Top 10 Things to Do in Kauai
Lindsay Shimono
10/6/20258 min read
Known as the Garden Isle, Kauai is a lush paradise filled with tropical rainforests, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant beaches. The island's natural beauty is breathtaking, but with so much to see and do, planning your first visit can feel a little overwhelming. Do you hike Waimea Canyon? Lounge on an iconic beach? Or snorkel with sea turtles?
After exploring the island firsthand, I’ve narrowed down my favorite attractions to bring you this guide to the 10 best things to do in Kauai for first-time visitors — a mix of iconic sights and local gems to help you make the most of your trip.
For more travel tips and guides like this one, check out my other articles at travellinds.com!
1. Spot Turtles at Poipu Beach
Poipu Beach on the South Shore is one of Kauai's most popular beaches, and for good reason. This crescent-shaped bay is known for its calm waters, colorful reef fish, and (my favorite part) the green sea turtles that often come ashore to rest on the sand.
If you time it right, you might even get to snorkel alongside the turtles as they swim in. Just be sure to keep a respectful distance.
This beach is ideal for first-time visitors: it has shallow swimming areas for kids, lifeguards on duty, and plenty of amenities like showers and picnic tables. And if you get hungry? Take a short walk to Puka Dog for a juicy hot dog with a Hawaiian twist. You can read more about this popular establishment here.
Tip: For the best chance to see turtles, visit in the early evening, when they’re most likely to come ashore.
Want to snorkel with turtles? Click here for my full Poipu Beach guide.
2. Explore Waimea Canyon (The “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”)
If you’ve seen photos of Kauai’s red-rock cliffs, you were probably looking at Waimea Canyon — a 14-mile-long valley that’s nearly 3,600 feet deep. The contrast of red earth and green jungle makes it one of the most visually striking places on the island.
The easiest way to see it is by driving Waimea Canyon Drive and stopping at scenic lookouts. We enjoyed walking the Iliau Nature Loop Trail, an easy 0.3-mile dirt trail with interpretive signs, panoramic views, and plenty of fantastic photo opportunities. If you're looking for something more challenging, there are plenty of longer hikes to choose from, such as the Canyon Trail to Waipoo Falls.
Tip: The weather is known to change quickly here, so bring a light jacket and plenty of water. And don’t make my mistake — be sure to apply sunscreen before exploring.
3. Grab a Smoothie From a Roadside Stand
One of the best things I ate on Kauai wasn’t from a restaurant — it came from a tiny roadside fruit stand we stumbled upon after a warm day at Waimea Canyon. We were driving back to our Airbnb in Poipu when we spotted a small "Smoothie" sign along the side of the road and decided to pull over on a whim.
Best. Decision. Ever.
The pineapple and mango smoothies we ordered were hands-down the freshest, most flavorful fruit smoothies I've ever had. Cold, tropical, and perfectly refreshing. We both took one sip and looked at each other in disbelief.
That’s what I love most about traveling: sometimes the most memorable moments are the ones you don’t plan for.
Tip: Keep your schedule flexible and leave time for unexpected stops. Some of the best stories (and snacks) happen when you least expect them.
4. Relax at Hanalei Bay
Located on the North Shore, Hanalei Bay is the largest bay in Kauai — and it is stunning. Picture a two-mile stretch of soft white sand, calm water, and lush mountains rising in the background. It’s one of the most scenic beaches in all of Hawaii.
There’s also a picturesque pier that’s perfect for a stroll (or a jump into the ocean, if you’re feeling brave — we saw tons of kids doing it). Whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, walking the shoreline, or snapping photos, Hanalei is the perfect place to unwind.
You’ll find restrooms and showers nearby, making it a convenient stop for families and first-timers.
Tip: Parking can fill up quickly, especially in summer. Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon for easier access.
5. Indulge in Island Sweets
Warm beach days and cold desserts go hand in hand — and luckily, Kauai offers plenty of both. From creamy Dole Whip to colorful, refreshing shave ice, the island is packed with treats that will cool you down and satisfy any sweet tooth.
That said, some dessert spots are definitely better than others, so it's worth doing a little research before you go.
Tip: Check out my full Kauai dessert + restaurant guide here for all my top picks.
6. Snorkel at Tunnels Beach
Tunnels Beach (also known as Makua Beach) on the North Shore is one of the best places to snorkel in Kauai. The underwater landscape here is incredible, with unique reef formations, colorful tropical fish, and remarkably clear water when conditions are right.
We went in the afternoon and were surprised by how calm and uncrowded it felt, especially compared to Poipu. Maybe we just got lucky, but we had large sections of the reef all to ourselves.
And if snorkeling isn't your thing, this beach is still worth a visit. With turquoise waters and a dramatic backdrop of Mount Makana, it’s a stunning beach to relax at.
Tip: Parking near Tunnels is extremely limited. I recommend parking at Ha'ena Beach Park and walking over. Also, be sure to check ocean conditions before snorkeling — the water can get rough during the winter months.
Searching for more snorkeling spots? Don't miss my Kauai snorkeling guide here.
7. Watch the Sunset at Ha'ena Beach Park
Just steps from Tunnels Beach, Ha’ena Beach Park is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Kauai. After a day of snorkeling, walk to Ha'ena to unwind and catch the sun sink behind the mountains, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange. It's a view you'll carry with you long after the trip ends.
Unlike Tunnels, Ha’ena Beach Park has restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, making it a convenient spot to wrap up your day of adventure.
Tip: Bring a light sweater and a blanket. Ha'ena is the perfect place for a romantic evening picnic by the water.
8. See Where Jurassic Park Was Filmed
Kauai’s dramatic landscapes have served as the backdrop for dozens of Hollywood films, but Jurassic Park might be the most iconic. As you drive through the North Shore, you’ll pass scenes that look straight out of the movie.
Keep your eyes peeled for Jurassic Kahili Ranch, where the first Brachiosaurus scene was filmed. We drove by it on our way from Poipu to Tunnels Beach and pulled over for a few minutes to take it all in.
While you can’t tour the ranch itself, there are a few places to stop safely and admire the scenery. Even if you don’t stay for long, it’s fun to snap some photos and imagine dinosaurs roaming the landscape.
Tip: If you're a movie buff, consider booking a Kauai movie tour that takes you to multiple filming spots across the island.
9. Explore the Kauai Coffee Estate
Coffee lovers, this one’s for you. Kauai Coffee Company is the largest coffee farm in the U.S., and you can book a one-hour guided tour of the estate right on their website. Not up for a full tour? No problem — you can still stop by for complimentary tastings of their entire line of estate-grown coffees, no purchase necessary.
Behind the gift shop, you'll find a small museum and a café serving everything from cappuccinos and lattes to frappes and smoothies. It’s a quick, easy stop, and a fun way to sip something uniquely Kauai.
Tip: If you find a blend you love, grab a bag to take home. It’s the perfect souvenir to look forward to once your vacation is over.
10. Eat Your Way Through Local Favorites
Kauai’s food scene is a key part of the island experience. From fresh poke bowls and smoky kalua pork to Hawaiian-style hot dogs and burgers, the island has tons of unique eats to try. Here are some top spots you shouldn’t miss:
Porky’s Kauai — Kalua pork grilled cheese
Koloa Fish Market — Fresh, customizable poke bowls
Puka Dog — Iconic Hawaiian hot dogs with tropical relishes and sauces
Kenji Burger — Kauai beef burgers with a Hawaiian-Asian fusion twist
Tip: Some food trucks and restaurants are cash-only, so it's a good idea to keep some small bills on hand.
Want more restaurant recommendations? Access my complete Kauai restaurant guide here.
Final Thoughts
Kauai is the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re hiking through Waimea Canyon, snorkeling with sea turtles, or laying out on a beach with a smoothie in hand, every corner of the island offers something special.
If it’s your first trip, these top 10 things to do in Kauai will help you hit the highlights without feeling rushed, so you can fully embrace the beauty and laid-back rhythm of island life.
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FAQ: Top Things to Do in Kauai
What is Kauai most famous for?
Kauai is best known for its dramatic natural beauty — from scenic beaches to the rugged cliffs of the Nā Pali Coast and the depths of Waimea Canyon. It’s nicknamed the Garden Isle for a reason.
How many days do you need in Kauai?
For a first trip, 4–5 days is enough to explore the island's highlights. For a slower pace or more outdoor adventures, a full week is ideal.
What should I not miss in Kauai?
Don’t skip Poipu Beach for snorkeling with sea turtles, Waimea Canyon for incredible views, and Tunnels Beach for its clear waters and stunning scenery.
Is Kauai better for beaches or hiking?
Both! Kauai is home to some of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches, like Ha'ena Beach Park and Hanalei Bay, and it's known for its scenic hikes like the Waipo'o Falls Trail.
Is Kauai worth visiting for the first time?
Absolutely. It’s quieter and more rugged than Oahu or Maui, making it perfect if you want stunning scenery, outdoor adventures, and a more laid-back vibe.
What's the best month to go to Kauai?
We went in August and had a fantastic time — the weather was perfect, and the snorkeling conditions were ideal. If you're planning to enjoy ocean activities, keep in mind that winter brings bigger surf on the North Shore, while summer typically offers calmer, clearer waters.
Can you drive all the way around Kauai?
No. The island’s Na Pali Coast interrupts the road, so you can't drive a complete loop around the island.
What are the best beaches in Kauai?
Some of my favorites include Poipu for the sea turtles, Tunnels for the clear water and phenomenal snorkeling, and Hanalei for the incredible views.
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