Explore Kauai: Unique Things To Do and Best Places to Stay

Known as Hawaii’s “Garden Island,” Kauai offers lush green landscapes, dramatic canyons, serene beaches, and fewer crowds than its larger counterparts. The island’s laid-back vibe and stunning scenery make for an idyllic Hawaiian vacation. Beyond the typical tourist spots, there are many unique things to do in Kauai for every type of traveler.

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a tranquility seeker, we’re rounding up our favorite things to do in Kauai and where to stay after a day of unforgettable experiences.

Things to Do in Kauai

Enjoy a Guided Tour

If you really want to experience the local flavors of Kauai, book a tour at one of the island's many farms or estates. Kauai is home to some of the most unique agriculture in the United States, including coffee, sugarcane, and chocolate. Outlined below are a few of our favorite guided culinary tours.

Lydgate Farms Chocolate Farm Tour

Lydgate Farms, run by a fifth-generation Kauai family, is renowned for growing high-quality cacao to produce the finest craft chocolate. The farm also grows award-winning vanilla and honey.

Monday through Friday, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Lydgate Farms hosts three-hour tours during which visitors can explore the estate, learn about cacao, sample fresh produce, and, most importantly, try some delicious chocolate.

Kauai Coffee Company

With over 4 million coffee trees on 3,100 acres, Kauai Coffee Company is the largest coffee grower in Hawaii and the U.S. Open seven days a week, the Kauai Coffee estate offers self-guided walking tours, guided walking tours, and farm tours in an open-air truck. After your tour, check out the Visitor Center, where you can taste the entire line of 100% Hawaiian coffees.

Discover Hidden Beaches

While popular beaches like Poʻipū Beach and Hanalei Bay are picturesque, they can sometimes get crowded. We recommend the following beaches if you're looking for serenity and seclusion.

Kauapea Beach

Kauapea Beach, also known as Secret Beach, is a large secluded hideaway on Kauai’s North Shore. Secret Beach, true to its name, is hard to find and not marked. To reach it, follow the first dirt road on the right when turning onto Kalihiwai Road from Kuhio Highway. Park along the road near a private residence, then follow the dirt path west of the house to the beach. Once there, you’ll enjoy the soft sand and views of Mokuaeae Island and the Kilauea Lighthouse.

Polihale Beach

Located in Polihale State Park, Polihale Beach is the longest stretch of beach in Hawaii. With seventeen miles of white sand, impressive dunes, and views of the Na Pali cliffs, it is easily one of Kauai’s most beautiful beaches.

To access Polihale Beach, drive to the end of Highway 50 and continue down an unpaved old cane haul road. Due to the bumpy roads and sometimes muddy paths, many locals and visitors recommend using a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Rental agencies on the island offer 4WD rentals for this purpose.

Experience an Outdoor Adventure

If you're an adventure buff looking to add some adrenaline to your Hawaiian getaway, you'll enjoy the following suggestions.

Kipu Ranch ATV Adventures

Take a guided 4x4 UTV tour at the 3,000-acre Kipu Ranch. Kipu Ranch Adventures offers two off-road excursions, the Waterfall Triple Expedition and the Ultimate Kauai Off-Road Ranch Tour. Both feature stunning views from famous movie locations like Jurassic Park.

Outfitters Kauai Zipline Tours

If you're hunting for an adventure the whole family can enjoy, look no further than Outfitters Kauai, the island's first zipline company. Outfitters Kauai offers four unique zipline tours where visitors can fly over forest canopies and waterfalls. The company allows passengers aged seven and up to ride, making it a great activity for adventurous kids.

Airborne Aviation Doors-Off Helicopter Tour

Experience Kauai's epic landscapes from the sky with Airborne Aviation's helicopter tours. These 50-minute excursions begin at the Na Pali Coast on Kauai's north shore and soar over Hanalei Bay. With doors-off helicopters that seat four, every passenger enjoys optimal, unobstructed views.

Best Places to Stay on Kauai

The 100 Collection is proud to partner with Kauai Vacation Rentals by The Parrish Collection Kauai. Owner JP Parrish hand-selected each rental property, ensuring a curated feel in every location.

JP's homes seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living, allowing guests to enjoy the ocean breeze, tropical views, and breathtaking sunsets. Guests can choose from beachfront properties, homes with pools and spas, and locations with extra-large outdoor covered lanais.

If you're planning a romantic getaway with your partner, we suggest checking out Hale Makai, JP's one-of-a-kind beachfront location. Looking for something that can accommodate friends and family? Consider one of the larger accommodations, like the Hale Maluhia Estate in Poipu.