Kauai 7 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation
Get acquainted with the island, settle into your hotel, and enjoy a laid-back introduction to Kauai.
Time | Activity |
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Breakfast | Rainbeau Jo's - A charming food truck in Lihue serving delicious breakfast burritos and smoothies. Try the mango-pineapple smoothie! |
Morning | Ninini Point Lighthouse - Stunning ocean views and whale watching (seasonal). Explore the shops and local markets in town. |
Lunch | Hamura Saimin - A local favorite for Hawaiian noodle soup. Order their signature saimin and a slice of lilikoi pie. |
Afternoon | Kalapaki Beach - Spend the afternoon sunbathing, paddleboarding, or swimming. |
Dinner | Duke's Kauai - Beachfront dining with a great selection of fresh fish. The Hula Pie for dessert is a must-try! |
Nightlife | Rob's Good Times Grill - Enjoy casual drinks and live music in Lihue. Perfect for a low-key evening. |
Day 2: Waimea Canyon Exploration
Experience the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" with breathtaking views and hikes.
Time | Activity |
---|---|
Breakfast | Little Fish Coffee - Fuel up with an acai bowl or breakfast sandwich at this hip cafe in Hanapepe. |
Morning | Waimea Canyon Lookout - Drive for panoramic views. Opt for a short hike like the Canyon Trail to Waipo'o Falls for stunning scenery. |
Lunch | Ishihara Market - Grab a plate lunch or poke bowl to-go and picnic near the canyon. |
Afternoon | Polihale Beach - Visit for an epic sunset. This remote, golden-sand beach is perfect for photography and relaxation. |
Dinner | Wrangler's Steakhouse - A classic steakhouse in Waimea serving hearty meals. Try the teriyaki steak or grilled fish. |
Evening | Relax at your resort after a full day of exploration. |
Day 3: North Shore Adventures
Discover the lush beauty of Kauai's North Shore, including Hanalei and waterfalls.
Time | Activity |
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Breakfast | Wake Up Cafe - Cozy spot in Hanalei for hearty breakfast plates. The loco moco is a standout. |
Morning | Hanalei Valley Lookout - Stop for a gorgeous view, then explore Hanalei's shops, galleries, and historic sites. |
Lunch | Hanalei Dolphin - Enjoy fresh sushi or a fish sandwich on their outdoor patio overlooking the Hanalei River. |
Afternoon | Wailua Falls - One of Kauai's iconic waterfall views. Adventurous travelers can hike to the base (with caution). |
Dinner | Postcards Cafe - Farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on seafood. Try the macadamia nut-crusted fish. |
Evening | Tahiti Nui - A lively bar in Hanalei with local music and a relaxed vibe. |
Day 4: Na Pali Coast Adventure
Explore Kauai's iconic coastline by boat or helicopter.
Time | Activity |
---|---|
Breakfast | Kountry Kitchen - Generous portions of Hawaiian-style pancakes and omelets in Kapaa. |
Morning | Port Allen - Depart for a Na Pali Coast boat tour featuring snorkeling, sea caves, and views of the dramatic cliffs. |
Lunch | Lunch included on the boat tour (ask in advance for menu details). |
Afternoon | Hanapepe - Stroll through for art galleries, local shops, and the historic swinging bridge. |
Dinner | The Beach House - Upscale dining with a prime oceanfront location in Poipu. Try the ahi tuna or filet mignon. |
Evening | Keoki's Paradise - Tropical drinks and live music in a lush garden setting. |
Day 5: East Coast & Wailua River
Experience Kauai's sacred river and coastal trails.
Time | Activity |
---|---|
Breakfast | Java Kai - Delicious coffee, smoothies, and breakfast wraps in Kapaa. |
Morning | Wailua River State Park - Rent a kayak and paddle to Secret Falls for a scenic hike. |
Lunch | Ono Family Restaurant - Classic Hawaiian plate lunches and fresh fruit smoothies. |
Afternoon | Nounou Mountain Trail - Tackle the Sleeping Giant Trail for panoramic views of Kauai's East Coast. |
Dinner | Hukilau Lanai - Farm-to-table restaurant offering fresh seafood and Hawaiian-inspired dishes. Their tasting menu is a highlight. |
Evening | Relax and stargaze at the beach. |
Day 6: Poipu Beach Day
Soak up the sun and enjoy snorkeling at Kauai's southern coast.
Time | Activity |
---|---|
Breakfast | Living Foods - Gourmet market with excellent breakfast bowls and coffee. |
Morning | Snorkel Bob's - Rent gear and spot colorful fish and sea turtles at Poipu Beach. |
Lunch | Brennecke's Beach Broiler - Casual ocean-view dining. Try the fish tacos or kalua pork sandwich. |
Afternoon | Spouting Horn Park - See the famous blowhole and shop for local crafts at nearby vendors. |
Dinner | Red Salt - Modern, upscale dining in Poipu. Don't miss their seafood tasting menu. |
Evening | Koloa Rum Tasting Room - Sample locally made rum and learn about its production. |
Day 7: Farewell Kauai
Spend your final day enjoying one last dose of island beauty.
Time | Activity |
---|---|
Breakfast | Kalapaki Joe's - Casual breakfast near the beach. The macadamia nut pancakes are a treat. |
Morning | Kukui Grove Center - Pick up souvenirs and gifts in Lihue. |
Lunch | Mark's Place - A hidden gem for plate lunches. Their teriyaki beef is a must-try. |
Afternoon | Lydgate Beach - Spend your final hours at this family-friendly spot with calm waters and picnic areas. |
Dinner | Gaylord's at Kilohana - End your trip with a memorable meal featuring fresh island cuisine in a plantation-style setting. |
Evening | Enjoy a quiet evening at your resort or take a moonlit walk on the beach. |
Hotels / Resorts Recommendations
Category | Hotel & Description |
---|---|
Cheap | 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. |
Medium | 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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