Kauai 7 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

Get acquainted with the island, settle into your hotel, and enjoy a laid-back introduction to Kauai.

Time	Activity
Breakfast	Rainbeau Jo's - A charming food truck in Lihue serving delicious breakfast burritos and smoothies. Try the mango-pineapple smoothie!
Morning	Ninini Point Lighthouse - Stunning ocean views and whale watching (seasonal). Explore the shops and local markets in town.
Lunch	Hamura Saimin - A local favorite for Hawaiian noodle soup. Order their signature saimin and a slice of lilikoi pie.
Afternoon	Kalapaki Beach - Spend the afternoon sunbathing, paddleboarding, or swimming.
Dinner	Duke's Kauai - Beachfront dining with a great selection of fresh fish. The Hula Pie for dessert is a must-try!
Nightlife	Rob's Good Times Grill - Enjoy casual drinks and live music in Lihue. Perfect for a low-key evening.

Experience the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" with breathtaking views and hikes.

Time	Activity
Breakfast	Little Fish Coffee - Fuel up with an acai bowl or breakfast sandwich at this hip cafe in Hanapepe.
Morning	Waimea Canyon Lookout - Drive for panoramic views. Opt for a short hike like the Canyon Trail to Waipo'o Falls for stunning scenery.
Lunch	Ishihara Market - Grab a plate lunch or poke bowl to-go and picnic near the canyon.
Afternoon	Polihale Beach - Visit for an epic sunset. This remote, golden-sand beach is perfect for photography and relaxation.
Dinner	Wrangler's Steakhouse - A classic steakhouse in Waimea serving hearty meals. Try the teriyaki steak or grilled fish.
Evening	Relax at your resort after a full day of exploration.

Discover the lush beauty of Kauai's North Shore, including Hanalei and waterfalls.

Time	Activity
Breakfast	Wake Up Cafe - Cozy spot in Hanalei for hearty breakfast plates. The loco moco is a standout.
Morning	Hanalei Valley Lookout - Stop for a gorgeous view, then explore Hanalei's shops, galleries, and historic sites.
Lunch	Hanalei Dolphin - Enjoy fresh sushi or a fish sandwich on their outdoor patio overlooking the Hanalei River.
Afternoon	Wailua Falls - One of Kauai's iconic waterfall views. Adventurous travelers can hike to the base (with caution).
Dinner	Postcards Cafe - Farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on seafood. Try the macadamia nut-crusted fish.
Evening	Tahiti Nui - A lively bar in Hanalei with local music and a relaxed vibe.

Explore Kauai's iconic coastline by boat or helicopter.

Time	Activity
Breakfast	Kountry Kitchen - Generous portions of Hawaiian-style pancakes and omelets in Kapaa.
Morning	Port Allen - Depart for a Na Pali Coast boat tour featuring snorkeling, sea caves, and views of the dramatic cliffs.
Lunch	Lunch included on the boat tour (ask in advance for menu details).
Afternoon	Hanapepe - Stroll through for art galleries, local shops, and the historic swinging bridge.
Dinner	The Beach House - Upscale dining with a prime oceanfront location in Poipu. Try the ahi tuna or filet mignon.
Evening	Keoki's Paradise - Tropical drinks and live music in a lush garden setting.

Experience Kauai's sacred river and coastal trails.

Time	Activity
Breakfast	Java Kai - Delicious coffee, smoothies, and breakfast wraps in Kapaa.
Morning	Wailua River State Park - Rent a kayak and paddle to Secret Falls for a scenic hike.
Lunch	Ono Family Restaurant - Classic Hawaiian plate lunches and fresh fruit smoothies.
Afternoon	Nounou Mountain Trail - Tackle the Sleeping Giant Trail for panoramic views of Kauai's East Coast.
Dinner	Hukilau Lanai - Farm-to-table restaurant offering fresh seafood and Hawaiian-inspired dishes. Their tasting menu is a highlight.
Evening	Relax and stargaze at the beach.

Soak up the sun and enjoy snorkeling at Kauai's southern coast.

Time	Activity
Breakfast	Living Foods - Gourmet market with excellent breakfast bowls and coffee.
Morning	Snorkel Bob's - Rent gear and spot colorful fish and sea turtles at Poipu Beach.
Lunch	Brennecke's Beach Broiler - Casual ocean-view dining. Try the fish tacos or kalua pork sandwich.
Afternoon	Spouting Horn Park - See the famous blowhole and shop for local crafts at nearby vendors.
Dinner	Red Salt - Modern, upscale dining in Poipu. Don't miss their seafood tasting menu.
Evening	Koloa Rum Tasting Room - Sample locally made rum and learn about its production.

Spend your final day enjoying one last dose of island beauty.

Time	Activity
Breakfast	Kalapaki Joe's - Casual breakfast near the beach. The macadamia nut pancakes are a treat.
Morning	Kukui Grove Center - Pick up souvenirs and gifts in Lihue.
Lunch	Mark's Place - A hidden gem for plate lunches. Their teriyaki beef is a must-try.
Afternoon	Lydgate Beach - Spend your final hours at this family-friendly spot with calm waters and picnic areas.
Dinner	Gaylord's at Kilohana - End your trip with a memorable meal featuring fresh island cuisine in a plantation-style setting.
Evening	Enjoy a quiet evening at your resort or take a moonlit walk on the beach.

Category	Hotel & Description
Cheap	The Kauai Palms Hotel - Budget-friendly hotel in Lihue offering clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities. Perfect for travelers focusing on exploration rather than luxury.
Medium	Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort - Mid-range resort near Lihue Airport with multiple pools, direct beach access, and a spa. Great for families and couples.
Luxury	Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa - A top-tier resort in Poipu featuring lush gardens, a world-class spa, multiple pools, and fine dining options.