If you follow us on Instagram, you know that a few weeks ago, I was in Kauai for a week of vacation. If you’re looking for a low-key beach getaway where there’s a one lane “highway” connecting the whole island and you also feel like you’re in a Jurassic Park movie…this is the spot for you.
I’ve rounded up my top restaurant choices, activities and beaches you must see before leaving.
FOOD
- Ishihara Market: Stop by here after you drive through the canyon because it’s on the very west side of the island. Get the poke (we opted for the spicy poke bowl) and it was incredible.
- Puka Dog: Fancy Hawaiian hot dogs. What’s not to love?
- The Fresh Shave: Best shaved ice on the island. This food truck is a gem.
- Kilauea Fish Market: I got the Ono wrap and have been craving it ever since.
- Hukilau Lanai: Make a reservation and sit outside. It was raining the night we were here, but they usually have live music.
- Verde restaurant: Small and trendy Mexican good. As always, my pick was the fish tacos and they did not disappoint.
ACTIVITIES
- Napali Coast: Do a catamaran boat tour. We were lucky enough to see dolphins, baby dolphins and two whales, despite it not being whale season. The tours are all a little pricey, but we went with Captain Andy and had an amazing time.
- Intertubing Adventure: Intertubing through an old sugar cane plantation for an afternoon was so fun. It’s basically a lazy river through a gorgeous rainforest.
- “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”: So worth the drive!
- Kalalau Trail: It’s a trek, so pack food, water and sunblock accordingly. Go early in the morning (between 6 am and 7 am, if you can) to avoid the crowds and get done before it gets too hot in the afternoon.
BEACHES
- Lydgate Beach Park: The swells were pretty intense so a lot of the usual snorkling spots weren’t safe. This place is a total gem. There’s a natural swimming pool protected by rocks and so many beautiful fish.
- Poipu Beach: We stayed in Kapaa, but kept finding ourselves back here.
- Kalihiwai Beach: So peaceful and relaxing. Plus, there weren’t any crowds and you could drive right up to the sand.
Leave a Reply