaw.

Farmers’ market bounty

Self-catering is easy with the freshest of seasonal produce. Stock up at popular events like Saturday morning’s Kauaʻi Community Market.

Top Experiences

5ART & DESIGN

Kauaʻi has plenty of art galleries and stores with all manner of collectibles. Surprises to discover include 1950s Japanese fishing buoys, heritage maps from all around the Pacific, and contemporary photography. Modern sculpture, oil paintings and carved woodwork all reinforce diverse and contrasting styles, while a new breed of artisan makers are repurposing and reinventing amid compact workshops.

Warehouse 3540

This converted warehouse has an eclectic array of out-of-the-ordinary arts and crafts stores – interesting clothing, jewelry and stationery all feature along with a tasty park-up of food trucks.

Food truck, Warehouse 3540 | CHARLES LEWIS/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Browsing in Hanalei

Head north to Hanalei for interesting shopping, including retro surprises at the Yellowfish Trading Company and stunning collectibles from around Asia and the Pacific.

Hanalei | JEFF WHYTE/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Hanapepe’s Art Night

Every Friday night, the heritage town of Hanapepe keeps its shops and art galleries open late. There’s also the added attraction of the best book store on the island.

Talk Story Bookstore | FRANCIS DEAN/CONTRIBUTOR/GETTY IMAGES ©

Top Experiences

6ACTIVE ADVENTURES

Discover Kauaʻi’s landscapes on a variety of action-packed adventures. Local guides are easygoing but professional, and always equipped with an entertaining sense of humor. It’s a great way to discover the island’s rugged hinterland, and most of the activities are also ideal for adventurous traveling families. You may also learn about the island’s history of movie-making along the way.

Kipu Ranch Adventures

Drive an ATV around the ranch from Jurassic Park and learn about other Hollywood blockbusters filmed on the island. If it’s been raining, the slippin’ and slidin’ action on red dirt tracks is even more fun.

Quad biking, Kipu Ranch Adventures | MATTHEW MICAH WRIGHT/GETTY IMAGES ©

Ke Ala Hele Makalae

Rent a mountain bike, tandem or beach cruiser to negotiate this shared-use path along the island’s east coast. Kapa̒a’s cafes are a great post-ride treat.

Paliku (Donkey) Beach, Ke Ala Hele Makalae Trail | EVERETT ATLAS/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Kauaʻi Backcountry Adventures

Drift in an inner tube through tunnels and former irrigation channels amid the forested mountains inland from Lihu̒e. Look forward to a combination of gentle thrills and easygoing relaxation.

Top Experiences

7SPELLBOUND BY SPECTACLE

From the soaring pinnacles and waterfall-adorned valleys of the Na Pali Coast to the red-dirt depths of the Waimea Canyon, Kauaʻi’s reputation as just maybe Hawaii’s most spectacular island is gloriously intact. Opportunities to experience what makes the archipelago’s oldest island so special include catamaran sailing trips, sightseeing by helicopter, or negotiating a Jeep through the twists and turns of a landscape dubbed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.

Sky-high waterfall views

There’s nothing like seeing Kauaʻi by air. Twisting through tropical valleys, landing at remote waterfalls, and soaring over the stunning coastline are all possible.

Walua Falls | MATT MUNRO/LONELY PLANET ©

Cruising the coast

The Na Pali Coast rises out of the sea with its knife-edge pinnacles and alluring valleys. For a spectacular view, board a comfortable catamaran. A refreshing mai tai is always included.

Cruise along Na Pali Coast | MATTHEW MICAH WRIGHT/GETTY IMAGES ©

Hit the Road

The island’s signature scenic drive is a long ascent that takes you from one end of Waimea Canyon to another. En route, stretch your legs on a number of spectacular short hikes.

Waip’o Falls | MATT MUNRO/LONELY PLANET ©

Top Experiences

8FESTIVALS & CULTURE

The people of Kauaʻi love a good festival, and attending one is a great way to learn about traditional Hawaiian culture. There’s usually a decent array of good-value food stalls serving up ono grindz (local food), so it’s a good way to score a well-priced and authentic lunch or dinner. Most festivals run through spring and summer, and popular events focus on traditional music, dance and games.

Hula performance | BOYKOV/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival

The Hawaiian musical style of slack key guitar (ki hoʻalu) is performed by masters at this free annual event. The music’s creative tunings were traditionally secrets only known to extended family.

Koloa Plantation Days

A paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) rodeo, traditional Hawaiian games, and Polynesian dancing all reinforce the island’s culture and history at this annual family-friendly South Shore festival.

Hula Competition

The three-day Kauaʻi Mokihana Festival Hula Competition provides the opportunity to see dancers perform authentic and traditional routines beyond the sometimes touristy confines of a luau.

Need to Know

For more information, see Survival Guide

Currency

US dollar ($)

Language

English, Hawaiian

Visas

Rules for entry to the US keep changing. Confirm current visa and passport requirements for your country at the US Department of State website (www.travel.state.gov).

Money

ATMs are available in all major towns. Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted. American Express and Discover are hit or miss.

Cell Phones

Cell reception is good except in remote locations. All multi-band GSM phones will work in the US.

Time

Hawaiian Standard Time (GMT/UTC minus 10 hours)

When to Go

High Season (Jun–Sep)

A Accommodations prices are the year’s highest.

A Beaches are busy with visiting families.

A North Shore seas are calm and good for swimming.

Shoulder (Dec–Mar)

A Winter surf conditions are way up on the North Shore and Westside.

A Whales arrive and are visible from the land and sea.

A Prices are highest around the annual holidays.

Low Season (Apr–May, Oct–Nov)

A Visitor numbers and accommodations prices are lower.

A Festivals abound across the island, with popular music festivals in November.

A Beaches are less crowded, even though the weather is often perfect.

Useful Websites

Lonely Planet (www.lonelyplanet.com/usa/hawaii/kauai) Destination information, hotel bookings, traveler forum and more.

Kauaʻi Surfrider (https://kauai.surfrider.org) Insights on the state of Kauaʻi’s waters and the chance to volunteer with local riders to clean up beaches.

The Garden Island (www.thegardenisland.com) Good coverage of local events and island-specific issues and current affairs.

Kauaʻi Explorer (www.kauaiexplorer.com) Great site for ocean reports, trail information and beach tips.

County of Kauaʻi (www.kauai.gov/visitors) Information on buses, camping, hiking, public safety and links to products uniquely made on the island (www.kauaimade.net).

Important Numbers

Hawaii’s area code ( icon-phonegif %808) is optional for local calls and compulsory when calling between islands. Dial icon-phonegif %1 before toll-free or long-distance calls, including to Canada (for which international rates apply).

Exchange Rates

For current exchange rates, see www.xe.com.

Daily Costs

Budget: Less than $200

A B&B or inn within a town: $100–125

A Grocery shopping and farmers markets: $30–40

A Kauaʻi Bus: $4–8

Midrange: $200–350

A Hotel room, condo or B&B: $125–300

A Meals at midrange restaurants: $40–50

A Rental car: $50–60

Top End: More than $350

A Hotel, resort or vacation rental: from $300

A Fine dining with three-course meals: from $50

A Diving, golf, spa, helicopter tour, sunset cruises: from $200

A Rental car: $50–60

Opening Hours

Banks 8:30am–4pm Monday to Friday, some to 6pm Friday, and 9am–noon or 1pm Saturday

Bars & Clubs To midnight daily, some to 2am Thursday to Saturday

Businesses 8:30am–4:30pm Monday to Friday, some post offices 9am–noon Saturday

Restaurants Breakfast 6–10am, lunch 11:30am–2:30pm, dinner 5–9:30pm

Shops 9am–5pm Monday to Saturday, some also noon–5pm Sunday

Arriving in Kauaʻi

Lihuʻe Airport Almost all visitors to Kauaʻi rent cars from car-rental companies located at the airport.

Taxis can be found curbside outside the baggage-claim area during the day but can be expensive; book ahead if arriving at night.

In almost all cases, you are better off renting a car. Average taxi fares are $15 to Lihuʻe, $30 to Kapaʻa, $50–60 to Poʻipu and $100–125 to Princeville.

Uber is available in Kauaʻi, but there the number of drivers is very limited. For families or groups, it may be more economical to book an airport shuttle with Speedi Shuttle.

Kauaʻi Bus makes limited runs from 6am–8pm from the airport to Lihuʻe and west to Kalaheo, Waimea and Hanapepe ($2).

Language & Etiquette

The island’s locals are a laid-back and friendly bunch and appreciate the use of a few common phrases.

Aloha! Literally translates to ‘love,’ but used for ‘hello,’ ‘welcome’ and ‘goodbye.’

Mahalo! ‘Thank you’ – can be used to show gratitude one-on-one, for example, ‘Mahalo for the delicious food,’ but also with groups: ‘A big mahalo to all of the guides today.’

For information on getting around

What’s New

There are many exciting new reasons to visit Kauaʻi. The island’s flavor-packed food scene is growing in diversity, art and design stores are showcasing an increased focus on local influences, and the North Shore’s new parking-permit system has ensured that one of Kauaʻi’s best beaches is protected from overcrowding.

Haʻena State Park Permits

Closed following heavy rain and devastat-ing floods on the island’s North Shore in April 2018, Haʻena State Park was reopened in June 2019. A parking permit system – limited to 900 visitors per day – has now been introduced. Available up to one month in advance, the permits are often booked up as soon as they come online at www.gohaena.com, but the new system does mean visitor numbers at glorious Keʻe Beach are now limited.

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN KAUAʻI

Brett Atkinson, Lonely Planet writer

Chat with another friendly customer at one of Kauaʻi’s juice shacks, beaches or poke spots, and eventually the conversation will turn to how the island is changing. That morning and afternoon tangle of Eastside traffic wasn’t on their minds when they decamped here a decade ago, and they’ll definitely have an opinion on how big land purchases by billionaire island-fans like Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg are impacting on access to the land and beaches.

They’re probably juggling a few gigs – perhaps balancing painting or sculpture with working on an organic ginger and turmeric farm – and also considering renting a spare room on Airbnb. Housing’s getting pretty expensive on the island, you see, and they definitely understand why the number of homeless people on Kauaʻi is increasing. Visitors are still welcome though, and just before your ginseng-infused acai bowl arrives, they’ll be enthusiastically telling you all about that great new Sri Lankan food truck up at Hanalei.

New Tours & Experiences

Exploring beyond the island’s stunning beaches and scenery, new tours by Tasting Kaua̒i visit farmers markets, food trucks, restaurants and small-scale producers all around the island. Expect a strong focus on local and sustainable food experiences, such as the ‘Jam Tasting Room’ at Monkeypod Jam. Another new experience is Kauai Safaris combination of rum tasting and a 4WD tour around Kilohana Plantation. And if you prefer four legs to 4WD, try spending an afternoon exploring with one of the shelter dogs from the Kauai Humane Society near Lihuʻe.

Marketplace Makeover

The Eastside’s Coconut Marketplace reopened in 2019 after the completion of a multi-year renovation, and soon became the new home of some well-established restaurants. Nom Kauai specializes in gourmet spins on burgers and waffles, while Sushi Bushido is an energetic fusion eatery. Other marketplace highlights include regular hula shows and live music (Cliquez ici), and a twice-weekly farmers market. Future plans include Munchology, a lounge and eatery specializing in shared plates, to be opened by the switched-on owners of Nom Kauai.

Stylish Shopping

Don’t worry, Baby Shark toddler onesies, Barack Obama dashboard dolls and Kauaʻi red-dirt T-shirts are all still available, but the island’s shopping scene also includes hip havens selling interesting locally made art and design. The funky lineup at Warehouse 3540 at Lawaʻi on the South Shore features fashion, jewelry and handmade stationery, while Blü Umi in Hanapepe offers apparel and cool retro graphic prints.

Food Trucks to Follow

A tasty and inexpensive option for dining around the island, a number of new food trucks have recently opened to complement old favorites like Al Pastor and Scorpacciata. Check out Kickshaws at Warehouse 3540 in Lawaʻi for upscale takes on comfort food like mac n’ cheese or tuna melts, followed by a dessert of organic artisan shave ice from nearby Fresh Shave. For super-fresh seafood, head north to Hanalei Poke, or east to Lihuʻe for Kikuchi’s ahi (yellowfin tuna) wraps.

New Restaurants

Local, sustainable and fusion flavors all feature in the island’s parade of recent restaurant openings. Saimin Dojo on the Eastside combines Hawaiian, Japanese and Korean flavors, while Ama in Hanalei is a similarly well-priced spot for Asian-inspired noodles and soups. Kauaʻi Ono in Princeville offers five-course alfresco gourmet feasts featuring the freshest produce from Kauaʻi’s farms, while Kiawe Roots barbecue restaurant in Poʻipu is one of the island’s best-value eateries. For great baking, there’s Midnight Bear Breads in Hanapepe.

Accommodations Options

There are two new standout places to stay on the island, for travelers at opposite ends of the vacation-budget spectrum. Timbers Kauai Ocean Club & Residences near Lihuʻe is the island’s newest and most luxurious resort, with its clifftop location including a spectacular infinity pool. Local and sustainable ingredients underpin the menu at the resort’s Hualani’s restaurant. Considerably cheaper, and definitely more mobile, are the 4WD expedition vehicles – including rooftop tents and compact kitchens – available to hire from Kauai Overlander.

LISTEN, WATCH AND FOLLOW

For inspiration, visit www.lonelyplanet.com/usa/hawaii/articles.

twitter.com/ForKauaiMag Regularly updated Twitter feed of the For Kauaʻi online publication.

Insta @kauaidiscovery official Instagram page for the Kauai Visitors Bureau.

Facebook www.facebook.com/KauaiVisitorsBureau A good place to see which island events are scheduled during your visit.

Tasting Kauaʻi (www.tastingkauai.com/blog) Occasional updates on the island’s food and dining scene from Kauaʻi’s best food-tour company.

FAST FACTS

Food trend Island-grown and sustainable.

Movies & TV series filmed in Kauaʻi More than 70 (and counting).

Home ownership 63% of Kauaʻi residents own their own home.

Pop 71,780

Drinking in Eastside Views

Until recently it wasn’t really an option to combine pau hana (happy hour) cocktails with oceanfront Eastside views, but a couple of new bars have changed that. The Lava Lava Beach Club at Wailua’s Kauai Shores hotel is a true sand-between-the-toes experience, while just down the coast at the Hilton Garden Inn, Mamahune’s Tiki Bar combines bay vistas with a wonderfully fake mini-volcano.

Accommodations

Find more accommodations reviews throughout the On the Road chapters

Accommodations Types

Vacation Rentals Stand-alone vacation homes to rent range from simple plantation-style cottages to spacious five-bedroom affairs.

Condos Located in larger, multiunit complexes but still featuring full kitchens and other facilities like laundries and pools. A good option for families.

Resorts & Hotels Range from hotel-style bedrooms to self-contained apartments. More on-site facilities, including pools, bars, restaurants, spas and kids’ clubs.

B&Bs Surprisingly underrepresented on Kauaʻi. Home-style accommodations in a private room with breakfast provided.

Hostels Focused on a younger budget-conscious market with cheaper rooms and dorms, often with shared bathroom facilities.

Cabins Basic forest cabins are available in Kokeʻe State Park.

Campgrounds Both state and county campgrounds are available and must be booked in advance. Locations include Na Pali Coast Wilderness State Park, Kokeʻe State Park and various county beach parks around the island. Note that some of these parks are regularly frequented by the island’s homeless population.

PRICE RANGES

The following price ranges refer to a high-season, double-occupancy room with private bathroom but no breakfast, unless otherwise specified. Rates do not include the 13.41% accommodations tax.

$ less than $150

$$ $150–250

$$$ more than $250

Best Places to Stay

Best on a Budget

Budget accommodations are relatively limited in Kauaʻi, but worthwhile options include lodging on an orchard, a well-kept motel and rustic forest lodges. Private rooms listed on Airbnb are also often well priced.

A Green Acres Cottages , Kilauea

A Coco’s Kauaʻi , Waimea

A Rosewood Kauaʻi , Wailua

A Kokeʻe State Park Cabins , Kokeʻe State Park

Best for Families

Scattered around the island are some excellent options for families. Self-catering and stocking up at farmers markets is the recommended option – all of the following have well-equipped kitchens, and in most cases outdoor barbecues as well. Wailua and Poʻipu are conveniently located for access to good beaches and excursions.

A Fern Grotto Inn , Wailua

A Nihilani , Princeville

A Kiahuna Plantation Resort Kauaʻi by Outrigger , Poʻipu

A River Estate , Wainiha

Best Hotels & Resorts

On Kaua̒i, many bigger hotels and resorts also offer spas, water parks, multiple restaurants and children’s programs. On-site amenities could also include a golf course, beachfront barbecues and lazy days hammocks. Many Kaua̒i properties offer beachfront views, but swimming in their manicured and often extravagant pool complexes is usually preferable to the ocean.

A Timbers Kauai Ocean Club & Residences , Lihuʻe

A Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa , Poʻipu

A Hanalei Colony Resort , Haʻena

A Hotel Coral Reef , Kapaʻa

A Waimea Plantation Cottages , Waimea

Best Vacation Rentals

Vacation rentals are the best option to fully transition into an island-vacation frame of mind. Smaller properties, often a stand-alone house or a scattering of cottages, reinforce a local vibe, and there are usually lush gardens to relax and recharge in. Amenities include kitchens for self-catering.

A 17 Palms , Wailua

A Hanalei Dolphin Cottages , Hanalei

A Hanalei Surfboard House , Hanalei

A Kauai Paradise House , Wainiha

A Anini Lani Kai , ʻAnini

Timbers Kauai Ocean Club & Residences | CLAUDINE VAN MASSENHOVE/SHUTTERSTOCK ©