Kauai, often called the “Garden Isle,” is a paradise of adventure and wonder. If you’re searching for things to do in Kauai with kids, you’re in luck! The island offers a variety of activities that cater to families of all ages, ensuring that your little ones will have an unforgettable experience while also creating lasting memories. Explore lush landscapes, pristine beaches, cultural experiences, and thrilling adventures that make Kauai a perfect family destination.
Don’t miss a beat with your Kauai vacation planning:
– Check out things to do in Kauai with kids to ensure your family has a truly fulfilling trip.
– Be sure to research the best time to visit Kauai before heading to the island to fully enjoy your trip!
25 Best things to do in Kauai with Kids
Kauai isn’t just about stunning scenery; it’s an interactive playground where your family can engage with nature, history, and local culture. Whether biking along coastal trails or exploring enchanting caves, there’s something on this island for every child and parent alike. Here’s a comprehensive guide to Kauai’s best activities to offer families.
25. Bike the Ke Ala Hele Makalae
Biking the Ke Ala Hele Makalae Coastal Trail is a must among things to do in Kauai with kids. From Ahihi Point to Lydgate Park, this scenic path offers stunning ocean views and family-friendly stops for picnics and photos. Rentals for all ages are available, making it easy for families to enjoy.
End your ride at Lydgate Park, where you’ll find a playground, picnic tables, and a lifeguarded beach, perfect for a relaxing swim or beachside fun after biking.
24. Visit a Kid-Friendly Beach
Kauai offers some of Hawaii’s best family-friendly beaches, making beach days a highlight among things to do in Kauai with kids.
Anini Beach is perfect for a relaxed day with its calm summer waters and spacious shore for sand play. Note that there are no lifeguards, so parental supervision is needed.
Poipu Beach provides a semi-protected area with lifeguards, plus facilities like showers and restrooms, making it convenient for a full beach day.
For a more structured option, Lydgate Beach Park has a protected pond ideal for young swimmers and a nearby playground. With picnic areas and barbecue facilities, it’s a fantastic spot for families to spend the day.
23. Take a Ride on the Fern Grotto
Adventure on the Wailua River is a must among things to do in Kauai with kids. A boat tour to Smith’s Family Fern Grotto offers a relaxing journey through lush rainforests filled with exotic birds and plants.
Guides share Hawaiian stories and songs, giving kids a cultural experience with opportunities to learn hula and interact with nature. The beautiful cascading ferns make perfect photos and provide a cool escape from the tropical heat at the fern grotto. This enchanting trip is sure to captivate your family.
22. Kayak the Wailua River
Kayaking down the Wailua River is an exciting option for kids in Kauai. This two-mile journey combines paddling and a short hike, ideal for families with children aged five and up.
After kayaking, a brief hike leads to Secret Falls, where kids can splash in the refreshing water while parents relax by the scenic waterfall. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the falls for a perfect afternoon.
Keep an eye out for native birds and wildlife along the way, making it a fun, nature-filled adventure that encourages kids to appreciate Kauai’s natural beauty.
21. Lydgate Farms Chocolate Tour
Try a chocolate-making tour at Lydgate Farms for a sweet experience among things to do in Kauai with kids. This family-friendly tour lets visitors explore the chocolate-making process, from bean to bar, with hands-on activities and tastings.
Kids and adults can learn about cacao, sample various chocolates, and gain a new appreciation for this treat. Ending with delicious chocolate samples, it’s a fun and educational experience that will leave everyone smiling.
20. Snorkel Lydgate Beach Pond
Snorkeling at Lydgate Beach Pond is a top choice among things to do in Kauai with kids. This calm, protected area is perfect for beginner snorkelers, with lifeguards on duty for added safety.
Kids can explore the shallow waters and spot colorful fish and perhaps even sea turtles. The nearby playground lets them switch between water play and sandcastle building, making it an ideal family-friendly spot for a fun day at the beach.
19. ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls
Visiting ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls is a must among things to do in Kauai with kids. This 151-foot waterfall is easily accessible from a roadside lookout, perfect for families with young children.
The breathtaking view offers a postcard-like setting, ideal for family photos with cascading water in the background. Kids will be captivated by the falls’ beauty and power, while parents can share local legends and the importance of water in Hawaiian culture.
Consider bringing a snack or picnic to enjoy at the viewpoint, allowing your family to soak in the tranquillity and beauty of Kauai.
18. Tube Down an Irrigation Canal
Tubing down an irrigation canal is a unique adventure among things to do in Kauai with kids. This gentle float lets families enjoy Kauai’s landscapes in a relaxing, nature-filled experience.
Guided tours provide life jackets and equipment, ensuring safety for all ages. Drifting through lush surroundings and gentle turns is a memorable bonding experience suitable for toddlers and grandparents.
17. Treat Yourself to Shave Ice
Enjoying shaved ice is a must, among things to do in Kauai with kids. Stop by The Fresh Shave in Koloa Town for a refreshing treat with various flavors and toppings.
Kids can get creative, mixing tropical fruits and creamy options to make unique combinations. Watching their colorful creations come to life is part of the fun.
More than just a treat, shaved ice is a part of local culture—perfect for cooling down and wrapping up a day of adventures in Kauai’s relaxed island atmosphere.
16. Kilohana Plantation Train Ride
A ride on the Kilohana Plantation Train is a memorable activity, among other things, to do in Kauai with kids. This 2.5-mile train journey takes families through a working plantation, where children can spot goats, pigs, and other animals, creating an engaging and educational experience.
Guides share stories about Kauai’s agricultural history, from sugar cane to pineapple farming, offering insights into the island’s economy and culture. Kilohana Plantation also has dining options, allowing families to extend their visit and enjoy local cuisine, making it a complete day of fun and learning.
15. Enjoy a Luau
Attending a traditional luau is a must among things to do in Kauai with kids. Luau Kalamaku at Kilohana Plantation offers an evening of Polynesian entertainment, with hula, fire dancing, and live music that captivates children and adults alike.
Families can enjoy a buffet dinner featuring Hawaiian favorites like kalua pork and fresh seafood, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Kids can join in on hula lessons or lei-making, making it a fun cultural experience that fosters unforgettable family memories.
14. Feast at the Food Trucks
Exploring Kauai’s food truck scene is a must among things to do in Kauai with kids. Families can sample various dishes at the Old Sugar Mill Food Truck Park in Koloa Town, from Hawaiian favorites to international flavors, creating a fun culinary adventure.
Food trucks offer a relaxed atmosphere where families can dine under the Hawaiian sky. Sharing different dishes encourages kids to try new flavors while supporting local businesses, making it a delicious and sustainable way to experience island life.
13. Hike the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail
The Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail is a perfect choice among things to do in Kauai with kids. This two-mile coastal hike leads through scenic dunes and kiawe trees, offering stunning ocean views.
Families can discover ancient Hawaiian fishing shrines along the trail, combining adventure with cultural learning. The hike is family-friendly, but keep an eye on kids near cliffs. Bring water and snacks to stay energized.
12. Witness a Powerful Blowhole
Spouting Horn Park is a must-see among things to do in Kauai with kids. Here, powerful waves crash against lava rocks, creating impressive water geysers that captivate children and adults alike.
Teach kids about the area’s geology and Hawaiian myths surrounding blowholes with informative signs in the park. Please take advantage of the benches and picnic areas to enjoy a snack while soaking in the dramatic ocean views, making it a perfect blend of nature, learning, and relaxation for families.
11. Saddle Up at CJM Country Stables
Horseback riding at CJM Country Stables is a memorable choice among things to do in Kauai with kids. Suitable for children eight and older, the ride takes families along scenic beaches and trails, offering a unique island view.
Guides ensure safety and teach kids riding basics, boosting their confidence as they explore. This adventure combines nature and learning, creating cherished family memories. Don’t forget to snap photos to capture this special day!
10. Koloa Zipline
For thrill-seeking families, Koloa Zipline is a top choice among things to do in Kauai with kids. With eight ziplines over an old sugar plantation, families enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Kauai.
Kids aged seven and up can join, accompanied by adults, making it perfect for older children. Guides ensure safety and share insights on the local flora and fauna, adding an educational element to the adventure. Soaring through the trees creates unforgettable family memories amidst Kauai’s stunning scenery.
9. Explore the Maniniholo Dry Cave
Visiting the Maniniholo Dry Cave is a fascinating option, among other things, to do in Kauai with kids. Located near Ha’ena Beach, this cave is rich in Hawaiian folklore, offering families a chance to explore and learn about its cultural significance.
Kids will enjoy the cool, spacious interior, where echoes add to the sense of adventure. This visit combines fun and education, teaching children about Hawaii’s geological history and cultural heritage.
8. Visit Ha’ena State Park
Ha’ena State Park is a must-see among things to do in Kauai with kids. Featuring the beautiful Ke’e Beach with crystal-clear waters, it’s perfect for swimming and relaxation.
For adventure seekers, a two-mile hike to Hanakapi’ai Beach offers stunning views, though swimming is not recommended due to strong currents. Supervise younger kids closely.
The park is rich in biodiversity, providing a chance to teach children about Kauai’s unique ecosystems and fostering a love for nature.
7. Visit Limahuli Botanic Garden
Visiting Limahuli Botanic Garden is a top choice among things to do in Kauai with kids. This ecological preserve highlights native forests, endangered plants, and ancient taro patches, offering an educational experience for the whole family.
Guided tours share fascinating facts about plant uses and their role in Hawaiian culture. Interactive displays and hands-on activities engage children, fostering a love for nature and a deeper understanding of Hawaii’s unique ecosystems.
6. Take a Napali Coast Rafting Tour
A Napali Coast rafting tour is an exciting option, among other things, to do in Kauai with kids. From April to October, families with kids aged five and up can explore sea caves, waterfalls, and hidden beaches along this breathtaking coast.
The thrilling ride offers stunning views of the cliffs and a chance to spot dolphins and sea turtles, creating unforgettable memories. This adventure combines fun with a connection to Kauai’s unique marine ecosystem, inspiring kids to appreciate and protect the environment.
5. Take in the View at Hanalei Bay
A day at Hanalei Bay is ideal, among other things, to do in Kauai with kids. In summer, its calm waters are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking, with lifeguards at Black Pot Beach Park for added safety.
Families can enjoy building sandcastles, collecting shells, and taking photos against the beautiful mountain backdrop. End the day by watching a stunning sunset together, creating memorable family moments.
4. Indulge in Malasadas
Trying malasadas is a must among things to do in Kauai with kids. Aloha Sweet Delights in Waimea serves these fluffy, sugary pastries locals and visitors love.
Kids can pick from guava and coconut cream fillings, creating a fun, tasty family moment. Enjoying malasadas is more than just a treat—it’s a taste of local culture and heritage that adds a sweet touch to your Kauai adventure.
3. Explore Underwater on a Napali Coast Snorkel
A Napali Coast snorkel tour is a top choice among things to do in Kauai with kids (ages five and up). Families with older kids can explore vibrant coral reefs with colorful fish and marine life, creating an unforgettable adventure.
Guides share fascinating facts about marine life, blending excitement with education and fostering a deeper appreciation for ocean conservation.
2. Gaze into Waimea Canyon
Exploring Waimea Canyon is a must among things to do in Kauai with kids. Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” its red and green landscapes provide stunning views for family photos.
For active families, short trails offer a chance to learn about geology and ecology. Discuss the canyon’s formation and Hawaiian history, making this visit both a scenic and educational experience.
1. Visit Hanapēpē
A visit to Hanapēpē is a delightful option among things to do in Kauai with kids. This charming town offers quaint shops, art galleries, and local eateries for families to explore.
Stroll the streets, admire local art, and check for events like art walks or farmers’ markets to taste Kauai’s culture. Enjoy a meal at a local spot, creating lasting family memories to wrap up your Kauai adventure.
Is Kauai a good place for families?
Absolutely! Kauai is a fantastic family destination, offering diverse activities and experiences that appeal to various interests and age groups. From engaging outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Families can explore lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and dazzling waterfalls while participating in educational tours that promote environmental awareness. The island’s friendly locals and relaxed atmosphere encourage families to engage with each other and create cherished memories together.
Additionally, many activities are designed to accommodate children, ensuring everyone can participate. The abundance of parks and recreational areas allows families to take breaks, unwind, and bask in the beautiful surroundings. Overall, Kauai presents endless opportunities for bonding, adventure, and laughter, making it an ideal family-friendly destination.
Conclusion
Kauai is an adventure and beauty treasure trove, offering families countless activities that promise fun and connection. From biking alongside the coast to experiencing traditional Hawaiian culture, every moment spent on this island is bound to create lifelong memories.
Whether you are splashing at kid-friendly beaches or delving into the depths of fern grottoes, Kauai invites families to embrace the spirit of exploration. Together, you can witness the majesty of nature, learn about local customs, and indulge in delicious treats—all while nurturing the bonds within your family.
So pack your bags and prepare for a family journey that promises fun, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. Kauai awaits, ready to share its secrets with you and your loved ones!
FAQs
Is Kauai a good island for kids?
Absolutely! Kauai is very kid-friendly, just like the other Hawaiian islands. With its beautiful beaches and breathtaking scenery, Kauai is an ideal destination for a family vacation.
How many days do you need for Kauai?
It’s best to plan for at least one week to enjoy Kauai truly. While a few days might cover the highlights, a week allows you to explore all the island’s offers relaxedly.
What is the least touristy part of Kauai?
The south shore tends to be busier due to its sunnier weather, attracting more tourists. For a quieter, more peaceful experience, consider staying on Kauai’s north coast, where there are typically fewer visitors throughout the year.
What part of Kauai is best for kids?
The North Shore offers open spaces and various activities for families. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy family-friendly adventures and scenic beauty.
What is the cheapest month to visit Kauai?
The most budget-friendly times to visit Kauai are during the off-peak seasons, from September to December or April to June. These months offer lower rates on accommodations and fewer crowds, but book in advance!
Traveling has a unique way of taking your breath away and filling you with stories to tell. After exploring numerous destinations and immersing in a variety of landscapes, I’m excited to share my travel insights to inspire your next adventure. Whether it’s stunning natural beauty or cities rich in culture and history, these tips will help make your travels unforgettable.
