Kauai is known as the Garden Isle, and not without reason. It is home to lush rainforests, stunning natural beauty and picturesque beaches. Kauai is widely known all over the world as a tropical holiday destination, filled with breathtaking hiking routes, jaw-dropping waterfalls, serene beaches, and some of the most magnificent scenery on earth. While any number of days in Kauai will seem less, 5 days is enough to have a truly relaxed and fun-filled tropical vacation in Kauai. Read on to discover how to spend 5 days in Kauai and have a truly memorable vacation.
How To Get Around In Kauai
The best way to get around Kauai is by car. While there is a public bus system that can help you navigate the island, this only connects the main road that traverses through the island. Cabs are really hard to come by, and hence we recommend renting a car from the Lihue airport. All of the major rental car providers operate at the island, so renting one shouldn’t be a problem, just don’t forget to rent early, so that you have a hassle-free vacation for 5 days in Kauai.
Where To Stay For 5 Days In Kauai
Here are the best areas for you to stay for 5 days in Kauai.
- Princeville: Situated on the northern shore of Kauai, Princeville is known for its lushHana landscapes, stunning ocean views, and upscale resorts. It provides easy access to Hanalei Bay, the Napali Coast, and numerous hiking trails. The area offers a peaceful and luxurious retreat for travelers seeking a tranquil escape.
- Hanalei: Hanalei is a picturesque town with a laid-back atmosphere and beautiful surroundings in the north shore. The charming downtown area has numerous local shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Staying in Hanalei provides a quintessential Kauai experience.
- Poipu: Located on the southern coast of Kauai, Poipu is a popular destination known for its stunning beaches, including Poipu Beach Park and Shipwreck Beach. It offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to vacation rentals, and is known for its sunny weather and great snorkeling opportunities.
- Kapaa: A vibrant town on the eastern coast, Kapaa offers a central location for exploring the island. It has a wide range of accommodations, from hotels to vacation rentals, and is known for its scenic coastal bike path, known as the Ke Ala Hele Makalae Path. Kapaa also provides easy access to the Wailua River and various waterfalls.
- Waimea: Situated on the southwestern coast, Waimea is a historic town with a rich cultural heritage. It offers a glimpse into Kauai’s past with attractions like the Waimea Canyon, known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” The town has a charming downtown area with local shops, restaurants, and the historic Waimea Theater.
Kauai is one of the sought after destinations during winter in USA. So, if you are looking for more inspirations on beautiful places to visit during winter in USA, check out our blog post.
The 5 Days In Kauai Itinerary
Day 1: Explore the North Shore area
After arriving at the Lihue airport and picking up your rental car, head to your accommodation, preferably in the North Shore. The South Shore is heavily commercialized, and hence gets a lot of touristy traffic, while the North Shore lets you truly relax in the tranquility of the island.
Explore the picturesque North Shore as you begin your 5 days in Kauai trip. Take in the breathtaking sights of the shoreline while driving along the Kuhio Highway. Spend some time relaxing on the beach in the charming coastal village of Hanalei Bay. If time permits, enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or try some water activities like kayaking or stand-up paddle-boarding at the beach. End the day with a sunset dinner at a local restaurant in Hanalei, before heading back to your hotel.
Day 2: Visit Waimea Canyon and South Shore
Begin your day by driving to Waimea Canyon, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” It’s roughly a 2 hour drive from the North Shore, so plan to start early. Take in the breathtaking views from various lookout points, such as Waimea Canyon Lookout and Puu Hinahina Lookout.
There are several trails here for you to hike on, so you can easily spend half a day in this gorgeous area, including the scenic Koke’e State Park that’s a short drive further.
Drive to the South Shore and relax on Poipu Beach. This family-friendly beach offers fantastic snorkeling and sunbathing opportunities. You can also explore the nearby Spouting Horn, a natural blowhole, in the vicinity.
Before heading back to your hotel, choose to dine at any of the restaurants in the Poipu area, as you wrap up the second day in your 5 days in Kauai vacation.
Day 3: Explore Wailua Falls and East Side
One of the highlights of the 5 days in Kauai trip is a visit to the spectacular Wailua Falls first thing in the morning. This double-tiered waterfall is easily accessible and makes for a great photo opportunity. After having your fill here, head to the Wailua River, where you can take a kayak or boat journey to Fern Grotto. Enjoy the tranquility and explore the green surroundings. After that, visit the nearby Opaekaa Falls, a stunning cascade with lovely views.
Do plan to stop by at the Coconut Marketplace, an open-air shopping area, where you can find gifts and souvenirs to take back home. You will have ample time for the rest of the day for your own exploration, or simply relax at one of the beaches nearby.
For the evening, you should definitely plan to attend a hula show. Most of the paid ones include dinner as well, so we recommend you choose a provider that’s close to your hotel.
Day 4: Adventure on Na Pali Coast
Today is going to be the highlight of your trip, where you will embark on a thrilling adventure to the world-famous Na Pali Coast. If you are staying in the North Shore area, boat tours start from the Hanalei area, which will be a short driving distance from your hotel. If you are in the South Shore, then Port Allen is the location for the boat tours.
We recommend you book a boat tour that’s at least 4 hours in duration, which will give you ample time to marvel at the towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and remote beaches along the rugged coastline. Rest of the day is for you to explore on your own.
Day 5: Relaxation and beach time
Today is your last day at this rugged island as you wrap up your 5 days in Kauai vacation, so plan to spend your time relaxing at one of Kauai’s beautiful beaches, such as Ke’e Beach, Anini Beach, or Tunnels Beach on the north side, and Poipu Beach or Kiahuna Beach on the south side.
Indulge in pampering yourself at a spa, or simply explore the vibrant underwater world by snorkeling or scuba diving.
Plan Your 5 Days In Kauai Vacation
When you are ready to visit the Garden Isle and explore the magnificent natural beauty of Kauai, email us and we will help put together a relaxing and luxurious itinerary to spend 5 days in Kauai!