Vacationing on Kauai is like stepping into a tropical paradise where lush landscapes meet stunning coastlines. Kauai boasts dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and pristine beaches, perfect for sunbathing, snorkeling, or hiking. With world-renowned attractions like the Napali Coast, Waimea Canton, and the crystal clear Wailua River, it can be a bit overwhelming trying to organize your Kauai travel itinerary to include the highlights of the island. We have done the heavy lifting for you and put together a great 5-day Kauai vacation itinerary.
Day 1: Explore the South Shore
Carve out a full day to explore the joys of South Kauai. Start your day with some solid beach time at Poipu Beach or Baby Beach. Poipu Beach is known for its golden sands and vibrant marine life, making it a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. There is also a unique sand island just offshore that can be walked to during low tides via an exposed sandbar.
Just outside of Poipu is another unique beach known as Glass Beach. A bit off the beaten path, this beach has become popular because of the colorful “sand” it possesses. The shoreline here is full of colorful and clear pieces of sea glass.
Grab lunch in Old Town Koloa, a charming historic area on Kauai that offers a glimpse into the island's sugar plantation past. Established in the 1800s, it features beautifully preserved buildings that house local shops, art galleries, and eateries, creating a quaint, inviting atmosphere. Visitors can explore the rich history through informative plaques and stroll along tree-lined streets adorned with vibrant flowers.
Finish off the day with sunset at Spouting Horn Blow Hole. As ocean waves crash into the rocks, water shoots up through a hole in the coral, creating spectacular sprays that can reach up to 50 feet high. Add in orange sunset hues with the ocean sprays, and you can imagine the visual spectacle!
We have some great accommodation options on the south shore! Check out the luxurious Lodge at Kukui'ula, where you can stay in a private bungalow, cottage, or villa with access to a private 10-acre organic farm, sprawling lagoon pools, and so much more. If traveling with the extended family, consider reserving one of our private estates in the Kukui'ula area.
Day 2: Waimea Canyon and Koke’e State Park
Visiting Waimea Canyon, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," is a breathtaking experience that showcases the stunning natural beauty of Kauai. The canyon stretches over 10 miles long and plunges to depths of nearly 3,600 feet, revealing a vibrant tapestry of red and green hues, formed by volcanic activity and lush vegetation. Various lookout points, such as Waimea Canyon Lookout and Puu Hinai Lookout, offer panoramic views that are nothing short of spectacular, especially at sunrise and sunset. There are a few hiking trails that offer amazing views of the canyon.
After exploring the canyon, continue on to nearby Koke'e State Park. It is a stunning natural haven nestled in the mountains of Kauai, known for its lush landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and breathtaking vistas of the Na Pali Coast. Spanning over 4,000 acres, the park features a network of hiking trails that cater to all skill levels, offering opportunities to explore rainforests, see endemic wildlife, and discover hidden waterfalls. The park’s numerous lookout points, such as the Kalalau Lookout, provide sweeping views of the majestic cliffs and valleys below, making it a photographer's paradise.
Day 3: Napali Coast & Luau
The Napali Coast is one of Kauai's most iconic and breathtaking landscapes, characterized by its steep, emerald cliffs that rise dramatically from the Pacific Ocean. Stretching approximately 17 miles, this rugged coastline is accessible primarily by boat or helicopter, offering spectacular views of its lush valleys, hidden waterfalls, and pristine beaches.
The coastline's dramatic sea cliffs, shaped by centuries of erosion, create a stunning backdrop for nature lovers. If visiting Kauai during the winter months, a boat tour of this coastline has the added pleasure of whale watching along the way!
Cap off your day with an authentic dining experience filled with Aloha. Attending a luau on Kauai is a vibrant celebration of Hawaiian culture that offers traditional music, dance, and cuisine. As the sun sets over the ocean, guests can enjoy the festive atmosphere, complete with hula performances and live music that tell stories of the islands’ rich history.
The highlight of the evening often includes a buffet featuring authentic Hawaiian dishes like kalua pork, poi, and fresh tropical fruits, allowing guests to savor the flavors of the islands. Many luaus also offer activities such as lei-making, cultural games, or hula lessons, adding to the immersive experience.
Day 4: Explore the North Shore
Hanalei Beach is often pictured on postcards due to its iconic pier that stretches out over golden sands surrounded by green mountains in the background. Oftentimes you will see local kids jumping off the pier into the ocean. It is a great beach for sunbathing, swimming, and paddleboarding.
After enjoying some ocean therapy at the beach, fuel up in the town of Hanalei. Choose from a collection of popular restaurant options and then window shop through the variety of gift shops, art galleries, clothing shops, and more. Pick up a souvenir or gift that has a true Kauai vibe to it.
Another popular adventure on this side of the island is a trip to Queens Bath, a stunning natural tide pool renowned for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic coastal scenery. This unique spot, surrounded by rugged lava rock formations and lush vegetation, offers a mesmerizing setting for visitors seeking both adventure and tranquility. During calm days, the pool is perfect for swimming, allowing guests to experience the vibrant marine life up close. However, caution is advised, as the surf can be unpredictable, and safety guidelines should always be followed. The journey to Queen's Bath involves a short hike through a scenic trail, adding to the allure of this hidden gem, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Day 5: Seek Outdoor Adventure
The official nickname of Kauai is “the garden island”. Many areas of the island are lush with tropical vegetation, flowing rivers, and colorful flowers. The best way to fully immerse yourself in this beautiful setting is to get outdoors and experience the environment up close and personal. The below unique tour ideas will help you dive into Kauai’s beauty.
Water Tubing Tour - A Kauai tubing tour offers a thrilling and unique way to explore the island’s lush landscapes, as guests float down historic irrigation canals and tunnels originally built for sugar plantations, surrounded by stunning tropical scenery and vibrant flora.
Ziplining - Ziplining on Kauai provides an exhilarating experience, allowing adventurers to soar above breathtaking landscapes, lush rainforests, and dramatic valleys while enjoying stunning views of the island's natural beauty.
Kilohana Train Ride - The Kilohana Plantation train ride offers a charming and leisurely 2.5-mile journey through a historic plantation, where guests can enjoy scenic views gardens, exotic fruit trees, and the stunning landscape of Kauai while learning about the island's rich agricultural heritage.
Kayak Tour - A kayak tour on Kauai allows adventurers to paddle impressively clear rivers and along serene waterways, exploring hidden sea caves, lush coastal landscapes, and vibrant marine life while soaking in the island’s stunning natural beauty. There are numerous tours that will guide participants along the Wailua River.
Kauai Safari - Also located at Kilohana Plantation is the Rum Safari Tour. The two-hour guided tour will take participants off-roading in custom-built safari trucks exploring the beautiful planation grounds. Stop to sip Koloa Rum and sample the signature Mai Tai made with fresh fruits and ingredients grown on the grounds.