8 day itinerary for Kauai

Itinerary

Kauai is a beautiful island with so much to see and do. Here's an ideal itinerary for 8 days in Kauai:

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

After arriving at Lihue Airport, check into your hotel or vacation rental and take some time to relax and unwind. Head to the beach and soak up the sun, or take a dip in the ocean. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at one of Kauai's many restaurants.

Day 2: Waimea Canyon and Koke'e State Park

Start your day early and head to Waimea Canyon, also known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." Take a scenic drive along Waimea Canyon Drive and stop at various lookout points to take in the stunning views. Afterward, head to Koke'e State Park for a hike through the lush forest and to see more breathtaking views.

Day 3: Napali Coast Boat Tour

Take a boat tour along the Napali Coast, one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. You'll see towering sea cliffs, waterfalls, and pristine beaches. Some tours even offer snorkeling opportunities, so be sure to bring your gear!

Day 4: Hanalei Bay and Princeville

Spend the day exploring the charming town of Hanalei and the nearby resort community of Princeville. Hanalei Bay is a great spot for swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding. In Princeville, you can play a round of golf, go shopping, or indulge in a spa treatment.

Day 5: Wailua River and Fern Grotto

Take a leisurely boat ride up the Wailua River to see the famous Fern Grotto, a natural amphitheater covered in ferns. Along the way, you'll pass by lush jungle scenery and ancient Hawaiian temples.

Day 6: Poipu Beach and Spouting Horn

Head to Poipu Beach, one of the most popular beaches on the island. Relax on the sand or go snorkeling to see colorful fish and sea turtles. Afterward, visit Spouting Horn, a natural blowhole that shoots water up to 50 feet in the air.

Day 7: Kalalau Trail and Ke'e Beach

Hike a portion of the Kalalau Trail, a challenging but rewarding trail that offers stunning views of the Napali Coast. If you're not up for the full hike, you can still visit Ke'e Beach and enjoy the scenery from there.

Day 8: Departure

On your last day, take some time to relax and enjoy your final moments on the island. Head to the beach, do some last-minute shopping, or indulge in a delicious meal before heading back to the airport for your flight home.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Kauai!