From steep canyons to the majestic Na Pali Coastline and cascading waterfalls of Waimea Canyon, the island of Kauai is a paradise found.

Eat & Drink Local

There’s an abundance of ono grindz to enjoy from budget-friendly eats to fine dining experiences. Track down Smiley’s Local Grindz, a local favorite for their chicken plates in Downtown Lihue. Verde is the spot to hit for locally-made Hawaiian-inspired tacos and grass-fed Kauai beef, the Kauai Coffee Company, is where you can learn about the history of coffee on the island and taste some of the local brews, while Aina Kauai, a Japanese culinary experience produces unforgettable delights like deep sea ama ebi, smoked kanapachi belly, and farm to table shiso sorbet.

Admire The Napali Coast

Fringed by emerald-hued cliffs and lush ridges beaches and waterfalls, the Napali Coast (often referred to as the 8th wonder of the world) is best experienced out on the water. Rent a kayak on the north shore at Hanalei Bay or in Princeville and head north along the coast of Kauai’s Na Pali Coast. Optional: Or book a boat tour with local operators like Capt Andy’s and Kauai Sea Tours.

Snorkel Amongst Sealife Found Only In Hawaii

Did you know that Hawaii has 149 endemic fish (surprisingly the Humuhumunukunukuapua`a or the Hawaiian triggerfish isn’t one of them) you won’t see anywhere else? Try and spot them at Poipu Beach (keep an eye out as well for local sea turtles), Tunnels Beach, and Hulopo’e Beach (also known as Secret Beach).

Hike The Grand Canyon of The Pacific

There are plenty of hikes on Kauai but the ancient Waimea Canyon carved by the Waimea River offers breathtaking views and is a moderate 7-mile hike that begins at Polihale State Park and ends at Polihale Beach. For a challenge, the five-hour 11-mile-long Kalalau trail rewards you with unbeatable views of the Na Pali Coast. The path begins at Ke’e Beach (just north of Po’ipu) and passes through Hanakapi’ai Valley before ending at Kalalau Beach.

Tee Off In Style

Kauai is a golfer’s dream, with many world-class courses to choose from including water hazards and ocean views, and breathtaking mountain-top courses. Hawaii’s top courses like Princeville Makai Golf Club, Poipu Bay Golf Course & Country Club and Kiahuna Golf Course & Beach Club (formerly known as Koloa Landing) are some recommended tee spots. Don’t be surprised if you spot some celebs or even Barack Obama out on the green.

Surf With The Pros

Home to some of the best surfing spots, the sand-bottomed Hanalei Bay is a good place for beginner surfers, look out for Aloha Surf Lessons or Kauai Surf School. If you’re an old surf hand, hit up the big waves on Polihale State Park Beach Park, voted second best beach in America by TripAdvisor users!