Plan an Amazing 7 Days in Kauai For First-Timers

What to do in Kauai? Plan an amazing 7-day itinerary. We share our Kauai itinerary and what to do in Kauai in 7 days for first-timers.

Are you ready for a break? A real vacation? Yeah? We can relate. It sounds like 7 perfect days in Kauai will do the trick.

We were so ready when we decided to book our first 7-day trip to the Garden Island of Hawaii. Can you see everything on this beautiful island in a week? Not really. Will you be able to fit some highlights and experiences? Yes!

We share with you things to do in Kauai in 7 days. You will enjoy some of the most amazing highlights of this beautiful island.

Kauai hadn’t been on our radar until two months into 2019. Something called exhaustion started pushing us to look into our next vacation ASAP.  We were also desperate for some sunny warm days by the beach.

As soon as we got back from our trip to Spain, we spent the holidays helping our German Shepard recover from ACL surgery, and that’s on top of crazy 80-hour work weeks (for hubby) and other life surprises. It was also terribly rainy and cold the past winter in Los Angeles.

featured blog image | 7 days in kauai hawaiiPin

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our full disclosure for details.

Our great friend, born and raised in Kona, suggested we visit Kauai or Maui, two of her favorite islands. We don’t think you can go wrong with any Hawaiian island, but Kauai is the most rugged and not as developed as the other islands.

It’s known for its beaches, waterfalls, and incredible coastlines. There is something to do for everyone, whether sunbathing, hiking, eating great food, or sitting by your resort pool.

This article guides you through how to spend 7 days in Kauai. This is a great Kauai itinerary for first-timers or anyone who hasn’t explored everything the island offers.

Where to Stay in Kauai?

As we researched the best area to stay in Kauai, we immediately fell in love with the description of the North Shore – lush valleys, waterfalls, sandy beaches, tropical jungles… Doesn’t it sound like paradise? The area of Princeville made it to the top of our options.

In Princeville, there are a few resorts that are worth considering. For this trip, we were on a budget (when are we not? ?) and wanted to spend a good portion of it on food and experiences. So after perusing Airbnb, we found a beautifully remodeled studio in one of the many vacation resorts in the area, The Cliffs.

And, if you think Kauai is out of your reach, think again. Airbnb may be a great option to consider if you’re on a budget and planning to make that Hawaii trip for more than 4 days/ If you’re traveling as a family, you may find a condo with a kitchen, and it makes it cost-effective to eat some meals in.

The studio came with everything we needed, a clean space, a private bathroom, a comfortable bed, parking, and a washer/dryer for less than half the price of a hotel room. Additional amenities are included with the resort stay: a pool, tennis courts, barbecues, and a small library.

A video of the studio can be found under my Kauai highlights on Instagram. Don’t hesitate to contact me if you’d like a link to it.

Nose of red mustang as it drives down the road in PrincevillePin
Driving to our Airbnb in Princeville.

The con of staying on the North Shore is that it’s far from everything.

If you’re planning to explore the island and leave the North Shore daily, perhaps Kapaa or Poipu may be best.

We had no problems driving when we needed to, as we got to see so much of the island.

You can also split your time, staying half the time on the North Shore and the other half in Poipu.

Is a Car Rental Necessary in Kauai?

The short answer is YES. You need a car rental if you plan to explore the island. It’s the easiest and best way to get around unless you plan to sit by the resort pool most of the time.

A Kauai rooster Pin
This rooster greeted us as we picked up our car rental. You will see roosters and chickens everywhere in Kauai, Hawaii.

We splurged and booked a convertible with Avis.

One of the biggest tips I can give you after arriving at the airport, and you have your luggage is to walk to pick up your car rental.

You will save time by walking. Don’t wait and fight your way on a disorganized “line” to hop on a shuttle. Unless you cannot walk or have too much luggage, we suggest you walk to the car rental establishment.

Most major car rentals are right across the parking lot. Waiting to get on the shuttle will take more time than walking. We learned this lesson quickly.

Click on the satellite view of the map above; you will see the parking lot that separates the terminal from the car rental locations.

One lane bridge on the island of KauaiiPin
Hanalei Bridge

Kauai Driving Tip: You may encounter a few one-lane bridges while exploring the island. Be courteous and follow the unwritten local rule of taking turns, several cars will go in one direction first, and then it’s the other side’s turn.

Resources to help you plan your Kauai trip

These two Kauai travel guides helped us plan our first successful trip to Kauai. Worth packing them in your carry-on bag.

What to do in Kauai in 7 Days

Kathy walking the shoreline of a sandy beach in Kappa and palm trees in the distance
Beach in Kap’aa, Kauai

Day 1: Start Exploring

Book that early flight! Don’t waste the day. It’s worth waking up at the crack of dawn for paradise.

Once we picked up our convertible and hit the road, there was this instantaneous feeling of relaxation. The ocean air and palm trees may have helped, but I immediately felt at home.

The drive up to the North Shore was filled with many moments of oohs and ahhs. For a while, the view of the coast is on your right. You’re wowed upon entering the lush farmlands as you drive up the Coconut Coconut coast.

The view of dramatic mountains in the distance will stay within your sight almost the entire way to Princeville. You know that the next 7 days in Kauai will be full of spectacular views.

Lushes views of pastures and Hanalei Bay right before sunsetPin
One of the lookout spots from Princeville overlooking Hanalei Bay on the North Shore of Kauai

You’ll want to check in to your Airbnb or hotel, so you can leave your luggage and head back out.

We immediately got back in our car rental and started to drive around Princeville and down to Hanalei Bay to get the lay of the land. We also stopped at the supermarket to get drinks and snacks to put in our mini-fridge at the hotel.

Pick a spot in Hanalei Bay for dinner and maybe have your first Mai Tai. Don’t wait to eat too late as everything starts to close early.

Tahiti Nui

Quite possibly the best Mai Tai I’ve ever had.
We visited this spot a few times during our stay. Their food is good too. Try their Huli Huli Chicken Pizza.

5-5134 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714 (Google Map It) | Website

kathy enjoying a mai tai at tahiti nuiPin

Don’t Miss: Best Beach Drinks That Never Fail

Day 2: Tour the Garden Island by Air

Our 2nd day in Kauai was a Saturday. I had read fantastic things about the Hanalei Farmers Market that takes place on Saturday mornings, but when we woke up, it was pouring.

Expect rain at any time of day. Just remember that it’s not all over the island. You can get in the car and drive away from it.

That’s what we did since our adventure for the day was in Lihue; we got in the car and drove down to Kapa’a for breakfast, where the sun was starting to come out.

Fun fact: Did you know Kauai is one of the rainiest places on earth?
plate of fried eggs, sliced sausage and fried ricePin

Kountry Kitchen

One of the best breakfast spots in Kapa’a. We ate here a couple of times. Try their fried rice or loco moco. They also have a coffee shop next door for quick bites.

4-1485 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746 (Google Map It) | Website

Wings Over Kaui Plane Tour

What to do in Kauai? Explore it from above!

If you want an overall introduction to the island of Kauai, I suggest taking either a plane or a helicopter tour. We chose a plane tour with Wings Over Kauai.

You will see parts of the island that no one can reach on foot or by car. You’ll instantly fall in love with Kauai as we did and want to experience as much as the island -the accessible parts) the rest of your vacation.

We were nervous about our flight. It was our first time on a Cessna, and we weren’t sure if we would get sick. The vibration from the plane made me a little nauseous towards the end of the flight, but nothing that would keep me from doing this again.

Without seeing it from above, you won’t fully understand why it’s nicknamed the Garden Island.

Fun fact: Did you know that 90% of Kauai can only be reached by helicopter? 
Tip: Book in advance. These type of excursions gets booked up quickly.

Tour Ideas:
Entire Kauai Island Air Tour [book here]

Kauai ECO Adventure Helicopter Tour [book here]
Doors Off Air Kauai Helicopter Tour [book here]

Day 3: Sail the Napali Coast or South Shore

What to do in Kauai? Go sailing!

After seeing the Nā Pali Coast from above the day before, you will want to sail to see it off the coast. We booked the BBQ & Sail with Captain Andy.

Now, the weather may or may not be in your favor, and you may end up sailing the south shore or nothing at all. That happened to us, so keep that in mind when you book your sailing adventure. We regret nothing.

When we arrived at check-in at Captain Andy’s, they immediately let us know that we would sail the South Shore and allowed us to reschedule if we wanted to. They demonstrated top-notch customer service from booking to the very end.

While I’m a planner and get frustrated when things don’t work out exactly as planned, I have learned throughout my travels that sometimes it’s best to go with the flow. And that’s exactly what we did. We reminded each other that we were on vacation and we were there to have a great time no matter what.

Our sailing adventure turned out to be fantastic. The South Shore is not the Nā Pali Coast but beautiful and worth the day at sea. We saw sea turtles, several pods of dolphins, a whale, and monk seals.

My eyes welled up with tears upon seeing dolphins for the first time in their natural habitat. Such a special experience. It was one of the highlights of my trip and will be yours during your week in Kauai. I can’t wait to go back.

Captain Andy also has a sunset dinner cruise I would love to fit into my itinerary next time.

Tour Ideas:
Na Pali Coast Kauai Snorkel and Sail [book here]
Na Pali Sunset & Sightsee Boat Tour [book here]

Day 4: Tour the Beaches Near You

What to do in Kauai? Go beach hopping!

Since we spent our first couple of full days on adventures, we couldn’t tour the North Shore’s beaches. We finally had great weather on day four and decided to venture out.

If you’re staying in Princeville or heading up to the North Shore on this day, visiting these spots is a great time.

Tip: Plan to visit the beaches on a weekday. On the weekends, locals are off work and they are enjoying time with their family at their favorite beaches. So you'll probably run into more crowds during the weekend.  

Prepare for your days at the beach with this beach packing list.

Hanalei Bay

Full view of Hanalei Pier over the oceanPin
Hanalei Pier – Can you spot me?

After visiting the town of Hanalei and stopping for some coffee, you can drive down one of the side streets to one of the parking lots by the beach. From there, you can walk the 2 miles of beach and to the Hanalei Pier. Direct access from the parking lot near the bridge is currently closed, so your best bet is to walk the beach to get to it.

Don’t forget to look up at the mountains to the north, as you’ll be mesmerized by the waterfalls in the distance. It’s a surreal sight.

You can stay here for the day and grab lunch in the main town. After a few hours here, we decided to visit our next beach.

Hanalei Bread Company

Great breakfast or lunch spot. Avocado toast for the win with iced coffee.

5-5161 Kuhio Hwy #4, Hanalei, HI 96714 (Google Map It) | Website

avocado toast topped with greensPin

Tunnels Beach

We did not make it to Tunnels Beach due to road closures from the flooding of 2018. It reopened a month after our time there.

It would be silly of me not to include a beach that supposedly offers the best snorkeling on the North Shore and the start of the Nā Pali Coast. I had it on my list but unfortunately could not make it there—next time for me.

Anini Beach

Anini Beach turned out to be our favorite beach during the trip. The water was calmer than in Hanalei and easier to snorkel in. The farther you go on the stretch of the beach, the better you’ll find a nice quiet spot to relax for the day. This is the beach to sunbathe and snorkel.

Don’t forget to bring drinks, snacks or lunch.

Note there are no lifeguards or easily accessible bathrooms.

Kilauea Lighthouse

Before or after Anini Beach, you can visit the Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge nearby at Kīlauea Point. We didn’t make it until late and could only enjoy it from afar.

Plan to go when it’s open, Tuesday to Saturday between 10:00 am & 4:00 pm.

Lighthouse standing at the end of the mountain side and overlooking the oceanPin
Kilauea Lighthouse

See a Sunset or Sunrise

During your 7 days in Kauai, you must see a sunset or sunrise.

We decided to watch the sunset from where our Airbnb was that night. Yup, this essentially was our backyard during our one week in Kauai.

Golden sunset with rays of light shining through the silhouettes of The Cliffs in KauaiPin
Kauai sunset from The Cliffs

Day 5: See the Grand Canyon of the Pacific & Stop By Kauai Coffee Company

What to do in Kauai? Don’t miss the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.

When I first booked our trip to Kauai, several people told me I had to see the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. The first time I heard of this, I quickly looked it up. Waimea Canyon quickly made it onto our itinerary, and I knew we would make a day of it.

Waimea Canyon

Luscious canyons in WaimeaPin

As first-timers in Kauai with 7 days, we decided to drive the entire Waimea Canyon Drive from Waimea town. During the ride, you see many lookout points offering different valley views and waterfalls. You’ll see how much drier this side of the island is.

We didn’t go hiking, but I did bring my sneakers in the car just in case we decided to. There are multiple trails here and camping grounds that you can plan for if this interests you.

Tour Ideas:
Secret Kauai Tour [book here]

Visit a Coffee Plantation

Rows of coffee coffee plants and greenhouse at Kauai Coffee PlantationPin

Free COFFEE!

Raise your hand if you’re a coffee lover!

You will not want to miss visiting the Kauai Coffee Company Estate. They offer free coffee you can sample daily. You can take self-guided tours of their estate. Guided tours have to be reserved at an extra cost.

Day 6: Enjoy Another Local Kauai Adventure

What to do in Kauai?

Kayak the Wailua River, take surfing lessons, take a food tour, or book a luau. Whatever it is, do something fun.

We chose to go mountain tubing.

Tour Ideas:
Walking Food Tour Exploring Hanalei [book here]

Koloa Zipline in Kauai [book here]

Mountain Tubing

The #1 activity suggested by our Hawaiian friend was the mountain tubing adventure Kauai Backcountry Adventures. She insisted it is one of the best activities on the island. I booked it right away!

We had a blast mountain tubing and learned about the history of the old sugar plantation located on 17,000 acres of conserved land of Kauai, not far from Wailua Falls. You will tube and swirl down old mining tunnels. Sometimes it will be dark and bumpy, so if you’re easily scared, perhaps it’s not for you.

Mountain tubing in Kauai • 7 Days in Kauai Itinerary • TastyItinerary.com
And you get to wear this cool helmet with a light.

I thought my claustrophobia would kick in, but it never did. It was fun and also at times relaxing on a lazy river. Also, a great way to cool off on a hot and humid day.

When you book, keep in mind twenty percent of the profits from the bookings goes back to land conservation which means the world to the locals.

Don’t forget your water shoes! Book way in advance.

Java Kai

The coffee and breakfast spot in Ka’paa to stop at before you set out for your adventure. Try their Acai berry bowl or the JK granola bowl.

4-1384 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746 (Google Map It) | Website

iced coffeePin

Wailua Falls

It is one of the easiest waterfalls to see, as you can drive up to it to take photos. Parking is limited, but most people don’t stay long after admiring it.

beautiful waterfall in KauaiPin
See the rainbow?

Day 7: Explore the South Shore

The Tree Tunnel

On your way to Poipu, look for the Tree Tunnel on Hwy 520. You’ll drive through this magical canopy of lush Eucalyptus trees that is so picturesque that you’ll feel like you’re in the middle of a movie set. They call it the gateway of the South Shore.

Old Koloa Town

Make a stop in the historic Old Koloa Town. This charming little town is full of history and shops. Walk around, take a little walking tour, and read the plaques that tell the history of this once-upon-a-time plantation village. While shopping, I purchased the cutest bracelet made out of Hawaiian Koa Wood.

Poipu

In Poipu, you’ll find many vacation resorts and Poipu Beach Park. The waves looked rough the day we arrived, and the beaches seemed crowded. We wanted to look for a more secluded spot.

A local tour guide let us in on their favorite beach earlier in the week. I remembered it but didn’t know how to spell it, but I looked it up on Google and found Maha’ulepu Beach.

Maha’ulepu Beach is tucked away from the crowds of Poipu state park. After entering it in Google Maps, the directions took us down dirt roads to different paths that led down to a few secluded beaches.

Sign to respect monk seals sunbathing on beachPin
Hawaiian Monk Seal living the best life on Maha-ulepu Beach

Maha-ulepu Beach was one of our best finds. There are no lifeguards or facilities. Just pure paradise. You may be sharing the beach with Hawaiian Monk Seals. This is their territory, and you are a guest, so let them rest in peace and admire them from a distance.

The water was beautiful and clear; however, on this day a little rough. That didn’t stop several snorkelers out there. I love our time at this beach, and you will too. Don’t forget to bring some drinks and snacks.

With this sadly being day 7 in Kauai, our last day, we hit Java Kai again on our way back to Princeville and one last Mai Tai at Tahiti Nui. So make sure to hit some of your favorites and pick up a few last-minute souvenirs like Hawaiian coffee and chocolate-covered macadamia nuts.

A puka dogPin

Puka Dog

One of Anthony Bourdain’s favorite eats in Kauai. Get a Hawaiian-style hot dog and ask them for the most popular combination. Mine pictured above had a sweet and spicy mango relish with the works.

VGHR+QH Poipu, Koloa, HI (Google Map It) | Website

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What to Pack for Kauai

We packed many items from the Beach Packing List. I want to remind you of a few things that made a difference during our trip. We clung to these items.

  • Sunscreen – Get the highest SPF you can find that is reef safe and apply it multiple times the day. Even if the temperature is warm, the sun is powerful, and you will likely burn.
  • Maui Vera – When you’re sunburnt, this stuff is so soothing. You’ll find this in most pharmacies and supermarkets in Kauai.
  • A rash guard for the beach and snorkeling. I never believed in wearing one until this trip.
  • Bring a hat! Something to cover your head from the sun. I wore my cap all the time.

With this Kauai 7 Day Itinerary, you will experience some of the best Hawaii offers.

Don’t miss these other related articles:

18 Best Things to Do in Kauai
Where to Eat in Kauai: Food Guide
Hawaii Packing List: 21 Items to Take to Hawaii

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Kathy Ava

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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19 Comments

  1. Your posts truly keep getting better and better! Not that you ever have to listen to me, but I wouldn’t change your theme–I truly think it’s well-branded, easy to navigate, and super attractive. As I read this post, I just kept thinking how easy it was to read and perfectly laid out. I have some envy going on here, for real!

    I wonder if mountain tubing is like cave tubing? WAY back in the day, I went to Belize with a friend, and we cave tubed there. You’ve been to Belize, right? I definitely remember seeing posts before we were blogging besties… You are right about tubing: It can be scary. I wasn’t so much afraid of the dark or small spaces, but I was definitely worried about the speed of the water and my ability to swim. We had life jackets, but the cave was more swollen that time of year. EK! SO COOL, though. I am so glad you went. Your face!

    I think Tom’s first airplane was a Cessna. If I remember right, he took his sister up and. like I would, she…well…didn’t feel well. I’d love to do a small plane tour. I was once in a helicopter, which was neat and vomit-worthy too.

    Did we talk about this on IG or somewhere…but I love visiting coffee plantations. I find that anywhere near volcanoes always has delicious coffee (Indonesia) along with places in Central and South America. In my 20’s, I did most of Central America and ALWAYS required a local coffee tour. P.S. Your food and coffee all look amazing in this post and again, love the layout.

    These pictures are all absolutely stunning (are you using your new Aggie love?!? Tell me what ones are your favs, please! I need something for my Asheville blues…).

    I have never been to Kauai or that far out west–now I know if I go, to look back at this post. I want to rent a sexy red car and wear my Tasty Itinerary hat.

    Also, OMG MAVVVVVV surgery!! How long ago does that feel like and still, the poor little guy isn’t feeling 100%. Sigh!

    You are my first blog comment from Rosey ; ) Typing on a clean keyboard is a dream, kinda like dreaming I’m in Kauai for a week!

  2. Your comments truly mean the world to me and I really do take it to heart. I am just not sold on this theme but for now it will stay until I have time lol

    The formatting is all because I’ve been experimenting also taking some tidbits from that affiliate course I took. I love that you’re noticing and that you think I’m getting better. Ah means so much!

    Yes! It’s totally like cave tubing only the mines were so much smaller. Like the caves in Belize are HUGE, these are like tunnels and small. Sometimes they had to guide the tubes to go in one at a time because two at a time just didn’t work lol Tight fit. Still fun.

    The vibrations of the plane tour didn’t help. On a helicopter, I’m thinking the sudden sways would get to me. I don’t know. I would try it. Ah, Tom! I still can’t believe he’s a pilot.

    Well, the coffee in Costa Rica is just another world. Probably one of the best I’ve ever tasted. This plantation that you get to visit is just for show but you can totally walk around and hello, free coffee!

    Yes! Rent the sexy red car! We are gonna go for the Wrangler next time.

    I feel so honored that you have taken the time from Rosey to comment. Always look forward to what you have to say because you’re so entertaining. Getting a new computer all set up and starting to use it its like being a child again. I love the feeling. So fun.

    Poor Maverick, he’s getting better but it’s been a year!

    Still have some yummy places to eat in Kauai. So stay tuned.

    Oh and Aggies presets that I got are too orange. I think I used it for the Java Kai coffee. I think I ordered the wrong ones. Ugh. I’m not spending anymore money right now. I still love my original Aggie presets.

    1. I totally feel you! You have to do you at the end of the day. Your blog is your baby! Dress it up! I always look at my themes like ughhhh do I really like it? I just don’t have it in me to change again for another year. I still need to use Gutenberg fully like a big girl. Maybe then my blog will be as pretty and effective as yours!

      Glad that affil course helped. You might have to DM the course you took (I hope you have an affil link?!). I still need to go through the ones that we ordered as part of that bundle too. Did you hear that a new bundle, specifically all blogging, is releasing this fall? I think Cate will have a course that is going to be a part of it. Not sure if I will buy the bundle, though. I am drowning in untaken courses.

      I think for the helicopter, I definitely felt the sways more, and then I just got dizzy. I don’t think it vibrates like a small plane (I’ve been on semi-small ones), but when it swoops to turn, your stomach swoops the other way. 30-minutes was long enough. I’m so jealous of people who NEVER get motion sick. I’d love to do this over Kauai, though. You totally have me sold.

      Oh dang for the presets. That girl loves orange (and to be tan without cancer and wrinkles lol). I guess they will work for the fall leaves but not for anything blue.

      Sorry, I derailed off Kauai for some of this! LOL. I need some coffee (share those pics so I can pretend I am drinking them). Costa Rica and Brazil are my fav coffee but now I am going to pick up some Hawaiian coffee at the store…

  3. Omg! You always make me so excited and hyped up about whatever destination that you are writing about. It’s like contagion, and I want in the Tasty Itinerary travel club!:) This will DEF be on my list within next 3 years. Would be sooner, but we kind of have other places set:)

    1. Omg, I love the idea of the Tasty Itinerary Travel Club! I may have to steal this. ?❤️

      Kauai is such a beautiful island. I really hope you get to go and explore so much more than I did. I can’t wait to go back! And I understand, like I want to go back to Kauai but I have so many other places set. We need more time and money, right?

      You’re leaving for Europe soon, right? I can’t wait to hear all about your adventures.

  4. Kauai is a place I hadn’t heard of until sometime late last year! Since then, from what I’ve heard about it, and the pictures I’ve seen, it looks so beautiful. Your pictures are all so lush and vivid; you got some great shots! I think I’d definitely tear up if I saw dolphins out in the water like that too–especially because I cry about everything as I’m a very sentimental person :’) Do places close early all the time over there?! I kinda like that. It forces you to go out early, eat early, and doesn’t encourage eating late. Hope your pup gets better sooner 🙁 Still wishing him the best!

    1. Macey –

      You will LOVE KAUAI. You will fall madly in love with this island. There is no doubt.

      So many special moments from the trip but seeing those dolphins was absolutely special and I wouldn’t blame you for crying.

      And yes, everything closed down pretty early. At least where I was up North, there was no nightlife. There were a few bars opened late but not crazy lazy. I preferred it that way. We’d get up early to start our day, fit in as much as possible and we were in bed by 10pm. It was fantastic!

      Maverick is doing better everyday. He is gaining strength which is so important and his walking is pretty good. The only problem is his flexibility, there seems to be something behind the knee that the Dr is concern about but we are just taking it one step at a time. Thanks so much coffee the well wishes.

    1. YES! 100% I am so glad we got to see the Na Pali Coast from above since we didn’t with our sailing trip. I would have probably rescheduled if I hadn’t. The sights are surreal and photos really don’t do it justice. Hope it still inspires others to visit and see the splendors of the island.

  5. This was amazing!! Your photos are incredible and you did so much, I’m impressed! Kauai is next on my list whenever I’m able to make it back to Hawaii!

    1. Sarah – Thank you so much! Yeah, even though I said we needed a vacation, you’d think I was ready to just sit by the pool or beach all day. That’s just not my style. I can do that for a couple of hours and the I’m ready to go exploring. There is so much to see on the island. I can’t wait to go back. Hope you get to go soon!

  6. Yes you are making me want to go to Kauai!!! I love your itinerary. So many great ideas here. I love that you gave us what you did but also other ideas of things to do in case something else piques our interest. That’s so helpful.
    First of all, did you make friends with that rooster? I would have hung out with him for a bit. I hope that’s okay with you when we do a girls trip? I get very distracted by ALL the animals!?
    I’d like to cruise around in a convertible too and really soak in those views. Very smart!
    Your Kountry Kitchen meal looked like perfection on a plate. Seriously! Although I might have lost my Kountry Kitchen meal on that plane ride. I’m impressed by you and the hubby’s boldness. I’d love to do that but I think I’d be too nervous. That video was so sweet! What an experience. So beautiful. And speaking of videos, those dolphins!? You guys were so close. That’s incredible. Were you that close to the sea turtles, seals, and whale too? I need to go on that boat ride for sure.
    Back to food- that avocado toast makes me curious! It looks so yummy but I’ve never seen it that way. Here it’s usually mashed up on the toast but now I want to try it this way. I love avocado and will take it in any form! I seriously love avocado toast. It might be featured in every single tour post of mine. I’ll be the avocado toast food blogger!??
    Omg! I want to go mountain tubing!!! That looked like so much fun. I’d love that. How long did it last? Sorry if that was already in your post and I forgot.

    Awesome post as usual! And amazing pictures as usual!❤️

    1. Have you been to Costa Rica? All the animals there would distract you too!

      We saw all the other sea creatures from afar and I never had my camera ready at the moment. I was shocked at all the dolphin pods, but they were mostly sleeping. Did you know that Dolphins sleep with half their brain and then swim with the other half? Pretty cool.

      I sliced up the avocado too and put it on toast. I think any way you give me avocado on toast i’d eat it too. They had other things on the menu but I felt like if I was eating at Hanalei Bread Co, I had to eat some bread, right? lol You can totally have an avocado toast Instagram account!

      The mountain tubing was fun. It lasted about an hour or so.

      You know, planning out my week I really wanted to get in as much as possible in a week. I tried to plan it the best I could and figured, if it works out, I need to share. Sometimes there is so much to do, it’s hard to know what to do first and how to navigate. Glad you enjoyed the read and found it helpful!

  7. The fact that chickens and roosters are just running around the island is all I need to want to visit! I know that you said you got motion sickness from the Cessna (those views from the video are stunning) but did you find take-off and landing/turbulence scary at all?

    I got more excited and got the feelings of wanderlust the more I read through your post! It sounds like you had a jam-packed but relaxing trip. Seeing those dolphins so clear in the water must have been amazing!

    Wailua Falls looked stunning! I want to see the Manawaiopuna Falls (or as I call it the Jurassic Park Waterfall) on Kauai someday!

    1. The chickens were fun to see. Normally I’m afraid of them because I was attacked way too many times when I livd in PR, but these chickens were used to people and pretty chill. Of cousre they were waiting for food to drop too lol

      I didn’t really think it felt any diffeent from take-off and landing a normal sized aircraft we are used to traveling in. I was afraid of having ear problems after, but that didn’t happen either. There was a ton of noise though and I was thankful for the earphones. There was a bit of turbelance while we were up there but nothing scary as the pilot handled it very well.

      Yes, it was a busy week as I’m not one to hang at a beach all day long doing nothing. I’m alwaysr ready for the next adventure even if its exploring a new beach. We did get to relax though. There is somehting about Hawaii that the moment you get off the plane a zen feeling just takes over. I love the vibe there.

      We saw Manawaiopuna Falls from above. The pilot pointed out where they filmed Jurrassic park. There was one part that he said that you can only get in there by helicopter, which was really cool.

      Hope you get to visit one day and also seek out any spooky stories I’m sure there are of the island.