So you’re planning a trip to the gorgeous “Garden Island”? Woohoo! Kauai is one of the most beautiful places on earth, thanks to its lush tropical forests and stunning natural beauty.
There’s lots to do here, and although you will want to see everything this wonderful island offers, it’s not always possible.
That’s where this handy itinerary for Kauai comes in handy. It will break down everything you need to see and do to get the most out of your trip for both 5 and 7-day trip lengths.
All these tips are based on my experience visiting the island a handful of times!
Tip: Check out this Kauai travel guide for more insider tips and tricks.
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Kauai 7-Day Itinerary: At a Glance
- Day 1: Arrival in Lihue and sightseeing
- Day 2: Waimea Canyon + Kokeʻe State Park
- Day 3: South Shore (Po’ipu)
- Day 4: South Shore (Wailua Region)
- Day 5: Napali Coast
- Day 6: North Shore
- Day 7: Princeville & Departure to Lihue
We’ll discuss all of this in detail and I’ll provide you with a map! Below is a quick packing list for you.
Wanderer Tip: If you need more help packing, check out my Hawaii Packing List!
Day 1: Arrival + Sightseeing in Lihue
Arrival: To kickstart your epic 7 days in Kauai, you’ll arrive in Lihue – the island’s second-largest town.
Once you’ve checked into your hotel and gotten comfortable, it’s time to hit the ground running.
You’ll probably be hungry after traveling, so why not start your first day with local food and drinks?
Head to the Hamura Saimin, where you can try saimin, a delicious noodle soup native to Hawaii.
Next, head to one of the island’s beloved spots — the Kauai Beer Company, which serves up a great selection of local brews.
But if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, I suggest heading to the nearest Kauai Juice Co and grabbing yourself a Kauai staple!
They also have an extensive food menu if you want something more filling than soup.
For non-alcoholic options, The Aloha Ginger Beer Company creates spicy ginger beer soda using fresh local ingredients such as Kauai honey, ginger, and seasonal citrus.
From there, you can hang out at the Nawiliwili Harbor and check out the Kuki’i Point Lighthouse.
Last but not least, end the day at Kalapaki Beach and take in a gorgeous Hawaiian sunset.
Travel Tips for Lihue
- While it may be the second largest town in Kauai, Lihue is still pretty small. This means everything is within walking or cycling distance, so consider renting a bicycle as well.
- Using the local bus is much cheaper than taxis, so consider using it to get around.
- Some hotels offer shuttle services to get around, so be sure to check this out before the time.
Where to Stay in Lihue
- The Kauai Inn – A cozy plantation-style inn near Nawiliwili Harbor with stunning views of the Hula’eia Mountains.
- Kauai Beach Resort & Spa – Conveniently located between Kauai’s North and South Shores and offers luxurious accommodation.
- Kauai Palms Hotel – a great budget-friendly option near the Lihue Airport offering comfortable accommodation.
Day 2: Waimea Region and Kōke’e State Park
Drive time from Lihue: Approx. 34 minutes, with an extra 16 minutes to Koke’e State Park
You’ll want to start your second day off bright and early because there’s much to see and do in the Waimea region.
Fortunately, it’s a short distance from Lihue, so after breakfast, you can head to Waimea and start your adventure.
Your first stop should be the Waimea Canyon State Park.
Often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this is a jaw-droppingly beautiful area. Interestingly, it’s also where much of the Jurassic Park movie was filmed.
The park has hiking trails, scenic drives, lookout points, and picnic spots.
Two lookout points worth stopping by are the Pu’u o Kila and Kalalau lookouts, which offer incredible views of the Waimea Canyon.
Once you’ve spent a few hours at the Waimea Canyon State Park, it’s time to stop by the Kōke’e State Park.
Fortunately, the distance between the two parks is short, so you won’t have to worry about rushing from one place to the next.
From here, you’ll enjoy grand views of the Kalalau Valley!
There’s also the Kōke’e Natural History Museum, where you can learn more about the local plant life.
Kōke’e State Park is also home to several waterfalls, with multiple lookout points, including the Waipo’o Falls, Ni’ihau, and Hononu Falls.
On your way back, stop in the town of Hanapepe, which is said to be the inspiration for the setting for the classic Disney film Lilo & Stitch.
There’s even a mural of these two animated characters at the entrance welcoming you into the town.
Tips for Visiting Waimea and Kōke’e State Parks
- It’s good to note that there’s a $5 entrance fee for the Waimea and Kokee State Parks per person if you’re not a Hawaiian resident.
- If you’ve rented a car, use a self-guided audio tour of the region to learn more about its history and discover Waimea’s hidden gems.
Where to Stay in Waimea
- Waimea is just a short drive from Lihue, but the Castle Waimea Country Lodge is an excellent option if you want to stay here.
Day 3: South Shore (Po’ipu)
Driving time from Lihue: Approx 19 minutes
Next on your Kauai vacation itinerary, you’ll head down to the South Shore.
Day three of your Kauai travel itinerary is set aside for resting, and Po’ipu is a great place to do that.
It’s home to Po’ipu Beach Park, which boasts a crescent-shaped beach with the most beautiful waters.
It’s the perfect place for surfing, swimming, and fishing.
It’s a good snorkeling spot, too, as there is an array of sea life.
You’ll even spot a Hawaiian monk seal occasionally.
From December to April, you might even spot some humpback whales.
If you’re keen on hiking, consider doing the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail.
This 4-mile out-and-back coastal trail takes you past a few shipwrecks along sand dune cliffs.
This was one of my favorite easy trails in the area!
Tips for Visiting Po’ipu
- There’s a lifeguard on the beach, so if you plan on surfing, check with them if the current allows you to do so.
- Monk seals are generally harmless unless they feel threatened. So it’s best to keep a safe distance if you spot one in the water.
- The Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail can be strenuous, so wear sturdy hiking boots.
Where to Stay in Po’ipu
Po’ipu is also a short distance away from Lihue, but here are a few accommodation options if you’d like to stay here:
- Koloa Landing Resort at Po’ipu is a modern, luxurious escape that includes suites and villas with stunning ocean views.
- Aston At Poipu Kai – this luxury resort is less than a mile away from Po’ipu Beach Park and Shipwreck Beach, with all the amenities you’ll need for a relaxing stay.
Day 4: South Shore (Wailua Region)
Driving distance from Lihue: Approx 13 minutes
While only a few miles from Lihue, you’ll need to set a full day aside to explore the Wailua region.
One of the best Kauai adventures that you can look forward to is a kayaking tour of the Wailua River, with a stop at the incredible Secret Waterfall.
The journey to the falls isn’t exactly a “secret” anymore, but it’s a rather scenic adventure as you paddle down the river.
Once you get there, you can go for a swim or enjoy a light refreshment.
From there, head back to the town of Kapa’a on the eastern side of the region.
It’s famous for its numerous food trucks and great local restaurants, so it’s worth stopping here for lunch.
After refueling, it’s time to head to the Wailua State Park, known for its incredible array of waterfalls.
One that’s worth stopping at is Opaekaa Falls.
This 151-foot waterfall cascades down a series of basalt rocks formed by a volcanic eruption.
From there, you can marvel at the Wailua Falls.
Traveling 173 feet to a pool below, Wailua Falls is one of Kauai’s most incredible places to visit.
You can swim in the pool or simply listen to the calming sound of water flowing.
After a fun day of exploring Wailua State Park, you can stop at the Keahua Arboretum and view the Rainbow Trees unique to the island.
If you’re more into hiking, you can stop at Sleeping Giant Trail.
End the day by stopping at lovely Lydgate Beach to catch the sunset.
Tips for Visiting the Wailua Region
- There is no entrance fee to the park. However, there is a fee for the riverboat cruise, run by the park, which starts at around $30.
- The park is quite popular, and while parking is free, there isn’t much of it. So be sure to get there early.
Where to Stay in Wailua
Again, Wailua is fairly close to Lihue, but if you want to stay in the area, here are my recommendations:
- Kauai Shores Hotel – This hotel is just a stone’s throw away from the ocean, with incredible views and a modern interior.
- The ISO – is another beachfront patio that features a mix of plantation style and modern interior style. It’s also a few miles away.
Day 5: Na Pali Coast
Driving time from Lihue: Approx 1h 15 min
The best Kauai itinerary doesn’t exist without the Na Pali Coast as a stop.
This rugged area is the most beautiful on the island, with its dramatic cliffs and stunning beaches.
Spending a few hours here is not enough to explore the area, so setting a whole day aside is best.
While you can explore the area from hiking trails in the Koke’e State Park, there is a much better way to experience the coast — on the water and in the air.
On the water, you’ll want to consider a raft tour or kayaking.
This will allow you access to sea caves, waterfalls, inlets, and beaches that larger vessels can’t reach.
You might even snorkel and see the colorful sea life around this area.
If you’re after something more luxurious, consider a catamaran cruise offering a snorkel excursion and lunch.
Sunset tours with dinner are also available when you can watch the sun slip away over the gorgeous Pacific waters.
While exploring the Na Pali coast on the water is quite an experience, there’s no better way to see the area’s real beauty than in the air.
You can do this in two ways — via an air tour with a small plane or helicopter ride.
Tips for Visiting the Na Pali Coast
- This is a popular area, especially during summer, so be sure to book your tours well in advance.
- Prioritize at least one excursion because this is one of the most bucket list-worthy areas of the island!
Day 6: The North Shore
Driving time: 49 min from Lihue to Princeville
Day six takes you to Kauai’s lovely North Shore.
There’s much to do here, so start your day off early.
It’s recommended that you base yourself in Princeville to explore this part of the island.
There are quite a few stops, the first being the Ha’ena State Park.
It’s got numerous points of interest, including the Hanakapi’ai Beach and waterfall, Kalalau Trailhead, and Ke’e Beach.
After exploring these spots, you can briefly stop at the Limahuli Botanical Garden, next to Ha’ena State Park.
Admire and learn more about the plant life that grows on Kauai.
Next, head to Hanalei — a charming little town in Hanalei Bay.
You can easily spend a lot of time here exploring the exciting sites.
A few stops to include on your list are Hanalei Beach, Hanalei Pier, and Ching Young Shopping Village.
When you start getting hungry, stop at the Hanalei Bread Company in the heart of the town.
You’ll find the freshest bread and pastries and a great breakfast and lunch menu.
Their coffee is quite good as well.
If you’re into indigenous art, visit the Havaiki Oceanic and Tribal Art Center, where you can learn more about the indigenous art of the Polynesian people.
Tips for Visiting the North Shore
- There’s a $5 entrance fee for non-Hawaiian residents to enter Ha’ena State Park, and you often need to make a reservation to visit the park.
Where to Stay in Princeville
Like the rest of our itinerary, you can stay here if you choose, but can also remain in Lihue!
However, Princeville can be a great “escape” for the duration of your trip, and might be worth the overnight stay.
- The Cliffs at Princeville – Perched on a cliff, this spacious resort boasts many amenities along with gorgeous ocean and garden views. It’s also conveniently located near Princeville’s town center.
- Sandpiper Condo – This bright and airy condo is a budget-friendly option close to many of Princeville’s attractions, including a golf course.
Day 7: Princeville & Departure Back to Lihue
Driving time to Lihue: Approx 45 min
Sadly, all good things must come to an end, and this will be your last day in Kauai.
You can take it easy and explore Princeville, play golf, or hang out on the beach.
From there, you’ll head back to Lihue.
Pro Tip: Flights tend to leave Kauai pretty late! I recommend relaxing at Poipu Beach or somewhere else prior to your flight.
Adjusted 5 Day Kauai Itinerary
Seven days is a good amount of time to spend on Kauai to enjoy all the island’s sights and activities without feeling too rushed.
However, it’s also understandable that not everyone has the luxury of being able to spend a whole week on vacation.
If that’s the case, consider this adjusted 5 day itinerary for Kauai, which will still help you get the most out of your time here:
- Day 1: Lihue
- Day 2: Waimea Region and Kokee State Park
- Day 3: Na Pali Coast
- Day 4: North Shore
- Day 5: South Shore
Kauai Map
Below is a map you can use to reference the major stops on your trip!
Feel free to reference it while you’re doing the final planning.
Click here for a live version of the map!
Ready to Visit Kauai?
There you have it, a complete 7 day itinerary to help you enjoy your trip to Kauai to the fullest. If you cannot stay for the entire 7 days, 5 days in Kauai are also long enough to see most of the island.
Kauai is filled with exciting things to see and do, and no matter how long you stay, you’re in for a real treat.
Next Read: Hawaii packing list to help you get ready for your trip.
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