Kauai 5 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and South Shore Highlights
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| Morning | Arrive in Kauai and check into your hotel. Begin your journey with a scenic drive along the south shore. |
| Lunch | Duke's Kauai Enjoy beachfront dining with island-inspired dishes and refreshing tropical drinks. |
| Afternoon | • Visit Spouting Horn Park to witness the iconic blowhole and take in the ocean views. • Relax and swim at Poipu Beach, a family-friendly spot known for calm waters and marine life. |
| Dinner | Keoki's Paradise Experience fresh seafood in a lush, tropical garden setting with live music. |
Day 2: Waimea Canyon and West Side Exploration
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| Morning | Explore the breathtaking Waimea Canyon Lookout, often called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." |
| Lunch | Wrangler's Steakhouse Refuel with hearty local favorites in a rustic, Western-style setting. |
| Afternoon | Visit Polihale State Park for a remote and tranquil beach experience surrounded by dramatic cliffs and golden sands. |
| Dinner | Return to Poipu and enjoy a casual evening at Kalapaki Joe's with great happy hour deals. |
Day 3: North Shore Adventures
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| Morning | • Stop at the Hanalei Valley Lookout for stunning views of taro fields and lush greenery. • Continue to Kalapaki Beach for a refreshing swim or paddleboarding. |
| Lunch | The Hanalei Dolphin Restaurant Dine riverside with fresh seafood and sushi options. |
| Afternoon | Relax at the serene Ninini Point Lighthouse, offering panoramic coastal views. |
| Dinner | Tahiti Nui Wrap up the day with tropical cocktails, live music, and authentic Hawaiian cuisine. |
Day 4: East Side Highlights and Nature Walks
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| Morning | Hike the Sleeping Giant Trailhead for breathtaking views of Kauai's coastline and lush valleys. |
| Lunch | Mark's Place Enjoy generous plate lunches featuring local flavors. |
| Afternoon | Visit Lydgate Beach Park for calm waters, perfect for snorkeling or a family-friendly swim. |
| Dinner | The Plantation House by Gaylord's End the day with a farm-to-table dining experience in a historic plantation setting. |
Day 5: Waterfalls and Departure
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| Morning | Stop by Wailua Falls to admire one of Kauai's most iconic double-tiered waterfalls. |
| Lunch | Ono Kauai Savor fresh poke bowls and locally inspired dishes. |
| Afternoon | • Pick up souvenirs or enjoy a coffee at Living Foods before heading to the airport. • If time allows, visit the Koloa Rum Company Tasting Room for a final island indulgence. |
Hotels / Resorts Recommendations
| Category | Hotel |
|---|---|
| Budget | The Kauai Palms Hotel Budget-friendly hotel in Lihue offering clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities. Perfect for travelers focusing on exploration rather than luxury. |
| Mid-Range | Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort Mid-range resort near Lihue Airport with multiple pools, direct beach access, and a spa. Great for families and couples. |
| Luxury | Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa A top-tier resort in Poipu featuring lush gardens, a world-class spa, multiple pools, and fine dining options. |
About the Author
Abe Clark
Freelance travel guru
A seasoned traveler with a passion for authentic experiences and local culture. Travelled to over 20 countries and lived in Hawaii for over 6 years.
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