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Curator’s statement
When is the worst time to visit Hawaii? My personal answer is never! While Hawaii during rainy season may not be for everyone, those looking for a tropical getaway even during the winter months need look no further than the island of Kauai. This island is less touristy than others, but offers an array of adventurous activities for every type of traveler.
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Kauai
Kauai Beach Resort
Oceanfront on one of Kauai’s longest beaches, this welcoming family-friendly resort has four pools, a swimmable lagoon and alfreso eateries.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa
A quintessential island resort on 50 lush acres of white-sand beachfront on Kauai’s beautiful southern shore.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
Luxury resort on Kauai's Napali Coast with world-class wellness amenities and sustainable initiatives.
Fora Perks
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Unlock perks by contacting Amanda to book your trip.
Things to do in Kauai
My favorite activity in Kauai is tubing through an old sugar plantation with Kauai Backcountry Adventures. A guide takes you through hand-dug tunnels while you learn about the history of the plantation, take in the beautiful scenery and float along. Side note: The bananas provided during lunch were the best I've had in my life!
No trip to Kauai is complete without a cruise along the Na Pali Coast. There are a variety of cruises to choose from, such as a more relaxed sunset dinner cruise or the more adventurous snorkeling cruise.
If seeing Kauai by land and sea isn't enough for you, head over to Island Helicopters to take the Jurassic Falls tour. This exclusive tour takes you to the 400-foot waterfall featured in Jurassic Park.
Looking to get your adrenaline pumping? Skyline Hawaii offers ziplining tours with spectacular views.
For all my coffee lovers be sure to check out Kauai Coffee Plantation. Learn all about how coffee is made at America's largest coffee farm.
There are a few different luau's to choose from, but the Smith Family Garden Luau is without a doubt the best. They have mastered the perfect balance of sharing their family history, providing mouthwatering food and putting on a spectacular performance. Kamika Smith even gave a few of us a ride back to our hotels when we were left stranded without an uber! (Side note: a rental car is a must while on the island. There are so few uber drivers that we even got the same ones more than once.)
Places to eat & drink in Kauai
Java Kai - This buzzy coffeehouse located in Kapa'a is a great choice for a midday pick-me-up. They also serve breakfast and lunch.
Uncle's Shave Ice (located near Skyline Hawaii) is to-die for. The portions are large and filling, and it's necessary to eat it with lots of napkins nearby!
Duke's - This restaurant on the beach is famous for it's Hula Pie. If you visit in December, it is decked out with festive holiday decorations.
Big Monster Sushi Food Truck - This food truck in Koloa served incredibly fresh sushi that has put all sushi I've eaten before or since to shame.
While in Kauai be sure to also try an acai bowl, bibimbap and a lava flow.
Travel Advisor
Amanda Taylor
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, A TV & Movie Lover's Guide to Los Angeles.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Kauai.