Why Go to Kaua'i
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Kauai is Hawaii at its most natural. The oldest of the main Hawaiian islands is famous for stunning sunsets, quiet beaches and dramatic green landscapes, and it wins visitors over without high-rises or flashy tourist traps. By law, buildings can be no taller than a coconut tree, and with only a couple of main highways, much of the island is still wild.
Kauai is made for nature lovers. See the towering, jagged cliffs of the Na Pali Coast by boat, helicopter or, for experienced hikers, on foot along the Kalalau Trail. Drive up to Waimea Canyon, nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Kayak the Wailua River to a hidden waterfall, relax on the golden sand of Poipu Beach, and explore the lush north shore around Hanalei. Bring good hiking shoes, a rain jacket and a sense of adventure.
Kauai can be pricey, especially in peak winter season, so timing your trip for the shoulder seasons can help. I'll match you with the right side of the island, find the best value and plan your Na Pali and canyon adventures.
BEST FOR
Hikers, nature lovers, couples and scenic-coast travelers
BEST MONTHS
April–May and September–October for a balance of weather and crowds; ocean safety varies by coast and season
EXPLORE
Līhuʻe is the main airport gateway; Poʻipū has sunny south-shore resorts; Hanalei anchors the North Shore, and Waimea Canyon lies inland to the west.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Kaua'i
Oceania › Hawaii › USA
Emerald valleys, dramatic cliffs and Hawaii’s Garden Isle
National Parks & Nature
Hiking
Canyon
Gardens
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Split the trip between a North Shore day and a Waimea/West Side day; check Hawaiʻi DLNR park notices before committing to a hike, particularly after major storms.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Choose a departure coast and time based on seasonal sea conditions; boat trips can be rough or canceled.
Nāpali Coast
The spectacular coastline is best appreciated from a boat tour or permitted aerial excursion, with sheer ridges and remote valleys impossible to see from a roadside pullout.
Consult current DLNR notices before driving west; not every viewpoint or approach road will be open.
Waimea Canyon Lookout
A sweeping overlook into the red-and-green canyon offers a striking contrast to Kauaʻi’s tropical shoreline. Road and lookout access may be restricted after storms.
Summer often brings calmer conditions, while winter can have powerful swells; obey lifeguard warnings.
Hanalei Bay
The broad crescent bay is a North Shore landmark with mountain views, a village nearby and beach scenery that changes dramatically with the surf.
Use designated swimming areas and keep well away from resting turtles or monk seals.
Poʻipū Beach Park
This South Shore beach is popular for its accessible setting, shoreline views and opportunities to spot marine wildlife from a respectful distance.
Choose a licensed guided outing if unfamiliar with conditions; verify which landing sites are accessible.
Wailua River
The navigable river winds through a lush East Side landscape, and guided paddling or river outings reveal a quieter perspective on the island.
A sprawling oceanfront resort with gardens, pools, dining and spa facilities. A strong fit for travelers who want full-service amenities in sunny Poipu.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
Poipu / South Shore
Hotel Tags
A luxury wellness-focused stay overlooking Hanalei Bay and lush coastal mountains. Ideal for those prioritizing dramatic views and a quieter North Shore atmosphere.
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
Princeville / North Shore
Hotel Tags
An intimate beachfront resort with refined rooms and a peaceful atmosphere, especially appealing to couples who want to be close to Poipu’s beaches and dining.
Koʻa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach
Poipu / South Shore
Hotel Tags
Spacious studios and villas complement extensive resort pools and family-friendly amenities, making this an appealing choice for longer Kauai stays.
Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection
Poipu / South Shore
Hotel Tags
A landscaped beachfront resort convenient to Lihue and the airport, suited to visitors seeking an easy arrival and a central base for island exploration.
OUTRIGGER Kauaʻi Beach Resort & Spa
Lihue / East Shore
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Kaua'i
High 81°F · Low 71°F · Rain 4.8 in
Seasonal weather transitions vary across the region; review local forecasts. For a destination-specific November plan, consider Hanalei Bay.
April–May and September–October for a balance of weather and crowds; ocean safety varies by coast and season. Check the local forecast and individual attraction operations before travel.
Best Times to Visit Kaua'i
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Try fresh island fish, plate lunches and locally grown produce in Kapaʻa, Hanalei and Kōloa. Food trucks are useful for casual lunches; reserve destination restaurants in advance and check early closing times in smaller communities.
06
Road and Weather Limits
Not all Kauaʻi coasts connect by road. Heavy rain may cause flooding and closures; plan to return using established highways.
05
Tours and Boat Trips
Nā Pali Coast boat trips and helicopter excursions are weather-sensitive. Use properly licensed operators and review safety policies.
04
North Shore Access
Access toward Hāʻena State Park can require advance parking or shuttle reservations. Verify current permits before departure.
03
Rental Cars
A rental car is useful for reaching beaches, gardens and viewpoints beyond resort areas. Book early and confirm local parking rules.
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Local Travel Strategy
Split the trip between a North Shore day and a Waimea/West Side day; check Hawaiʻi DLNR park notices before committing to a hike, particularly after major storms.
01
Arriving and Getting Around
Fly into Līhuʻe Airport (LIH), then rent a car for island-wide sightseeing. Allow generous drive time, especially near Hanalei and along the two-lane coastal roads; the island has no complete ring road.
Fly into Līhuʻe Airport (LIH), then rent a car for island-wide sightseeing. Allow generous drive time, especially near Hanalei and along the two-lane coastal roads; the island has no complete ring road.
Getting Around Kaua'i
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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