Turquoise blue waters, epic ridgelines, dolphins, and fluffy sand beaches are just some of the incredible Kauai, Hawaii outdoor adventures waiting for you! And trust me, there’s a LOT waiting for you on this island paradise.
That’s why in this post, we’ll be covering a complete list of the best Kauai adventures so that you can have the Kauai itinerary of a lifetime.
I’ll be giving you a map to use too. But to make this post easier for you to read, I’ve divided your adventures by “shores”: North, South, East, West.
Ready? Let’s dive right in!
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🏝 Short on time? You can’t go to Kauai without doing a Helicopter ride over Waimea or a Na Pali Coast boat tour!
Where to Stay in Kauai, Hawaii
Before you head out on some of the best Kauai adventures, you’ll need to book a place to stay. Here are a few vacation rentals I recommend!
Ocean-View Studio Rental on South Shore Kauai — This studio apartment rental is in the Poipu area on Kauai’s South Shore. The location makes it easy to explore the island. PLUS, it has a full kitchen so you can cook your meals. Click here to check availability!
Ocean-View Studio Apartment on East Shore — Enjoy an ocean view from your home away from home. This studio is located on the East shore, about 6 or so miles from the Lihue Airport. It’s location makes it easy to go to Kauai adventures! Click here to check availability!
Condo at the Cliffs Resort — Stay in Kauai’s North Shore with an ocean view condo! You’ll love that this accommodation has a full kitchen, a view and is near Queen’s Bath and Hanalei Bay. Click here to check availability!
Short on time? Don’t miss out on the ultimate Kauai experience! Book a Helicopter Ride over Waimea Canyon (reserve now!) or a Na Pali Coast Boat Tour now to see the island’s most breathtaking sights (reserve your adventure today!)
Best Kauai Outdoor Adventures on the North Shore
Kauai’s North Shore is home to some of the best beaches in Kauai, Hawaii and one of the most popular Kauai, Hawaii adventures, the Kalalau Trail.
So to start things off, ket’s talk more about the Kauai attractions on the North Shore now.
#1 Hike to Queen’s Bath
The hike to Queen’s Bath beautiful and a must-do on the North Shore of Kauai, Hawaii. If you’re an adventure lover, you’re going to want to add it to your list of Kauai activities!
Unfortunately, this trail is almost always super muddy, so wear shoes you don’t care to get dirty, or maybe a hiking sandal. It’s around a 20min hike and isn’t hard. If the swell is low, you can go swimming in the pool too.
Otherwise, the Queen’s Bath area offers so many different tide pools you can take pictures around and admire from afar.
Explorer Tip: Check the Kauai beach water conditions before you go on this Kauai adventure because the swell can be extremely dangerous and should be avoided when high.
#2 Hike the Ever So Popular Kalalau Trail (Bucket List Kauai Adventure)
Hiking the Kalalau Trail is easily one of the best Kauai adventures, and for a good reason: it’s pretty damn beautiful. This 11-mile trail is said to be one of the most scenic hikes in the world.
The Kalalalu Trail will take you from Ke-e Beach to Kalalau Beach, and yes, you can only access the beach on foot.
During your hike, you’ll wander through beautiful valleys and witness waves crash on coastline formations you didn’t know existed! If you’re not keen on going 11 miles, don’t worry! You can opt to do chunks of the hike.
Some of the trail destinations include:
- Hanakapi’ai Beach—The first two miles of the hike will start at Ke’e Beach. The trail might be extremely muddy, so watch your footing!
- Hanakapi’ai Falls—After finishing the first 2 miles of the hike, continue on the footpath to get to Hanakapi’ai Falls! The fall stands at 300-feet tall, AND you can go swimming in its pool! Talk about a reward.
- Kalalau Beach—Your Kauai adventure will finish on Kalalau Beach, giving you epic views of the Na Pali Coast. The water is also so blue that you’ll think you’re swimming in a pool of gems.
Explorer Tip: You will need a permit to hike the Kalalau Trail. I recommend checking out the official Kalalau Trail website. This resource will give you general information about the Kalalau Trail, including weather reports, closures, and permit information.
#3 Watch Sunset at the Kilauea Lighthouse
Into bird watching, coastal views, and chill attractions? Kilauea is the place for you.
Scott and I loved to come here and watch the coastline. It’s a great photo spot around sunset too. Make sure you pack your camera gear like a Sony a6400 and 24-70 f2/8 lens!
Book This: Take a private tour of Kauai’s East and North Shores!
#4 Sunbathe at One of Kauai’s Best Beaches
Below you’ll find a quick list of beaches on the Kauai, Hawaii North Shore. They’re all drop-dead gorgeous in their way, and worth the stop if you can make it to them!
- Haena Beach Park
- Hanalei Bay
- Kalihiwai Beach
- Secret Beach
- Anini Beach
- Ke’e Beach
I will say that I’m a bit biased, though.
Scott and I went to Secret Beach Kauai, Hawaii, and LOVED it. There are some low-hanging trees on the sand that you can use to hang a hammock.
This beach is the perfect place to end a full day of exploring!
Book This: Bestselling private tour of Kauai’s North Shore!
#5 Walk Around Princeville
Princeville is such a boujee and beautiful community on Kauai’s North Shore! If this were my Kauai adventure trip, I would do a day hike to Queen’s Bath or hike a short section of the Kalalau Trail, head to Princeville, and snag some acai bowls.
People rave about The Spot— just looking at their menu makes my mouth water.
Book This: Click here to book a Princeville Botanical Garden & Chocolate Tasting tour!
#6 Have a Date Night on Hanalei Bay
Visiting Hanalei Bay is one of the most scenic and popular Kauai must-dos. I promise it’s worth it! The crescent shaped beach stretches out to 2 miles and features a gorgeous mountain view.
Talk about dreamy! If you’re looking for unique things to do in Kauai, HI, I suggest heading to the Bay for a sunset session. You can kayak Hanalei Bay, eat acai bowls, ride bikes, or just chill at the beach area.
Highly Recommend: Click here to book a bestselling Hanalei Bay kayak tour!
#7 Watch Sunrise on Larsen’s Beach
A dirt road and a short walk will take you to Larsen’s Beach. It’s typically one of the less crowded Kauai attractions because people don’t want to drive the dirt road to get there.
That just means you won’t have to deal with a swarm of people, and you can enjoy the white sand all morning.
#8 Explore the Blue Room
Have you ever wanted to visit a grotto and feel like Ariel for the day? Well, who hasn’t? LOL. The Blue Room is a Kauai treasure.
When the water levels are just right, you can go inside this sea cave and watch the light reflect the water’s magnificent blue color all around the cave walls. Adventure photographers love this location!
Book This: Kauai helicopter tour with the doors off!
Best Kauai Adventures on the West Shore
Kauai’s West Shore is where a lot of the fun can happen (in my opinion). Here is where you will find some of the best Kauai hiking trails that will give you access to some amazing viewpoints.
Notably, the West Shore is where Waimea Canyon, the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, lives, which is where you’ll see a lot of Kauai adventures.
#9 Hike Kalepa Ridge Trail (My Fave Thing to Do in Kauai)
Okay, I just have to say that if you like once-in-a-lifetime type views and are in the mood to hike a short Kauai hike, you NEED to add the Kalepa Ridge Trail to your list of best Kauai adventures.
Before you even get there, go to Aloha Aina Juice Café for an acai or pitaya bowl. Then, drive to the tip-top of the Waimea Canyon.
There you’ll find Kalepa Ridge Trail, where you’ll hit it for sunset. You’ll see the most jaw-dropping ridge views. On this trail, I wore my favorite sturdy hiking boots and recommend you give them a try!
Not Into Hiking? Book This: Waimea canyon bike ride adventure!
#10 Camp in Waimea Canyon
You can opt to camp in Waimea Canyon after your Kalepa Ridge hike or you can come any other time that works for you.
Waimea Canyon is arguably one of the most popular attractions on the West Shore, so I find it much easier to camp there if you plan on exploring the Canyon for multiple days.
Explorer Tip: Note that you will have to get permits to stay at the Waimea campground.
#11 Explore Waipo’o Falls via Canyon Trail
Waipo’o Falls via Canyon Trail is a must-do in Kauai, Hawaii. This Kauai hike will take you up close and personal with one of the largest waterfalls in Waimea Canyon.
From my experience, it’s a pretty accessible hiking trail that offers beautiful views of the Canyon without breaking your feet. You’ll also see more of Waimea’s colorful canyon walls, which will leave you speechless.
Be super careful during your Kauai adventures in the canyon! I’ve seen many people sit oddly close to the canyon edge, and I would NOT trust it. The rock and soil are so crumbly. Standing at the edge of the Canyon is not worth the drop-off risk.
Book This: Bestselling private tour of Waimea Canyon!
#12 Hike Awaawapuhi Trail for Sunset
If you want some fantastic views of the Na Pali Coast, look no further! Hiking the Awaawapuhi Trail is one of the top Kauai adventures for those wanting epic views of the Na Pali Coast.
Unlike the Canyon Trail, Awaawapuhi is much longer and will offer you a clear sight of the Na Pali Coast. The classic ridgelines you see people always sharing on Instagram are what bring hiking lovers to this Kauai attraction! This hiking trail goes for about 6.4 miles round trip and is considered difficult.
Fair Warning: If the weather in the Canyon will be cloudy, your chances of seeing any sort of view from this hike are slim to none. I am speaking from experience here.
#13 Spend a Day at Polihale State Park
Okay, if there is one non-touristy thing you MUST add to your list, let it be Polihale State Park. The beach is surrounded by epic mountains, which means you’ll have a view the entire time you’re there.
A rough dirt road will take you to a secluded beach with sand so deep; you’ll think your sinking! Before you head there, you have to make sure your rental car company will allow you to go here.
You can get stuck in the sand, and the dirt road is so crappy that the Hawaii Gov suggests having four-wheel drive. Camping is available at the park too, but PLEASE be respectful! In the past, the park was shut down due to over abuse and illegal camping.
Explorer Tip: Make sure you review the Polihale State Park camp permit rates for non-residents:
#14 Take a Kauai Boat Tour Along the Na Pali Coast (My Fave Kauai Adventure)
There’s nothing quite like admiring Kauai’s Na Pali Coast from a boat.
This is where you can see dolphins and some of the most notable natural landmarks the island has to offer like the Kauai Open Ceiling Sea Cave. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see dolphins!
The boat tour was probably the best experience I’ve ever had in Kauai. It’s unique, fun, and the views are INCREDIBLE. 11/10 would recommend.
Have The Same Experience: Book an experience like this — click here!
#15 Hike More of Waimea via Kukui Trail
You can find the Kukui Trail at the beginning of the Iliau Nature Loop. The hike will be approximately 5-miles round trip and can be steep.
Along the first mile of this Kauai attraction, you’ll see some of the most amazing views of Waimea Canyon. You can even see waterfalls throughout the Canyon’s walls!
See The Best of the West: Book a Kauai westside tour!
Best Kauai Adventures on the South Shore
Now let’s get to the South Shore part of this Kauai must do list. I thoroughly enjoy the Kauai, Hawaii South Shore!
I find it the most accessible place to stay and treat like a ‘hub’ while you’re exploring the rest of Kauai, HI. There are great places to eat and amazing Kauai beaches here too. So let’s talk a bit more about the South Shore Kauai adventures!
#16 Bask in the Sun at Shipwreck Beach
Located on the Kauai South Shore by the Marriott, you’ll find Shipwreck Beach. It’s pretty chill if you’re looking for relaxing activities in Kauai! The water here can get a bit rough, but if you like surfing, this is the beach!
I loved coming here on a down day between my Kauai adventures.
Book This: Bestselling Kauai snorkel adventure!
#17 Admire the Cliff Views Along Mahaulepu Trail
The Mahaulepu Trail is located on Shipwreck Beach and offers some of the best coastal views you can get on the South Shore of Kauai, Hawaii.
I recommend hitting this Kauai hike for sunset! Along the trail, you’ll also find caves and other epic views.
The best part about this trail, though, is that you can go as far as you want to go! Should you choose to walk the whole shore, you’ll clock in about 4 miles round trip.
Don’t Miss This: Kauai South and Eastside waterfall group tour!
#18 Go Swimming in Poipu Beach Park
The water at Poipu Beach Park is much calmer than that of Shipwreck Beach, making it one of the more popular Kauai attractions for families!
If you choose to swim at this Kauai, Hawaii beach, bring a pair of goggles for a bit of snorkeling. Poipu Beach Park is a famous spot for sea turtle sightings!
Book This: Click here to book your own snorkel adventure!
#19 Visit the Spouting Horn
Well, if you’re looking for a new place to photograph, consider the Spouting Horn! As the tide comes in, the water fills the lava tube and shoots water into the sky!
Spouting Horn is a great place to take the family if you’re looking for something relaxing and fun to do. This goes without saying, but yes, Spouting Horn is a touristy Kauai adventure. However, touristy spots are usually popular for a reason. So if you’re passing by, you might as well check it out!
Explorer Tip: If you visit between December and May, you might even see humpback whales!
Best Kauai Outdoor Adventures on the East Side
Kauai’s East Shore is pretty lush compared to other parts of Kauai, Hawaii. I love the East Shore for hiking and more beach days.
Let’s get into one of our last sections of Kauai adventures.
#20 Kayak Kauai and the Secret Falls
The Wailua River runs through the island of Kauai, and if you’re looking for unique activities in Kauai, Hawaii that require kayaking, you’re in luck!
You can easily rent a kayak along the river and ask for a map to Secret Falls. After paddling up the river for a bit, you’ll come to a slight pull-off, park your boat, and hike a short trail to Kauai’s “Secret Falls.”
Spoiler alert: it’s not very secret, BUT still awesome. Bring your swimsuit; you’re going to want to take a dip in the water!
Book This: Click here to book a Wailua River and Secret Falls tour!
#21 Hike the Lush Kuilau Ridge Trail
In the morning, you can hit up Kuilau Ridge trail for an easy Kauai hike to ridge views. The hike itself is about a 2mi round trip and will not take long to complete!
I couldn’t believe how green it was here! Along the trail, you will find multiple places to pull off and either picnic, take a break or admire the view.
Explorer Tip: Make sure you snag some good hiking boots and socks.
#22 Breathe the Fresh Air at Wailua Falls
Wailua Falls consists of twin waterfalls that cascade over a ridge on Kauai’s East Shore. I have come here a couple of times now, and I find it a more and more unbelievable Kauai attraction every time I go!
While it’s not allowed anymore, people sometimes hike to the bottom of the waterfall and explore for a unique Kauai adventure. Do so at your own risk!
#23 Hike to the Top of Sleeping Giant
The Sleeping Giant mountain gets its name because of the way the peak forms into what looks like the head of, well, a sleeping giant.
If you’d like, you can do this best Kauai adventure for sunrise, which will require waking up early. The trail is about 4 miles round trip and rated as moderate. Make sure you give yourself ample time to get to the top!
#24 Swim at One of the Kauai East Shore Beaches
The East Shore beaches are close to hotels and reasonably accessible! So you should have no problems getting to them and enjoying a day by the water. Below is a list of the best beaches in the area.
- Lydgate Park
- Waipouli Beach Park
- Kealia Beach
- Kapa’a Beach Park
- Wailua Beach
I have been to Kapa’a Beach Park and used it to break between some of the Kauai hiking trails I was visiting!
#25 Stand in Awe at Opaekaa Falls
This attraction is located in Wailua River State Park. Because of the waterfall’s size, you can view it from afar.
You’ll most likely pass the pullout for the falls on your way to other activities, so make sure you stop here for a quick picture or Instagram Story!
Unique Kauai Outdoor Adventures
Kauai, Hawaii is a beautiful island if you couldn’t tell by now. So I’d like to wrap up this list of Kauai attractions with an overview of some more unique Kauai adventures you can have.
I briefly mentioned a few of these activities in Kauai, but I will lay out some additional details here before we get into everything else you need to know about the island.
#26 Go on a Kauai Helicopter Tour
Okay, question: why wouldn’t you want to go on a Kauai helicopter tour? There is not answer! Of course you want to go!
During your tour, you can get views of the Na Pali Coast, waterfalls, and more!
Don’t Miss This: Click here to book a private helicopter tour!
#27 Hop on a Kauai Boat Tour
You’re going to want to see all the dolphins and cliff views a Kauai boat tour has to offer, making it one of the most unique Kauai adventures.
What’s cool is some Kauai, Hawaii boat companies will let you book unique experiences like a sunset dinner on the Na Pali Coast.
December through May, you can also opt in to see whales along the Kauai, HI coast.
Boat tours will go around just about every coastline, but the most popular and my recommendation would be to stick to the Na Pali Coast. It’s arguably the most scenic coastline on the island.
Don’t Miss This: Click here to book a bestselling Na Pali Coast Boat tour!
#28 Explore a Coffee Plantation
Hawaii, in general, grows quite a bit of coffee, and it’s pretty good! So if you’re a morning cup of Joe lover, then this is the perfect Kauai activity for you!
At Kauai Coffee Company, you can book a tour almost any day of the week!
#29 Get in Some Kauai Snorkeling
The island is the PERFECT place for snorkeling—it’s one of the major Kauai attractions! You’ll be able to see reefs, fish of all colors, and maybe even turtles if you’re lucky!
If you’re just getting started with snorkeling, you can visit Lydgate Beach. Otherwise, more advanced snorkelers tend to head to Tunnels Beach, which has some of the best snorkeling in Kauai, Hawaii.
Book This: Bestselling Kauai snorkeling adventure!
#30 Kayak Kauai on Just About Any Shoreline
If you want to kayak Kauai, Hawaii, you have more options than you might think. We’ve talked about the Na Pali Coast quite a bit at this point in our Kaua, but believe you may want to consider exploring it by kayak.
Remember when I said that you could only get to Kalalau Beach on foot? Well, what you might not know is that if you’re up for a real Kauai adventure, you can kayak to the beach.
Before you get all excited, just know that this kind of adventure is about a 17-mile excursion. You will not be able to camp at the beach, and these kinds of tours are typically not for beginners. If it’s something on your bucket list and you want to get a guide’s help, you can check out Na Pali Kayak.
Otherwise, your next option is to kayak in the Wailua River or kayak Hanalei Bay, which we’ve discussed earlier!
Book This: Click here to book a Wailua River and Secret Falls tour!
List of Best Kauai, Hi Outdoor Adventures
- Hike to Queen’s Bath
- Hike the Kalalau Trail
- Watch Sunset at the Kilauea Lighthouse
- Sunbathe at One of Kauai’s Best Beaches
- Walk Around Princeville
- Have a Date Night on Hanalei Bay
- Watch Sunrise on Larson’s Beach
- Explore the Blue Room
- Hike Kalepa Ridge Trail
- Camp in Waimea Canyon
- Explore Waipo’o Falls via Canyon Trail
- Hike Awaawapuhi Trail for Sunset
- Spend a Day at Polihale State Park
- Take a Kauai Boat Tour Along the Na Pali Coast
- Hike More of Waimea via Kukui Trail
- Bask in the Sun at Shipwreck Beach
- Admire the Cliff Views Along Mahaulepu Trail
- Go Swimming in Poipu Beach Park
- Visit the Spouting Horn
- Kayak Kauai and the Secret Falls
- Hike the Lush Kuilau Ridge Trail
- Breathe the Fresh Air at Wailua Falls
- Hike to the Top of Sleeping Giant
- Swim at One of the Kauai East Shore Beaches
- Stand in Awe at Opaekaa Falls
- Go on a Kauai Helicopter Tour
- Hop on a Kauai Boat Tour
- Explore a Coffee Plantation
- Get in Some Kauai Snorkeling
- Kayak Kauai on Just About Any Shoreline
Below is a map for you to reference.
Click here for a live version of the map!
What to Bring on Kauai Adventures
A lot of the best Kauai outdoor adventures will have you hiking among other things. This is my quick list of packing recommendations:
Final Thoughts on Kauai Outdoor Adventures
Well, first, I want to say that I hope you found this blog helpful! Kauai, Hawaii is lovely and I know you’ll love it there.
If you’re having trouble deciding which Kauai adventures to embark on, I would focus more on what you thoroughly enjoy doing and pick sides of the island that feature more of that activity.
To help you plan your trip, read these next:
- Ultimate Kauai Travel Guide—Everything you need to know for planning your trip
- Hawaii Packing List
