Top Things to do in Kauai
What to do and see in Kauai, Hawaii (HI): The Best Tours
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. Waimea Canyon Downhill Bike Ride
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 53 reviews
We share some of the most intimate history and legends about Kaua'i in a personal way, stopping at the most iconic and secret lookouts covering three state parks, we venture in a bucket list type coasting downhill bike ride, we make it down to the breeze of the Pacific just on time to witnessing beautiful sunset over the forbidden island.
Inclusions: Use of bicycle, Safety equipment such as helmet and gloves, Local snacks, juice and bottle water
Exclusions: Rain jacket, camera, sunglasses, sunscreen,
Reviewed By healthda
Ernesto and Tom made sure we had a safe and memorable day in Waimea canyon.....the trip would be great for any age .. be prepared to laugh and learn about the island from really good people!! An exceptional experience at a very reasonable price!
2. Kauai's Ultimate Group Surf Lesson
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 5 reviews
Guaranteed small groups of 4 or less per instructor Only company at the "Odd" hours of the day (9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm) so you don't have to worry about lots of other people in your way Local Professional Surf Instructors. When not teaching you, you can find them in professional competitions all over the world! Year Round Waves...perfect for beginners
Inclusions: Surf Board, Rash Guard and Water Shoes
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By seanr635
Honestly, I never write these but felt compelled to this time because it was that awesome. If you're looking to learn to surf, make sure you book with these guys. Most importantly, make sure you request the instructor Kenui. He was my surf instructor and he truly made my trip. He was patient, kind, hilarious, and literally taught me how to surf in an hour and a half. He had a way of explaining things that clicked for me. When I was getting frustrated toward the first half of the lesson, he was able to get me back in the game so to speak. He has one of those personalities where I imagine he can vibe with all kinds of different people. But the best part was he's an excellent teacher and helped me understand the intricacies of surfing. I'm super grateful I randomly got him out of all the instructors. I felt compelled to share this with you all so you can experience it too. Aloha!
3. Da Westside Explorer Sightseeing Tour - 8 hrs.
Overall Ratings
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 Kauai Helicopter Tour with No Middle Seats
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 40 reviews
On this incredible tour of Kauai, you’ll experience views so beautiful they will take your breath away. Explore the stunning Manawaiopuna Falls, also known as “Jurassic Park” falls, wedged in between the emerald green mountain top of the Hanapepe Valley. Soar over the amazing views of the Olokele Canyon and majestic Waimea Canyon. Waimea canyon is also know as the the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” where you’ll catch sight of dozens of cascading waterfalls including the 2000-foot Waipo’o falls. Then on to the sacred Napali Coast with its 3500-foot seacliffs plummetting into the vast Pacific ocean. Along the Napali coast you will fly into the secret valleys of Nualolo and Kalalau valley with there amazing landscape. On to Kauai’s magical North Shore which reveals the sculpted green Hanalei Valley with more waterfalls than you can count. Last but not least the pilot will take you to the Wai'ale'ale crater with the "Wall of Tears" A dormant shield Volcano which receives 500" of rainfall.
Inclusions: Gopro Mounts for a fee, Lanyards for cell phones, Your tour includes a 10 minute pilot safety briefing.
Exclusions:
Reviewed By WorldTravelerCO
The day after our arrival in Kauai, we had the most amazing experience of our trip....a doors off helicopter tour of Kauai with Guy! Check in was easy with Ingrid, who made us feel very welcome and comfortable. Guy was friendly and professional, putting any fears at ease before we could even vocalize them. The photos we captured are incredible, Guy provided us with great history and information about the island and we felt very safe and comfortable on this exciting trip. Well worth it, highly recommend to anyone interested in really seeing Kauai!!
5. Kauai's Ultimate Guided Shore Snorkeling Adventure
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 31 reviews
ECO Friendly adventure with stunning marine life Intimate group sizes Opportunity to see famous Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles and other stunning marine life of Kauai
Inclusions: Use of Snorkelling equipment, Snacks, Bottled water
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By iastnala
While many boat tours in this area are sight-seeing tours with some snorkeling sprinkled in, this tour prioritizes the snorkeling. My goal of the trip was to see green turtles in the water, and our guides Josh and Raine definitely delivered! Along the way to the two snorkeling sites, Josh and Raine taught us about the surrounding area including the geology of the lava formations and blowholes as well as the history of the beaches. Once we reached the first site, we were greeted by several turtles on the surface of the water. Once we got in, so many more were seen popping their heads up to get a breather.
6. Kauai Explorer Helicopter Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 25 reviews
Soar over Kauai's breathtaking coastline in a luxurious EC130 state-of-the-art helicopter. A truly unforgettable experience of a lifetime!
Inclusions: Helicopter Tour
Exclusions: Gratuities, Round-trip Transportation
Reviewed By Voxsentia
We had a great time doing the helicopter tour. We initially booked the 20 min ride as we just wanted to see Napali Coast. Well, we were upgraded to 50 mins to fill up seats. There needs to be 7 passengers. We were a little nervous and almost cancelled because there was a helicopter crash the day before for the same tour (different company), but we decided to go anyway. I’m glad we did because it was an experience of a lifetime. It was sooo beautiful. But RIP to those tourists. They were having a good time like us and got so unlucky. That tour company never had an accident in their 30 years of operation. You just get unlucky. The day before right around the time they crashed, the weather turned for the worst and started raining and clouds making poor visibility. Not to mention the wind factor. However, I loved Kauai and this was my favorite thing I did, along with seeing Waimea Canyon from lookouts. Enjoy life because you never know when it’s your time to go.
7. Private Waimea Canyon Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 73 reviews
On your private tour of Kauai, you'll see the magnificent Waimea Canyon and places the big bus tours can't take you to. You'll enjoy great photo ops of Waipo'o Falls, admire a beautiful vista at Kalalau Lookout and visit the Poipu Beach resort area to see the Spouting Horn, sea turtles and perhaps a Hawaiian Monk seal! With a knowledgeable guide, you'll also visit attractions like the spectacular Wailua Falls, the Menehune Fishpond, the Kauai Coffee Company and the Captain Cook monument. Hotel pick-up from the Poipu, Lihue and Kapaa resorts. * Price displayed is based on a party of four to six passengers
Inclusions: Transport by private vehicle, Private guide, Bottled water and juice, Hotel pickup and drop-off (Poipu, Lihue, Kapaa, Wailua), Nawiliwili Harbor pickup and drop-off, Lihue airport pickup and drop-off
Exclusions: Lunch at own expense, Gratuities, Hotel pickup from Princeville/North Shore Excluded (Meet in Lihue)
Reviewed By Outback_Dave
This was a wonderful all-day trip up the east and north sides of Kauai. John is a very knowledgeable guide and knows all the ins and outs of the island. It was a relaxing and enjoyable trip from start to finish! Nice lunch break of our choice in Hanalei. We’ve also done the west side Waimea trip, and although quite different, equally enjoyable. Do both trips if you can. It’s well worth it!
8. Koloa Zipline
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 1,314 reviews
Travel some of the longest lines on Kauai. Try the Flyin' Kauai'ian harness that allows you to fly hands free like your favorite superhero. Zip above the beautiful Waita reservoir and through native forests. Learn zipline aerobatics like the Starfish, Upside Down, and the Piggyback. Tandem zip for kids! Handle bars make the epic scenery easy to view and capture on film for years of family enjoyment. Check in is 15 minutes prior to tour time.
Inclusions: Snacks
Exclusions:
Reviewed By Bjwicker
First time zip lining and had a blast! Wonderful guides that made it safe and fun. Would go again next time I’m visiting.
9. Na Pali Coast Kauai Snorkel and Sail
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 102 reviews
Sail the majestic Na Pali Coast and witness its beauty with 4,000-foot cliffs, cascading waterfalls, sea caves, secluded beaches, dolphins, turtles and breathtaking scenery. You will see why the Na Pali Coast is known as the jewel of Hawaii and the 8th natural wonder of the world. Feel the wind in your sails as our crew entertain your imagination with Hawaiian legends and history. Nobody sails more and its not uncommon to reach speeds of 20 knots or more. Snorkel along the coast of Kauai. All gear, food and beverages are included.
Inclusions: See the Napali Coast, amazing marine life, and more!, Continental breakfast and gourmet deli lunch, Soft drinks and water; wine and beer served after snorkeling, All snorkeling equipment and instruction is included, The chance to see humpback whales (in season)
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By R T
It's quite a trek to get to the Na'pali coast from the dock where the trip starts, so they have to go at a pretty fast pace. Unfortunately, anyone that has even a hint of motion sickness will most likely get sea sick in such a situation. That was the case with my gf. The crew did a good job aiding her and the views were spectacular as you'd expect. Just be sure everyone in your party can handle the trip :)
10. Skip the Line: Princeville Botanical Gardens Tour and Chocolate Tasting Ticket
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 90 reviews
This 3-hour walking tour covers every corner of Princeville Botanical Gardens and includes a 50 minute gourmet chocolate tasting from around the world. You'll see & learn about the cacao tree and how chocolate is processed and sample our own delicious chocolate. Your friendly guide will share stories of the gardens' development and a wealth of fascinating information about the plants. You'll taste seasonal fruit samples and homemade honey to keep your energy up as you explore our valleys. This is a chocolate and garden experience unlike any other on Kauai. PLEASE NOTE: During the Covid-19 Pandemic, our tours are limited to 9 guests. All guests will be required to wear a mask and upon arrival will have their temperatures taken. Mahalo nui loa for your understanding.
Inclusions: Tour escort/host, Fruit samples, Gourmet chocolate tasting, Snacks
Exclusions: Gratuities, Insect repellant is available for purchase, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transportation to/from attractions
Reviewed By rowlittle
It was nice to learned about the trees and plants what we can benefit from them. Sarah was a wonderful tour guide. Was very knowledgeable. My favorite part when we had to taste the different kind of chocolate ????.
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