10 Things To Do on Kauai

The aptly nicknamed “Garden Isle” presents lush landscapes that invite exploration and adventure. Some of the outdoor activities and adventures offered on Kauai will prove challenging, but many more are well suited to the more casual participant. Here are some of our favorites.

1  Catch a Wave

The Hawaiian Islands are synonymous with surfing, and the sport is not just for experts. The breaks at popular Poipu Beach are particularly beginner friendly, and there are several surf schools that can get you started, those wanting a more in-depth experience can opt for extended surf camps. Equally popular is Hanalei Bay on the island’s north shore, where conditions can range from first-timer friendly to experts only depending on location and season.

2  Get To the Point

The lighthouse at Kilauea sits at the northernmost point in the inhabited Hawaiian Islands.  But there’s more reason than simple geographic interest to visit.  This elevated point of land is also one of the island’s most scenic locations, where sweeping cliffs and crashing surf provide a dramatic backdrop for a national wildlife refuge that is home to a variety of nesting sea birds, and the Hawaiian monk seals that can often be seen sunning on the rocks of adjacent Mokuaeae Isle.  Those wishing to stretch their legs can hike up nearby Crater Hill for more expansive views of the coast.

3  Rope a Waterfall

This one is for the adrenaline junkies, but you don’t have to be a risk taker. The adventure begins at the Huleia National Wildlife Refuge, on the island’s southeast coast. First comes a safety lesson on rope handling and rappelling, and the chance to slide down a three-story cliff face on a fixed rope. Then, it’s off on a walking trail through a lush forest to a pair of remote waterfalls where you’ll have the chance to rappel through the flow. First up is 30-foot Bamboo Falls, then the excitement doubles at 60-foot Dundee Falls.

4  Visit the Past

Located in the heart of the historic town of Lihue, the Kauai Museum tells the story of the island’s natural and cultural history. Permanent collections cover everything from the pre-historic formation of the islands to modern times. Exhibits lead through each important era, from the arrival of the native Hawaiian people, to the arrival of Captain Cook, the European missionaries, subsequent ethnic immigrations, the sugar cane Barons, World War II and statehood. Additional exhibits include rare shells, period artwork and furnishings from the Monarch Period and a collection of Asian china, sculpture and paintings. Additional rotating exhibits are also on display.

5  Take the Cain Train

Ride the rails that once hauled sugarcane through Kilohana Plantation. These days, the property grows some 50 varieties of fruit and vegetables, along with a menagerie of livestock. On the day tours, you’ll stop to feed the animals, sample fruits picked right from the trees, and embark on a leisurely guided tour of the woodlands. Evening runs add in a luau celebration. Other on-site attractions include one of the island’s best Sunday brunches and the historic Manor House, which is a State of Hawaii Historic Landmark.

6  Tour the Canyon

A mile wide, 14 miles long and 3,600 feet deep, Waimea Canyon deserves its nickname, “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Ambitious hikers can discover miles of trails that descend and cross this impressive geological feature, but you can take in the same grandeur without the sweat and sore feet by making the drive along Highway 550, which runs along the western rim of the canyon, with numerous overlooks to marvel at the multi-hued cliff faces and deep gorges below. The route continues to the head of the canyon at Kokee State Park, with numerous opportunities to stop and take in the view.

7  Go Off Road

Straddle an ATV for an exploration of the island’s wilder side, following trails that run though farmlands and forest to reach secluded beaches or jungle waterfalls. One route takes riders through a half-mile long tunnel once used by sugar cane transports; another stops at an inland lake, visits locations made famous in movies, and climbs nearby hillsides for panoramic views of the coastline.

8  Visit the Garden

In addition to boasting some of the world’s lushest natural landscapes, the Garden Island is home to several actual botanical gardens worthy of a visit. On the south shore, McBryde Garden houses the world’s largest collection of native Hawaiian plant life, while the landscape at Allerton Garden includes giant Moreton Figs, which some may recognize from the Jurassic Park movies. On the island’s north coast, near Hanna Bach, Limahuli Gardens is a haven for a range of endangered native plants. A few miles to the west, Princeville Botanical Gardens combines flowers and fruit trees with beehives and organic chocolate production for a sweet treat.

9  Try the Pie

Locals will argue over which food stand or restaurant bakes up the best lilikoi pie, but all will agree that anyone who visits Kauai should sample the island’s signature desert. Lilikoi is the local name for passion fruit, and these small burgundy nuggets of sweetness become the key ingredient for a chiffon-style pie that’s set on a graham cracker curst and topped with meringue.

10  Take Flight

Much of Kauai’s rugged and magnificent scenery can only be fully appreciated from the air. Helicopter tours are always popular, but for an even more dramatic and wide-open aerial view, you can take flight in an open ultralight. These small, slow-moving aircraft hold one or two passengers in addition to the pilot. From you elevated viewpoint, you will glide above treacherous reefs and white sand beaches, then head inland to discover dramatic valleys and lush forests. Make sure to bring a camera.