Dreaming of a vacation in Kauai?  There are plenty of things to do on the island known as known as “Hawaii’s Island of Discovery.”  Lush landscapes, amazing scenery and plenty of adventure await you. Kauai is a true nature lover’s paradise with beautiful beaches, hiking trails, waterfalls and diverse landscapes creating endless ways to play.  Wondering what to do on your vacation in Kauai?

Here’s a look at a sample Kauai vacation itinerary:

Day 1:  Settle into your hotel.  A couple of options we recommend are Poipu Shores Resort and Kiahuna Plantation.  Then, head to the beach and being your vacation!  Poipu Beach Park is great for snookering and sunset gazing, while Hanalei Bay and Anini Beach are ideal options if you’re staying on the North Shore.

Day 2:  Go on a helicopter tour.  Blue Hawaiian Kauai Helicopter Tours give guests the opportunity to see Kauai’s awe-inspiring sights that are inaccessible from the ground.  Departing from Lihue, the flight lasts about an hour and is sure to a highlight of your vacation.  Afterwards, head to the North Shore for sightseeing, swimming, snorkeling and even hiking.  The famous Kalalua Trail in Na Pali Coast State Park will give you a spectacular view of the coastline, but if you’re up for a more strenuous trek try the hike to Hanakapiai Falls, a 3-hour trip one way.   Snorkel at Ke’e Beach, have lunch at Hanalei Bay and be sure to go to the Kilauea Lighthouse for fantastic photo opportunities and wildlife viewing.

Day 3: Tour the Na Pali Coast.  You can’t vacation in Kauai without touring the Na Pali Coast.  The stunning 17 miles of coastline features hanging valleys and steep ridges thousands of feet above the ocean. Numerous excursions are available for the Na Pali coast.  We recommend a Na Pali Coast Sunset Dinner Cruise for romance and gorgeous sightseeing, a Na Pali Snorkel Rafting Expedition for up-close views and underwater sightseeing and if you’d like to enjoy both activities board the Lucky Lady with Kauai Sea Tours featuring a dinner sunset cruise and snorkeling.

The Lucky Lady Snorkel & Sunset Cruise.

Day 4: Kayak the Wailua River.  Kayaking through Kauai’s lush interior is one of the few ways to see the lush jungle of Kauai.  Rainbow Kayak Tours and Kayak Adventures both operate Wailua Kayak Tours. After paddling past numerous Heiaus (hallowed shrines), you will view ancient Kamokila Village. Soon you will come to the North Fork where you will paddle leisurely through the Garden Isle's most beautiful jungle river until you come to the trail head for Secret Falls, where you’ll enjoy a short hike to an enchanting 80’ waterfall.

Day 5: Visit the West Side of Kauai.  Make time to visit the historical towns of Hanapepe, Waimea and Kekaha.  You’ll want to make time to hike Waimea Canyon as well.  Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” highlights include stunning scenery, colorful canyons and scenic overlooks into the valley of the Na Pali Coast.  On your way to the Waimea Canyon there are ample scenic overlooks and photo opportunities as well. 

These are just some of the adventures waiting for you when you travel to Kauai.  Activities in Kauai are endless and the sights to see are breathtaking.  Start planning your vacation today and see all the island has to offer.