My Absolute Favorite Things I did in Kauai

Known for lush rainforests, towering waterfalls, and one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world (cough cough, the Na Pali Coast!), Kauai is a stunner.

With fewer crowds than Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island, Kauai makes a perfect choice for travelers looking to get off of the typical tourist trail. But just because there are fewer tourists doesn’t mean there’s a lack of things to do. 

With incredible snorkeling, quaint towns, the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, and arguably Hawaii’s best hiking trail, there are plenty of fun things to do in Kauai. 

Whether you’re looking to relax poolside or have the adventure of a lifetime (or a little of each!), we think you’ll find lots to love about Kauai. We sure did! 

In this guide, we’ve rounded up the very best things to do in Kauai – from the must-see items most travelers include in their itineraries to things that most tourists miss. We’re sharing all sorts of insider tips to help you get off the well-trodden path, eat some incredible food, and have an unforgettable trip to this Hawaiian paradise.

My personal experience on Kauai

Kauai had been on my bucket list for years, especially after seeing photos from a friend who hiked the Kalalau Trail. The more I researched, the more otherworldly it felt, and I couldn’t believe there was so much to do on such a small island.

I’ll admit, I worried it wouldn’t live up to the hype or that rain would derail our plans. We did get rain, but it came and went and never took away from the experience.

By the end of the trip, I completely understood why people return again and again. From adventurous hikes to unforgettable splurges like a doors-off helicopter tour (still one of my favorite tours ever), Kauai was absolutely worth it. 

After Kauai, we hopped over to the Big Island so we could explore a bit more of Hawaii. These islands made a great combo for us, especially since we aren’t huge fans of crowds, and we love nature. Plus, Kauai is so lush and green, while the Big Island has a little more “desert-y” feel to it, so even though they’re both Hawaii, they feel very different.

Kauai Travel Guide

For more tips and advice for planning your trip to Kauai, jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).

• Where to eat (you don’t want to miss this list!)
• How many days do you need
• Best time to visit
• How to get around
• Where to stay
• What to pack

Did you know? Kauai is home to the wettest place on earth, Mount Waialeale, which averages 450 inches of rain annually. Be sure to pack a travel umbrella and a rain jacket.

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Top things to do in Kauai

If you’re looking for a quick & easy list, these are our very top recommendations for things to do on your first visit to Kauai.

1. Go hiking
2. Take a scenic helicopter ride
3. Mountain tubing tour
4. Go snorkeling
5. Mai Tais and live music at Tahiti Nui
6. Waimea Canyon
7. Boat tour on the Na Pali Coast

Keep scrolling for all the details on how to do each of these experiences yourself (+ insider tips and what to expect!).

Psst! Want help deciding which Hawaiian islands to visit? Head over to our Hawaii trip planner where we compare them all!

1. Hike the Kalalau Trail

If you’re an experienced hiker, the Kalalau Trail is one for the bucket list! 

We’ve been wanting to do this trek for years and finally made it happen. Even though we had high expectations, we were truly blown away by this trail that brings hikers along the stunning Na Pali Coast.

The turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean jut up against towering jungle-covered mountains for a backdrop that will leave you breathless (and if it doesn’t, the strenuous hike sure will!). 

Psst! If this scenery looks familiar it’s because it was the setting of Jurassic Park. 

Before you pencil it on your itinerary, there’s a LOT to know about the Kalalau Trail. It was one of the most challenging hikes we’ve ever planned for. Don’t worry – we created a guide to hiking the Kalalau Trail so you have everything you need at your fingertips. 

Spoiler Alert: It’s well worth the effort!

2. Take a scenic helicopter flight

With prices ranging from $300-$400 per person, taking a scenic helicopter flight certainly won’t fit into all travel budgets, but in my opinion, this once-in-a-lifetime experience was worth every penny.

Not gonna lie, the price of this experience almost scared me away, but I’m so glad I decided to splurge! 

There are lots of companies you can choose from (all of which I’m sure are great!), but we personally decided to do the Doors Off tour with Jack Harter. Not only are they known as the original helicopter operator on Kauai, but they’ve also been voted the best on the island.

Insider Tip: My parents took a helicopter flight right after us (we had to alternate who watched our daughter!), and they could not stop raving about their pilot, Becca. I don’t know if Jack Harter allows requests, but if they do, ask for her!

The Doors-Off experience was incredible. We’ve been on a helicopter once before (in New Zealand), and while both experiences were wonderful, I think having the doors off makes it even more memorable. Plus, you can get much better photos!

Cheaper alternative: Taking a scenic flight in a small plane is about half the cost of the helicopter tours, making it a good option for those on a tighter budget.

3. Go on an exciting mountain tubing tour

When researching things to do in Kauai, the activities we received the most recommendations for was tubing with Kauai Backcountry Adventures. We have major FOMO, so we booked it right away. And what a fun time it was!

This company has everything running like a well-oiled machine. After checking in and gearing up, all you have to worry about is having fun!

Float down the canals that were once used as the irrigation system for a historic sugarcane plantation. You’ll pass through 5 tunnels, each of which was carved out by immigrant workers. 

While those with claustrophobia might find the tunnels a bit uncomfortable, you have headlamps and a gaggle of giggling tourists with you to keep you company and your nerves at bay. Other than one tiny “drop”, this is mostly a “lazy river” experience rather than an adrenaline fueled adventure.

Not only is this one of the most unique things to do in Kauai, but you’ll also learn a lot about history on this tour. Plus, it’s suitable for just about every age. Children 5 and up are welcome to join (there were 2 kiddos on our tour) as are seniors (we had quite a few of them with us!).

Shout out! Our guide, Boo Boo, was one of the best tour guides we’ve had in a long time (and we’ve had a LOT of tour guides!).

Tour Details

• Tour length: 3 hours
• Ages: 5 years+
• Tours depart frequently between 8:20 a.m. – 2:40 p.m.
• Price: $149

Logistics: Since we were traveling with my parents, they were able to watch our daughter during this tour. Kids 5 and up are able to join, but she was just 16-months-old at the time of our trip.

4. Go snorkeling

The Garden Isle continues its colorful reputation even below its turquoise shores. With a mask, snorkel, and a pair of fins, discover the island’s underwater world.

We’ve compiled a complete list of the very best snorkeling in Kauai, but here are two highlights:

• Tunnels (Makua) Beach: lava tubes, barrier reefs, and tropical fish are highlights of this stunning beach.
• Anini Beach: one of the longest coral reefs on Kauai that’s great for beginner and advanced snorkelers. Check visibility conditions before you head out.

Note on safety: Kauai has limited snorkeling areas since most of its shoreline is only accessible by boat. With that, many of these limited areas are located on the North Shore, which can be unsafe for snorkeling in the winter due to waves and swell. Before getting into the water anywhere, be sure to observe the surf and potential hazards.

Ethical travel note: Coral reefs are very fragile ecosystems. Explore them responsibly by wearing reef safe sunscreen and not touching/stepping on them.

5. Enjoy a Mai Tai and live music at the famous Tahiti Nui

Located in Hanalei, Tahiti Nui is one of the most famous restaurants on the island, and for good reason – their Mai Tais are legendary.

A secret, original recipe perfected with a pineapple, cherry, and lime garnish isn’t called the “World Famous Tahiti Nui Mai Tai” for no good reason.

Good to know: They offer virgin Mai Tai’s for kids and DD’s.

Head to this laid back Kauai spot to sip on one (or a few!) of this beloved cocktail with their signature Tahitian menu while enjoying nightly live music and happy hour from 3-5 p.m.

Our experience: We loved the coconut shrimp and the ahi carpaccio! (pictured above)

This is one of the most popular spots in Hanalei, so it does get busy. We’d recommend coming early to lessen your wait.

6. Drive through Waimea Canyon

Although infinitesimal to the real deal, this mile-wide canyon on Kauai is dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” and absolutely lives up to its nickname.

Fill up your gas tank, pack a lunch, then set out on the 14-mile Waimea Canyon Scenic Drive to stop at numerous lookouts showcasing the interesting blend of verdant and rust-colored mountains.

The views get better the deeper into the canyon you go, and the waterfalls in the distance are spectacular.

Entrance fee: There is a $5 per person (over 3 years) fee as well as $10 per vehicle. Your ticket also includes entrance to Kokee State Park. You can purchase this at Waimea Canyon Lookout.

Insider tip: Arrive early, drive to the end of the road, then visit the lookouts in reverse order to help avoid crowds.

There are hiking trails dotted throughout the drive that are ideal if you’re an ambitious hiker and want to get off the trodden path, but be sure you’re prepared with proper footwear. The Waimea Canyon Trail is a highlight with attractive detours.

Feeling hungry after your drive? Stop by Island Taco in Waimea (the first town you’ll pass through on your way out of the canyon) for seared ahi wasabi tacos. Or head across the street to The Shrimp Station where you’ll find all sorts of shrimp dishes that can be enjoyed outside on picnic tables.

7. See this unique red dirt waterfall

Unlike anything you’ve ever seen before, Kauai’s Red Dirt Falls is what you would picture a waterfall on Mars to look like.

This is a quick and worthy stop (about 15 minutes) when heading into the Waimea Canyon (#6) area.

Note there is no signage or a proper parking area, so drive slowly as you approach.

8. Sail along the Na Pali Coast

The Na Pali Coast is arguably one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. The juxtaposition of turquoise waters that meet remote white sand beaches that are flanked by jungle-covered mountains is a sight that will take your breath away.

In fact, this stretch of coastline on Kauai’s North Shore was famously the backdrop of Jurassic Park. Now do you know why it looks familiar?!

Short of hiking the entire Kalalau Trail (which we highly recommend, but know it’s not for everyone!), one of the best ways to see the iconic Na Pali coastline is by boat. In addition to gorgeous views of the coast, you may even see dolphins dancing in the water or whales breaching.

Psst! If you’re looking for another perspective of this stunning coast, a scenic helicopter flight will give you a birds eye view. We did this and can confidently say it was one of the coolest things we did on Kauai. Find more information on helicopter flights in #2 on this list. 

From sunset cruises with cocktails to morning rides with opportunities to snorkel, there are many different types of boat tours to choose from depending on what you’re looking for. 

Here are some we’d recommend:

a) Sunset sail with dinner

• glass of champagne and dinner
• 50-foot catamaran
• 4.5 hours

b) Full-day boat trip with snorkeling

• snorkel at Lehua Crater just off of Niihau (Hawaii’s “forbidden island”)
• continental breakfast and a deli-style lunch
• 7 hours

b) Rafting adventure & snorkeling

• motorized raft = less-cushy, more adventurous way to see the Na Pali Coast
• the raft journey can be bumpy and more physically demanding than a traditional boat
• get closer to sea caves and parts of the shoreline that boats cannot reach
• maximum of 14 guests

Good to know: If you are prone to motion sickness, you may want to take medication before any of these tours, as the waters can be choppy. We’ve heard from several people who have gotten sick on these boat rides, so do your best to prevent it. In addition to medication, you may also want to try motion sickness bands, like this basic version or this high-tech one.

9. See Wailua Falls

Cascading 140-feet into a dramatic pool where rainbows frequent, Wailua Falls is a staple postcard image of Kauai.

While many waterfalls in Kauai require a bit of work to see, you can drive directly to the viewpoint where this natural wonder is on display.

I will be honest and say that the view you get from the parking lot is not quite as dramatic as most images you’ll find online, which are taken from a vantage point that requires hiking. However – and this is a big however – hiking to the base of the falls is both very dangerous and illegal. 

In fact, there were recently laws put in place to ban people from hiking past the parking lot, spurred by a hiker’s death. Please respect the local rules put in place for your safety and enjoy the falls from the view at the parking lot.

10. Cool off with shave Ice

On any given day in Kauai, fluffy domes of rainbow syrup that put any regular snow cone to shame, occupy the hands of locals and tourists.

While considered a simple combination of ice and syrup, locals have perfected the details, creating a golden ratio of flavor and consistency (as well as topping options!) that you shouldn’t leave without tasting.

Oh, and if there is the option to get ice cream in the middle, do it. Always get the ice cream.

Best shave ice in Kauai:

• Wishing Well Shave Ice
• JoJo’s Shave Ice (+2 more locations)
• Waikomo Shave Ice

Fun fact: While called “snow cones” in the continental US, this treat is exclusively called “ice shave” or “shave ice” in Hawaii. The name is a direct translation from the word “kakigori”, since the dessert was introduced by Japanese immigrants.

11. Take a dog on a “field trip”

The Kauai Humane Society hosts one of the most adorable things to do in Kauai, bringing a shelter dog on an exciting day trip around the island with you.

For a $40 donation they pair you with the ideal adventure companion and give you an ideal list of places to venture depending on the weather and your pup.

• Pick up: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
• Return anytime before 5:00 p.m.

It’s a win-win experience where you have a field-trip buddy for the day and the shelter dog improves their chances of adoption!

12. Get a view over Hanalei Valley

Squared-off taro fields against a backdrop of carved mountains create, undoubtedly, one of the most photographed views on Kauai.

Hanalei Valley Lookout is a roadside vista in Princeville, so low effort with a very high reward!

Plan your visit for sunrise or sunset, when the valley is drenched in golden light, or after rain, when the mountains are decorated with waterfalls.

13. Buy fresh seafood & cook your own dinner

The Hanalei Dolphin triples as a restaurant, sushi lounge, and top-notch fish market where their master fish cutters clean and slice the finest fish and beef daily on Kauai. 

Using their impressive selection of fresh fish, you can whip up a “cook-your-own”, menu-worthy meal back at your Airbnb.

14. Indulge at Holey Grail Donuts

Holey Grail Donuts in Hanalei specializes in unique-flavored taro donuts that are fried in coconut oil. Can you get more Hawaiian than that?!

Each week they feature 4 new flavors which you can taste individually or all together in their tasting box. The flavors are elevated and unique, like saffron snickerdoodle, lilikoi (passionfruit), local truffled honey and sea salt. And did we mention they’re vegan?! 

Fried to perfection, not too sweet (which is key for me!), these treats are the perfect companion to their coffee and matcha offerings. 

We got a box of donuts to share after completing the Kalalau Trail. It was the perfect indulgence after 3 days in the Hawaiian wilderness, but even if you’re not going on some crazy hike, these donuts are definitely worth the stop.

15. See monk seals at Poipu Beach 

The unofficial mascot of this crescent-shaped beach are the Hawaiian monk seals that laze away under the sun.

Although the seals visit here often, the chances of seeing one are slim since there is no official spotting season. Consider yourself fortunate if you get the chance to see one!

Ethical travel note: As adorable as they are, remember that these are wild animals, and a protected, endangered species in Hawaii. If you get the opportunity to see one, keep a safe distance and don’t try to touch them. 

16. Hike to Hanakāpīʻai Falls

Hidden deep in the Nā Pali Coast wilderness, this 300-foot cascade sits at the end of an 8-mile out-and-back trail, and getting there is half the adventure.

The hike: The first 2 miles take you through lush tropical forest along the coast to Hanakapiai Beach. Skip the swim there, the rip currents are no joke. Then it’s another 2 miles inland: steep, muddy, and rugged, with creek crossings and boulder scrambling before you reach the 300-foot falls and its swimmable pool.

Our experience: We visited this waterfall as part of the Kalalau Trail.

Getting there: The trailhead is at Ke’e Beach at the end of Highway 560 on Kauai’s North Shore. Here’s the key thing most people miss: non-Hawaii residents must book parking passes for Hāʻena State Park in advance at GoHaena.com (up to 30 days out). Alternatively, you can take the shuttle from Hanalei/Princeville for a $40 round-trip fee. Book early, because spots go fast.

Check the weather obsessively — flash flooding is a real risk and the trail should not be attempted during or after heavy rain. Bring waterproof boots, water shoes for stream crossings, your swimsuit, and way more water than you think you need. Catch the first shuttle out because you’ll want every minute of daylight.

17. Visit Kilauea Lighthouse and birdwatch

Situated in a wildlife refuge, the Kilauea Lighthouse stands 180-feet above the ocean with sweeping coastal vistas and soaring flocks of birds.

Tip: Binoculars will definitely come in handy if you have them as a seabird sanctuary juts into the ocean just below the cliffside.

Entrance fee: $10 USD 

After seeing the lighthouse, be sure to wander the charming little town of Kilauea! 

18. Do a rum tasting at the historic Kilohana Plantation

You don’t want to miss the chance to sample Hawaii’s award-winning single-batch rums.

Every hour, the tasting room at the Kōloa Rum Company is filled with an array of rums stirred into crafted cocktails using locally-sourced ingredients and infused with the “Spirit of Aloha”.

Note that the booking process is a bit unique as there are no in-advance reservations and you must book in-person on the same day you want to do the tasting.

Kilohana Happy hour 

If you’re not able to snag a spot at the rum tasting (it often gets booked up), don’t fret. There is a daily happy hour from 3-5pm featuring some great deals.

Try their signature Mai Tai, made with the plantation’s rum, or other cocktails, like a cucumber lavender mojito, a coconut cooler, or a caliente margarita. During happy hour, cocktails are between $8-10 and a variety of small bites are available as well.

19. Shop for artisan goods at Warehouse 3540

Blink and you might just miss it, this hidden gem is a beloved marketplace among creative locals and travelers getting off the beaten path.

It’s filled with shops and boutiques selling an eclectic mix of handmade goods, jewelry, artwork, clothing, and other assorted items. 

Warehouse 3540 extends itself outside, where you’ll find an assortment of food trucks with drool-inducing menus.

Tip: While you’re there, grab a coffee at Kind Koffee Company.

20. Take a surf lesson

Learn the basics of surfing, safety and awareness in the water, paddling, standing up, and how to ride the waves on this personalized and Private Surf Lesson.

As you immerse yourself in a quintessential pillar of Hawaiian culture, all your moments catching the waves will be photographed for you to keep as memories.

What you need to know:

• Hours: 1.5 hours
• Price: $150 USD / group
• Location

21. Shop local at the Hanalei Farmers Market 

The best way to start any Saturday morning on the North Shore is wandering the stalls at the Hanalei Farmers Market.

Get your fix of fresh produce, local foods, and handmade crafts while enjoying a majestic mountain view as a backdrop.

Tip: arrive early so you can grab a parking spot and your pick of the best produce.

22. Soak up Hawaiian culture at a Luau

Luaus on Kauai are claimed to be the best and most authentic in Hawaii, so attending one of these feasts is a must for your itinerary!

• Smith Family Luau: Locally-ran luau consistently ranked among the top on the island. 
• Auli’i Luau: Authentic luau in front of one of Kauai’s best beaches.
• Ahi Lele Luau: Intimate and authentic luau with an impressive fire show.

23. Happy hour at a beach club

There are a handful to choose from, but we enjoyed beachside cocktails at Lava Lava during golden hour.

Their poke nachos were really good too!

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On our list for next trip!

Yes, there will be a next time! We loved Kauai and already have a whole list of things we want to do. Here’s what’s at the top of our list:

• Kayaking to Secret Falls on this tour is at the very top of my list for my next trip to Kauai. I’ve had multiple friends do this and rave about it! You’ll paddle up the Wailua River, where the first Hawaiians arrived in Kauai over 1500 years ago.
• Do it on your own: It is possible to get to this waterfall on your own. Rent a kayak and follow this route.
• Walk 0.8-miles to the iconic Queen’s Bath on the North Shore. This can be dangerous at some times of the year, so look at recent reports.
• This sunrise yoga practice would be the perfect way to start your day if you’re based on the North Shore.
• Spend the day on “Secret Beach” (aka Kauapea Beach). Access the trailhead via the rough Secret Beach Road, then follow the steep, 0.25-mile hike down to the beach. If it has rained expect mud.
  • Good to know: This beach is not recommended for swimming as waves can get big and the current is deceptively strong. 
• Hike through the jungle to Ho’opi’i Falls. While it may be tempting to jump in, swimming at and near the waterfalls is no longer recommended due to bacteria in the water. It’s also recommended to bring bug spray and wear shoes with good grip.
• Take a free, self-guided tour at Kauai Coffee Company. 
• This tropical farm tour looks really interesting and gets rave reviews!
• This Poke Class at Homestead Kauai looks incredible. Taught in a stunning outdoor setting, use locally-caught fish to prepare poke three ways: original, modern day spicy, and create-your-own using ingredients you harvested directly from their garden.
• Crawl through a tunnel and see turtles at the Makauwahi Cave Reserve (along the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail).
  • Note: It says this is temporarily closed, so please do your own research before showing up.
• Take the famous chocolate tour at Lydgate Farms.
• Wander the little town of Hanapepe, stopping at the art galleries and see the swinging bridge.
  • Tip: Try to come for the Hanapēpē Art Walk, which runs every Friday from 5-8pm. Mingle with local artists, listen to live music, and eat at food trucks. 
    

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Where to eat in Kauai

There are plenty of top-notch places to eat on Kauai. Here are some of our top recommendations. Be sure to save these in Google Maps so you can easily find them during your trip!

Kauai’s North Shore: Where to eat

• The Spot: this was our favorite breakfast on the North Shore (the benedict bowl and the 100% fruity bowl were both excellent)
• Holey Grail Donuts: known for hype-worthy taro doughnuts fried in coconut oil that come in unique flavors.
• Nourish Hanalei: healthy bowls and salads
• Pink’s Ice Cream Shop: ice cream, milkshakes, and grilled cheese 
• AMA Restaurant: ahi ramen, bao buns and incredible views (reservations recommended)
• Saenz Ohana Breakfast: breakfast burritos 
• Tahiti Nui: enjoy live music, seafood and a Mai Tai
• The Dolphin: known for sushi, but you can also get fresh fish at their onsite market and cook it at your Airbnb (this is what we did!)
• Hanalei Poke: casual food truck for a great poke bowl 
• Hanalei Bread Company: small breakfast menu (be prepared for a line) – we loved the breakfast burrito here
• Wishing Well Shave Ice: some of the best on the island
• Java Kai Br Coffee Roasters: cute coffee shop with great breakfast sandwiches
• Kilauea Fish Market: poke and other fresh seafood 
• Kilauea Bakery & Pizzeria: cute spot to hang out and enjoy breakfast or a pizza
• Sushi Girl: food truck serving sushi and poke
• Kauai Juice Co Kilauea: fresh juice 

East Coast: Where to eat

• Tony’s Catch: we loved the fish tacos at this food truck
• Lava Lava Beach Club: oceanside cocktails and great food options (the poke nachos are delish!)
• Fish Bar Deli: cozy spot for casual yet elevated dishes (like an ahi BLT) and cocktails
• The Musubi Truck: good spot to try Spam musubi
• Sleeping Giant Grill: excellent fish tacos, as well as bowls and burritos
• 808 Grill: restaurant-quality food served out of a food truck

Kauai’s South Coast: Where to eat

• Island Taco: hole-in-the-wall spot for tacos (like seared ahi wasabi) and burritos
• Kiawe Roots: laidback eatery open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Waikomo Shave Ice: small stand offering shave ice with macadamia ice cream
• Da Crack Mexican Grinds: popular spot for tacos and burritos, order from a window (no dine-in)
• Kalaheo Cafe & Coffee Company: amazing and hearty breakfast spot
• JoJo’s Shave Ice: small local chain famous for shave ice
• The Shrimp Station: all sorts of shrimp dishes that can be enjoyed outside on picnic tables

How many days do you need in Kauai?

The amount of time you spend on Kauai depends on what you’re doing and where you’re going.

The minimum amount of time we recommend for Kauai is 3-5 days. This may be all you have time for if you’re also visiting another island.

If you want to thoroughly explore the island, but still have time to unwind on the beach, 7-10 days is ideal, especially if you’re doing any serious hiking, like the Kalalau Trail. 

Best time to visit Kauai

May, late August, September, and October are the best months to visit Kauai since accommodation prices are lower, crowds are fewer, and chances of rain are lower.

For the best weather, visit during the summer months from June to August. This time of year has ideal conditions for snorkeling, sailing the NaPali coast, and hiking. Although note that this is the busiest time to visit Kauai and it will be crowded.

Winter months boast a warm escape, however with huge swells and largest chances of rainfall, this may not be ideal. Although, winter is prime whale-watching season on Kauai which is something to factor in.

All in all, the best time to visit Kauai depends on what you’re doing and where you’re going. We put together a guide to the best time to visit Hawaii that will help you decide when to go for your personal travel needs.

Transportation in Kauai

The island of Kauai has only one main road, and other than the occasional traffic jam, driving around the island is pretty easy.

Although transport options are plentiful, the best way to get around Kauai is with your own rental car.

However, just like the rest of the prices on Kauai, car rentals aren’t cheap.

Typically when we book rental cars around the world, we compare Discover Cars and Booking.com (formerly RentalCars.com) to make sure we’re getting the best deal.

However, we did find a way to save quite a bit of money through a local car rental service…

Discount Hawaii Car Rental

While searching for rentals, we were thrilled to find that Discount Hawaii Car Rental offered cheaper prices for the exact same rentals we found on other sites.

While the prices were in a similar ballpark, even saving a few hundred dollars is worth it, on top of supporting a local company!  

Before you book, be sure to read our detailed guide on renting a car in Hawaii.

Alternative modes of transportation

If you don’t plan on getting a rental car, here are some alternative ways to get around the island.

• The Kauai Bus offers all day passes for $5 USD or single rides for $2 USD. It’s an ideal way to get around if you’re on a budget and not in a hurry. 
• Also, Kauai recently launched the North Shore shuttle that is useful while traveling around the area. 
• Ubers and Lyfts run cheaper than taxis, making them the more appealing option since they consistently have the best price. They’re available in most hub towns like Hanalei, Kapaa, Lihue, and Poipu.
• Bicycles and mopeds are available for rent through local companies, both fun and convenient ways to get around. 

Good to know: Since there’s only one main road on the island, it often gets backed up with traffic. The worst delays tend to be on the east coast and around the airport. Be sure to give yourself enough time to get to the airport.

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Where to stay in Kauai

Kauai has a handful of different areas/neighborhoods that are ideal, however, the best place to stay depends on what you’re doing and where you’re going:

• North Shore: Most scenic part of the island with hiking, surfing, and solitude.
• East Coast: Centrally located and most developed part of Kauai with local culture, hiking, adventure, and budget-friendly accommodation.
• South Shore: Most popular (busiest) place to stay with the best weather, shopping, and dining. 

North Shore accommodation

East Coast accommodation

South Shore accommodation

What to pack for traveling to Kauai

While this is not a comprehensive list, these are some of the items you definitely don’t want to forget for your trip to Kauai!

• Reef safe sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Swim suit
• Rash guard (if you plan to do  lot of snorkeling, this will minimize sunburn on your back)
• Cover up
• Beach tarp
• Quick-drying towel
• Snorkel gear
• Travel umbrella
• Reusable utensils 
• Reusable water bottle
• Reusable bag
• Comfortable and lightweight clothing

Be sure to download our complete packing list for Hawaii! It’s packed with good suggestions and insider tips to help plan your Italy trip. And it’s completely FREE, so why not!?

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We want to hear from you!

Which of these things to do in Kauai is going straight to the top of your bucket list? Are you planning a trip to Kauai and still have questions? Leave your comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!