Kauai Quick Guide: Top Highlights, Beaches, and Best Places to Stay in Hawaii's Garden Isle
Overview: Your Essential Kauai Travel Guide
This concise Kauai guide highlights the island's must-see attractions, top spots to visit, and best accommodations for an unforgettable trip.
Kauai, also known as Kaua’i, is the oldest Hawaiian island and the fourth largest, covering 562.3 square miles (1,456.4 km²). A quick 20-minute flight from other islands lands you on this northwestern gem, dubbed the “Garden Isle” for its lush greenery.
Kauai's breathtaking landscapes have starred in films like Jurassic Park and King Kong, and even earlier in Elvis Presley's Paradise, Hawaiian Style.
Beyond its natural beauty, Kauai appeals for its low population compared to Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island, offering a relaxed vibe. Late tourist development led to strict height limits—no building taller than a coconut tree—eschewing high-rises for condos, timeshares, B&Bs, and vacation rentals.
Kauai's Top Highlights
Like other Hawaiian islands, Kauai draws visitors for snorkeling, beaches, hiking, swimming, and epic views. Its unique draws make it a standout:
The Na Pali Coast
Featured in Jurassic Park, the Na Pali Coast boasts towering cliffs plunging into pristine beaches, accessible mainly by helicopter, boat, or the challenging 22-mile Kalalau Trail in Na Pali Coast State Park. Drive Route 550 for stunning viewpoints. Test the waters with the 2-mile hike to Hanakapi’ai Beach—a must-do for all visitors, regardless of distance.
Waimea Canyon and Koke’e State Park
Dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon stretches 10 miles long, 1 mile wide, and 3,567 feet (1,087 m) deep, with vibrant reds, oranges, and lush greens unique to Kauai's wet climate. Multiple lookouts offer varied perspectives; visit late morning after fog clears. Continue to Koke’e State Park for 45 trails through bog and rainforest, including canyon descents.
Kauai Travel Guide: Must-See Attractions
Lumahai Beach
One of Hawaii's most photographed beaches on the north shore, reachable by a short jungle hike. Less crowded, ideal for snorkeling, cave exploration, and daring cliff jumps.
Kalapaki Beach
In a sheltered bay at Nawiliwili Harbor's southeast entrance, this golden-sand beach with coconut palms is perfect for swimming and water sports.
Po’ipu Beach
South shore paradise: long golden sands, palms, and prime conditions for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and surfing.
Whale Watching
Mahaulepu Beach near Po’ipu is prime for shore-based whale spotting (December-April). Bring binoculars and patience!
Hanalei and Hanalei Bay
Charming north shore town and crescent-shaped bay, a surfer's haven.
Hanapepe
South shore artist hub with galleries, workshops, and craft shops.
Stunning Waterfalls
Kauai's compact size lets you chase falls like the triple Wailua Falls and scenic Opaekaa Falls in one day.
Kilauea Point Lighthouse
This 1913 historic site in a national wildlife refuge is a birdwatcher's delight—$3 entry well worth it.
Where to Stay in Kauai
Kauai offers abundant hotels and Airbnb rentals.
Airbnb Rentals in Kauai
For self-catering, choose from 300+ Airbnbs—from rustic cabins to luxe condos with Jacuzzis and BBQs.
New to Airbnb? Use my referral for up to $55 off your first stay.
Top Hotels in Kauai
Hotels provide amenities but at a premium, often honeymoon-focused. Top-rated options (as of 2020):
- St. Regis Princeville Resort – Princeville/North Shore: 5-star with golf, dining, spa.
- Koloa Landing Resort at Po’ipu, Autograph Collection – South Shore: Luxury villas/studios, two pools.
- Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa – South Coast: Gardens, spa, golf, 7 restaurants.
- Marriott’s Waiohai Beach Club – South Coast: Beachfront self-catering, pool, spa, nearby golf.
- The Point at Poipu by Diamond Resorts – Poipu/South: Views of Shipwreck Beach and Keoneloa Bay.
- The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas – Princeville/North: Spacious villas, pools, gardens, golf nearby.
- Koa Kea Hotel & Resort – Poipu/South: Boutique with restaurant, spa.
- Hideaway Cove Poipu Beach – South Coast: Upscale apartments/studios.
