Quick guide to Kauai

North Shore

Hanalei is that homey little surfer town you might imagine when thinking of Kauai. You’ll find authentic mom-and-pop shops and some seriously flavorful food trucks. We stopped for lunch at Wake Up Delicious, famous for their coconut shrimp lunch plate. FYI, it’s only open until 1pm! Walk around the shops after to work off your food baby. We rented snorkels from a local sport shop to use at Tunnels beach.

Tunnels Beach is set against a majestic green backdrop, one of the most beautiful beaches we’ve been to. Snorkel right off the shore and you’ll find fish swimming through rocky caverns. We spotted a Hawaiian monk seal here, one of the most endangered species in the world. If you’re thirsty, walk through the parking lot and you might find a local guy selling coconuts. Grab one to sip while you sit in the sand and take in the Jurassic Park-like surroundings. Parking is really limited though, so get there early or go at off-peak hours. Before you leave, check out Maniniholo Dry Cave across the street.

Princeville is the upscale neighbor to little ol’ Hanalei. It’s a popular place for vacationers to stay, known for its high-end accommodations and golf courses. Whether you stay here or pass through, The Queen's Bath is a must see. This natural tide pool is accessible via Punahele Road. You’ll park right in front of the trailhead and hike downhill for about 10 min before crossing some rocky lava rock. Check the forecast before you go to avoid dangerous high tides.

South + East Shores

Poipu Beach is a calm, family-friendly beach popular for shallow swimming. This beach feels more Floridian with its soft white sand and flatter landscape. Similar to Princeville, Poipu is a popular spot for vacation accommodations. There are lots of food spots and shops to walk through, if you’re looking for a more relaxing experience in Kauai. You’ll see a lot of families with kids.

Lihue is where we stayed (and flew into). Our airbnb overlooked Kalapaki Beach, which is protected from the open ocean. We found this town to be quieter and less adventurous than the others, if we’re being honest. Stop by Dukes beachfront restaurant for a fun dinner, or sip Mai Tais in your ‘kini all day long.

West Shore

Nāpali Coast is a must see. Must see. Must see. Did you catch that? You can’t go to Kauai and miss this. Most popular way to view it is by boat, since you can’t get there by land. Go early in the day to avoid rough evening waters & seasickness! We booked the 7.5 hour “Niihau & NaPali Coast Snorkel” tour with Blue Dolphin Charters and highly recommend it. Selling point? You’ll see Niihau, the “forbidden island.” It’s the smallest of Hawaii’s inhabited islands, and requires an invitation to step foot on the land.

Waimea Canyon is great for some good ol’ fashion exercise with epic views. Definitely a long and exhausting hike, so leave the little ones at home and go early so you’re not burning up in the midday sun. It took us about 3 hours round trip. On the drive there you will pass by a red dirt waterfall on your left (State Hwy 550, Waimea). Stop for a few minutes, it’s very unique!

Quick guide to Kauai

North Shore

South + East Shores

West Shore

Hawaii: Night Snorkel with Manta Rays