When asking for the top things to do on Kauai, you’re at the right place. In early 2013 I flew to Kauai myself and loved the “greenest” of all Hawaii islands. I’ve been driving around the island for a week with my Chevrolet Camaro Convertible and now want to share my experience about the top things to do on Kauai!
1. Waimea Canyon
The first and most breathtaking of the things to do on Kauai surely is Waimea Canyon. Called the “Grand Canyon of Hawaii” you will find multiple great sceneries when driving up the canyon. Especially the red rocks and sands that look like a landscape on Mars are great stops on your road. Once your uphill, an awesome view above the whole canyon awaits you – this view already is worth the long flight! When you see this view for yourself you will realize that this surely is one of the best things to do on Kauai or Hawaii overall!
2. Na Pali Coast
The beautiful eastern parts of Kauai offer a breathtaking coastline that is one of the highlights of every visit to Kauai! Perfect green grasses and treelines, and a blue sky that meets the blue ocean somewhere at the horizon – you can’t tell. The coast offers so many things to do: you can hike the Kalalau Trail (see below), take a helicopter or boat tour of the coast, or just take a relaxing swim at one of the beaches. Definitely one of the greatest things to do on Kauai!
3. Kalalau Trail
The Kalalau Trail is (in my opinion) one of the greatest hikes in the world. For a maximum of 18 kilometers of trails you will hike along the beautiful Na Pali Coast, with steep heights sometimes, but also refreshing rivers and beaches in between. The trail starts at Ke’e Beach and you can decide for yourself, how far you want to go. For casual hikers I recommend just taking the trail to Hanakapiai Beach. Longer hikes require lots of preparation, water, supplies and physical fitness, so stay safe and don’t go too far if you can’t handle it. Also be prepared to see some of the greatest views of the ocean, Na Pali coast and all the vegetation there – surely one of the best things to do on Kauai!
4. Menehune Fish Pond
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy the sunset, you definitely should check out Menehune Fishing Pond at the south of the island (near the airport). When driving there, you’ll most likely drive through the “Tunnel of Trees” where trees grew over the street entirely – definitely great during sunset light! Once you reach the roads above Menehune Fish Pond, you should stop at the side of the road and watch the sun go down above the mountains of Kauai. I found this spot by accident but have to say for sunset it’s one of the most beautiful things to do on Kauai for me.
5. Wailua & Opaeka Falls
When you’re living near the airport, or generally at the south coast of the island, these two waterfalls can be reached very easily and quickly by car. For each of the falls you will find a viewpoint where you can also take some great travel photographs. Highly recommended!
Additional infos for Kauai:
1. The ultimate Kauai Guidebook (it really is!)
2. Kauai Trailblazer: Perfect source for all activities in Kauai
3. Kauai stories: Great stories told by Kauai Natives
