Things to do in Kauai, Hawaii (HI): The Best Cultural Tours

November 18, 2021 Jacquiline Darosa

Relaxing and pristine Kauai (the Garden Island) is the least commercially developed of the Hawaiian islands. Waterfalls, scenic drives and more than 60 beaches dot the landscape. Some beaches have great snorkeling, others offer child-friendly tidal pools and some are perfect for all kinds of water sports. Dry-land activities include hiking the Kalalau Trail on the Na Pali coastline, taking a day trip to Waimea Canyon and experiencing life on a sugar plantation at Grove Farm Homestead Museum.
Restaurants in Kauai

1. Kauai East Side and North Shore Private Guided Tour

Kauai, Hawaii, USA Noah's Ark Kauai Tours
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5.0 based on 7 reviews

[FOR UP TO 6 PASSENGERS, private tour] ***For more reviews check us on TripAdvisor- "Noah's Ark Kauai"*** This 7 hour tour includes Wailua Falls, Wailua River, Opaeka'a Falls, Kauai Hindu Monastery, Anahola, Kalalea mountain, Kilauea Lighthouse, Moloa'a, Nepalese Stupa, Larsen's Beach (wild beach), Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge/Sea Bird Sanctuary, Anini Beach, Kalihiwai Beach and lookout. Stop to feast on and drink water from fresh coconuts. See and feed some wild pigs, Hawaii's pua'a. Learn some historical tales about the island, take photos at all the best places, and take some walks in some of the most beautiful natural places on the planet. Stop at a market or restaurant of your choice for lunch or picnic. Include some shopping if or change the itinerary anyway you like. Customize your tour to include an activity (hiking/snorkeling/etc) should you choose. Cooler and cold water are provided.

Inclusions: Bottled water

Exclusions:

Reviewed By sharmeenkhan81

Noah was an amazing guide. I was his first customer since the break due to pandemic and he went above and beyond to make my one-day tour of the Kauai island super fun, eventful and informative. He was easy to communicate with and catered to my wishlist. He is also a great company and quite knowledgeable. I would recommend Noah 100% for your guided tour needs while in Kauai.

2. North Shore Kauai Audio Driving Tour

Kapaʻa, HI 96746, USA Shaka Guide: Audio Tour Apps
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

Explore Kauai's scenic north shore with Shaka Guide and visit the beautiful beaches, gorgeous hiking trails and even a hidden waterfall. You will love the gripping stories we tell of this unique island. Skip the tour bus and explore Kauai at your own pace for a fraction of the cost. Shaka Guide's North Shore Kauai Tour uses GPS to give you turn-by-turn directions to the best spots! Shaka Guide is the #1-rated app for Kauai with over 2K reviews on the App Store and Google Play Store! WHY SHAKA GUIDE: ✅ Tours never expire. ✅ Tour work offline. No data needed. ✅ Reliable GPS directions. ✅ A guided tour for a fraction of the price. ✅ Save time planning! We’ve done the work for you. ✅ Your vacation, your terms — freedom to stop and go as you please. ✅ The #1-rated travel app for Maui. ✅ Listen to interesting stories and Hawaiian music!

Inclusions: Offline map of the entire island with turn-by-turn audio navigation, Interesting stories and history and the freedom to explore at your own pace, Purchase will NEVER expire and tours work offline, Tour highlights in the app with restaurant and activity recommendations

Exclusions: Parking fees, Attraction entrance fees, Meals, Car rental, Crowded tour bus

Reviewed By chanyu1

This is a good and inexpensive way to do the Haleakala sunset tour with audio narrative of things to see along the way to the mountain top. Good value for the price. A quick tip: this app burns through your phone battery fast so having a car phone cable is a must or else your phone battery will run out of juice pretty quick...

3. Da Westside Explorer Sightseeing Tour - 8 hrs.

Kela's Glass Gallery, 4-1400 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746, USA Kauai Soul Travel
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5.0 based on 26 reviews

Our Westside tour is a unique experience not to be missed. All tours are small for an intimate experience. You will be guided by the owner, Coco Maria, who has over 12 yrs of experience. Our vehicles have nice viewing windows, comfortable seating, and air condition. Treat yourself and take the day off from driving. Seat back and relax while you marvel at the beauty of Kauai and listen to the fascinating history and legends behind the sites. We will take you to many iconic places on the West side of Kauai, including some not listed on maps. This tour features famous Waimea Canyon, Waipoo Falls, Kokee State park, the only black sand beach on Kauai, Cooks landing, old Hanapepe town and its swinging bridge, the largest coffee plantation in the US, and more. You will have an opportunity to shop and eat local, take amazing pictures, and truly experience Kauai's culture. Kauai's Westside preserves the charm of the old days and its beauty is beyond words.

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Bottled water, Letter size map of Kauai, Entrance fee to Waimea and Kokee State Park, 10 percent off food at the Kokee Lodge restaurant

Exclusions: We will make a 1 hour stop at The Kokee Lodge for lunch., Wheelchair accessibility. Our vehicles have no place to stow a wheelchair. Walkers and canes are ok., Infant and toddler car seats. if you have one please bring it., Gratuities

Reviewed By MLCLARK63

Kauai is amazing in the present day, but the richness and history expounded upon by Coco, added depth to our love for this Island. The ease of navigation and lore telling Coco possesses made the trip delightful. We got a late start, our fault, but she was patient and directed us to a local bakery that had unusual savory pastry treats that we loved. The lunch venue was scenic and the food delicious. We laughed as we told stories both of the island and our families. Such a wonderful trip!!

4. Private Luxury Tour of Kauai: South & West Shores

Kauai Luxury Transportation & Tours
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

See the Best of Kauai's south and west shores on this private tour! You'll have the flexibility to customize your itinerary with the help of your friendly guide, who'll take you to picturesque beaches, waterfalls and wildlife reserves. Depending ont he size of your group and the availability, experience Kauai in our luxury sedans, SUVs or Mercedes Sprinters.

Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Knowledgeable local guide, Private tour of Kauai

Exclusions: Lunch, Gratuities

Reviewed By SteveinScottsdale

The sights Doma took us to we’re beautiful and the stories about the culture of the island were interesting.

5. Kauai's South and East - Sightseeing Tour - 6 hrs.

Kela's Glass Gallery, 4-1400 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746, USA Kauai Soul Travel
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4.9 based on 17 reviews

The South and East Kauai tour is a history and nature lover experience. Join our professional and fun guide on a 6 hrs cultural and historical journey along the South and East coast of Kauai. Kick back in the comfort of an air condition van as you marvel at the beauty of the Garden Isle in every stop. Immerse yourself in the Hawaiian culture as your guide brings all the sights to life with fantastic stories, from waterfalls to ancient temples of worship. Small groups of up to 10 people make it a personalized and intimate experience. You will visit iconic and off the beaten path places and learn great insider tips. The owner will also be your guide, ensuring the highest quality of service. You are up for a treat.

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Bottled water, Live and entertaining narrations, Map of Kauai

Exclusions: TBA on the day of the tour, Wheelchair accessibility. Our vehicles have no room to store a wheelchair. Canes and walkers are ok., Infant and toddler car seats. If you have one please bring it., Gratuities

Reviewed By Michael B

AWESOME TOUR!! Our guide Cocoa was very fun and knowledgeable about Kauai and it's rich history. Spectacular views of the canyon and an awesome Hawaiian lunch! HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!

6. Wailua Valley & Waterfalls Audio Driving Tour

Kapaʻa, HI 96746, USA Shaka Guide: Audio Tour Apps
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4.9 based on 8 reviews

Explore jungle forests and waterfalls while also connecting with the Hawaiian culture! This tour will take you on a trip back in time by visiting 3 ancient Hawaiian temples as well as visit 3 waterfalls and check out 3 hikes. The perfect mix of fun and education! Enjoy turn-by-turn directions, information on what to look for and where to explore. Plus all the interesting stories and legends that bring the beautiful sceneries to life! Rated the #1 best GPS tour app for Hawaii with over 6,000+ raving reviews and 200,000+ downloads. Why you need it: ✅ You don't need service because you can download the tours & use them offline ✅ Much cheaper than a tour bus at only $9.99 for lifetime access ✅ Save time planning your trip because we have the best stops lined up ✅ Freedom to stop and go as you please, unlike a tour bus where you are confined to the pre-determined route (no fun!) ✅ Hear cool and fun stories along the way (and some corny joke's that might make you laugh)

Inclusions: Freedom to explore on your own and the perfect itinerary of your entire vacation, 4-6 hours of GPS and audio content and an offline map of the whole tour, Audio that triggers based on location, Dozens of interesting stories about the area, Turn-by-turn navigation

Exclusions: Overcrowded group tour, Overpriced bus tickets

Reviewed By chanyu1

This is a good and inexpensive way to do the Haleakala sunset tour with audio narrative of things to see along the way to the mountain top. Good value for the price. A quick tip: this app burns through your phone battery fast so having a car phone cable is a must or else your phone battery will run out of juice pretty quick...

7. Kauai Ultimate Off-Road Ranch Tour

Kipu Ranch Adventures, 235 Kipu Rd, Lihue, HI 96766, USA Kipu Ranch Adventures
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4.9 based on 475 reviews

With its diverse landscape, abundant wildlife, and unparalleled views, Kipu Ranch is one of Kauai's premier eco-tour locations. Buckle up for an off-road adventure into the tropical Huleia Valley, riding a 4WD through verdant pastures and ascending Mt. Haupu for a view of Kipu Kai beach. You may recognize filming locations for ‘Jurassic Park,’ and ‘The Descendants.’

Inclusions: Local guide, Safety helmets, goggles, and bandannas (required), Light snack, Instruction & Practice

Exclusions: Gratuities, We encourage our guests to bring a reusable water bottle. Water refill stations available at check-in.

Reviewed By Laura5421

Our entire family had a blast on our ATV excursion. It was exciting, beautiful, and informative. The property is absolutely amazing and the ATVs were super fun. We have some adrenaline junkies in our family and they had a great time too! Special shout-out to our guides, David and Mana, who were professional, incredibly fun, and gave us so much history about the island. This is a must-do adventure on Kauai!

8. Kauai Waterfall Triple Trail Expedition

Kipu Ranch Adventures, 235 Kipu Rd, Lihue, HI 96766, USA Kipu Ranch Adventures
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4.9 based on 14 reviews

Experience first-class tropical 4×4 off-road adventure aboard our “top shelf” Kawasaki TERYX KRX 1000, our well maintained Kawasaki TERYX4 , or our Kawasaki Mule Pro-FXT with room for the whole family. Our experienced guides will lead you through our expansive 3,000-acre trail system on a working cattle ranch, which is full of breathtaking scenery, blockbuster movie hits, cultural history, and Hawaiian legends. You will navigate your own vehicle throughout the different trails and obstacles to our private waterfall, bamboo jungles, and much more! All vehicle features and terrain obstacles are exciting enough to challenge and thrill beginners to intermediate levels of off-road enthusiasts. Spend a few hours with us and see why we’ve been recognized as “Best Tour Company in Hawaii” by USA Today.

Inclusions: Knowledgeable Guide, Safety helmets, goggles, and bandanas , Locally-made snack, Instruction & Practice

Exclusions: Guide Gratuity, We encourage our guests to bring a reusable water bottle. Water refill stations available at check-in.

Reviewed By Laura5421

Our entire family had a blast on our ATV excursion. It was exciting, beautiful, and informative. The property is absolutely amazing and the ATVs were super fun. We have some adrenaline junkies in our family and they had a great time too! Special shout-out to our guides, David and Mana, who were professional, incredibly fun, and gave us so much history about the island. This is a must-do adventure on Kauai!

9. Kauai Adventure Bundle: 4 Epic Audio Driving Tours

Lihue, HI 96766, USA Shaka Guide: Audio Tour Apps
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4.7 based on 66 reviews

Shaka Guide is an audio tour app that gives you the benefits of a guided tour with the freedom to explore on your own terms. This Kauai Adventure Tour Bundle comes with four socially-distanced audio driving tours: • Waimea and Na Pali Tour (6-8 hour tour) • Wailua Valley and Waterfalls Tour (6-8 hour tour) • Poipu and Koloa Tour (4-6 hours hour tour) • North Shore Kauai Tour (6-8 hour tour) The app uses GPS to give you turn-by-turn navigation to historic sites, popular attractions, world-class beaches and scenic hikes with stories about the places you’re visiting and music to entertain you along the way. All Shaka Guide Tours... • Never expire - take them multiple times or buy in advance • Work 100% offline - no data or wifi necessary • Let you take the tour when you want - download the tour and choose the day that works best for you *Please use the link in your confirmation email to download the app*

Inclusions: All 4 Shaka Guide audio driving tours for Kauai, Audio narration with stories and music , Turn-by-turn audio navigation using GPS, Freedom to explore at your own pace, Tour highlights with activity and restaurant recommendations, Offline map (map and GPS work completely offline -- no wifi or data needed), Tours NEVER expire

Exclusions: Parking fees, Attraction entrance fees, Car rental, Meals

Reviewed By chanyu1

This is a good and inexpensive way to do the Haleakala sunset tour with audio narrative of things to see along the way to the mountain top. Good value for the price. A quick tip: this app burns through your phone battery fast so having a car phone cable is a must or else your phone battery will run out of juice pretty quick...

10. Private Luxury Tour of Kauai: North & East Shores

Kauai Luxury Transportation & Tours
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4.7 based on 27 reviews

See the Best of Kauai's south and west shores on this private tour! You'll have the flexibility to customize your itinerary with the help of your friendly guide, who'll take you to picturesque beaches, waterfalls and wildlife reserves. Depending ont he size of your group and the availability, experience Kauai in our luxury sedans, SUVs or Mercedes Sprinters.

Inclusions: Private tour of Kauai, Knowledgeable local guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off

Exclusions: Lunch, Gratuities

Reviewed By IowaTraveler50021

We did a private tour today with our guide, Domi. It was a great way to not only see the island spots but also learn a ton about the history! It was a perfect way to spend a day. Domi adjusted quickly when not only rain changed our plans but also closures due to COVID-19. This is the way to see the island!

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