Top 10 Things to Do in Kauai with Kids
Kauai, known as the “Garden Isle,” is a fantastic destination for families. With its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and a wealth of outdoor activities, it’s a paradise for kids and parents alike. Here are the top 10 things to do in Kauai with kids that will make your family vacation unforgettable:
1. Enjoy A Mountain Tubing Adventure
Witness Kauai’s spectacular, historic engineering feats as you float down the open canals and through five amazing tunnels and flumes engineered and hand-dug circa 1870!
This tubing adventure is perfect for people ages 5 and over and in generally good physical condition. The gently flowing waters, beautiful scenery, flumes, and tunnels create a relaxing, fun, and fascinating experience. And when we say we are unique, we mean it! This is the only tubing activity of this type on Kaua’i, and we are the only eco-tour company with access to these 17,000 acres of former plantation lands.
2. Explore Hanalei Bay
Hanalei Bay is a family-friendly beach with gentle waves and a wide sandy shoreline perfect for building sandcastles and paddling in the shallow waters. The surrounding Hanalei town also offers charming shops and eateries. Kids can enjoy a relaxing day at the beach while parents take in the stunning views of the bay and surrounding mountains.
3. Take a Ride on the Kauai Plantation Railway
The Kauai Plantation Railway in Lihue offers a unique and enjoyable experience for families. The train ride takes you through a scenic plantation, where you can learn about the island’s history and enjoy activities like feeding pigs and chickens. It’s an engaging and educational experience that’s perfect for kids of all ages.
4. Hike to Secret Falls
For families with older kids who enjoy a bit of adventure, a hike to Secret Falls (also known as Uluwehi Falls) is a must. This trek through lush jungle terrain and along a scenic river leads to a beautiful waterfall. The hike is moderately challenging but rewarding with its stunning waterfall and swimming hole at the end. If you’ve got bigger tweens & teens, we highly recommend kayaking up the Wailua River & then taking the 2-mile hike to the falls.
5. Go Snorkeling
Kauai offers several fantastic beaches for snorkeling with kids, each providing a mix of calm waters and vibrant marine life that’s perfect for families. Tunnels Beach, renowned for its clear waters and diverse coral reefs, is a favorite, though its deeper areas are better suited for more confident snorkelers. For a more shallow and sheltered experience, Anini Beach is ideal, with its protected lagoon offering gentle waters where kids can safely explore colorful fish and sea creatures. Additionally, Poipu Beach’s protected cove provides a family-friendly environment with easy access to snorkeling spots where young adventurers can see a variety of tropical fish in shallow, warm waters. These beaches not only ensure a safe snorkeling adventure but also promise unforgettable experiences with Kauai’s stunning underwater world.
Pro tip: Rent snorkel gear for the week at Snorkel Bob’s!
6. Enjoy a Boat Tour of the Na Pali Coast
A boat tour of the Na Pali Coast is a fantastic way to see one of Kauai’s most stunning natural features. Many tour operators offer family-friendly options, including those with glass-bottom boats or snorkeling stops. The dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and marine life will amaze both kids and adults. Our top pick is Captain Andy’s!
7. Don’t Miss A Luau
Held against the backdrop of the island’s stunning natural beauty, these traditional Hawaiian feasts offer a feast for both the palate and the senses. Guests are treated to a delicious spread of local delicacies, including tender kalua pork, savory laulau, and sweet haupia, while enjoying live performances featuring hula dancers and Polynesian music. The festivities often begin with the ceremonial unearthing of the pig from an imu, a traditional underground oven, and extend into an evening of storytelling, music, and dance that reflect the island’s deep-rooted traditions and communal spirit.
8. Explore Allerton Garden
The Allerton Garden in Lawai Valley is a lush tropical paradise that offers guided tours suitable for families. The garden features unique plant species, beautiful landscapes, and intriguing history. Kids will enjoy the interactive aspects of the tour and the chance to see plants and flowers up close.
9. Enjoy Mini Golf, A Playground, & Food Trucks at Anaina Hou Community Park
Kauai Mini Golf and Botanical Gardens in Kilauea is a fun and educational experience. The mini-golf course is set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens, and the botanical garden offers a chance for kids to learn about various plant species. It’s a perfect combination of fun and education for the whole family.
10. Take a Helicopter Tour
For a truly unforgettable experience, consider taking a family-friendly helicopter tour of Kauai. This aerial adventure provides stunning views of the island’s natural beauty, including waterfalls, canyons, and the Na Pali Coast. While it might be a bit pricey, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave lasting memories. Jack Harter is our top choice!
