The Best Places to See in Kaua’i
Trip dates: December 5, 2022 – December 13, 2022
Wailua Falls – All photos in this post were taken on my iPhone 13 Pro
Kaua’i is the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands, 5.1 million years old and still looking fabulous. It’s nicknamed the “Garden Isle,” and as you can see in the photo above, that name couldn’t be more perfect. This island is a lush, green wonderland, but that’s just the beginning. Think golden beaches, jaw-dropping hikes, a mini version of the Grand Canyon, and views that will make your camera work overtime.
Oh, and let’s talk about the real stars of the island: the chickens. Yes, wild chickens (aka wild moa) are everywhere. It’s estimated there are about 450,000 of them strutting around, compared to just 74,000 humans. They pop up in the most random places, and honestly, they add a lot of personality to the place. My sister and I couldn’t get enough of them during our trip!
Fun fact: Did you know that only about 10% of Kaua’i is accessible by car? Most locals live along the coast, which means the island’s wild interior stays beautifully untouched.
Must-See Spots
Whether you're into adrenaline-pumping adventures like helicopter tours and mountain tubing, or you're more of a beach-strolls-and-sunset-watching type, Kaua’i delivers big time. We spent seven amazing days hiking, eating local food, and exploring every corner we could. If you're heading to Kaua’i, here are a few must-see spots:
Sleeping Giant (Nounou Mountain)
Where to Stay & How to Get Around
If you ask me, the east side of Kaua’i is the best place to stay. Most of the island’s must-see spots are scattered along the eastern and southern coasts, so basing yourself in the east makes exploring super easy. This will put you in the middle, about 30 minutes from both the north and south shores.
My sister and I stayed at The ISO in Wailua, which was budget-friendly and just a short drive from tons of great restaurants. There are plenty of similar hotels nearby, so it’s a great area if you’re looking for convenience, comfort, and a solid home base for your island adventures.
I definitely recommend renting a car while you're on Kaua’i. Public transportation is limited, and many of the island’s best spots aren’t connected to the bus routes. Having your own wheels gives you the freedom to explore wherever and whenever you want.
There are plenty of rental car options, but we went with Turo and had a great experience. I’ve used Turo on several trips and it’s always been smooth sailing. It’s also usually cheaper than traditional rental companies.
Our Favorite Places to Eat
Java Kai quickly became our go-to breakfast spot. I used to think avocado toast was totally overrated (and had never even tried it), but hey, vacation is for branching out, right? One bite and I was fully converted. And seriously, have you ever seen flowers on avocado toast? It was almost too pretty to eat. Almost. Java Kai also serves up amazing coffee, smoothies, pastries, and more. If you’re staying on the east side of the island, this place is a must.
The Musubi Truck serves the best poke bowls I have ever had, hands down. I still crave them and have even tried to recreate the flavors at home. We loved this food truck so much that we went back several times. It was the perfect spot to refuel after a day at the beach or a jungle hike. Plus, right out front there is a bubble tea truck where you can grab a refreshing drink.
I’m not a huge coffee person and this technically isn’t food, but the Kaua’i Coffee Company is definitely worth a visit. They run the largest coffee farm in the U.S., and you can grab a cup of their famous brew at the café. After that, take yourself on their self-guided tour around the property. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a few friendly stray cats hanging out.
Waimea Canyon – The Grand Canyon of the Pacific
Waimea Canyon is 14 miles long, 1 mile wide, and over 3,600 feet deep, it’s like Hawaii’s very own Grand Canyon. The drive up is packed with scenic lookout points and hiking trails. We spent two days exploring, but you can hit most of the main highlights in just one.
Note: Cell service is pretty much nonexistent in most of the canyon, so be sure to download a map ahead of time or bring a paper one just in case.
Red Dirt Waterfall
Red Dirt Waterfall is one of the first sights you’ll come across as you drive up the canyon road. It’s teeny tiny. So small, in fact, that my sister was nearly the same height as it. This section of the road is surrounded by sweeping views of the base of Waimea Canyon and the southwestern coast of Kaua’i.
As you continue up the road, keep your eyes on the right side. That’s where the canyon really starts to open up, and the views are absolutely stunning. The colors, the depth, and the scale are “chef’s kiss.” There are plenty of scenic pull-offs, but parking can be limited. For an easier stop, head to the Waimea Canyon Lookout, which has a proper parking lot and amazing views.
Waimea Canyon Trail
Hike Length: 3.7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 1,000 feet
This was the only trail we tackled in the canyon, and it did not disappoint. The trail drops significantly in the first mile alone, so get ready for a serious leg workout on the way back up. If you only have time for one hike in the area, I highly recommend this one. The views into Waimea Canyon are absolutely incredible, some of the best you’ll get without a helicopter.
The trail ends at Mini Falls, a charming little waterfall with a gorgeous view. Just a short walk to the left, you’ll find another small fall tucked away behind it. Getting down to these falls is pretty steep, so take your time, wear shoes with good grip, and consider using hiking poles if you have them.
Kokee Lodge
Kokee Lodge is the only restaurant in the canyon, and you’ll find it just past the Waimea Canyon Trailhead. The food was tasty with a solid variety of options to choose from. But the real entertainment? The chickens. Both times we ate there, the parking lot was full of them. Watching people try to enjoy their meal while being surrounded by a flock of feathered food thieves was hilarious. Those chickens are bold, and definitely not shy about stealing a fry or two.
Pu’u O Kila Lookout
Once you reach the top of Waimea Canyon, you’ll catch a glimpse of the stunning Nā Pali Coast on the island’s northern side. There are a few hikes that take you out along the ridges, but we opted to save our time, and our legs, and soak in the views from the lookouts instead. The road ends at Pu’u O Kila Lookout, but if you’re up for more exploring, you can continue along the Pihea Vista Trail for even more incredible viewpoints and trail options.
Sleeping Giant (Nounou Mountain)
Hike Length: 3.2 miles round trip from the eastern side
Elevation Gain: 958 feet
The Sleeping Giant, also known as Nounou Mountain, gets its name because it looks like a giant lying on its back. From the east or west, you can spot its “head” facing south and its “feet” pointing north.
You can hike to the top of the giant from either side of the mountain. We went with the eastern trail since it was closest to our hotel. It’s the steeper of the two, with more elevation gain. Alternately, the western trail is about two miles and starts off surrounded by towering trees, giving it a fairytale feel. Both trails lead to the same summit, so you really can’t go wrong starting from either side. Just be prepared for some mud if it’s rained recently.
Makaleha Falls
Hike Length: 2.6 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 826 feet
The hike out to Makaleha feels more like a full-on jungle adventure than a traditional trail. It’s wild, muddy, and absolutely unforgettable. This was easily our favorite hike on the island and probably the most fun one we’ve ever done.
There are multiple river crossings along the way, so water shoes are a must. Honestly, once ours were on, they stayed on the whole time. Between the mud and the streams, there’s no point in trying to keep your feet (or clothes) dry, just lean into the mess and enjoy the ride.
On this trail, you’ll spend most of your time bushwhacking through dense greenery and double-checking you’re still on the right path. Take it slow and soak in the tiny waterfalls and lush jungle views along the way. Follow the footprints in the mud and avoid wandering off, especially if you're tempted to climb up the canyon wall like we (regrettably) tried to do at one point. It’s super easy to lose the trail, we had to backtrack at least three times. But if you stay aware and watch your step, you’ll be just fine.
When you are getting close to the falls, the canyon splits and the river forks in two directions. Head to the right, cross the river one last time, and you’ll find Makaleha Falls waiting for you at the end of a lush canyon.
Nā Pali Coast
Hanalei Valley Lookout
The Nā Pali Coast stretches along the northern side of the island, and the scenery here is next-level stunning. It looks different from the rest of Kaua’i, with winding roads and little towns tucked beneath towering emerald peaks. Gorgeous beaches are sprinkled all along the coastline, each one more dreamy than the last. This area is one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever seen.
Ha’ena Beach
Ha’ena Beach is backed by dramatic cliffs and mountains, making it feel like a hidden paradise. Just across the parking lot, you’ll find Maniniholo Dry Cave. What makes this cave stand out is the massive, slit-like opening at the base of the cliff. It’s wide and shadowy, and stepping inside instantly makes you feel minuscule.
Kalalau Trail to Hanakāpī ‘ai Beach in Hā’ena State Park
Hike Length: 4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,135 feet
Kalalau Trail is probably the most popular trail on Kaua’i, and it totally lives up to the hype. The entire trail runs 11 miles along the jaw-dropping Nā Pali Coast, offering some of the most stunning views on the island. It’s also one of the only ways to access this part of the coastline (unless you’re hopping on a boat or a helicopter).
Most people hike to Hanakāpī‘ai Beach (2 miles in) or continue on to Hanakāpī‘ai Falls (about 4 miles in). Beyond Hanakāpī‘ai Beach, the trail enters Hanakāpī‘ai Valley, and you’ll need a camping permit to go any farther. The full trek is best left to experienced hikers and isn’t for the faint of heart.
You will need a reservation to get into Hā’ena State Park and to park your car. This website has more information: https://kalalautrail.com/day-use/?amp. We ended up using the shuttle and parking our car at the shuttle lot 30 minutes away from the trailhead. The shuttle ticket also includes entry into the park. You can make a shuttle reservation here.
Kauapea Beach
Kauapea Beach, aka Secret Beach, was our favorite beach on the island. Despite the name, it’s not that secret (you can easily find the trailhead on Google Maps), but it still feels like a hidden gem. The hike down is short, yet steep. Once you hit the sand, you’re rewarded with a wide, dreamy beach lined with soft sand and lava rocks.
Our favorite part of Secret Beach was a little “waterfall” tucked away on the far left side. Once you reach the beach, just walk about 15 minutes west along the shoreline. At high tide, waves slam into the back of a big cluster of lava rocks. When they hit just right, water launches into the air, splashes down the front of the rocks, and flows down into a mini waterfall. It’s mesmerizing to watch and no two waves create the same effect.
Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail
Hike Length: 4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 400 feet
Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail stretches from Shipwreck Beach to Gillin’s Beach (also known as Mahaulepu Beach), and it's packed with epic coastal views. We explored the Gillin’s Beach side one day, then came back another day to hike the full trail starting from Shipwreck Beach.
Most of the hike takes you across lithified sand dunes, created by the cementing of settling sand and volcanic sediment. It’s like walking on nature’s version of a coral castle. Just watch where you step. The jagged cliffs along the edge drop straight into the ocean, so it’s not the best trail to leave little ones unsupervised.
Shipwreck Beach
Shipwreck Beach was buzzing with surfers when we visited, definitely a go-to spot for catching waves. If the Heritage Trail is your main destination, it starts on the far left side of the beach. Just climb up a little hill, and you'll spot the trail right at the top.
On the Heritage Trail, you’ll wander past all kinds of plants, dodge roots poking out of the sand, skirt jagged cliffs, stumble upon tiny hidden beaches, spot a seaside shrine, and even pass a golf course. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a seal swimming in the ocean. I’m a sucker for coastal hikes, and this one delivers. There’s something so calming about hearing the waves crash against the shore the entire way. It’s nature’s soundtrack at its finest.
Gillin’s Beach
Gillin’s Beach is a dreamy mix of soft golden sand, scattered lava rocks, and coral reefs. Right at the entrance to the beach, there’s a reef about 100 feet offshore that keeps incoming waves calm in this little pocket of paradise. You can wade out toward the reef, but be careful, it ends in a steep drop-off with waves that are more aggressive, so it’s best to admire from a safe distance.
To the north, you’ll find Secret Beach and Kamala Point, where the coastline gets a little wilder and the reef’s gentle protection starts to disappear. The waves grow stronger here, and if you look out over the water, chances are you’ll see windsurfers gliding over the ocean.
Makauwahi Cave
Makauwahi Cave is tucked near the end of Heritage Trail above Gillin’s Beach, and it’s definitely worth a short detour. Along the way, you’ll spot a little bridge that veers off toward a turtle sanctuary. We made it to the cave just as it was closing, so our visit was short, but crawling through the low tunnel into the cave still felt like a mini adventure.
Poipu Beach
Poipu Beach the busiest beach we visited on the island, and for good reason. This was the only spot where we saw sea turtles lounging in the sand! When the turtles are onshore, conservationists are nearby to keep them safe and to answer any questions you might have. It’s a great place to soak up the sun and maybe even meet a turtle or two.
Right across from the beach, you’ll find Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs, a must-try snack stop. They serve up juicy Hawaiian-style hot dogs tucked into pillowy buns, plus homemade lemonade that hits the spot on a warm day. We grabbed a bite here before heading to the beach, and it was the perfect fuel. My advice? Order it just the way it comes, no changes. Even if the combo sounds a little unusual, trust the process. There's a reason they’ve perfected it that way.
Spouting Horn
Spouting Horn was formed over time as waves carved through lava rock along the coast, creating a narrow opening for seawater to shoot through like a geyser. It’s fun to watch and try to guess which wave is going to create the largest “spout.” We ended up sitting here for about 30 minutes, just taking it all in. The view around it wasn’t too shabby either, with stunning coastal scenery in every direction.
Note for the reader: I share these locations so that others can see beautiful places and enjoy nature as much as I do. Please be respectful of the outdoors and what condition it is in when you visit. Don’t go off trail, leave no trace, and pack out what you came in with.
