The Perfect 4 Day Family Friendly Guide to Kauai, Hawaii
Kauai, a place perfect for couples and families is a go-to destination during the cold weather. This guide will cover everything to do on Kauai that is family-friendly for children of all ages, especially toddlers.
Where to stay
Kauai Shores Hotel: Located on the east shore, this hotel is centrally located and has direct beach access. I loved this location and the Lava Beach Club perfect fo dining and enjoying the ocean views.
Tips for Kauai
-The best way to get around the island is to rent a car since most places are pretty far apart and ride-sharing apps won’t work at every location.
-Pack lots of sunscreen and comfortable shoes for hiking and the beach. If you plan on snorkeling, you can find multiple places to rent beach gear and you can even rent waterproof cameras to capture amazing moments during your time on the beach.
-Kauai is popular so it’s very important to book restaurants and National Park visits well before your trip to get a chance to try everything during your trip. Be sure to follow the reservation times you book for the National Parks as the parking spaces get full very quickly and you might not be able to enter after your reserved time.
Things to do in Kauai
Explore Napali Coast State Park
This is one of the more iconic places to see in Kauai but unfortunately is not accessible by car. You can either hike around the state park, take a helicopter tour, or take a boat tour. If you plan on hiking with, plan to stop at a scenic location and be careful of the slippery areas as it is not the most safe area for toddlers and small children. I recommend taking a baby/toddler carrier so you’re able to have better balance. If you plan on doing a helicopter tour, book it well in advance as the slots get taken very quickly and the best time to see it is early morning or early afternoon. For boat tours, there are no options for children under 5 since the waters can get rough.
Spend time on the Beach
Kauai has some of the most family-friendly beaches including Lae Nani, Anini and Poipu Beach. These are the best best ones with calm waters and clear waters for snorkeling. If you visit Anini Beach, be sure to stop by and check out the Kilauea Lighthouse after since it’s a close drive away. Check out my post about the top beaches to visit in Kauai.
Visit Kilauea Point Lighthouse
I love a good lighthouse and the Kilaueau Point Lighthouse is one of the most picturesque lighthouses to see. You can access the gates to get closer to the lighthouse but will need to reserve in advance and they have very limited hours. We weren’t able to reserve it but there is a viewpoint right outside the gate and the views are equally breathtaking.
Lunch at Tiki Tacos
For a delicious and casual meal, stop by Tiki Tacos in Kapa’a. Known for their generously stuffed tacos made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, this eatery is a hit with both kids and adults. Their flavorful homemade tortillas and sauces are a must-try. This was one of our favorite places to eat and that’s saying alot since you can’t go wrong with any place in Kauai– the food is unmatched!
Explore Hanalei Pier
Explore Hanalei Pier, where you can enjoy fishing, picnicking, or simply taking in the stunning views of Hanalei Bay. This area is always packed with lots of options for food and a beach with the most beautiful view of the mountains. Spend time here and stay for the sunset views, you won’t be disappointed.
Explore Maniniholo Dry Cave
The Maniholo Dry Cave is a fascinating natural formation that’s easy to explore and sparks kids’ imaginations across from the Ha’ena Beach Park. The cave is a must see and if you’re adventurous you can go deeper inside the cave and explore even further. Parking here can get full quickly so plan ahead and spend time both here and the Ha’ena Beach.
Spend the day at Waimea Canyon State Park
Dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon offers breathtaking vistas and family-friendly hiking trails. Explore the canyon and drive up to the Kalalau Lookout for sweeping views of the Napali Coast. Pack a picnic and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Ninini Point Lighthouse
Adding another lighthouse to the list, visit Ninini Point Lighthouse for a peaceful end to your trip. The area offers lovely ocean views on a golf course and is perfect for capturing sunset photos. If you’re lucky you might even be able to see a plane or two flying above the lighthouse.
Be sure to add these to your next trip to Kauai and if you plan on visiting multiple islands, add Maui on the list and read the guide on the best things to see on Maui here.