Kauai in 7 Days: a guidebook for getting the most out of your visit

Fall in love with Kauai for a week of captivating experiences. From kayaking adventure at Secret Falls to aerial majesty on an exclusive tour, each day will immerse you in the richness of this Hawaiian island. Discover the cinematic legacy, sample exquisite local cuisine and relax on river cruises.

These are just some of the best things to do on Kauai. With this itinerary you can combine the thrill of outdoor activities with coastal serenity as the locals do, giving you a complete view of Hawaiian beauty and culture free from the hordes of tourists.

From kayaking at Secret Falls to enjoying the beaches of Poipu, you're in for a day full of excitement and scenic beauty - get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Kauai right from the start in one of Hawaii's most popular areas!

Start the day with a Kayak exploration

On your first stop, explore the fascinating Secret Falls, those that thanks to their popularity are no longer a secret, but let's be honest, they are one of the greatest treasures on Kauai. Access to these falls is only by sea and to make the journey you have a couple of alternatives: you can opt for a kayak tour of Secret Falls or rent your canoe or kayak and travel there on your own. Start at the River State Park and paddle upstream.

Either way you choose, you'll find yourself surrounded by picture-worthy natural scenery. The Opaeka'a waterfall with its 46 meters high will amaze you and not to mention the majestic Uluwehi waterfall, it's a blast.

During the tour, you will explore several villages, including Kamokila Village. Don't forget to take a dip between one stream and another, the best reward after the paddling exercise.

Hiking in Secret Falls

Continue enjoying Secret Falls, also known as Uluwehi Falls with the area's quintessential activity: hiking. You'll be in one of the best places to hike in Kauai according to the locals.

The trails are moderately demanding, flanked by a thick rainforest. Routes range from walking about 4.5 km from Kapaa or taking the "short" route of about 2 km which in theory will be about a 20 minute walk. Why the disclaimer? Because of the terrain of this lush Hawaiian landscape.

Be prepared for some muddy and slippery terrain, although the effort is worth it, in fact, it is a perfect adventure to write down among the things to do in Kauai with kids, you will see how they turn the environment into a natural park always filled by a waterfall.

Luau Beach and Luau Show

After the hike, head to charming Poipu Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. Here, you can relax on the golden sand, swim in the crystal clear waters and explore the surroundings where you'll even see 'Moa' Roosters running around at will and plenty of green sea turtles. On site you will also find a variety of restaurants where you can eat lunch.

To cap off the day, if you want more action, you can also visit Kiahuna Beach, located next to the Sheraton Kauai Resort Hotel, where you can enter the oceanfront Luau Kalamaku show.

Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture with this traditional show. The activity is perfect for late night. It usually lasts about 2.5-3 hours and includes a delicious buffet dinner while authentic hula performances, daggers, fire and live music liven up the evening.

Waimea Canyon, also known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, is one of the most impressive natural wonders you'll find on Kauai. This spectacular canyon, carved by the Waimea River over millions of years, offers a landscape of volcanic lands tinged in shades of red and green, creating an epic scar on the Hawaiian land.

On your second day, I invite you to explore this natural monument up close. The day's activities range from hiking to stopping at the many overlooks to appreciate the canyon. You can rent a car to visit the place on your own, and if you are a movie buff you can also book the Kauai movie tour.

How to get to Waimea Canyon

To begin your exploration of Waimea Canyon, I recommend taking Highway 550, also known as Kokee Road.

This scenic road winds through Waimea and Kokee state parks, offering spectacular panoramic views at every turn. Be prepared to witness the magnificence of the scenery as you drive into the heart of Kauai's interior.

Tour the viewpoints

Once in Waimea Canyon, you will pay an entrance fee of about $5 per person. You will find yourself surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Head to the Pu'u Hinahina, Waipo'o and Pu'u o Kila overlooks for the best panoramic views of the canyon and its surroundings.

From here, you can capture the grandeur of the landscape in breathtaking photographs, plus if you've signed up for the Hollywood movie tour, the guides share interesting details about the area and how it became film sets for movies like "Pacific Rim Adventurer", "Honeymoon in Vegas" with Nicolas cage and Bruno Mars or how it was portrayed in the Disney classic "Lilo & Stitch".

Hiking Adventures & Beach Visit

If you're looking for a more immersive experience, I invite you to explore the trails of Waimea Canyon State Park.

From the Canyon Trail, which takes you into the heart of the canyon, with a couple of routes available: the Kukui Trail, the most demanding, with its 4 km (2 miles) accessed from the east side of the canyon, is suitable only for experts who are compensated with the Waipo'o Falls; and to the west you find Iliau Nature Loop, a small route of just 500 meters, located east of the canyon.

If you choose the Kukui Trail, you can go down to Waipi'o Black Sand Beach, a black sand beach where the Waimea River flows into. Although the trail is demanding, the scenery and the dip in the beach have a charm that includes it among the essential stops in Hawaii to fully immerse yourself in the Aloha State.

For dinner

I recommend going to one of the restaurants located along the canyon such as Keoki's Paradise or the Waimea Plantation Cottages (formerly known as Waimea Brew Pub), both in the heart of the volcano. Their ambience denotes the island's tropical traditions.

The variety of seafood delicacies is usually fresh and reasonably priced, plus their cocktails are perfect for closing the day.

On the third day of your Kauai adventure, I invite you to explore Na Pali Coast State Natural Park, a 26-kilometer stretch of unspoiled coastline on the Garden Isle.

From the remote beaches of the west to the rugged cliffs of the north, a tour of this natural paradise is among the best Kauai Day Trips and Excursions.

Hike the Kalalau Trail

Start your day early with an adventure on the Kalalau Trail, one of Hawaii's premier trails. This 18+ km trail will take you through lush landscapes and spectacular panoramas, including Hanakapi'ai Valley and Mākara Peak and its waterfalls.

You can mountain bike or hike, but be prepared for a challenging hike that will reward you with beautiful views and an intimate connection with nature.

Explore the beaches and waterfalls of Na Pali

By the end of the trail, you'll have made your way along the island's north shore to explore some of Kauai's best beaches.

Start at Ke'e Beach, where you can relax on the fine sand and take a dip in the turquoise waters. Continue to Haena Beach, ideal for swimming and, book a day of rafting and snorkeling in Kauai, among other things for the barrier reef that is located in the area.

On the other hand, you can also explore the Hanalei waterfall and reef at Nu'alolo Ka, a pristine coral reef reserve.

Enjoy the gastronomy that Hanalei has to offer

After a day full of adventures, relax and enjoy a delicious dinner on a gastronomic tour in Hanalei, where you will find a variety of charming restaurants and cafes.

Sample the best of local cuisine, from fresh fish to seafood and traditional dishes such as Saimin and Musubi. End the evening with a tropical cocktail while watching the sun set over the Pacific Ocean.

With a paradisiacal imprint, many filmmakers find among its corners a natural muse.

You can take a day tour by bus, and if you prefer to see everything from the heights, helicopter or light aircraft rides are also available to tour those film sets or spaces of inspiration, although the natural beauty is reason enough to make the trip. In any case, I suggest a fourth day of film. Action!

Bus tour

On this overland trip, a guide will take you through Kauai' s breathtaking scenery while offering interesting commentary on the movies filmed on the island. You will be able to visit about 15 film locations throughout the day. Which movies?

Places like Ahukini State Recreational to relive scenes from movies like Pagan Love Song and Donovan's Reef. Jurassic Park and its well-known dinosaur egg exchange scene filmed in Kapaa. Lydgate State Park, the setting where the eternal King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley filmed Blue Hawaii and enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

In addition, you can explore iconic locations such as Opaekaa Falls, Kalalea, and Kilauea Point Nature Preserve, the largest wildlife refuge in the archipelago, while learning about its cinematic history.

Tour from above

If you prefer an aerial perspective of Kauai's movie sets, book an aerial tour of Kauai, either by helicopter or small plane is the perfect option to fully appreciate these iconic locations.

Enjoy an exciting and scenic experience as a professional pilot takes you on a flight around the island. From the air, you'll marvel at spectacular views of cliffs, beaches, lava fields and waterfalls, while recognizing iconic landmarks such as Waimea Canyon and the Anahola Mountain Range.

On day 5 of your itinerary in the "Garden Isle" of Kauai I invite you to cruise the Wailua River to approach the town of Old Koloa, visit the Spouting Horn, Opaekaa Falls and Wailua Falls and other natural landscapes of the south shore.

Old Koloa Town Tour

Get to know Old Koloa Town the charming town on Kauai's south shore that carries centuries of sweet local history.

Explore its cobblestone streets and immerse yourself in its rich history of sugar cane plantations. Discover its landmark buildings such as The Tao Building or The Asashi Soda Building. Most of them date back to the late 18th century. The relaxed atmosphere of this picturesque village and its well-preserved structures will allow you to contrast the past and present of Kauai.

Carla's Traveller Tip

If you visit Kauai in July, attend the Kōloa Plantation Days Festival, a 10-day event held each year.

See the Spouting Horn Blowhole

Continue your day with a visit to the spectacular Spouting Horn Blowhole, a natural spectacle where ocean water flows through an opening in the lava and reaches 50 feet high.

Marvel at this unique phenomenon as you watch the water splash and listen to the legends of the area in the voice of the cruise's expert guide.

Explore Fern Grotto

Your day culminates with a visit to Fern Grotto, a natural cave located on the Wailua River adorned with hanging ferns.

Nestled in a tranquil setting, the grotto functions as a natural amphitheater. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of this place as you walk through the cave and watch the stream flowing through it, and with a little luck, you can enjoy live performances of beautiful Hawaiian music.

Take a moment to absorb the serenity of this natural setting before returning to the mainland.

The sixth day of your itinerary is spent in Princeville, an area known for its cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, but perhaps what makes this area most famous is its variety of bars, terraces and things to do in Kauai at night.

For those looking for spectacular sunsets and picturesque beaches in Kauai, make this spot on your itinerary. In addition to its natural beauty, Princeville offers a variety of activities to connect with nature and explore the local community.

Head to the Queen's Bath

There is a great trail in a North Shore neighborhood that leads to a waterfront area called Queen's Bath.

In this area there is a large tide pool carved out of the dark lava rock. This is a very nice natural infinity pool to see. However, it is important to note that you need some dexterity and water shoes to reach it. Once inside, relax and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. You can also climb the rocks and take a dip in the pool. A visit to this place is a must-see classic, the best way to spend a morning in the area.

Downtown Princeville

This is the ideal place to experience Kauai' s fine cuisine and explore the local stores. Here you can eat lunch, the food is landmark on the island. Surrounded by the Princeville Ranch and sea cliffs, downtown offers a wide range of shopping, dining and even outdoor activities such as horseback riding.

Downtown Princeville is located between Punahele and Ka Haku Streets. It is accessible from different points in town, and offers a variety of products from local artists and island businesses.

Visit Hideaways Beach

Hideaways Beach is known for being a great place to snorkel, especially in the summer. Although it requires a hike, the beach offers a serene setting with cliffs and lush palm trees.

A short walk of about 20 minutes or a short drive from downtown Hideaways Beach, this beach has all the necessary (and not-so-necessary) amenities for a relaxing or luxurious day of oceanfront.

Al Tiki Iniki and the local market

Tiki Iniki is a bar-restaurant that boasts its popularity for excellent food, local booze and top-notch service with reasonable prices in Princeville. Locals and tourists often gather here to end the day.

Another highlight is a visit to Fish Eye Kauai art gallery where emerging talents meet.

If it's the second weekend of the month, tradition takes you to the Princeville Night Market, especially if you're looking for things to do in Kauai in December, when local artisans, jewelers, sculptors and other artists bring their best work to the market.

To bid farewell to Kauai I invite you to explore the beautiful beaches of the Kapaa and Lihue area. Get ready to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and enjoy the sun, sea and sand.

Visit the Sleeping Giant (Nounou Mountain)

Nounou Mountain is a mountain formation between Wailua and Kapaa that gets its name from its resemblance to a giant lying down, in fact, this is how it is portrayed among Hawaiian myths and legends.

For hiking enthusiasts, there are opportunities to hike trails of moderate difficulty to the top of the mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the island and the ocean.

Get close to the beaches of Costa del Coco

Continue your tour to the "Coconut Coast", where you will find a series of spectacular beaches along 8 kilometers of coastline:

• Kapaa Beach Park: A popular place to relax and enjoy the tropical scenery.
• Kealia Beach: Perfect for surfers and bodyboarders due to its consistent waves.
• Burros Beach or Paliku Beach: A place that was formerly the most famous nudist beach in the area, then became a quiet haven to enjoy a day of sun and sea and so it remains.

Carla's Traveller Tip

If you visit Lealia Beach in winter, you can enjoy whale watching, they are often spotted in the area every year.

Go zip lining

To say goodbye to Kauai, do it from the heights, making your way through the treetops on **Kauai'**s longest zip lines, Lihue's.

Book a zip line adventure and take the time to feel the adrenaline rush as the rainforest draws a breathtaking landscape in front of your eyes. Dare to try acrobatics accompanied by the experts, and hands free shout "Flyin' Kauai'an" to say so long to Kauai.