Curator’s statement
Kauai is where my husband and I had our honeymoon. We had the pleasure of getting married on Oahu, so Kauai was kinda a no-brainer, but let me share with you why Kauai should be on your list even if you're getting married elsewhere. Kauai is a special piece of Hawaii, home to the only public marinas in the entire state and some of the best island grub I've had. Kauai is also the first destination where I had nothing planned, but a hotel booked — hear me out; I'm a travel agent. I've never just "let things happen" but let me share with you why taking the relaxed approach is the best way to take on Kauai with your significant other.
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Things to do in Kauai
Beaches
Before we even started planning our honeymoon, I had lists of Kauai beaches on my phone from other travel advisors, locals from Oahu or friends who've been. My list started with the classics, Anini Beach, Kee Beach, Po'ipou, Kekaha, but after spending our time there I would absolutely add Hanalei Bay and Lydgate. Hanalei Bay is where we were staying, but technically the resort sat in Princeville.
Go food-trucking
One of the afternoons, my husband and I just drove along the highway and stopped at each grungy food truck. The grungier the truck, the better tasting the food? I believe it. We had some of the best butter chicken, we've ever had, amazingly fresh fish tacos and oh my goodness — Chicken in a Barrel isn't a food truck but definitely is a stop worth making if you're hungry. They're all over the island.
Explore the Napali Coast
This is something that you must do; and maybe, just maybe, you will believe this is a real place because it surely doesn't look like it. Whether it's a sunset booze cruise, lunch picnic cruise or a cave-exploration on a Zodiac boat, this should be your #1 priority outside getting as much sun and sea as possible.
Day trips
Waimea Canyon State Park
Since there is only one main road on Kauai, you'll surely find out the road ends at a point. That point is Waimea Canyon, coined "Hawaii's Grand Canyon." It's truly just that. If you're coming from Hanalei, this is definitely considered a day trip as locals recommend you start the hike throughout Waimea as early as possible to avoid crowds.
Places to eat & drink in Kauai
Bar Acuda
(Dinner) Such yummy options here, they have a rotating menu. This is a local's favorite. Always trust their specials. Great dessert options and even better service and staff. Right in the heart of Hanalei. (Grab a reservation through their Yelp page!)
Tahiti Nui
(Dinner) Another local favorite, this is always a great choice. They also do a family-style luau which came highly recommended.
L&L Barbecue
I promise, it's nothing like the main land L&L. This is the real deal.
Kountry Kitchen
(Breakfast) Didn't have the chance to go ourselves, but heard nothing but great things, and the line out the door each morning gave me intense FOMO.
Postcards Restaurant
(Dinner) Didn't have the chance to go here either, but my husband still considers this the biggest L we took on the trip, not going.
Anywhere you go I'm sure you would be happy, but I will sa*y *caution** Kalypso in Hanalei. Crazy wait times, not good service nor food.
Travel Advisor
Hannah Taylor
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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Krystal Romagnoli guide, Guide to Slowing Down in Kauai.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Kauai.