One Week on KauaiFrom the towering, lush, green mountains to the soft, sandy shores, Kauai is the perfect blend of adventure and relaxtion on your Hawaiian vacation. Enjoy the delicious seafood dishes and local flavors, explore the northern coast on the Kalalau Trail, and relax at the newest hidden beach, Lumaha'i.AuthorsSteller
DestinationsKauaiItinerary

Day 1: East Coast

Lihue Airport
Fly into the airport on the east coast of smallest of the 4 main Hawaiian islands, Kauai.
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Kauaʻi Museum
Get into the culture and learn to make a haku lei from a local expert here at the museum every second Friday of the month. The class takes three hours and it's$50 per person.
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Waipouli Beach Resort
This place is known for its ocean views, a pool oasis, and convenient access to all of Kauai's natural wonders and activities. This is a great launching pad on the East coast.
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Kauai Shores Hotel
A tranquil beachfront stay with beautiful decor and modern amenities, perfect for your Hawaiian getaway.
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Day 2: East Coast

Larson's Beach
Take the jet lag you may be facing from travel and head up to this sunrise spot on the northeast coast.
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Java Kai Kapaa
After an early wake up, you'll want a coffee to help you recharge for the day! Come to this local favorite.
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Wailua Falls
Take one of Kauai's moderately-easy trails to see the stunning Wailua falls cascade amidst the lush, tropical forest.
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Hamura Saimin
Try this Hawaiian fusion dish: Saimin, a local noodle dish that’s a combination of Japanese ramen, Chinese mein, and Filipino pancit. This spot is a local, hidden gem, and favorite!
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Day 3: North Coast

Kilauea Lighthouse
Look out over the rugged North Shore cliffs admiring the sparkling blue waters and waves crashing against the shore.
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Kilauea Fish Market
For fresh and delicious seafood, this is the spot! They have one of the best poke bowls ever.
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Hanalei Valley Lookout
The lush green valley is on display at this lookout over the flatlands leading into the towering, green mountains.
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Hanalei Surfboard House
Changing accommodations? This is a laid-back vacation rental in Hanalei Bay with 2 casual studios surf-themed decor, kitchenettes, iPod docks and a lanai.
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Hanalei Colony Resort
This oceanfront hotel located on Kauai's North Shore is known for its secluded location, breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, and nearby mountains.
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Day 4: North Coast

Kauai Juice Co Kilauea
Start your day here with their famous juices or a smoothie bowl. The Mango Ghost juice is a favorite, or try the Papaya Bowl!
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Anini Beach
This is a tranquil beach known for pristine snorkeling conditions and calm waters. It is also a great spot to try windsurfing!
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Queen’s Bath
A short 10-15 minute walk leads you to these natural pools along the coast. It is a great spot to take photos of turtles, enjoy the tide pools, and admire ocean views.
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Nourish Hanalei
Grab a bowl, wrap, salad, or fresh acai bowl at this locally owned farm stand/restaurant.
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Lumaha'i Beach
This is the newest "hidden beach" along the north coast, with turquoise waters and soft sands. It is the perfect place to spend an afternoon relaxing on the shore. (It is known to be dangerous in the water, so stick to the shore).
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Jojo's Shave Ice
After spending a day baking in the sun, grab a nice, cold Hawaiian shave ice from this local favorite.
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Hanalei Bay
Admire the golden, sunset coated Hanalei Bay as the sun slowly dips below the horizon. It is a beautiful way to end a busy, beach-hopping day.
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Tahiti Nui
This is a locally famous spot. Head here for pizza (a break from the seafood), and stay for the luau!
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Day 5: North Coast

Hanalei Bread Company
Try their Avocado Toast, Macadamia Nut Sticky Buns, or a Lilikoi (Passion Fruit) Danish.
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Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park
This is a breathtaking and rugged coastal area located on the northwest side of the island of Kauai that is primarily accessible on foot or by boat. Make sure to book a reservation beforehand.
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Kalalau Trail
This 22-mile, out-and-back trail is challenging and meant for experienced hikers. Opt in for a short day hike (a section of 11 miles) to the Overlook, a quick hike that’s challenging to a beautiful view of the cliffs. Permits are required to hike beyond Hanakapiai Beach.
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Kalalau Stream
Right along the Kalalau trail, this stream is nestled amidst the lush wilderness of the park along the coast.
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Kokeʻe State Park
Home to the Kalalau Lookout and the Puu O Kila lookout, these two are worth the drive for views of the Kauai mountains. If you want to try some hiking opt for the Pihea Trail.
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Tunnels Beach
The "tunnels" at this beach lie below the surface... they are lava tubes below the water. Locals love to come explore here!
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Hanalei Bay PM Kayak & Snorkel in Kauai
Explore the bay by kayaking and snorkeling in crystal clear, blue waters with a guide.
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Nā Pali Coast Zodiac Raft Sea Caves Expedition on Kauai
Take Na Pali by boat with this tour exploring the magical waters and hidden caves along this iconic coastline.
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Day 6: South Coast

Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection
This luxurious resort on the south shore is known for its spacious villas, multiple pools including a lagoon-style pool with a swim-through grotto, and its proximity to Poipu Beach and other attractions!
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Kauai Cove Cottages
Charming oceanfront accommodations on the Coconut Coast. Known for their intimate setting, ocean views, and convenient access to beaches and attractions, this is the perfect retreat.
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Poipu and Koloa E-Bike Scenic Tour
Get a feel for the south coast with this guided E-bike tour.
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Waimea Canyon State Park
AKA the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea is known for its dramatic red and green landscapes, spanning approximately 10 miles long, up to 3,000 feet deep, and providing stunning panoramic views.
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Small-Group Waimea Canyon Adventure Tour & Beyond with Lunch
See all of the sights while being informed by a knowledgable guide about the geological and anthropolgical history of this region.
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Red Dirt Waterfall
On the road to Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park, there is a red dirt waterfall (GPS coordinates are 22.009, -159.677) that flows after heavy rainfall! Definitely check it out if you can!
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Kickshaws
A food truck with sandwiches, burgers, cheesesteak, and more!
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Lappert's Hawaii
After a busy day exploring head to this local, Hawaiian, famed ice cream spot (with several locations) for a sweet treat.
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Day 7: South Coast

Poipu Beach Park
This spot features two beaches: Brennecke's Beach is great for bodyboarding and Poipu Beach is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with facilities (restrooms, showers, picnic areas and parking) making it a popular and family-friendly destination with clear waters and diverse marine life.
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Kauai Private Doors Off Helicopter Tour: Ultimate Waterfalls
See the stunning coastline from above on this helicopter flight exploring the island from above. Bring your camera and make sure to snap loads of photos!
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Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail
A 4-mile, moderate, scenic coastal hike on the southern shore, known for its rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and archaeological sites.
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Waikomo Shave Ice
Celebrate your successful trip to Kauai with one final evening of delicious, Hawaiian shave ice at this south coast favorite.
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Merriman's Kauai
The place offers farm-to-table dining with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, specializing in seafood dishes and creative Hawaiian cuisine. Try their Opakapaka (Hawaiian Pink Snapper) or Mahi Mahi.
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