What to Do in Kauai (From Someone Who Lives It Every Day) | Kauai Tour Guy
What to Do in Kauai
(From Someone Who Lives It Every Day)
Planning a trip to Kauai feels exciting—until you try to figure out what to actually do once you get here. There’s no shortage of guides, blog posts, and social media reels promising the top ten beaches or secret trails. But the truth is, most visitors end up overwhelmed or missing the best stuff because they’re stuck in traffic or following outdated advice.
I’ve met so many folks who spend hours planning their trip, only to realize once they arrive that they’ve packed too much in—or picked spots that don’t match their vibe. Add in tricky parking, weather surprises, or not knowing where to eat, and it can turn into more stress than fun. And that’s not what a vacation on Kauai should feel like.
That’s why I put together this guide on what to do in Kauai. I live here full-time and have spent years guiding visitors from all over the world. These suggestions come from real experience—my own, and the hundreds of guests I’ve shown around. Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, this list helps you slow down, see more, and enjoy every moment.
And if planning all this still feels like a lot? I’d love to show you around myself. My private tours in Kauai are all about making your trip easier, more fun, and full of those “I can’t believe this is real” moments.
Ready? Let’s get into what to do in Kauai—without the guesswork.
What to Do in Princeville, Kauai
Princeville sits on the north shore of Kauai, and it’s one of those places where the views stop people in their tracks. The cliffs here are steep and dramatic, with the ocean stretching out as far as the eye can see.
One of the favorite spots here is Hideaways Beach. It takes a short but steep walk to get there, and most folks miss it entirely. But once you’re down, it feels like your own little piece of paradise.
Spending time on a beautiful beach is among the best free things to do in Kauai. It’s perfect for couples looking for a romantic moment or anyone who just wants to sit and listen to the waves.
What I love about Princeville is the slow pace. You’ve got a handful of great food spots. It’s perfect for a post-beach plate lunch or morning coffee. There’s a golf course with views that’ll distract even the most focused player. And it’s a great home base if you’re planning to explore Hanalei Bay or start a hike on the Kalalau Trail. Everything’s close by, but you’re tucked away enough to truly relax. If you’re staying up north, Princeville’s a good place to start and end your day.
What to Do in Hanalei Bay
Hanalei Bay is one of those places that sticks with people long after their trip ends. It’s my go-to when guests want to slow down and soak in real Kauai beauty without rushing. It always feels calm, even when it’s busy. Some tourists bring picnic blankets and spend hours relaxing here. They simply enjoy the view and the vibes.
If you’re the kind who likes to be in the water, Hanalei Bay is perfect. You can swim in the gentle waves, try paddleboarding if the ocean’s flat, or just walk along the shoreline while taking in the mountain views. I love watching the way the light hits the mountains in the late afternoon. It’s something photos never quite capture, but you’ll feel it when you’re there.
After all that beach time, you’ll definitely want a good bite to eat, and luckily, Hanalei has some solid options just a few minutes away. Hanalei Bread Company is great for coffee and breakfast if you’re starting your day here. For lunch or dinner, The Dolphin is a local favorite with fresh fish and open-air seating right along the river.
What to Do on the Napali Coast
The Nā Pali Coast isn’t just beautiful—it’s unforgettable. The towering green cliffs rise straight up from the ocean, carved by centuries of wind, water, and lava. Waterfalls tumble down the sides, and the whole coastline feels untouched, wild, and alive. I’ve had guests go completely quiet the first time they see it. It’s that kind of place! It doesn’t just look good in photos. It hits you in the chest in the best way.
There are a few ways to experience it, and each one brings something different.
- Boat tours let you get up close. You’ll cruise past waterfalls, explore sea caves, and often spot spinner dolphins swimming alongside.
- Helicopter rides offer a dramatic, movie-scene view. If you’ve seen Jurassic Park, this is that view.
- Hiking the Kalalau Trail is the most rugged option, and even doing just the first two miles gives you a taste of that remote beauty.
- Kauai Driving Tour lets you catch stunning views from certain drives, and it’s absolutely worth it.
What to Do in Kauai With Kids
I really enjoy touring with families. There’s something special about watching kids light up when they see their first sea turtle, Hawaiian monk seals, or splash into warm Hawaiian waters. And the best part? Kauai has tons of spots that keep kids happy without leaving the grown-ups bored. It’s all about finding that sweet balance between adventure and ease.
Lydgate Beach Park is always a hit. It has a protected swimming area that’s calm and safe, especially for younger kids or first-time ocean swimmers. Another fun one is Kilohana Plantation, where you can hop on an old-fashioned train ride through orchards and farmland. It’s super laid-back and surprisingly scenic. If you’re up north, the Kauai Mini Golf and Botanical Garden in Kilauea is a cool combo of fun and education. It features wide paths, local plants, and fun games that the whole family can enjoy together.
When families book private tours with me, I always customize the day to fit their pace. That means more stops for snacks, shorter walks, and flexible timing if the little ones need a break. Whether it’s beach time or just seeing something new and local, I make sure everyone—from toddlers to grandparents—has a good time.
Let the Adventure Begin!
You don’t need to do everything to have an amazing trip to Kauai. In fact, the best days here usually aren’t packed with plans. They’re made up of simple moments. A swim in warm water, a quiet hike, a fresh mango from a roadside stand. That’s the real magic of this island.
Kauai isn’t about checklists or racing from one photo spot to the next. It’s about slowing down enough to actually enjoy where you are. Whether you’re here for adventure, family time, or just some well-earned rest, you’ll find what you’re looking for. And if you’re feeling a little unsure about where to start, I’m here to help.
I’ve spent years guiding visitors around Kauai, and I’d be happy to guide you, too. If you want someone who lives here to answer questions and take the stress out of planning, just reach out. Hope to see you on the island soon!