Some of my Favorite things in my Favorite Place
Kauai is, without a doubt, one of my favorite places on the planet. Over the years, I’ve compiled a quick guide that I often share with friends looking to explore the island. Since my first version in 2015, things have changed, so here’s an updated version highlighting some must-see sights, beaches, food spots, and experiences.
Getting Around
For both first-time visitors and returning travelers, I highly recommend the iPhone app Shaka Guide. Among several GPS audio guides I’ve tried, this one stands out for its intuitive interface, excellent CarPlay integration, and smart pause/resume functionality when you leave the car or explore one of its suggested hikes. We’ve used it extensively, not only for Kauai but also for the Big Island and U.S. national parks.
Food & Dining
Kauai’s culinary scene leans heavily on fresh seafood and tropical fruits, leaving you feeling refreshed and healthy. Dining out can be pricey, often $25+, so here are some favorite local spots that offer excellent food at reasonable prices:
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Pono Market – 4-1300 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa, HI 96746. A local hole-in-the-wall offering fresh poke and fried chicken. Perfect for picnics.
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Foodland, Princeville – The Kapaa location has closed, but the Princeville deli serves traditional Hawaiian food and some of the best poke on the island at reasonable prices.
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Duke's Lihue – A tourist favorite with a great atmosphere, delicious food, and a must-try Hula Pie dessert.
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JO2 Restaurant – Kapa’a. Upscale yet affordable, with creative presentation and excellent service.
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Mark’s Place – 1610 Haleukana St, Ste A, Lihue, HI 96766. A true local gem serving hearty plates like Korean beef and sesame chicken a must go place for traditional plate lunch.
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Hamura Saimin – Lihue. Authentic local saimin, a must-try Hawaiian noodle dish.
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Island Tacos – 9643 Kaumualii Hwy, Waimea, HI 96796. Unique non-fried fish tacos en route to Polihale Beach.
- Kauai Bakery - 3-2600 Kaumualii HWY. suite 1526 Lihue, HI, 96766, US. Kauai Bakery is a highly acclaimed, women-owned bakery known for its malasadas.
- Local open-air markets are perfect for fresh fruit breakfasts.
Tropical Drinks
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Tahiti Nui – Hanalei. Creative takes on Mai Tais with tasty local food.
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Tiki Iniki – Princeville. Classic tiki bar with a fun atmosphere and strong drinks.
Sites & Attractions
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Waimea Canyon – Often called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, with breathtaking vistas and dramatic red soil.
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Spouting Horn – Near Poipu, a natural lava tube blowhole that’s especially beautiful at sunset.
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Opaekaa Falls – Just up the mountain from Kapaa, located in one of the wettest regions on earth.
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Smith Family Luau – Affordable and fun, with optional dinner.
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Coco Palms Resort – Historic site where Elvis filmed Blue Hawaii; gardens are still open for tours. This is outdated they have recently been purchased and are starting construction.
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Hanalei Town – Quaint town with a pier, surf watching, and kayak rentals on the river.
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Kealia Lighthouse – Bird sanctuary; best from November to May to spot humpback whales.
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Kauai Hindu Monastery – A serene, spiritual retreat open to visitors.
Beaches
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Poipu Beach – Great for swimming, though more touristy.
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Anini Beach – Excellent for snorkeling; home to sea turtles.
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Ke'e Beach – Stunning for snorkeling and scenery, early arrival recommended.
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Lydgate State Park – Expansive beach near the campground.
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Moloa’a Beach – Quiet and historic (Gilligan’s Island pilot filmed here).
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Polihale Beach – Remote, requires a bumpy drive, perfect for sunset.
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Tunnels Beach – Popular for snorkeling with dramatic mountain backdrops.
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Hanalai Bay – Calm waters for swimming and paddleboarding.
Other Activities
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Napali Coast Catamaran Tours – Snorkel and enjoy stunning scenery. Napali Coast Tours
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Kipu Ranch ATV & Horseback Tours – Visit movie locations like Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.
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Helicopter Tours – Unique aerial perspective of the island.
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Koloa Coffee Estate – Kauai’s coffee plantation, offering free tours and tastings. Koloa Coffee
I hope you enjoy the island as much as my family has over the years.