Your complete list of where to go, what to eat & what to pack for a vacation to Kauai!
Sections
3
Stay & Drive
See & Eat
Bring & Wear
Stay & Drive
VRBO is the BEST way to stay on the island comfortably and affordably! I recommend staying on the North Shore for a few days and in the Poipu area for a few days if you have the time!
Kauai Vacation Rentals, Hawaii: house rentals & more
We used Enterprise for our car rental and upgraded to a convertable! It is TOTALLY WORTH the upcharge! Driving the island with the top down was such a gorgeous experience!
Lihue Airport (LIH) Car Rental
If you prefer that resort life - this is a fabulous one!
Kauai Beachfront Resort Hotel | Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
Okay. So. This place is PRICEY but GORGEOUS. If you've got the money, stay a few nights here - it would be such a beautiful, once in a lifetime trip! However, if like most of us peasants it's not in your price range - stop at their restaurants for an...
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay: Luxury Resort & Spa on Kauai, Hawaii
Fly on a Tuesday or Thursday if you can for the lowest flights! And use Expedia's tracking option to make sure it's the best $$$.
Cheap Flights to Lihue Airport (LIH)
See & Eat
Such an incredible place! You can hike, or stop at lookouts along the road!
Waimea Canyon State Park
This is just a beyond breathtaking view. If you're adventurous - hike one of the trails! If you're more of a views-only person - do NOT SKIP Kalalalau lookout.
Kalalau Lookout
Captain Andy's is the best. If you're doing a snorkel or sailing tour - use them!
Capt Andy's
You simply cannot visit Kauai and not go snorkeling. The water and sea life is amazing!
THE BEST 10 Kauai Snorkeling in 2026 (w/Prices)
The coolest lighthouse and wildlife refuge - if you stop during Whale Watching season, you won't regret it!
Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge
Once in a lifetime experience! Pick a tour that fits your budget/tastes and see some whales!
THE TOP 10 Kauai Whale Watching Tours (w/Prices)
OBSESSED with this cofee shop/cafe
Java Kai Kapaa
Delicious food, incredible views
Nourish Hanalei
This is a fun little spot - especially if your'e travelling with kiddos!
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs
Fresh and delish! One of my favorites…
Kauaʻi Sushi Station
Go in the evening to see allll the turtles! Just be sure to maintain a safe distance!
Poipu Beach Park Kauai
Bring & Wear
These are always my top rec for any beach trip - packable, quick-drying, and beautiful towels.
Sand Cloud Towels
The pretties beach-vibe, saltwater safe jewelry!
Atolea Jewelry
Bring Sunscreen and make sure it's reef-safe!
Reef Safe Sunscreen - 8 Products
The perfect Hawaiian swimsuit from an amazing brand!
Nani Swimwear
Super cute swim options in so many styles!
Women's Swimwear & Bikinis
Don't sleep on Target's swimwear - you can find some great quality & flattering cuts for us normal people that don't drop $100 on every swimsuit we own!
Swimsuits & Bathing Suits for Women
The perfect travel lounge or coffee run set!
Nike Womens Matching Sets
Take at least one flowy sundress!
Sundresses : Women's Dresses
Stylish & high-quality, Ray-Ban sunglasses are a must!
Ray Ban Sunnies!
Sanuk sandals and flippies are the most comfortable you'll EVER wear! Plus, easy to pack in your suitcase.
Sanuk Sandals/Flip-Flops
If you're doing some hiking, Calia athletic wear is the perfect thing to pack! Watch Dick's sporting goods for sales and pick them up then!
CALIA Hiking Clothes
My favorite chunky summer sandals! Suprisingly comfy and super stylish.
Reef Sandals
A GoPro is a must if you're doing ANYTHING in the water. I've gotten such fabulous videos snorkeling - it's SO worth the price! I have a floating handle too, that is awesome.
GoPro Camera
Beis luggage is fantastic - I love having everything coordinated and aesthetic. The perfect sets to romanticize your long layovers lol
2 or 3 Piece Mix & Match Travel Luggage Bundle up to 20% Off! BÉIS
