Kauai planning guides

Longer reads for planning the trip: what to do, which beach, when to come, and what the brochures leave out.

October 27, 2026

Five days, two shores, every must-do, in an order that respects the drive times and the swell.

October 27, 2026

Twelve beaches by shore, with lifeguards, winter safety, snorkeling and parking notes from people who swim them.

October 27, 2026

Boat, raft, helicopter or on foot: which Nā Pali Coast tour is right for your month, your harbor and your stomach.

October 27, 2026

Water temperature, swell, whales, rain, crowds and prices for every month, plus which trips to book when.

October 27, 2026

Kalamaku, Smith's and the resort luaus compared on food, show, price and which nights they run.

October 27, 2026

Minimum ages for every tour, the beaches with lifeguards and calm water, and what to do when it rains.

October 27, 2026

Our top 25 Kauai adventures, grouped by where they start so you can plan around where you're staying.

October 27, 2026

The lookouts in the right order, the hikes worth the mud, and why you must be at the top by 10 am.

October 27, 2026

Each region's weather, beaches and drive times to the harbors, so you stay where your trip actually happens.