How many days do you need in Kauai, Hawaii?

This itinerary covers 7 days in Kauai, Hawaii, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Kauai, Hawaii?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to Kauai, Hawaii. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

A Week of Adventure in Kauai, Hawaii

Day 1: Northern Wonders

Kauai, Hawaii

8:00AM

Hanalei Bay

Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Hanalei Bay for some early morning beachcombing and a refreshing swim.

Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge

Head to the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge where you can witness breathtaking views and spot exotic seabirds, including the Laysan albatross.

Adult: $10, Child: $5, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kilauea Fish Market

Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at the Kilauea Fish Market, known for its delectable fish tacos and poke bowls.

Approx. $15-20 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Limahuli Garden and Preserve

Take a leisurely stroll through the Limahuli Garden and Preserve, learning about the native plants and cultural significance of the area.

Adult: $25, Child: $10, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Bar Acuda

Indulge in a farm-to-table dining experience at Bar Acuda, known for its delectable small plates and fine wine selection.

Approx. $30-50 per person, 2 hours

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Day 2: East Coast Exploration

Kauai, Hawaii

9:00AM

Wailua Falls

Start the day with a visit to the magnificent Wailua Falls, known for its lush surroundings and the legend of the Hawaiian princess.

Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Kauai's Hindu Monastery

Explore the peaceful grounds of Kauai's Hindu Monastery, where you can gain insight into Hindu traditions and spirituality.

Donations welcome, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ono Ono Shave Ice

Savor the iconic Hawaiian dessert, shave ice, for a refreshing and sweet treat at Ono Ono Shave Ice.

Approx. $5-10 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Kayaking on the Wailua River

Embark on a kayaking adventure on the scenic Wailua River, exploring the lush landscape and visiting the famous Fern Grotto.

Guided tours start at $50 per person, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hukilau Lanai

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Hukilau Lanai, featuring a diverse menu with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a cozy ambience.

Approx. $40-60 per person, 2 hours

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Day 3: South Shore Serenity

Kauai, Hawaii

9:00AM

Poipu Beach Park

Relax and soak up the sun at the golden shores of Poipu Beach Park, known for its crystal-clear waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Spouting Horn

Witness the natural spectacle of Spouting Horn, where the ocean water gushes through a lava tube, creating a powerful ocean blowhole.

Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Brennecke's Beach Broiler

Enjoy a delightful oceanfront lunch at Brennecke's Beach Broiler, featuring an array of fresh seafood and tropical cocktails.

Approx. $20-30 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Allerton Garden

Embark on a guided tour of Allerton Garden, a paradise of lush tropical landscape and exotic flowers, with insights into its conservation efforts.

Adult: $50, Child: $25, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Beach House Restaurant

Indulge in a gourmet beachfront dining experience at Beach House Restaurant, featuring contemporary Hawaiian cuisine and breathtaking sunset views.

Approx. $50-80 per person, 2 hours

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Day 4: Exploring the West

Kauai, Hawaii

8:00AM

Waimea Canyon State Park

Embark on an adventure to Waimea Canyon State Park, known as the 'Grand Canyon of the Pacific,' for awe-inspiring panoramic views and hiking trails.

Parking: $5, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Porky's Food Truck

Savor some mouthwatering barbecue delights at Porky's Food Truck, a local favorite for its ribs, brisket, and juicy pulled pork sandwiches.

Approx. $10-15 per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Kauai Coffee Company

Visit the Kauai Coffee Company for a guided tour of their coffee plantation and sample a variety of freshly roasted Hawaiian coffee blends.

Tour: $25, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Sunset at Polihale State Park

Head to Polihale State Park to witness a mesmerizing sunset over the vast stretch of golden sands, offering a serene and idyllic end to the day.

Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Jo2 Restaurant

Conclude the day with a delightful dinner at Jo2 Restaurant, offering an impressive fusion of Asian and French cuisines with a modern twist.

Approx. $40-60 per person, 2 hours

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Day 5: North Shore Adventure

Kauai, Hawaii

9:00AM

Tunnels Beach

Explore the surreal beauty of Tunnels Beach, famous for its underwater caverns and exceptional snorkeling amidst a backdrop of lush mountain scenery.

Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Na Pali Coast Boat Tour

Embark on an exhilarating boat tour along the majestic Na Pali Coast, marveling at towering sea cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and marine life.

Tour: Starting at $150 per person, 4 hours

4:00PM

Hiking at Kalalau Trail

Embark on a portion of the Kalalau Trail, offering stunning coastal views and the opportunity to witness the natural beauty of the Na Pali Coast up close.

Permit: $20, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hanalei Dolphin Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful seafood dinner at Hanalei Dolphin Restaurant, known for its fresh fish and casual waterfront dining ambiance.

Approx. $30-50 per person, 2 hours

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Day 6: Waterfalls and Gardens

Kauai, Hawaii

8:00AM

Opaekaa Falls

Witness the beauty of Opaekaa Falls, a stunning 151-foot waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, offering a perfect photo opportunity.

Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Smith Family Garden Luau

Immerse yourself in the rich Hawaiian culture and traditions with a visit to the Smith Family Garden Luau, featuring a captivating luau ceremony and sumptuous feast.

Adult: $98, Child: $25, 3 hours

3:00PM

Wailua River Cruise to Fern Grotto

Embark on a leisurely Wailua River cruise to the enchanting Fern Grotto, surrounded by verdant ferns and the melodious sounds of nature.

Adult: $25, Child: $12, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Eating House 1849

Indulge in a unique dining experience at Eating House 1849, featuring a fusion of Hawaiian, Asian, and Western flavors, and culinary traditions.

Approx. $40-60 per person, 2 hours

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Day 7: Beach Bumming and Sunset Farewell

Kauai, Hawaii

10:00AM

Ke'e Beach

Spend the morning at Ke'e Beach, known for its tranquil turquoise waters and fantastic snorkeling amidst a backdrop of lush tropical scenery.

Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hanalei Bread Co.

Relish a scrumptious lunch at Hanalei Bread Co., offering a selection of gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, and delectable pastries.

Approx. $15-25 per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Shopping and Strolling in Hanalei Town

Explore the charming Hanalei Town, where you can wander through quaint boutique shops and soak in the laid-back, artistic atmosphere.

Depends on souvenirs, 2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Merriman's Fish House

Conclude your adventure with a memorable farewell dinner at Merriman's Fish House, celebrating local, sustainable cuisine with oceanfront views.

Approx. $60-80 per person, 2 hours

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Step 1 Outline Preview:

A Week of Adventure in Kauai, Hawaii

Day 1: Northern Wonders

8:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: East Coast Exploration

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 3: South Shore Serenity

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 4: Exploring the West

8:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

8:00PM

Day 5: North Shore Adventure

9:00AM

11:00AM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 6: Waterfalls and Gardens

8:00AM

10:00AM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 7: Beach Bumming and Sunset Farewell

10:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

6:00PM

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