The vast array of activities Kauai offers can keep you busy for and endless amount of time, but if you only have a few days it is a great destination to get a taste of everything from relaxing by the beautiful ocean to adventures in the jungle. We’ve picked some of our favorite, must-see and do activities in our perfect itinerary for a long weekend in Kauai.

DAY 1:

ARRIVAL –

Immediately upon landing on Kauai you will experience the laid-back friendly lifestyle our island has to offer. To really get in the aloha spirit, arrange a traditional lei greeting for your party when you arrive at the airport.

RELAX –

Check in to your hotel or rental property, relax by the pool or beach and enjoy a traditional Hawaiian cocktail like the Mai Tai, or a fresh juice from the island.

EVENING –

To continue to get into the Hawaiian spirit we recommend booking a traditional Hawaiian Luau Dinner. Depending on the night you arrive, you can check out the Kumu Leilani Rivera award winning hula show near the beach. You can browse the local craft vendors to see some of the handmade crafts made on the island, and then enjoy a lovely Hawaiian dinner where you can taste some of the traditional cuisine made with fresh ingredients on the island. After dinner the dance team will perform for you under the beautiful night sky. Another Luau we highly recommend is The Plantation Luau which puts on a great performance complete with male and female fire dancers.

DAY 2

RISE –

Rise and shine! The sun will (hopefully) be beaming down and if you can get up early enough try to catch the sunrise over the beautiful Kauai landscape. Enjoy a fresh breakfast at your accommodation or explore one of the many great cafes or coffeeshop’s that offer the best Kona coffee, fresh breakfast bowls and more to fuel your adventurous day ahead.

ADVENTURE –

What better way to explore the island than by a 13-mile bike tour that starts at the rim of Waimea? Don’t worry, you will be shuttled to the starting point at the rim of Waimea, 2,500 feet above sea level, and cruise downhill for the entire duration of the ride. Enjoy the spectacular views and take in the fresh island air.

Depending on where you are staying at what type of adventure you are looking for we also recommend guided tours, hikes, all terrain vehicle tours and more to experience the inland adventures on the island.

EAT –

Before or after your bike tour check out one of the islands many amazing farmers markets for delicious homegrown produce and food. The farmers market is a great way to get a taste of various Hawaiian fruits and vegetables and other local cuisines, and meet the locals. Strike up a conversation with the farmers to learn more about the history of the island, their favorite activities and more great advice only locals can provide☺

BEACH –

Before you set off for your evening adventure take some time to visit one of Kauai’s amazing beaches for some fun in the sun. Snorkeling, surfing, swimming and just sunbathing are key parts of the lifestyle in Kauai that you don’t want to miss!

SUNSET CRUISE –

Freshen up and get ready to explore Kauai by sea. One of our top recommendations for visitors on the island is a sunset dinner cruise. The Na Pali dinner cruise is our #1 boat recommendation and will certainly be a highlight to your trip. After stepping on board you can enjoy cocktails from the open bar and meet your captain and other guests before embarking on a spectacular sunset cruise. Your onboard chef will grill delicious filet and shrimp for you to dine on and if your lucky you will get to spot some whales that frequent the coastal waters of Kauai! (Depending on the season).

EVENING –

Looking to see Kauai by night? After you disembark from your catamaran head to one of the nightlife areas on the island to enjoy live music, dance with the locals, and sip cocktails until you are ready to bring your day to a close.

DAY 3

RISE –

After breakfast make your way to one of the beaches to catch a few waves! There are many great surf rental shops to rent a board or book a surf or stand up paddle lesson.

EAT & HIKE –

What better way to enjoy local cuisine than on a farm tour? We love the train ride, plantation farm tour and tropical forest hike where you get to jump onboard an old train for a fantastic ride through the plantation. You will sample fresh fruit in the orchards along the way, hike into the tropical forest, and enjoy a packed picnic lunch in an idyllic nature setting.

RELAX –

After your morning beach adventure and afternoon hike you will be ready for some R&R. Treat yourself to a massage at your hotel or a local spa, or if you are really looking to be pampered why not hire an in-home massage? Our masseuse comes to you and sets up in the privacy of your own accommodation so you don’t even need to put on shoes and leave your room. It’s a perfect way to end a day of adventure!

EVENING –

Kauai has plenty of amazing dining options for every type of traveler. Families can find great family-friendly restaurants and those looking for something more romantic can enjoy plenty of fine dining experiences. Take a look here for some of our top picks across the island.

DAY 4

RISE –

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, a local farmers market, or one of the many great breakfast spots on the island before getting ready for your next adventure!

SNORKLE –

You’ve already experienced Kauai by boat and enjoyed the surf, now how about exploring what lies beneath the beautiful blue waters? Snorkeling off the coast of Kauai is a favorite among visitors and locals for good reason. The clear waters allow you to see an array of amazing fish and sea life. Depending on your timing and location we recommend the Poipu Snorkel Raft Adventure, where you will head out to sea in a zodiac boat and tour out ot the pristine waters off Kauai’s southern shoreline. You will be treated to a picnic lunch after working up an appetite during your snorkel adventure.

SHOP –

Following your afternoon snorkel tour head to town and explore some of the many local shops. We love supporting our local stores and you will be amazed at the quality of the handmade crafts that are perfect to pack in your bag to bring home for yourself and friends as a wonderful souvenir to remember Kauai by until you visit again.