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Kauai

Kauai Travel Guide

Kauai is a Hawaiian Island in the Pacific Ocean famed for its dramatic Nāpali coastline. Lush tropical rainforest covers much of the Island’s surface, which is why it’s nicknamed the Garden Isle.

Kauai’s pristine and diverse landscapes will captivate you at every turn. From red-rock canyons and eerie swamps to secret waterfalls and sandy beaches, this perfect oasis has it all.

There are infinite ways to explore the island. You can hike, kayak, sail, surf, ride in a helicopter, snorkel and so much more.

But, your adventure doesn’t have to be full of heart-pumping activities. There’s no better place in this world to unwind and slow down.

We’re here to tell you island time is real. It might take you a day or two to adjust to the slow pace and the maximum speed limit of 50 MPH, but you’ll grow to love it.

Here’s another reason to fall in love with Kauai. Unlike the other Hawaiian Islands, Kauai has a thriving bird population. Because there’s no natural predator, roosters and hens are everywhere (literally everywhere).

You’ll see them on the beach and along the street. When you don’t see them, you’ll certainly hear them, as they generously provide a kauai-wide wake-up service. 

We can’t wait to return to this paradise in the Pacific. For now, we’ll just have to daydream about the ono burritos at Kilauea Fish Market, the shave ice, and the hiking trails. 


When to visit Kauai

Kauai has two main peak seasons: (1) mid-December through Easter and (2) mid-June to Labor Day (early September).

To save money on accommodations and avoid the crowds, come in the spring (mid-April to mid-June) or in the early Fall (September – November).

We arrived in Kauai on Labor Day and stayed for 9 days. Early September proved to be perfect. The weather was warm, but not too hot. And, it wasn’t too crowded.

 
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Kauai, Hawaii Travel Guide

Kauai Travel Guide Overview

  • What to Experience in Kauai
  • What to Eat & Drink in Kauai
  • Where to Eat & Drink in Kauai 
  • 9 Day Itinerary
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Queen's Bath in Kauai

What to Experience in Kauai

Our favorite things to see and do
Hiking across the Alaka'i Swamp in Kauai
Alaka'i Swamp

Hiking the Pihea Trail to Alaka’i Swamp

If there’s one hike you do in Kauai, this should be it. The scenery changes dramatically throughout the hike, providing visual excitement at every turn.

The Pihea Trail begins at Pu’u O Kila Lookout with views of the legendary Kalalau Valley and Na Pali Coast.

The trail winds through a tropical mossy paradise before reaching the eerie Alaka’i Swamp, which happens to be the highest elevation swamp in the world.

Hiking through the swamp on an old wooden boardwalk is something you won’t easily forget. By the time, we reached the final lookout, the trail and the views were shrouded in a heavy layer of fog. Regardless, the hike was absolutely worth it.

After the 6 hour hike, we headed to Koke’e Lodge, located next to the Park Museum, for some delicious coffee.

The starting point of the hike is located deep in Koke’e Park, which is 40 minutes from Waimea. We were able to get an early start, because we stayed at the duplex cabins located within the Park.

These cabins are modest, but perfectly situated, if your aim is to actively explore the next day. 

Look for accommodation in Waimea.

 
Queen's Bath, Kauai
Queen's Bath

Queen’s Bath

Queen’s Bath is a swimmable tidal pool in Princeville, Kauai. The mermaid-like pool set in black lava is a magical place. Sea turtles swim just beyond the sea cliffs and tiny colorful fish swim in the pool. 

When we visited, the conditions were safe and ideal. Warning: please use extreme caution when coming here. There have been many drownings and fatalities at this spot.

To reach the bath, you’ll need to hike down from the parking area (only 10 spots). Definitely wear supportive shoes. It takes 15-20 minutes to get to Queen’s Bath. 

Look for accommodation in Princeville.

 
Canyon Trail, Waimea Canyon State Park, Kauai
Canyon Trail

Waimea Canyon

Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, the 3,000 feet deep Waimea Canyon is an absolute must-see. The copper and mauve colored landscape is an utter contrast to Kauai’s celebrated tropical green scenery.

To get to the canyon, take the Waimea Canyon Drive and Kokee Road (550) north from Waimea town. After about 30 minutes, there’s an official lookout. 

Another way to enjoy the Canyon is to hike. We hiked the Cliff Trail to the Canyon Trail to see more of the canyon.

Look for accommodation near Waimea Canyon.

 
Hanakapi'ai Beach, Kauai
Hanakapi'ai Beach

Hiking the Kalalau Trail

The Kalalau Trail is a breathtaking and challenging trail in the Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park. The hike begins at Ke’e Beach.

For day hikers, the trail leads you to Hanakapi’ai Beach and then to the Hanakapi’ai Falls. When we hiked in early September, the air smelled of passion fruit. We picked up several pieces of the fallen fruit and devoured them.

This 8 mile-hike (round-trip) can be quite slippery, because of frequent rainfall. After several river crossings, you’ll reach the waterfall. Taking a dip in the pool is a requirement.

We hiked in hiking boots. However, we saw a lot of people wearing waterproof closed-toe hiking sandals (Keen).

We’d recommend wearing the waterproof hiking sandals, because it’ll make the river crossings much easier, since you can just walk through the river, instead of jumping from rock to rock.

For those that want to do an overnight hike to Kalalau Beach, you must have an overnight camping permit. Permits usually sell out 6 months to one year ahead.

 
Secret Beach in Kauai
Secret Beach (Secrets)

Secret Beach (Kauapea Beach)

If you’re coming to Kauai, then the first stop you’ll likely want to make is a beach. Secret Beach (aka Secrets) located on Kauai’s Northern Shore is a perfect place to sink your feet into the sand and take a stroll along the shore.

It’s not a good spot for swimming or snorkeling. The 10-minute hike down to the beach is steep and slippery, so please wear supportive shoes.

The trail isn’t marked. To get to the beach, turn on Kalihiwai Road from Kuhio Highway. When you turn onto Kalihiwai Road, take the first dirt road on the right-hand side.

You can park where the road dead ends. The trail leads down from the parking lot. If you enter “Secret Beach” into Google Maps, you’ll go to the wrong place.

 
Na 'Aina Kai Botanical Garden, Kauai
Na 'Aina Kai Botanical Garden

Na ‘Aina Kai Botanical Garden

This Botanical Garden located in Kilauea was the retirement passion project of Joyce and Ed Doty. They began working on their vision in the 70s. Decade after decade, they invested time and love into their garden and home.

By 2000, they donated all their acreage, buildings and sculptures to a newly formed nonprofit foundation. Today, the garden and sculpture park is open to the public via guided tours.

If you love plants, and want a deeper understanding of Kauai’s ecology and history, definitely sign up for a tour. You’ll learn about the Noni fruit, which has medicinal qualities used to soothe aches and help with sunburns and bug bites.

Call ahead to make a tour reservation, as the tours are only done in small groups and often sell out. Visitor & Tour Info

 
Na Pali Coast, Kauai
Na Pali Coast

Na Pali Coast Boat Tour

There are many boat tours to choose from, which can be a bit daunting. We opted for a Napali Coast Snorkel and Rafting Adventure (5 hrs total), departing from Kekaha.

We saw dolphins and went through sea caves, before arriving at the magnificent Na Pali Coast.

Tips for selecting a tour:

  • If you want to see dolphins, opt for a morning tour.
  • Only choose a raft tour, if you’re neck & back are in good condition. It’s a bumpy ride.
  • The main reason to choose a raft tour is to see the interior of coastal sea caves.
 
Kalalau Trail, Kauai Coast

What to Eat & Drink in Kauai

Poi – This is a Hawaiian staple made from fermented taro root, which has been baked and pounded into a paste. We tried it, but didn’t love it.

 

Laulau – Tradition dish of juicy pork wrapped in a taro leaf and cooked in a underground oven. It’s served with a plate of either white rice, mac salad, or rice noodles.

 

Poke – raw fish marinated in soy and tossed with onion, seaweed, avocado, and/or tobiko. Usually it’s served over white rice. This was our favorite thing to eat in Kauai.

 

Saimin Soup – this is a clear-broth soup filled with noodles, vegetables, meat, fish cake, and a boiled egg. Somewhat similar to Japanese Ramen. We didn’t get a chance to try it, but will make a point of it during our next visit.

 
The Fresh Shave, Kauai

Where to Eat & Drink in Kauai

Only the places we love

Kilauea Fish Market [Eatery] 

We loved this place so much!!! You’ll have to wait a while for your food, but it’s worth it,  promise! Try the Ono Burrito or the Ahi Wrap. Make sure you go the the Fish Market in Kilauea. There’s also one in Kapaa, but from our experience, it wasn’t as good.

Address: 4270 Kilauea Rd, Ste F, Kilauea [North Shore]

Banana Joe’s [Fruit Stand]

Stop by this yellow fruit stand for a delicious tropical smoothie or a banana-pineapple frosty.

Address: 5-2719 Kuhio Hwy, Kilauea [North Shore]

Dolphin Sushi [Sushi Restaurant]

This restaurant in Hanalei serves excellent poke bowls and sushi. There’s also a fresh fish market connected to the restaurant. 

AddressHanalei Dolphin Center 5-5016 Kuhio Highway, Hanalei [North Shore]

Hanalei Taro & Juice Company  [Food Truck]

This food truck is normally stationed in Hanalei between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. They serve various local taro products and traditional Hawaiian foods such as laulau, kalua pig, poi, lomi salmon, and kulolo. We had the Taro hummus and loved it! 

Address: 5-5070A Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei [North Shore]

Tahiti Nui [Restaurant & Bar]

Come here for their Mai Tai. It’s also a great spot to hear local live music. 

Address: 5-5134 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei [North Shore]

Java Kai [Café]

This extraordinary café in Old Kapaa Town makes the best coffee and breakfast on the Island. We wish it was a local train, so we could have eaten here everyday. Their motto is Drink Coffee or Die. 

Address: 4-1384 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa [East Side]

Caffe Coco [Restaurant]

This restaurant with garden-seating is a great choice for a romantic evening. Their menu features delicious vegan desserts using local ingredients.

Address: 4-369 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa [East Side]

Kalapaki Beach Hut [Eatery]

This casual burger joint at Kalapaki Beach serves 100% grass-fed beef burgers.

Address: 3474 Rice St, Lihue [East Side]

Shrimp Station in Waimea [Eatery]

Sautéed or Fried, Thai or Cajun, the choice is up to you. This modest roadside eatery serve shrimp with pride.

Address: 9652 Kaumualii Hwy, Waimea [West Side]

Island Taco in Waimea [Taqueria]

DON’T MISS THIS SPOT! They serve tacos that will change your life. Our only regret is not ordering more.

Address: 9643 Kaumualii Hwy, Waimea [West Side]

Makai Sushi in Koloa [Eatery]

This humble sushi spot is located inside a grocery store. We came here twice for their ahi poke bowl. Every meal is prepared freshly. This is probably the best kept epicurean secret in Kauai.

Address: 2827 Poipu Rd, Koloa [South Shore]

The Fresh Shave [Food Truck]

This “food trailer” serves the healthiest and most delicious shave ice on the Island. Check their website for their location & hours, as it varies. They’re closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Address: 3540 Koloa Rd, Kalaheo, HI 96741 (Warehouse 3540 in Lawai) [South Shore]

 
Kalalau Trail, Kauai Coast

9 Day Kauai Itinerary

These are the activities we did from Day 1 (arrival day) to Day 9 (departure day). We don’t recommend planning a strict itinerary. But, if you’re interested in exploring the whole island, consider booking your accommodation in at least two parts of the island (North and South).

 

Days 1- 4: North Shore

  • Secret Beach (Secrets) 
  • Na ‘Aina Kai Botanical Garden – Guided tour
  • Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge & Lighthouse – Bird watching. You can see red-footed booby, laysan albatross, and wedge-tailed shearwater birds flying and feeding along the cliffs.
  • Ke’e Beach – Swimming and drinking fresh coconuts
  • Hike to Hanakapi’ai Falls – Kalalau Trail
  • Hanalei Bay – Watching the sunset at the beach and stand-up paddleboarding on Hanalei River

 

Days 5-7: West Side & South Shore

  • Hanapepe Art Night – Hanapepe celebrates its art and food culture during a weekly street festival that happens every Friday evening. Stores and galleries stay open all night, and there are so many goodies to try: artisan popsicles, homemade ginger beer, BBQ, poke bowls, and the list goes on. 
  • Waimea Canyon – drive to lookout and canyon trail
  • Koke’e State Park – Pihea Trail to Alaka’i Swamp
  • Na Pali Coast Boat Tour – we departed from Kekaha
  • Surf Lesson at Poipu
  • Shipwrecks Beach – swimming and watching the sunset
  • Kauai Coffee Company in Kalaheo – guided tour and coffee tasting

 

Days 8-9: East Side (Coconut Coast)

  • Kauai Hindu Monastery
  • Kalapaki Beach – swimming
 
Travel Resources
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  • What a trip to Kotor, Montenegro, looks like. 🇲🇪😄📷
👉Follow @moonhoneytravelers for more travel tips.
#montenegro #montenegro🇲🇪 #montenegrotravel #montenegrotrip #visitkotor #oldtownofkotor #kotormontenegro #bayofkotor #bokabay #kotorbay #kotoroldtown #kotortravel #balkans #balkanstravel #europetraveldestinations #europetravel #europetrip
  • Our favorite places eat and drink in Kotor, Montenegro:
1. Boutique Hotel Hippocampus for a slow and delicious Montenegrin breakfast @hippocampushotel
2. Restaurant Galion for fish @galion_restaurant
3. Platanus Kotor for their “Montenegro platter” with Njeguški pršut (dry-cured ham) and Njeguški sir (cheese from Njeguši) @platanus_kotor
4. Moritz Eis for their gelato @moritzeis
5. The Nitrox Pub & Eatery for craft beer @nitroxpub
6. BBQ Tanjga in Kotor for kebab skewers, grilled meats and vegetables @bbq_tanjga
7. Little Bay for their salads @little_bay_restaurant
8.Pekaras AS near the River Gate for their Börek
9. “Ladovina" Kitchen & Wine Bar for their wines @kotorskaladovina
🇲🇪 Save this post for future reference. 
#kotor #kotormontenegro #bayofkotor #kotortravel #kotortravelguide #kotorrestaurants #kotoreatanddrink #kotorfoodandwine #bokabay #kotorvisit #kotoroldtown #visitkotor #visitmontenegro #montenegrotravel
  • Best hikes in Kotor, Montenegro 🇲🇪 
1. Vrmac Ridge Trail
2. Ladder of Kotor
3. Pestingrad Peak
4. Kotor Fortress (Kotor City Walls)
👉Follow @moonhoneytravelers for more hiking tips.
#montenegro #kotor #kotorbay #bokabay #bayofkotor #dinaricalps #montenegrohiking #montenegrotravel #kotorhiking #kotorhikingtrail #kotorfortress #travel #hiking #europetravel #europedestinations #hikingmontenegro #adriaticsea
  • The most popular thing to do in Kotor is hike up to the Kotor Fortress.
The Kotor Fortress stands on the San Giovanni Hill (St. John Hill) at 260 meters above sea level, overlooking the Old Town of Kotor and the Bay of Kotor.
The Kotor Fortress is part of a medieval fortification system that encircles the Old Town as well as the adjacent hillside. These fortifications consist of gates, bastions, towers, and defensive walls (ramparts). 
It takes 45 minutes - 1 hour to hike up the 1350 steps to the fortress (aka St. John’s Fortress / San Giovanni Fortress).
There are two entry points within the Old Town of Kotor. The easiest one to find is close to the River Gate/North Gate. 
Entrance Fee: 8 EUR
#kotor #kotormontenegro #montenegro🇲🇪 #bayofkotor #bokabay #montenegrotravel #montenegrotrip #kotortravel #visitkotor #kotorfortress #kotorcitywalls #afarmag #tlpicks
  • Pestingrad summit view of the Bay of Kotor and Vrmac in Montenegro 🇲🇪
@moonhoneytravelers 
Trailhead: Etno Selo Sveti Georgije, Krstac 
Distance: 5.7 km out-and-back
Time Needed: 2:30 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 243 meters
Difficulty: Difficult
Minimum Elevation: 927 meters
Maximum Elevation: 1027 meters
#montenegro🇲🇪 #montenegro #visitmontenegro #montenegrotravel #montenegrotrip #visitkotor #kotorbay #kotor #bokabay #dinaricalps #pestingrad #montenegrohiking #kotorhiking #kotorhike #bayofkotor #hikingblog #hikingblogger
  • Five years ago, we traveled to Montenegro for the very first time. We rented a car and spent two weeks hiking in the mountains and exploring the coast. 
To date, it was one of the best and most seamless trips we’ve ever taken. Ever since, we’ve been longing to return to Crna Gora and specifically Kotor Bay. 
This May, we finally returned to Kotor. We spent 5 nights in Kotor and 2 nights in Perast. It was slow, unhurried trip, which made us fall in love with Montenegro all over again.
In the next days, I’ll be sharing our favorite hikes, restaurants, and experiences. 
I’ll also update our 2 week road trip itinerary with new tips and insights.
The biggest disappointment of the trip was Budva. In the last years, huge tasteless developments have mushroomed all around the coastal town. According to our Kotor walking tour guide, the former Mayor of Budva (now in jail) illegally distributed permits to Russian developers. It’s atrocious! 
The Budva Riviera is still beautiful south of Budva’s immediate vicinity.
#montenegro🇲🇪 #montenegro #visitmontenegro #montenegrotravel #montenegrotrip #visitkotor #kotorbay #kotor #bokabay #dinaricalps #vrmac #tlpicks #afarmag