Top 7 Adventurous Things to Do in Kauai
Kauai is welcoming visitors again thanks to the new Hawaii Safe Travels program. Before you hop on the plane to enjoy all that Kauai has to offer, check out these 7 “don’t miss” activities and add them to your travel itinerary.
If you enjoy adventure, amazing views, and getting wet, Captain Andy’s 6-hour rafting expedition to Kauai’s Na Pali Coast will not disappoint. You’ll depart on a rigid hull raft and head towards the majestic peaks of the Na Pali coast. Along the way, you’ll also dart in and out of sea caves, giving you an exciting experience that the big boats just can’t offer. One of the main highlights of the trip is a landing on Nualolo Kai beach, an ancient Hawaiian fishing village. It’s only accessible by boat and only a few tour companies can land there. We had private access during our stop, which included hiking, snorkeling, lunch, and lots of sea turtles lounging on the beach.
Kauai Backcountry Adventures gives you a rare opportunity to tube through canals and flumes that were once used to irrigate the vast sugar crops of the historic Lihue Plantation. Your adventure will take you through some of the most pristine green areas on the island, featuring spectacular mountain and valley views. You’ll ride through several tunnels, which offer lots of excitement and fun for the entire group (including the use of headlamps for visibility). In calmer waters, our tour guide serenaded the group with lovely Hawaiian music played on her waterproof ukulele. The tour starts in a four wheel drive vehicle that takes you cross the former Lihue Plantation lands and up to the top of Mount Waialeale, one of the wettest spots in the world. After that, you grab a tube and jump in the cool, flowing waters for a unique and fun adventure. A picnic lunch is served at the end of the 3-hour trip, and photos of your trip are available for purchase back at the headquarters. If that’s not enough, Backcountry Adventures also offers ziplining adventures for those who want a bird’s eye view of the island while zipping down a cable.
3. Na Pali Coast (Kalalau) Trail
If you’re searching for the ultimate hiking adventure, check out the Kalalau Trail near Hanalei. It’s a 22-mile round trip hike featuring incredible beaches, waterfalls, and jaw dropping views. Because this trail can be dangerous in some spots, it’s only recommended for experienced hikers. Most visitors will take their time on this trail and camp overnight at the halfway point in Hanakoa Valley. Advanced reservations are required for everyone who ventures further than Hanakapi’ai Beach, including those who plan to camp overnight. Check out the state park website for reservations and more information https://www.gohaena.com. For those who are a little less adventurous but still want to experience the amazing beauty of the Na Pali coast, you can opt for the 4-mile round trip hike to Hanakapi’ai beach. This was the option we chose, and we thoroughly enjoyed it! You can read more about the Kalalau Trail in this article from Huffington Post which called it “hands down the most incredible hike in America.”
4. Waterski or Wakeboard the Wailua River
Looking for a unique experience? Take a break from the beach and water ski the only navigable river in the state of Hawaii. Kauai Water Ski Co lets you book time on their Malibu boat to water ski, wakeboard, kneeboard, or hydrofoil with an experienced instructor. They teach all levels, including those who don’t know how to ski. They also have a large selection of equipment, so you don’t have to worry about a thing! Just jump in and enjoy the glassy water.
5. Waimea Canyon: The Grand Canyon of the Pacific
You can’t visit Kauai without a stop at the Waimea Canyon State Park. It’s easy to see why people call it the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. You will find stunning views of crested buttes and deep valley gorges at this 14 mile canyon that’s one mile wide and more than 3,600 feet deep. The drive offers many lookout points, but the real adventure begins when you get out of the car and start hiking one of the many canyon trails. There are a wide range of trails here, ranging from short, easy trails for beginners to rough trails suited only for the experienced hiker. We recommend the Canyon Trail, which is a great moderate hike featuring the gorgeous 800-foot Waipo’o Falls. Make plans to arrive at the canyon early in the morning. The clouds tend to roll in during the day and obstruct those amazing canyon views.
6. Get Your Surf On
If you want to catch some waves, Kauai offers a multitude of great surf spots not only for beginners, but also seasoned surfers. If you’re learning to surf, check with your resort to see if they offer lessons. Another option is to learn from the pros at Hanalei Surf School. Hanalei Bay on Kauai’s North shore is a great place for beginner surfers and the kiddos in the Summer months because of the wave quality and sand bottom surf spots.
If you’re craving an entirely different experience, Kauai also has great spots for kitesurfing, body surfing, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding.
7. Waimea Canyon Downhill Bike Ride Adventure
Another way to experience the Waimea Canyon is to take an exhilarating bike ride from the canyon rim all the way down to the coast. It’s 13 miles of downhill cruising fun with stops along the way to enjoy the views, take pictures, and learn more about Kauai history and culture.
Bonus Tip: A Delicious Treat
After burning all of those calories, you deserve an unforgettable treat. Head over to Duke’s and order the famous Hula pie. You won’t regret it! Originally, the Hula Pie was only available on the island of Maui. They said it was what the sailors swam ashore for in Old Lahaina Town. After eating it, I believe that’s probably true! The Hula Pie is made with macadamia nut ice cream on a chocolate cookie crust. There’s a layer of cool chocolate fudge on top and hot chocolate fudge is drizzled on top of that with a layer of toasted macadamia nuts. Whipped cream is added at the base of the pie as the finishing touch. My mouth is watering already…maybe it’s time for another trip to Kauai!
