Best Things To Do in Kauai

Kaui is the oldest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, noted for its outdoor activities and colourful lifestyle. You can start your holiday by connecting with local traditions and taking advantage of the best Luau shows on the Garden Island. I recommend you sign up for this experience, as you'll enjoy Hawaiian dishes, a knife show and traditional Hula dancing.

The island is packed with fun plans that include kayaking experiences, as well as zip-line jumping and aeroplane rides. Of course, you can't miss the best local beaches, canyon tours and waterfalls in the area. If time permits, take a relaxing cruise and set aside enough time to see the local history and Hollywood film locations.

The luau is a Hawaiian tradition celebrated on most of the islands that make up the archipelago. In fact, a visit to Kauai is not complete if it doesn't include this spectacle. I assure you it is an unforgettable experience that explores the local culture, cuisine and history. It can even include a feast with traditional dishes such as poke, poi, saimin, Hawaiian pie, laulau meat and more. For approximately three and a half hours you'll enjoy a party under the stars, while the Pacific breeze washes over you.

The best luau shows on Kauai often include hula dancers, a dance with a spiritual connection to ancient Hawaii. You'll also enjoy fire knife shows by the Cariocas and a craft fair. These are usually held at plantations, beaches, cruise ships and major hotels.

This exclusive activity starts at 153 euros and is very special because it gives you access to the plantation tents. In addition, locals usually greet tourists with the Lei greeting, a warm and emotional gesture of welcome. If you're looking for things to do in Kauai with kids, you can take them to this attention-grabbing theatre show.

As you stroll around Kauai you're sure to see many people exploring the waterways. Most choose to enjoy a thrilling adventure, aboard canoes on the Wailua River. This type of experience is ideal, as you can kayak into Kamokila Village, a traditional Hawaiian village. In fact, it's a village that recreates the ancient communities that once existed, with the aim of preserving local traditions. If you're up for a shot of adrenaline, I recommend spending at least six hours here, as the island has some lush stops that are well worth the effort.

For the adventurous, take a jungle trek to the Ulewehi Waterfall or Secrets Falls. The scenery is stunning and safe for the whole family, but it's dangerous to go under the falls because you might get bitten by an animal. The location is difficult to get to and I don't recommend going on your own, as you can get lost in the streams and forests. The best local tours and excursions are ideal if you want to prioritise your safety, as you will usually have a local guide, a lifeguard and the necessary equipment at all times.

An aerial tour is a must-do experience, especially if you're vacationing on Kauai. It's the quickest way to get around the island, so you can enjoy panoramic views and not miss a single detail. It usually takes about 70 minutes to fly over iconic locations such as Waimea Canyon, Opaekaa Falls, the rugged Na Pa coastline, the Eucalyptus Tree Tunnel and Waita Reservoir.

You'll usually be given a two-way headset before take-off to provide you with information of interest as you fly over the most iconic attractions. Keep your eyes on the scenery, so you don't miss the rolling hills and crystal clear waters of the Hanalei Valley. From above you can also see the Grand Canyon of the Pacific and view the spot where Captain Cook, the explorer who discovered the island, is believed to have landed. If you're up for the experience, you can find options from 141 euros.

Hawaiian cuisine offers an explosion of flavours to suit all tastes, ideal to delight your palate. You can't leave the island without sampling its colourful dishes, full of surprises. I recommend you leave the comfort of your hotel to explore local offerings and artisanal food. The best way to live this experience is through a tasting at different points of the island. This way, you will meet Hawaiian chefs and native farmers who prepare food in the traditional way.

If you are passionate about food, this activity is definitely for you. Give yourself the opportunity to explore the south, north and west of the island, in search of the dishes of each area. Of course, you can take the opportunity to try the famous Hawaiian poke, a salad with raw fish that has become popular for its brain-boosting benefits. In general, Hawaiian food is healthy, with specialties based on chicken, fish, rice, tropical fruits and ginger.

Ziplining is an activity that will get your heart rate up, but it's definitely worth it. It will allow you to jump like an acrobat from the longest and most challenging zip lines on the island, for unparalleled panoramic views. You will have a harness at all times, so it is a safe experience, but for health reasons it is not recommended for pregnant women or people with serious medical conditions.

It is an activity recommended for adventurers, as it is full of adrenaline. You can do pirouettes hands-free, although some skill and safety is required. Generally, you'll fly over the Waita Reservoir on the south coast of the island. It's private property, so it can only be visited by Kauai's best tours and excursions. The experience is generally available from €149 and usually lasts three hours, so it fits into short itineraries.

Kauai is famous for its film history, as its beautiful hills, mountains, rivers and canyons have been the focus for independent films as well as Hollywood blockbusters. You can't miss an interesting tour of the famous locations that were used as film sets. You can do it on your own, or sign up for the best tours and excursions that organise detailed itineraries from 155 euros.

It's ideal for soaking up untold anecdotes from your favourite films, as the island has been the location for Jurassic Park, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Descendants, Indiana Jones, Avatar and more. As you discover fun facts, you can take photos to immortalise the moment, as well as appreciate the pristine bays, wildlife and jungle beauty that surrounds this Hawaiian promise. If you have at least 7 days on Kauai, you should consider this option.

Kauai is an excellent starting point for venturing to other destinations, due to its prime location. So there's nothing better than taking a combination cruise to the breathtaking Waimea Canyon. It's different because you'll be able to mix the experience by land and water, to appreciate the island from different perspectives. You'll cruise along the azure coastline for adrenaline-filled rides and a stroll through Koloa's old town with beachside resorts and a rustic village surrounded by small shops.

You'll also have the opportunity to visit the Opaekaa waterfall, the Spouting Horn natural fire and water show and the Fern Grotto hanging fern cave. You can take advantage of the best local tours and excursions, although this shore excursion is only available to Norwegian Cruise Line Pride of America passengers. It's a luxury cruise ship that sails from Honolulu and flies the US flag.

Kōkeʻe State Park is a must-see, especially if you're looking for things to do with kids on Kauai. Leave the paradise beaches behind, and head to the north of the island. It offers quiet trails where you can camp for around 10 euros, or rent a cabin with a great view.

You can enjoy a hiking route and visit the Natural History Museum, open since 1953 with free access for the public. It has topographical maps, botanical engravings and information on flora and fauna species. You can take advantage of the rainforests and explore the local treasures that surround it.

The island is surrounded by beautiful waterfalls, where you can cool off and have a good time. In the middle of the rainforest there is no excuse for passing by the waterfalls, as they are majestic and worth appreciating. There are many options available with outdoor activities and breathtaking views. The most important thing to assess is the intensity of the trails you must hike to reach these natural enclaves.

It's an ideal activity if you're looking for things to do in Kauai at night, as you can spend the night camping on the cliffs. The most attractive waterfalls not to be missed include:

• Wailua Falls: this is one of the best known waterfalls, due to its prime location in the Kalepa Mountain Forest Reserve. Many travellers visit this waterfall early in the morning to enjoy the natural spectacle of rainbows.
• Opaekaa Falls: easily accessible from anywhere on the island, with a natural blue pool. It offers viewing areas, picnic tables and a relaxing atmosphere.
• Hanakapiai Falls: lesser known and more remote, but totally worth it. Pack your hiking boots and water shoes, hike in the bamboo forests and discover the geology of the area. Be aware that the trails are slippery and not recommended for children.
• Mount Waialeale Falls: enjoy the rippling waters and emerald green moss of this beautiful waterfall on a family-friendly experience through the wet mountains of Kauai.

Kauai is a quintessential beach destination, surrounded by Hawaii's best beaches. Hidden among the jungles and canyons are glistening shores of soft sand, with activities for the whole family. Before heading out to the beach you can check the official weather website for temperatures, wind and surf conditions. If you like to snorkel or enjoy aquatic experiences, there are plenty of options to choose from.

In general, Kauai' s best beaches include:

• Ke'e Beach: an ideal destination if you plan to stay 3 days on Kauai, as weekends here are an incomparable experience. It has a reef that protects the shores, creating ideal conditions for snorkelling or swimming.
• Poipu: probably the best, at least considering the large number of tourists that visit each year.
• Anini: enjoy a stroll along this beautiful beach where the sunsets will leave you breathless, you can camp here or go paddle surfing and windsurfing.
• Kealia Beach Park: golden sand contrasts with the stunning scenery and borders the curve of the famous Highway 56.

• The island enjoys good temperatures most of the year, ranging from 21° to 29°. In addition, the ocean water stays warm, ideal for families to enjoy.
• I recommend renting a car, as public transportation can be limited.
• Kauai is a microclimate island, meaning that the weather conditions and temperatures on the beaches are not the same as those in the mountains and canyons.
• The most expensive months to travel are from July to August, and if you plan to travel to Kauai at Christmas time you should also consider that prices increase considerably due to seasonal themed events.
• If you're looking for things to do on Kauai in December, you can enjoy the Christmas parades and celebrate New Year's Eve.
• The island is divided into south, north, east and west. The south is usually sunny and the chances of rain are low, while the north offers the best local sights. In the east you can find good value accommodation, while the west is the most remote and difficult to access.