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Kauai, Hawaii Recommendations

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Kauai, the Garden Isle, is a lush paradise filled with breathtaking cliffs, serene beaches, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you're hiking along the Na Pali Coast, tasting local poke, or cruising the Wailua River, this guide covers my top picks ...
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Kauai Restaurants

From laid-back food trucks to scenic oceanfront dining, Kauai’s food scene is full of island flavor. These spots serve up fresh seafood, tropical treats, and local specialties you’ll want to try at least once.

 
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We loved the food and the sunset at this restaurant!
Beach House Restaurant Review: Is It Worth Visiting?
 
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Known for fresh sushi and seafood, with a charming riverside setting.
The Hanalei Dolphin Restaurant
 
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A Kauai favorite offering massive, flavorful servings of traditional Hawaiian shave ice.
JoJo's Shave Ice
 
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Iconic stand serving tropical fruit-infused hot dogs with Hawaiian mustards.
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs
 
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Romantic spot at the Grand Hyatt featuring island cuisine surrounded by koi ponds.
Tidepools
 
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Popular North Shore food truck with hearty plate lunches and great local vibes.
Wake Up Delicious (Home Of Trucking Delicious)
 
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Asian-American fusion spot famous for creative burgers, sushi, and laid-back vibes.
Kenji Burger Kapaa
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Casual outside restaurant in Kapaʻa offering flavorful Thai curries and Chinese classics.
COCONUT THAI & CHINESE CUISINE
 
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Historic Hanalei bar and restaurant featured in The Descendants, known for live music and mai tais.
Tahiti Nui
 
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Trendy coffee shop in Kapaʻa with great breakfast, fresh juices, and good vibes.
Java Kai
 
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Highly rated Kapaa restaurant known for locally sourced dishes and friendly service.
Hukilau Lanai
 
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Oceanfront restaurant in Lihue with a laid-back vibe, fresh fish, and famous Hula Pie dessert.
Duke's Kauai
 
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Upscale oceanfront dining in Poipu, perfect for sunset views and fresh seafood.
Beach House Restaurant - Kauai

Best Kauai Tours

Some of Kauai’s magic can only be seen by tour. These unforgettable guided experiences include air, land, and sea adventures that let you soak in all the island has to offer.

 
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One of our favorite tours on Kauai. An entertaining tour via safari truck will take place on a beautiful plantation with rum tastings.
Kauai Rum Safari Tour Review: Is it Worth it?
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Relaxing river cruise through lush jungle ending at a lava rock grotto.
Wailus River Kauai Fern Grotto Tours: What to Expect and Why It’s Worth It
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Walk through a real cacao farm, learn how chocolate is made, and enjoy tastings.
Kauai Chocolate Farm Tasting Tour
 
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Fly over dramatic landscapes including the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon.
Private Doors-Off Kauai Helicopter: Ultimate Waterfalls & Canyons
 
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Watch the sunset on a catamaran while cruising past stunning sea cliffs.
Na Pali Sunset & Sightseeing Boat Tour
 
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Thrilling rides over tropical canopies and old sugar plantation land.
Koloa Zipline in Kauai

Places to Visit on Kauai

These scenic and cultural spots are the heart of Kauai. Don’t miss the island’s most iconic locations—from canyons to botanical gardens.

 
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Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” it’s a must-see for hikers and photographers.
Waimea Canyon State Park
 
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Natural blowhole that shoots sea water high into the air with each incoming wave.
Spouting Horn Kauai
 
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A historic lighthouse perched above a rugged coastline, great for birdwatching.
Kīlauea Lighthouse
 
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A lush botanical garden showcasing native plants and traditional Hawaiian agriculture.
Limahuli Garden & Preserve, National Tropical Botanical Garden
 
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Tranquil temple grounds with 88 Buddhist shrines, reflecting deep cultural and spiritual roots in a beautiful valley setting.
Lawai International Center
 
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The largest coffee farm in the U.S., offering free tastings, self-guided tours, and a scenic stroll through the coffee fields.
Kauaʻi Coffee Company

Thinks to Do on Kauai

Whether you're into hiking, snorkeling, or soaking up the scenery, Kauai is packed with things to do that make every day an adventure.

 
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Experience Hawaiian culture through traditional music, hula dancing, and an island feast—Smith Family Luau and Luau Kalamaku are local favorites.
Luau Kalamaku on Kauai with Buffet Dinner and Show
 
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5 Luaus on Kauai, here is my review of them
5 Best Kauai Luaus: Which One is Worth It?
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One of the most scenic hikes in the world—do the first 2 miles to Hanakapiʻai Beach for a short adventure.
Hike Kalalau Trail
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Calm waters and colorful reefs make it one of the best snorkeling spots on the island.
Tunnels Beach Snorkeling: Best In Kauai, Hawaii
 
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Beautiful beach for hanging out, snorkeling and sea turtles and monk seals are known to hang out here late in the afternoon
See the turtles at Poipu Beach Park Kauai
 
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A natural lava rock tide pool (only safe to visit during very calm conditions).
Queen's Bath - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Reviews)
 
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Hiking, viewpoints, and birdwatching in a cool, forested mountain setting.
Visiting Kokeʻe State Park
 
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Family-friendly beach with protected swimming lagoons and picnic spots.
Relax at Lydgate Beach Park
 
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Stop by for a tasting. You won't regret it! Now open in downtown Kapaa: Monday-Friday, 10:00am-4:00pm.
Lydgate Farms Chocolate Tasting in Kapa'a showroom

Best Hotels on Kauai

These places offer comfort, views, and a great base for exploring. You'll find a mix of luxury resorts and more laid-back hideaways.

 
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Map of Kauai Accomadations so you can see relative prices and location
Kauai Hotels
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Luxury stay in Poipu with pools, oceanfront views, and top-tier service.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa, Koloa
 
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Centrally located hotel right on the beach, with easy access to the Wailua River and nearby parks.
Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay, HI, Kapaa
 
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Remote and peaceful getaway on the North Shore with no TVs and stunning views.
Hanalei Colony Resort, Hanalei
 
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Affordable oceanfront stay with modern tropical décor and a great sunrise view.
The ISO by Castle, Kapaa
 
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Sustainable luxury with wellness experiences and panoramic ocean views.
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, Princeville
 
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Chic boutique hotel steps from the beach, known for excellent service and cuisine.
Koa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach, Koloa