TOP 10 THINGS TO DO ON KAUAI

Kauai is the oldest of the Hawaiian islands and is blessed with natural beauty. From waterfalls, to hiking, or long stretches of beaches for surfing, the island brings incredible views. It is the perfect getaway for those who enjoy the great outdoors away from the hustle and bustle.

Here are my top 10 things to do on Kauai

Skydive Kauai

If you are a first-time skydiver, I could not recommend skydiving in Kauai enough. A friend and I booked reservations through Skydive Kauai. The staff was amazing and the entire process was quick and easy. The experience begins with a 20-25 minute plane ride to 10,000 feet with the best views of the island, followed by an exhilarating free-fall over Kauai’s breathtaking coastline. This was an experience that I will never forget!

Wailua Falls

Located near Lihue, Wailua Falls is a two-tiered waterfall that cascades down for at least 80 feet. The waterfall was featured in the TV series Fantasy Island. This beautiful double waterfall is easily accessible where visitors can just drive up and park and if you're lucky, often features a rainbow.

Waimea Canyon State Park

Waimea Canyon is often referred to as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific and should be included on any visitors Kauai itinerary. This massive canyon measures 14 miles across and approximately 3,600 feet deep with spectacular views of red cliff sides, crested buttes and even waterfalls. There are multiple lookout points situated along Koke'e Road, including the popular Waimea Canyon and Puu Hinahina lookout points. However, if you have time make sure to drive to Koke'e State Park and check out the Kalalau Looking and/or the Pu'u o Kila Lookout for stunning views of the Na Pali cliffs.

Queens Bath

Queens Bath is one of the island's favorite attractions. To get to the tide pool, one must take a 10 minute hike past a waterfall that leads down to a rocky landscape of lava rock. It will take about another 5 minutes to trek over uneven rocks to the bath. Queens Bath is approximately the size of a large swimming pool that is even filled with some fish. Water spills over the lava rocks to refresh the pool. Check the surf report before visiting the area because it can be highly unsafe and deaths have occurred.

Kauai Humane Society

This Kauai activity is hard to pass up for any dog lover. The Kauai Humane Society offers an amazing program where you can pick up a local shelter dog and take him or her out on a field trip for the day. Staff suggests for you different activities for the day as well as supplies a backpack with different items for your furry friend. I was matched with Pressley and took her out for a fun day exploring the island. We started our day by going to the local Starbucks to pick up a pup-up then headed out to Moalepe/Kuilau Trail. We ended our day with a nice nap by the beach listening to the waves.

Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail

The Maha'ulepu Heritage trail is a beautiful and easy coastal trail with amazing views of the ocean, red cliffs, green mountains and sometimes even whales. The hike starts at Shipwreck Beach in Poipu and visitors may walk as far as they want before turning back.

Na Pali Coast Boat Tour

Another great way to see the Na Pali Coast is by boat. It is a much better bang for your buck than the helicopter tour. There are tons of options on the island from rafts, catamarans, sailboats and kayaks. The best time to do a boat tour is during the summer months (April to October). However, the ocean is unpredictable and nothing is guaranteed. A friend and I booked an afternoon tour and it was cancelled. However, morning reservations are typically better due to the ocean being more calm.

Helicopter Tour

Taking a helicopter tour is a must-do while visiting the island. I ended up booking a tour with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters. The company serves all four of the major Hawaiian islands. If I were to do a tour again I would go with the doors-off option. However, being able to view the island by air shows you how diverse and beautiful the island truly is. You will fly over waterfalls, beaches, red and green canyons as well as weave in and out of the inlets of the Na Pali Coast. It’s not a cheap experience, but it’s worth saving up for.

Kalalau Trail

The Kalalau Trail is an 11 mile hike that links the beaches of Ke'e Beach and Kalalau beach along the Na Pali Coast. If you try to complete the entire hike, you will want to have camping gear as well as a permit. Plan between 2 to 3 days by walking. You must secure a permit for camping while on the Kalalau Trail. You are not allowed to hike to Kalalau Beach or camp on the trail without a permit, so it is essential.

Snorkel at Tunnels Beach

Tunnels Beach, also known as Makua Beach is located on the north coast of Kauai and is one of the best snorkeling spots on the island. The beach has shallow areas that are protected by a coral quarry and reefs that open onto the ocean. Visitors can explore a wide variety of environments: medley of fish, green turtles and if you're lucky an encounter with a Hawaiian monk seal.