Things to Do in Kauai - Top Attractions & Adventures | Outrigger

Kauai packs an impressive variety of adventures into Hawaii's oldest inhabited island. From the dramatic cliffs of the Nā Pali Coast to the expansive Waimea Canyon – often called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific – this 552-square-mile island offers experiences you won't find anywhere else in Hawaii. Whether you're seeking family-friendly beaches with lifeguards, challenging hiking trails, or cultural experiences that connect you to Hawaiian traditions, Kauai delivers options for every type of traveler.

The Garden Isle earns its nickname with lush valleys, cascading waterfalls and more accessible natural beauty than any other Hawaiian island. Most attractions cluster along the island's perimeter, as the rugged interior remains largely undeveloped. This unique geography means you can experience dramatic mountain views and pristine beaches within the same morning, making it easy to pack variety into each day of your visit.

Best things to do in Kauai with kids

Kauai excels at family-friendly activities that keep both parents and kids engaged. Start with Lydgate Beach Park, just five minutes from many east side resorts. Rock-walled lagoons create calm, protected swimming areas perfect for young children, with lifeguards on duty daily. The adjacent Kamalani Playground, one of Hawaii's largest wooden playgrounds, provides hours of climbing and exploring. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the covered pavilions while kids play.

For an easy natural wonder, head to Spouting Horn on the South Shore. Ocean waves surge through a lava tube and blast up to 50 feet in the air, accompanied by an eerie moaning sound that local legend attributes to a trapped mo'o (lizard spirit). Kids love the drama of each eruption, and the viewing area sits just steps from the parking lot. Time your visit for late afternoon when the setting sun creates rainbows in the spray.

At OUTRIGGER Kaua'i Beach Resort & Spa, families can participate in complimentary cultural activities designed for all ages. Make a lei together in hands-on workshops where each family member strings fresh tropical flowers into wearable memories. Learn basic hula steps from local practitioners who make lessons fun and accessible regardless of age or dance experience. The resort's 75-foot lava rock water slide (42-inch height requirement) and waterfall pool create an aquatic playground that rivals any theme park.

Natural wonders and scenic drives

Waimea Canyon stretches 14 miles long, one mile wide, and 3,600 feet deep, earning its Grand Canyon comparison through sheer scale and colorful rock layers. Drive Highway 550 to reach multiple lookouts, each offering different perspectives of the canyon's red and brown hues. The Waimea Canyon Lookout at mile marker 10 provides the most comprehensive view. Continue to Kokee State Park for cooler temperatures and dramatic vistas of the Na Pali Coast from above. Pack layers – temperatures drop 20-30 degrees from sea level.

Wailua Falls makes an easy photo stop near Lihue, viewable from a roadside pullout with no hiking required. The 80-foot twin cascades appear most dramatic after heavy rain, though the viewing area remains accessible year-round. Kids might recognize this waterfall from the opening credits of Fantasy Island. Arrive early morning for the best light and fewer crowds.

For a more adventurous drive, tackle the winding road to Hanalei Bay on the North Shore. Stop at the Hanalei Valley Lookout for panoramic views of taro fields that have been cultivated for over 1,000 years. The one-lane bridges beyond Hanalei town slow traffic but add charm to the journey. End at Kee Beach, where the road literally ends and the Na Pali Coast wilderness begins.

Kauai things to do on the water

The Na Pali Coast ranks among Hawaii's most spectacular shorelines, accessible only by boat, helicopter, or challenging hike. Most boat tours depart from Port Allen on the south shore or Hanalei Bay on the north (summer only due to surf conditions). Morning tours typically offer calmer seas and better snorkeling conditions. Tours include snorkeling equipment, lunch, and beverages. Expect to see spinner dolphins, sea turtles, and humpback whales during winter months (December through April).

For calmer water experiences, Poipu Beach on the south shore provides ideal conditions for beginning snorkelers and young swimmers. The natural rock barrier creates a protected lagoon where kids can spot colorful fish in waist-deep water. Lifeguards patrol daily, and the adjacent grassy park offers shade and picnic tables. Monk seals occasionally haul out on the beach – maintain the required 150-foot distance if you spot one.

Stand-up paddleboarding works best on the Wailua River, Hawaii's only navigable river. Rent boards at the marina and paddle upstream through lush jungle scenery. The 2-mile route to Secret Falls requires a short hike after beaching your board, but families with younger kids can simply explore the calm lower river. Morning paddles encounter less wind and boat traffic.

Cultural experiences and local attractions

Experience authentic Hawaiian culture at a traditional luau, where multiple generations gather to celebrate with food, music, and dance. Smith's Family Garden Luau in Wailua offers a more intimate setting than larger productions, with gardens to explore before the evening festivities. The imu (underground oven) ceremony demonstrates traditional cooking methods, while the buffet includes kalua pig, poi, and haupia for adventurous eaters alongside familiar options for kids. Fire knife dancing caps the evening with a thrilling display.

Movie buffs will love Kauai's Hollywood connection – the island has appeared in over 70 films. Join a movie sites tour to visit filming locations from Jurassic Park, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Disney's Lilo & Stitch. Guides share behind-the-scenes stories and point out exact spots where famous scenes were shot. The Jurassic Park gates still stand in place, creating perfect photo opportunities. Tours typically last 5-6 hours and cover multiple locations around the island.

For hands-on cultural learning without leaving your resort, OUTRIGGER properties offer complimentary activities throughout the week. Friday evening E Komo Mai celebrations feature Polynesian drumming and dance performances that captivate all ages. Morning ukulele lessons teach simple chords and Hawaiian songs – the small instrument size makes it perfect for kids to handle. These activities provide authentic cultural connections without the need for additional transportation or planning.

What to do in Kauai by region

Adventure activities and hiking

Kauai's hiking trails range from easy coastal walks to challenging mountain treks. The Kalalau Trail along the Na Pali Coast ranks among the world's most spectacular hikes, though the full 22-mile round trip requires permits and extensive preparation. Families can tackle the first 2 miles to Hanakapiai Beach (4 miles round trip, no swimming due to dangerous currents) for a taste of the dramatic coastline. Start early to avoid crowds and heat.

For an easier adventure, explore the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail on the south shore. This 4-mile coastal path passes limestone cliffs, tide pools, and secluded beaches. The trail remains relatively flat, making it manageable for kids who can walk distances. Look for monk seals basking on the beaches and sea turtles in the shallow bays. No facilities exist along the trail, so pack water and snacks.

Zipline tours provide thrills without the hiking effort. Kauai's courses range from gentle, family-friendly lines to extreme adventures soaring over valleys and waterfalls. Most operators set minimum ages between 7-12 years old and weight requirements of 60-80 pounds minimum. The Koloa course offers shorter, lower lines ideal for first-timers, while the Princeville course features Hawaii's longest ziplines with speeds up to 40 mph.

Practical tips for exploring Kauai

Kauai's compact size makes it tempting to see everything, but the island's winding roads and lack of connecting routes between regions require strategic planning. Base yourself on the east side for the most central location – you'll be 30-45 minutes from both north and south shores. The south shore around Poipu receives the most consistent sunshine, while the north shore sees more rain but offers the most dramatic scenery.

Book popular activities like Na Pali boat tours and helicopter flights well in advance, especially during peak seasons (June-August and December-January). Morning tours typically offer better weather conditions. Many boat operators cancel trips due to high surf during winter months on the north shore, so book south shore departures December through April for reliability.

Pack reef-safe sunscreen (required by law), reusable water bottles, and sturdy water shoes for rocky entries at many beaches. Grocery prices run 30-50% higher than mainland costs, so families staying in units with kitchens at properties like Kiahuna Plantation Resort can save significantly by cooking some meals. The Costco in Lihue offers bulk supplies if you're staying a week or longer.