Activities to Enjoy in Kona + on the Kohala Coast

Read on for the top experiences and my tips for the Kona side of the island

Although travel is such a big part of my life now, like many of us, I didn’t grow up traveling often. Hawaii was the one place I returned to repeatedly as a child. I was lucky enough to grow up spending my October break from school exploring the Big Island’s seas, parks, and beaches.

So I jumped at the recent chance to return with Fairmont Orchid, a resort perched toward the northern tip of the island on the stunning Kohala Coast. I had the chance to experience the beaches and the stunning coastline just off of the property and revisit a few Kona-side locations — longtime favorite places that I’ll share with you here.

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii’s Big Island, you’ll fly into the Kona International Airport, and, more likely than not, you’ll be staying somewhere along the western or Kona coast side, also known as the “dry side” of the island. 

Here are the places to know about in and around Kona, and my top things to do in Kona and the Kohala Coast. Depending upon your desired daily pace, you can mix and match day and night activities to create your own one-week itinerary for the Big Island.

Kailua-Kona

This is the main town on the Big Island, and where you’ll find most of the island’s historic buildings including King Kamehameha’s former home — as well as most of the shopping. It’s the center of activity and commerce for the island, including the airport you arrived in.

The weather here is dry and sunny most days of the year, and there are some especially charming parts of Kailua-Kona, especially along the coast. I love taking a drive from the center of town along Ali’i Drive, which winds along Kailua Bay. Driving south you’ll hit Keauhou, which I’ll mention more about below.

The Kohala Coast

Heading north from Kona you’ll hit an open stretch of highway until you start seeing turnoffs to the beaches and resorts. Once you see signs for Anaehoomalu Bay, you’ve reached the beautiful Kohala Coast. Several resorts, as well as Waikoloa Village, call this area home.

If you’re staying here you can also expect mostly sunny days, and you’ll have access to some of the best beaches on the island. I recommend having a car regardless, but you’ll need one if the Kohala Coast is your base during your stay.

Things to Do in Kona and Kohala

on the Kona side of the Big Island

Ocean Adventures

Snorkeling and/or Scuba Diving

A huge portion of the Big Island’s beauty lies under the water’s surface. No matter your comfort level with the ocean or with wildlife encounters, there is a range of underwater experiences to suit all.

Manta Ray Night Snorkel

I love scuba diving, but I am terrified of any night dive/swim/snorkel. I finally had the chance to snorkel with the mantas in Keahou Bay, and let me just say: 1) they took care of everything so well that I wasn’t even scared and 2) it was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had in the ocean (or on land.)

Whether it comforts or annoys you that you’ll be surrounded by dozens of other people while you snorkel with them, it doesn’t matter much because you’re head in the sea, relaxing and drifting above a light that attracts the phytoplankton they eat. I went with SeaQuest and found it to be a fantastic operation all around.

Swimming with Sea Turtles

One of the most magical creatures you can see in the Kona waters is the honu, or sea turtle. They are quite present and chances are that you’ll see one if you snorkel multiple times during your trip. (Please do not disturb them on land or sea — keep your distance and show some respect.)

That said, you can certainly increase your chances by choosing your snorkeling site accordingly. I went in the ocean every morning (snorkeling is always best in the morning!) while staying at the Fairmont Orchid, and the bay off of the resort is one of the best spots I’ve ever found…I saw them every single time.

Snorkeling for Beginners and/or Kids

Another good spot to spot sea turtles is also one of the most family-friendly snorkel sites by Kona. Although it can get crowded due to its popularity and central location, Kahalu’u Beach Park is a sheltered cove with easy entry/exit similar to the Fairmont beach option. These calmer waters tend to attract both the turtles and the newer snorkelers (plus tons of fish!)

Kona by Boat

By far my favorite way to experience the Kona area and Kohala Coast is from the water and on a boat. Here are my top recommendations for how to do so:

Visit Kealakekua Bay

Located south of Kona and just after Keahou, Kealakekua Bay is one of the most beautiful spots on the Kona coast. Known to some as Captain Cook’s Bay for the presence of the Captain Cook monument there (it’s where he was killed,) it’s most notably a marine reserve and one of the best spots to snorkel on the island.

The last time I visited I drove and parked at the southern side of the bay, bringing my own gear (rented from Boss Frog’s in downtown Kona) and snorkeling along the water’s edge. I don’t recommend this route unless you favor ocean exploration and are an experienced swimmer, but it can be done without guidance.

For most of my visits, I opt for renting a kayak or taking a boat trip to the bay. Kealakekua is the focus of the Fairwind II snorkel trip, so you’ll see it if you book with them.

Go Surfing and/or Boogie Boarding

Until I get better at surfing someday, boogie boarding or even body surfing is my wave action of choice. Always be aware of surf conditions before entering the water, and if you’re hesitant about safety better to stay onshore than be swept away.

I recommend purchasing an inexpensive boogie board if your accommodation doesn’t have any, and you plan on riding waves for more than a few days as it often won’t cost much more than a rental would. (But it depends on the length of your stay.)

Adventures on Land

Most of the land-based adventures you’ll want to seek will be somewhat of a drive from Kona the west side of the Big Island. Still, there are a few that are closer that I recommend:

Visit a Kona Coffee Farm

If you’re a coffee connoisseur or enthusiast, it’s worth seeking out Kona coffee — grown in the rich volcanic soil and known worldwide for its quality. Take it one step further and you can visit a coffee farm to learn about and see the production process.

Find a Farmer’s Market

Since I grew up enjoying the Kona Costco as my main food stop, this is a recent find for me. Tropical fruits, local, handcrafted products, and more await. The main Kona Farmers Market runs Wednesday to Sunday from 7 am to 4 pm, but here’s a list of all the farmers markets on the island.

If you’re interested in exploring the island by land rather than sea, you’ll want to rent a car and check out the spots below. All are day-trippable from the Kona and Kohala coasts, but some are longer drives than others.

Explore the Towns of Waimea and Hawi

Waimea and Hawi are both a short drive from the Kohala Coast and offer a bit more of a local, small-town feel than Kona or Hilo. In Waimea, be sure to check out Arvo for coffee, Pau for amazing breakfast burritos or pizza, and Hawaiian Style Cafe for their loco moco and haupia pancakes — both of which will give you a taste of local Hawaiian flavor on a huge scale (the pancakes are seriously the largest ones I’ve ever seen.)

Very Worthwhile Big Island Day Trips

(the top three are musts for me)

Hawaiian Cultural Experiences

Place of Refuge / Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park

This is my favorite place to go on the island to connect with the history and culture of Hawaii. The Place of Refuge provided a place for Hawaiians to seek safety and forgiveness from a priest when fleeing a crime. Located just south of Kealakekua Bay, making it a great combination activity to do both in one day.

Hula Lessons

It’s one thing to admire hula at a luau, and another to try dancing it yourself! I had the best time learning about the beautiful Hawaiian form of storytelling and movement as a part of my stay at Fairmont Orchid (reserve in advance.) It seems that most hula lessons for the public are given at hotels and resorts

Waikoloa Petroglyphs

This was another discovery on my most recent trip, as it was very close to where I stayed. Even though you have to walk through a resort to get to them, connecting with the centuries-old art carved into the rock is humbling. Get there via a short stroll from the Waikoloa Hotel (near Kings’ Shops.)

Spa/Relaxation

Spa Without Walls

In my ideal world, every spa would share this concept — open-air massage with the sound of waterfalls or the ocean, the touch of a warm sea breeze, and the shade of a tropical tree.

Even if you aren’t staying at the hotel, it’s worth seeking a relaxing treatment at the Fairmont Orchid spa (treat yourself.) Their pool and hammocks are also lovely for relaxing.

Standup Paddle Board Yoga on the Ocean

I hadn’t been on a SUP in the ocean before, and I certainly hadn’t done yoga on one! This was one of my favorite new experiences on the Big Island.

It was a standard vinyasa yoga class in the most non-standard location. You take a board from the shore out to the shallow bay at the Fairmont Orchid just as the sun is rising. And even though I’m a seasoned yogi who practices regularly, I still managed to fall in the water — but I didn’t mind! It was wonderful to practice in such a peaceful place where my balance was still challenged (and I could see fish swimming underneath my feet the whole time!)

Beach Time

Whether you want a private beach cabana or simply want your toes in the sand, you can’t beat beach time on the Big Island. Most of the best beaches on the Kona side — see below for my favorites!

P.S. Know Your Public Beach Rights

Most of the Big Island’s best beaches can be found on the same stretch of the Kohala Coast. One thing I wish I had realized earlier is that many of the top resorts have to allow public beach access and free parking to a limited number of visitors per day. This means you can enjoy some of the best beaches right on luxury resort properties without paying the hundreds (or thousands) per night to stay there.

A few to note include the Mauna Kea Beach (Kauna’oa) at the Mauna Kea Resort, Kikaua Beach at Kukio Golf Resort, and Kukio Beach at the Four Seasons Hualalai. Simply ask for public beach access at the gated areas before arrival. There is a limit on the number of daily visitors, so your best bet is to arrive as early as possible in the day.

Big Island Beaches >> Kona side

Makalawena Beach

This is my favorite beach in the world. Although I will often take a boat here, you can also access it by land. You have to hike for a bit over lava rock (I recommend doing this in the early morning — much more pleasant,) but the reward is fewer crowds — and one of the most beautiful beaches in the world (in my humble opinion.)

How to find it: the entrance to it is located between mile markers 90 and 91. If you have trouble finding it by map, look for Kekaha Kai State Park, which it is a part of. Head to nearby Kua Bay (also a great beach) if you’d like easier access. Both are just north of Kona International Airport.

Beach 69

Another somewhat hidden local favorite, Beach 69 (named so for its location near the mile marker, of course) aka Waialea Bay is all-around wonderful. I think it’s best for snorkeling and shade, naturally provided during most of the day by the many trees on the beach.

Kauna’ona Beach

Growing up this was just the Mauna Kea beach to me as it is directly in front of the Mauna Kea Beach Resort (a beautiful hotel.) What most people don’t realize is that there is public parking (although limited) at the hotel for access to this beautiful beach. It’s a lot like Hapuna but on a smaller scale.

Hapuna Beach

This is the long and wide white sand beach of your Hawaii dreams. Although it is home to resort traffic and can get crowded, its beauty and convenience make it a draw — particularly so for swimmers, boogie boarders, and families.

Anaehoomalu Bay

Known to many as simply ‘A Bay,’ Anaehoomalu is a favorite for windsurfing and sunsets.

If you’re looking for more beach information, or simply any information at all to be frank — I recommend the latest version of this guidebook which I have been using for 20+ years (the best.)

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I hope this gives you the guidance you seek for the most excellent trip to Hawaii’s Kohala Coast and Kailua-Kona. Let me know which part you love most! Mahalo <3

UPDATED: March 2023. Disclaimer: One of my many visits to the Big Island was in collaboration with the Fairmont Orchid. All opinions and destination recommendations come from decades of trips and are distinctly my own.

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I grew up visiting the Big Island with my family on an annual basis, so my exploration of Kauai is relatively fresh. Although the Big Island will always have my heart, Kauai has quickly become my favorite Hawaiian island to visit. A large part of that is, (you guessed it,) the food!

This being my second trip to Kauai (you may have seen my Kauai itinerary) I had the chance to go a little more in-depth exploring different parts of the island (and its best restaurants.) I also had the chance to stay with locals (shoutout to the Miyashiro family!) who graciously took my friend and I on the best food tour of Kauai imaginable.

So without further ado, I present…the best Kauai restaurants list that my trusty taste buds can bring you.
Aloha and bon appetit!

I’ll begin with my overall favorite Kauai food discoveries (including food trucks!) I’ve then broken down the best restaurants by area, knowing that you will likely be staying in one part of the island and will explore others while driving around.

Where to Eat in Kauai, Hawaii

Best Kauai Restaurants

Updated April 2023

Let’s begin with some local favorites…

Best Local Food Restaurants in Kauai

One of the struggles for me with dining in anywhere in Hawaii is finding local food that does not cater to tourists. Hawaiian cuisine that locals eat often differs from the needs and tastes of visitors, even when local ingredients are utilized.

Dishes like saimin, loco moco, or even hidden fresh poke stalls may not be at top of every traveler’s food list but they’re the heart and soul of Hawaii (and so you should try them!)

Incidentally, the following local spots are now my favorite places to eat in Kauai. You’ll find them throughout the island, but they’re all worth going out of your way for if food is a priority for your visit.

Tip Top Cafe (Lihue)

Don’t miss this spot on your way to or from the airport! Comfort food at its finest and most local. I recommend the noodle soups (especially the oxtail) but the pancakes and loco moco are also beloved here.

Kalaheo Café and Coffee Company (Kalaheo)

I ate here both for breakfast and dinner and could hardly believe how great their food was. It appears as you would expect a breakfast spot to, so I was blown away by the flavor and quality of the dinner dishes. Everything is made locally and served with love. One of the best places to eat in Kauai, if you ask me. Convenient if you’re driving to Waimea Canyon (though save room for Island Taco – listed below!)

Kilauea Fish Market (Kilauea)

Some of the best fresh fish I’ve had in Hawaii, and a great place to stop before or after a visit to the Kilauea lighthouse (a picturesque stop!)

Taro chips from Taro Ko Farm (Hanapepe)

Thin, crispy, and plenty local, these taro chips from a local farm can be purchased in the best way possible — from a small house just off the road. You never know quite if the guy who sells them is going to be there are not, but that’s part of the experience. Read more of the story, or just take my word for it and pick up this delectable snack.

Japanese Grandma Cafe (Hanapepe)

Again, fresh off of a lengthy trip to Japan I wasn’t sure if I was going to appreciate this place fully but it was one of the best meals I’ve had in Hawaii. It’s exactly as delightful as it sounds — as if you had a Japanese grandmother cooking for you. The food is all great, and it’s especially fun on a Friday night (art night) and because it’s BYOB.

Or simply…create your own beach picnic! Might I suggest Salt Pond Beach Park for eating it?

Kauai’s Best Food Trucks

Kikuchi’s

Wow wow wow. Don’t overlook Hawaii’s food trucks, people. I still dream about this meal.

The truck serves sushi rolls (which are sandwich-sized) and large portions that make it one of the better value meals on the island. As I suspected, the ahi roll was a favorite…surprisingly, the Kauai beef roll was even better!

Hanalei Poke

A lovely little poke spot located in the main shopping center of Hanalei. Though a bit on the pricey side, it’s delicious and fresh. Cash only.

Porky’s

Porky’s continues to receive awards for the best food truck, and that’s because it is that good. You’ll find hot dogs and sausages topped with the likes of grilled onions, pineapple relish, and most importantly, more pork.

El Rey de Mar

A Mexican food truck whose octopus tacos spoke to me…and did not disappoint! Lots of other great classic taco menu options, too.

The Fresh Shave

The only organic shave ice on Kauai and the cutest little food truck ever, they visit several locations but I happened to find them at Warehouse 3540 – which is a wonderful local collection of boutique shops and art.

Kauai Restaurants – Hanalei

Bar Acuda

Higher-end, tapas-style eats from a chef who moved from San Francisco, it’s the go-to for special occasions. Their menu is killer and they serve arguably the best food on the north shore of Kauai. Reserve in advance if you can. Also, check out their newer sister restaurant (also in Hanalei) — it’s called Ama.

Village Snack and Bakery

This spot is located in the main Hanalei shopping center and looks like the last place you might choose to eat, but trust me on this. Get the chili pepper chicken and don’t let the humble exterior fool you…this place is incredibly delicious. Macnut pancakes and chocolate haupia pie are also favorites. (Breakfast, lunch, and snacks only – closes at 3pm.)

The Dolphin

I was tipped off at my last visit by a friend to stop into their fresh fish + seafood market in the back. SO GOOD. Part restaurant, part sushi bar, part fish market, I love to take a container of poke to-go and eat it outside by the river nearby. It’s also a great place to pick up quality fish to prepare yourself if you have a kitchen where you’re staying.

Kauai Restaurants – Lihue

Tip Top Cafe

As listed above, this is a great place to go if you want to dine with locals and enjoy some of the best cheap eats in Kauai. I recommend the noodle soups (especially the oxtail) but the pancakes and loco moco are also beloved here. A great stop before or after you are headed to the airport!

Hamura Saimin

If you haven’t heard of saimin (I hadn’t,) it’s like a Hawaiian twist on ramen. This is considered to be the best local hole-in-the-wall to try it. Although it’s not my favorite noodle soup of all time, it makes for a mighty fine meal. Their lilikoi pie is the highlight for me!

Kaua’i Beer Company

A fantastic microbrewery with local vibes, it’s a friendly place to sample a variety of beers. They have some food options, too, though many would go across the road to grab something from a food truck and bring it in.

Kauai Restaurants – Poipu

Merriman’s Fish House

I first dined at Merriman’s on the Big Island, and learned the story of chef Peter Merriman and his influence on bringing local ingredients and Hawaiian regional cuisine to the forefront of the food scene. He’s since expanded his presence (you can find one of his restaurants on each of the major islands.) It’s not inexpensive, but it supports local growers and farmers and will be some of the freshest and best food you can eat.

Beach House

Beach House is somewhat of a Poipu institution, and that’s mostly for the sunset views — which are some of the best on the island. I can’t say no to their macadamia nut-crusted fish.

Makai Sushi

Fantastically fresh and has some of the best poke I’ve had anywhere in Hawaii. The ahi and ono bowl is a must.

There is also an outpost of Puka Dog located in Poipu, and Da Crack is worth visiting if you are craving great Mexican food (because for me, that is always.)

Kauai Restaurants – Waimea

Island Taco

If I could only ever eat at one place in Kauai, this would be it. It’s one of those must-eats in Kauai for me. I made the locals who were showing me around stop here, because I couldn’t handle passing by without stopping in. It’s that good. My top picks are the Kalua pork and the mahi-mahi.

Kauai Restaurants – Kapa’a

Kapa’a Food Trucks

If you’re hungry, don’t miss Kapa’a Food Trucks — including Wailua Shave Ice plus Porky’s and El Rey del Mar as listed above! I always stop here to eat when passing through. It’s consistently some of the best food in Kauai.

Pono Market

This is a solid local spot for deli-style meals, including poke bowls and a Hawaiian plate lunch (which you have got to try at least once!) Casual Hawaiian-style street food.

Matcha Ya

Perhaps it was me coming off of three weeks in Japan, but I was totally charmed by this place. It had recently been opened by a woman from Japan and ranges from matcha tea beverages to sweet treats flavored with matcha and red bean. Get your matcha on!

Hukilau Lanai

I haven’t been, but I’m always curious (for each of the Hawaiian islands) if there are resort restaurants with food or ambiance that make it worth the price tag. This is the most recommended place to me, with a tasting menu, drinks, and desserts worth splurging on.

Aina Kauai

If you’re looking to enjoy Japanese food while vacationing in Kauai, this is the spot. The concept is Kauai kaiseki, which if you’ve ever had kaiseki before you know you’re in for a treat. It’s a traditional multi-course meal using the freshest local ingredients, and as such Aina works with local farms to bring the best-tasting local produce to the menu. Note that it’s dinner only and served Thursday to Sunday. Reservations required.

That’s it for now, friends! If you need more information, check out my Kauai itinerary or get your hands on this guidebook (the best I know of.) I hope to be best soon to continue taste-testing in this paradise. For now, please do leave me a comment with your favorite Kauai restaurant finds.

Mahalo for reading, and enjoy Kauai! <3

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I’ve written a fair amount of itineraries for this site, mostly because it’s the travel information both you as readers and I myself need help with most often. I have personally spent hundreds of hours researching destinations, and even more time benefitting from the planning of others and my own experience.  And as much as I love writing personal pieces or thoughtful narratives, I find quality itinerary and genuine recommendations surprisingly difficult to find — online or otherwise.

I also want to continue to demonstrate how much can be seen, even at a reasonable pace — for the part-time travelers who feel limited by a few weeks of vacation time. I hope to show that it’s as simple as aligning your priorities, doing the research (which I hope I am contributing to,) booking the ticket, and going.

The good news is one week in Kauai is a fantastic for the part-time traveler who has limited time.

When I sat down to share my tips from my recent time in Kauai, however, I found dividing the island into regions and subcategories to be more effective for explanation.  I’ll share those along with a brief breakdown of what to do, where to eat, and where to stay in Kauai, as well as how to plan for each day in a week.

Without further ado, my one week in Kauai itinerary:

For those of you who have yet to visit, Kauai goes a little something like this:

North (Hanalei)

South (Poipu, Koloa)

West (Waimea)

East (Lihue, Kapa’a)

As far as an itinerary goes, Kauai is a small island — not a whole country — so it’s a bit of a choose-your-own-adventure. The beauty is…you can’t go too wrong here.

First: choose a part of the island to stay in. I recommend the North (my favorite) and the East, as it is most central for driving to the other areas.

From there, build your days around being in different parts of the island.

I chose 3 days in the north, 2 in the east, 1 in the west, and 1 in the south. Take a look at activities that suit your tastes and build your itinerary from there.

I’ll share all my Kauai recommendations: where to stay in Kauai, what to eat in Kauai, what to see in Kauai, what to do in Kauai, where to hike, and plenty of local secrets entrusted to me by friends that live there.

And if you’re looking for a more in-depth guide to where to eat, check out my latest post on Kauai’s Best Restaurants.

Aloha!

One Week in Kauai Itinerary

North (Hanalei)
See

• Ke’e Beach: This is the beach located at the end of the road where the Kalalau Trail begins. I witnessed one of the most beautiful sunsets of my life here. The glimpse of the Na Pali coast and the golden glow of the light here is something quite special.

Your shoes WILL be muddy!

• Kalalau Trail: With incredible views of the Na Pali coast, this hike alone is the reason many come to Kauai. Be forewarned that it is a challenging hike — you should always be aware of conditions and bring proper equipment. 11 miles in total, if you complete the whole thing you’ll be one of few in the stunning Kalalau Valley and Kalalau Beach. It is the only land access to this part of the coast. Keep in mind that anything beyond Hanakāpīʻai Valley (2 miles in) requires a permit, even if you do not plan to stay overnight. The 4-mile hike is still very much worth it!  For your reference, here’s the official site for the trail.

*Good news! Access to both Ke’e Beach and Kalalau Trail has been reopened after being closed for some time due to flooding damage.

• Kilauea Lighthouse: A gorgeous stop along the northern coastline. There is also a bird sanctuary nearby.

• Queen’s Bath: When calm, Queen’s Bath looks like a sheltered natural pool. However, conditions can and do change quickly and more than a few lives have been claimed at this site. It’s again important to be aware of conditions, which are typically better in the summer months. Feel free to hike down and take a look, just beware of whether or not it’s a good idea to go for a swim.

• Secret Beach – also known as Kauapea Beach. Not so secret as much as difficult to access, but a short walk keeps most of the crowds away. As you can see, I had the place to myself! (Still felt like a secret to me.)
  How to get there: Stay on Kuhio Highway past Kilauea and turn right on Kalihiwai Road. You’ll reach a dirt clearing where there may or may not be other cars parked but it looks like a dead end otherwise. There is a small trail opening on the left side that you’ll take for about a ten-minute walk to the sand.

• Hanalei Pier: especially beautiful at night
• Tunnels Beach (for snorkeling!)

Eat

• Bar Acuda: higher end tapas-style eats from a former SF chef, it’s the go-to for special occasions and has some of the best food on the island.

• Dolphin Sushi Market: You’ll see Dolphin Restaurant from the road, but for me the real eats were the takeaway poke and sushi at the back door fish market. *Update: as of late 2018, this spot is still closed due to flood damage. Call before stopping in.
• Postcards Cafe: fresh, local organic foods – a great lunch option.

Stay

• St. Regis Princeville: It has been called one of the most beautiful resorts in the whole world. I can’t say I disagree with that given the location and the excellent service. A splurge stay — if nothing else come and enjoy the views via a drink at the bar.

South (Poipu)
See

• Poipu Beach: This gorgeous stretch of sand reminds me more of the other Hawaiian islands (not a bad thing) and the sunsets are incredible (of course.)
• Spouting Horn: This natural lava tube has water forced into it during high tide or large swells, creating a spout of water up into the air and often a noise that sounds like a low whistle. It is worth checking out if you’re nearby, but I wouldn’t drive to this part of the island just to see it.
• Kauai Tree Tunnels: Wow – this was a spectacular surprise driving across Kauai. It is a canopy of Eucalyptus trees that are quite scenic to drive under. It is located on Maluhia Road just outside of Koloa town.

• Napali Coast Boat Tour: I can’t recommend enough seeing the Na Pali coast from the water. While there are some boat ride options that leave from the north, I recommend the one I experienced which leaves from Port Allen in the South.

Eat
I can only recommend the casual local eats I experienced here (which are also available in other parts of Kauai) as I often cooked (fresh fish!) while staying in the South.

• Bubba’s Burgers: awesome local burger joint (3 on the island) featuring Kauai grass-fed beef.
• Puka Dog: This Hawaiian hot dog spot is a fun fast eat! They come with your choice of a tropical fruit relish and a spice level (I found the spiciest option to be mild, for your reference!)
• Da Crack: If you’re craving a decent breakfast burrito while on the island (I get these cravings far too often myself,) look no further. It’s a small local Mexican takeout window. Delicious.

Stay

• Marriott Waiohai Beach Club: Enjoyed my stay here – standard vacation rentals with hotel type service. Great for groups or families.

West (Waimea)
See

• Waimea Canyon: Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Worth the drive, and there are several hikes spotted throughout as well. My advice? Go early. The canyon tends to fog in. Start your day here if possible.

• Kokee State Park, including the Kalalau and Pu’u O Kila Lookouts: Pu’u O Kila is the better of the two lookouts (it’s after Kalalau, at the very end of the road.) Fog can roll in and out pretty quickly, and while it doesn’t tend to stay one way or the other for too long…again I recommend going early in the morning to maximize your chances of seeing the coast in clear conditions.

• Pihea Trail (for hikers): I absolutely loved this hike! It begins at the lookout named above, and is a fairly easy trail. It can also be used to connect to the Alaka’i Swamp trail (another interesting hike) and the views are fantastic.

Eat

• Island Taco: If there was only one place I could recommend you eat on the island, it’s this place. Really? Yes. It’s that good. I mean, I love tacos (a lot.) I recommend the Kalua pork and the mahi mahi!

• Shrimp Station: Right across from Island Taco in Waimea, it’s a great place to get your shrimp on if you’re not feeling like tacos. (Though I hope you are.)

Stay

• Waimea Plantation Cottages

*I did not stay here, but it was recommended repeatedly to me for those seeking a quieter stay.

East (Lihue, Kapa’a)

See

• • Waimea River

• • Wailua Falls
  • Opakeea Falls

I’d be remiss if I left these off of the list, though I did not prioritize them during my Kauai visit (fell too in love with Na Pali.) I won’t be missing these next time around.

Eat

• Porky’s Cart: a food truck that moves all over the island, though it’s most often on the East side. Hot dogs and sausages topped with the likes of grilled onions, pineapple relish, and most importantly, more pork.

• Hamura Saimin: Over and over this was recommended to me as the one local place I had to eat. I adore the hole-in-the-wall ambiance and the fact that no other tourists sat by me while I ate. As for the bowl of noodles, I have enjoyed other meals more (flavor wise) but there’s no denying that this was an authentic Hawaiian culinary experience! Definitely a must for a one week in Kauai stay.
• Lilikoi Pie: The Hawaiian name for passionfruit, it’s another local specialty that I can’t recommend enough. I had mine at the noodle shop listed just above, but it is available at local restaurants all over the island.

Stay

Photo by Brad Bernard of MyWanderlist

Aqua Kauai Resort
*Please note my two-night stay at Aqua Kauai was provided to me free of charge.

Marriott’s Kauai Lagoons – Kalanipu’u

*I did not stay here but have heard nothing but amazing things, from those who know the island well!

Airbnb

Always a good way to go if you’re seeking a smaller, more personalized accommodation. There are some beautiful properties on Kauai!

Other tips:

Rain: it rains a lot. This can easily foil your plans. Don’t let it. As they say on Kauai: “no rain, no rainbows.” The weather changes frequently enough that a little break will likely have you in the sunshine again.

Swimming: be careful. I grew up swimming all over the beaches of the Big Island, but was warned continuously about the surf in Kauai. Make sure you read up and ask around about whether or not it’s safe to get in the water somewhere before you do.

Na Pali Coast, by sea or air: Just don’t miss it. I have yet to have the helicopter experience, but I can’t wait to go back for that.

Make use of early mornings. As shared above, weather changes frequently – but your best bet is early in the morning (plus, less people!)

Photography Workshop: I’ll be sharing in more detail, but if you’re interested in photography in the slightest I can’t recommend Kauai Adventure Photo Workshops enough.

Whale watching: Always a plus! While a sighting is possible from November to May, February and March are your best bets timing wise.

Kayaking: When conditions allow, I hear great things about kayaking the Na Pali coast — and if not there’s always the Wailua River! (Next time!)

Hiking the full Kalalau Trail: Do your research, plan ahead, make sure you have the permits. I’ll be back to do this someday! (Again please note the Kalalau Trail is currently closed due to flood damage.)

The only guidebook series for Kauai you’ll ever need: I grew up reading the Big Island version like it was my job, so of course I turned to the Kauai edition for my trip. They’re never let me down. Local advice and all the information you could possibly want.

Chickens everywhere. I had no idea. They really are everywhere.

Crossing a river of the Kalalau Trail

Well, there you have it, friends! A one week in Kauai itinerary – or at least the moving parts you need to piece together your own adventure.

I hope this helps you with planning for your time in Kauai (or has you looking at flights to get there!) Have a spectacular trip and let me know about your experience.

Other itineraries for the part-time traveler:

2, 3, and 4 Weeks in New Zealand

2, 3, and 4 Weeks in Vietnam

2, 3, and 4 Weeks in BurmaSaveSave

The post One Week in Kauai Itinerary appeared first on Part-Time Traveler.

As time went on and the family vacations slowly ceased, I took a break from visiting Hawaii. Eager to see the world and experience growth from unfamiliar cultures and bits of life lived outside of my comfort zone, I stopped wanting to go.

Eventually, and especially since moving to San Francisco, I began to hear a small whisper intuitively calling me back to Hawaii. I had yet to visit one major island, and as my interest in hiking and spending time in raw nature had grown since childhood…I knew it was finally time to get to Kauai.

Kauai via Napali Coast Boat Tour

A Na Pali coast hike quickly foiled by fog…Kauai weather changes more than SF’s!

There’s a lot to love about Kauai. There’s much that’s unique and different from the other islands collectively. Chickens roam wild (yet local eggs still cost $9 a dozen, someone explain that one,) scenery appears older, more weathered, increasingly dramatic. Small Hawaiian towns get even more relaxed, and there is more emphasis on having the right hiking shoes than the right bikini.  (In short, why did it take me so long to get there?)

But perhaps the most defining characteristic of Kauai, the significant reason to visit above the other islands, is the truly green, rugged, jagged cliffs of the Na Pali Coast.

I’ve seen a lot of beautiful things in my life…I’m not exaggerating when I say the Napali Coast blew most of them away. I can hardly remember feeling so small, being surrounded by so many natural power and beauty, and reveling in just how glorious our planet can be.

Seeing this coastline makes you feel both humbled and proud at the same time. I felt connected to something larger than myself while in its presence.

It is an experience that can hardly be put into words nor a photo frame.

View from boat

Want to go?

There are a couple of ways to access the coast: you can drive to a point (though the road dead ends) and see some views from scenic lookouts on the western coast. (Check out the beautiful Pihea Trail for some great hiking from the Pu’u o Kila Lookout.) You can hike the first four miles of the Kalalau Trail (highly recommended.) You can take a boat trip. You can even take a helicopter!

While I have yet to take an open door helicopter over the natural wonder (weather related,) I can say that to me, seeing the Napali Coast from the water was a completely different and worthwhile experience.

Choosing a Napali Coast Boat Tour

All I can recommend is what I know. I booked my trip with Holo Holo Charters, one of a few Napali Coast boat tours.  They’re the only company who goes out to Ni’ihau (a restricted island off the coast) but unfortunately my group was unable to go (again, weather related!)  And I recommend being prepared for seasickness – though I fortunately wasn’t affected, it is more common than not to be very sick due to the swells of the journey. They’re upfront that the boat ride is far from smooth most days, but believe me when I say it is completely worth it.

TIP: Their 7 hour boat tour combines both Ni’ihau and the best of the Napali Coast, and includes breakfast, lunch, and snorkel gear.

You will want to ask about weather conditions the day before your tour, as this may affect where you’re able to go on the water and you can reschedule as needed.

Tours run year-round, though I recommend Jan-Mar when your boat tour may very well include whale watching (mine did!) You depart from Port Allen Harbor at 6am.

They also have a sunset boat tour, snorkel tour, sailing tours, and an adventure tour. Be sure to book in advance!

Na Pali Coast Hike Option

Hiking is a great way to see Na Pali, but unless you’re prepared to take the overnight journey on the Kalalau Trail (11 miles, permit required, named one of the most dangerous hikes in the world – though recently reopened) a morning trip to the Napali Coast via boat will give you the best access to views that will make your eyes widen in awe of a place so beautiful it seems unreal…

View from the Kalalau Trail

You can also always drive up to the Kalalau and Pu’u O Kila lookouts on the northeast side of the island, but you will only see a fraction of what you can see from the water and will often face crowds. It’s for this reason that I most recommend taking one of the Napali coast boat tours.

Please go and see it for yourself.

(And maybe check the weather first.)

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Also, need a Kauai Itinerary?

Or perhaps you’re looking for where to eat in Kauai?

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