With its rich palette of natural beauty and the undeniable energy of its history and community, it's no wonder Kaua‘i is sought out for adventure, cultural experiences, and a getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
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The oldest of the main islands, "The Garden Island" is known for its lush, natural landscape - from the Nāpali Coast to Waimea Canyon and Kōke‘e State Park. Traverse by land across untouched landscapes, native trees, and climate-changing trails to catch breathtaking views of the island's coastline. No matter the adventure you take in Kaua‘i, be sure to add in one of these local favorite stops below during your visit.
Places To Stay
The Palmwood
Intimate boutique BNB in a lush setting, run by mom-and-son team Eddi and Mychael and houses up to six guests at a time.
Waimea Plantation Cottages
Unique stay along a black-sand beach, with renovated cottages dating back to the 1800s-1930s.
Ko‘a Kea Hotel & Resort
Listen to the waves crashing outside your lanai at this lowkey yet luxurious beachfront resort in Po‘ipū.
Princeville Resort
Upscale resort perched above Hanalei Bay, with breathtaking views of the island's North Shore.
Where To Eat
Porky's Food Truck
A favorite spot that makes stops at Hanapēpē Art Night, Waimea Town and in Kapa‘a along the Bike Path by Otsuka’s - be sure to grab one of their famous pork sausages when you swing by.
Island Taco
Local flavors stuffed into hand-crafted tortillas. What more can you ask for?
JoJo's Shave Ice
Cool off with a scoop of shave ice and make sure to try local flavors like haupia and li hing mui.
Where To Shop
Talk Story Bookstore
Diverse bookstore housed in a Western-style building dating back to 1913. Offers everything from best-sellers to books dating back to the 1700s, along with several obscure and unusual titles.
Hanapēpē Art Walk
Held weekly every Friday. Visit the shops and art galleries of local families and enjoy homemade food from the community.
Waipā Foundation
Stop by this 501(c)3 foundation in Hanalei to pick up some fresh poi on Poi Day.
What To See
Makauwahi Cave
The largest limestone cave in the Islands. Rich with fossils that date back to the prehistoric era.
Waimea Town Celebration
Kaua‘i's longest-running festival held every February. Includes a rodeo, canoe race, and ‘ukelele competition.
Kōke‘e State Park
Take the Alaka‘i Swamp Trail for one of the best places to spot rare Hawaiian bird species.
Kalalau Trail
An 11-mile adventurous trail to white-sand beaches, lush valleys, and sweeping vistas along the island's rugged coast.
Waimea Canyon
A natural wonder that was formed after flooding from Mount Wai‘ale‘ale cut into lava and basalt fields.
Where To Grab A Drink
Tahiti Nui
Laid-back locale with live Hawaiian music in the heart of Hanalei.
Bar Acuda
Urban-chic tapas served alongside global wines in a relaxed atmosphere on the North Shore of the island.
*Excerpts from the Wildsam x OluKai field guide to Hawaiʻi. Available for purchase at OluKai retail stores in Hawai‘i. Find a store >
