Kauai is small enough to circle in a day, and its most memorable excursions push further still — into the wettest spot on Earth or out to sea toward Hawaii's most restricted island.
Combining Waimea Canyon's lookouts with Koke'e State Park higher up the same road makes for a full day of hiking, cooler mountain air, and views stretching to the Na Pali cliffs from the Kalalau Lookout. The Koke'e Natural History Museum near the park entrance provides trail maps and context on the native forest ecosystem found only at this elevation.
Privately owned since 1864 and closed to unauthorized visitors, Niihau — the "Forbidden Island" — is visible from Kauai's West Side and can only be experienced via a small number of licensed helicopter safari landings or offshore snorkel/dive boat trips run in partnership with the Robinson family who own it. These trips are the sole legal way for outsiders to set foot near this last stronghold of the Hawaiian language and traditional lifestyle.
Kauai's one main highway doesn't fully circle the island (the Na Pali Coast breaks it), but driving from Lihue through Poipu, Waimea, and up into Koke'e, or east and north through Kapaa, Hanalei, and out to Ke'e Beach, links most of the island's sights in a single scenic route. Frequent roadside lookouts, fruit stands, and small towns make it easy to stretch into a full day with plenty of stops.
Tips for Day Trips & Excursions
- Fill up on gas before heading to Waimea/Koke'e or the far North Shore — stations are sparse outside the main towns
- Niihau excursions are weather-dependent and limited-capacity — book well in advance