10 Best Places To Visit In Kauai

You deserve a break – not just any break – you need a beach, a sunset, and a drink with an umbrella kind of break.

However, flying to Asia to countries like Thailand or Mauritius for a two-week escape might only be feasible for some. Nonetheless, your dream of a paradise vacation must come true, perhaps somewhere closer to home, where you can experience nature without breaking the bank.

You need to visit the stunning Hawaiian islands. Among them, the Garden Isle of Kauai stands out as a perfect retreat, offering a rejuvenating experience like no other. Get on the off-beat path and experience the off-beat places of this beautiful island with Camper Car Rentals in Kauai.

Just hop in your camper and let the adventure begin.

Kauai, Hawaii, is the perfect island escape!

Miles away from the traffic of Oahu and the tourist crowds of Maui, the tranquil island of Kauai is our top pick for ultimate relaxation. Among all the Hawaiian Islands, many seasoned travelers consider Kauai the best island in Hawaii, and here’s why.

Nicknamed “the Garden Isle,” Kauai offers everything, ranging from pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and jagged emerald cliffs to plenty of stunning hiking trails for the active traveler. Unlike some of Hawaii’s other islands, Kauai is less developed. This means you can immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty without the usual tourist crowds. And Kauai’s compact size makes exploring easy, even if you only have a few days. The island’s top attractions are all just a short drive apart.

Let’s explore the best of Kauai:

Best Places to Visit in Kauai

1. Napali Coast

One of the best places in Kauai. It doesn’t matter how you do it—on foot, by boat, kayak, or by helicopter—just get out and experience the Napali Coast and its jagged, grand cliffs.

The Napali coast ranges to a fifteen-mile coastline, starting from Kee Beach on the North side and ending at Polihale Beach on the West side. A permit is needed for an 11-mile hike to Kalalau Beach, but a day hike to Hanakapiai Beach and Falls is not. For beginners and casual hikers, we recommend the shorter track, Hanakapiai Beach and Falls.

• Helicopter tours, like those of Blue Hawaiian, are available daily.
• For a boat tour, Holo Holo Charters offers various sailing options.
• If you want to kayak, try Nāpali Kayak for an unforgettable adventure.

2. Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon is a stunning natural wonder, with red and orange walls over 3,600 feet deep and stretching 14 miles long. The Waimea River has carved this canyon over millions of years. The name “Waimea” means “Reddish Waters,” which comes from the color of the river as it flows through the canyon.

Several amazing viewpoints along the way, including Canyon Lookout, Puu Hinahina, Kalalau Lookout, and Puu o Kila, offer breathtaking views.

3. Kayak the Wailua River

The Wailua River is the only navigable river in Hawaii, making it the best place to visit in Kauai for boating, kayaking, or SUP adventures. You can rent a kayak or join one of the many tours available.

Some tours offer both hiking and kayaking, while others offer just one activity. We suggest you choose one which has lots of river adventures. So, you can take the most of the majestic Wailua River.

Wailua, located between Lihue and Kapaa on the island’s East side, is famous for the two major waterfalls, Opaekaa Falls and Wailua Falls, and Sleeping Giant Trailhead.

4. A Stay at Hanalei

Hanalei deserves more than a quick visit. Even though it’s located way up North, it is the best place in Kauai for your home base. There’s plenty to do in and around Hanalei. Its beautiful, u-shaped bay is a must for sunset walks, and the gentle waves are ideal for beginner surf lessons. Do not miss the chance to try locally grown food, like the Hanalei Taro & Juice lunches.

5. Poipu

Poipu is the main tourist hub on Kauai’s South shore, located at the island’s Southern tip. You’ll find good weather and well-maintained tropical landscapes here. And, of course, Poipu is famous for its snorkeling opportunities, making it a must-visit spot for underwater adventure.

Although Poipu has many resort options, we recommend you stay in one of our campers. After all, how often do you find yourself in a place like Kauai? So, while you’re here, relish every second of it experiencing the true nature it has to offer.

6. Mount Waialeale

Mount Waileale is the highest peak on Kauai, rising to 5,148 feet. The name “Waialeale” means “rippling water” or “overflowing water” in Hawaiian, which justifies its unique climatic condition. Known as one of the wettest spots on Earth, it receives an average of 426 inches of rain annually.

But don’t let that downpour you. It can be raining at the top and sunny across the rest of the island. Remember, no rain means no waterfalls. You can experience Mount Waialeale hiking through Kauai’s lush trails.

7. Lihue

Lihue is the capital of Kauai and the hotspot of Hawaii. It is the first town you’ll explore after leaving the airport. If you need any essentials like groceries or other conveniences, Lihue is the place to find them.

Some of our favorite things to do in Lihue are visiting the Kauau Museum, which offers a fantastic overview of the island’s history, and stopping by Kauai Beer Co. in downtown Lihue for a refreshing local brew.

8. Kapaa

If you’re looking for some retail therapy, Kappa is where to go in Kauai. Farther North on the island’s East side is Kapaa, a plantation town that has seen significant growth in recent years. While it has plenty of souvenirs and tourist shops, it’s also known for its strain of food trucks, a coastal bike path, and our favorite Pono Market.

The coast is lined with rocky and long beaches that are unsafe for swimming. For a safer swimming spot, head to the sandy Kealia Beach at the Northern edge of town, but always check with the lifeguards before taking a dip!

9. Spouting Horn

Spouting Horn Beach Park is a gorgeous Kauai attraction where you can watch a blowhole send a plume of seawater high into the air. This natural phenomenon occurs when waves are forced under the lava shelf and through an opening on the rocky coast. The water can spout up to 50 feet into the air, depending on the tide and ocean conditions. You might even catch a rainbow in the sea spray if the light is just right!

10. Polihale Beach

Polihale Beach in Hawaii has the longest stretch of white sand. It is located just off the last stretch of highway on the West Side.

This stunning beach is for long walks, breathtaking sunsets, and camping with the proper permit. Be cautious, though, as ocean conditions can be dangerous here. It’s an open ocean with no protective reefs and no lifeguard on duty.

Conclusion

If you like flexibility and outdoor adventures, renting a camper car could be perfect for you. With the freedom to explore at your own pace and the flexibility to camp in some of the island’s most scenic locations, renting a camper adds an extra layer of excitement to get the best of Kauai.

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the granola lifestyle, Hawaiian Overlanders offers a range of rental options to suit your needs. So why wait? Begin your adventure and book with us today!