Travel2Home Kauai, HI

Author: hallietravel2home

  • Kauaʻi Weekly Visitor Update

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    July 13–19, 2026

    Aloha! Mid-July is a wonderful time to explore Kauaʻi. Summer trade winds are keeping temperatures comfortable, with daytime highs in the low-to-mid 80s and the usual mix of sunshine and brief passing showers. Don’t let a quick rain shower change your plans—it often passes within minutes and is part of what keeps the Garden Isle so lush and green. If one side of the island is cloudy, consider taking a scenic drive to another region, as conditions can vary dramatically across Kauaʻi’s microclimates.

    This Week’s Community Events

    Monday – Anahola Farmers Market

    Start the week by visiting the Anahola Farmers Market on Monday from 3:00–6:00 p.m. Browse fresh tropical fruit, locally grown vegetables, baked goods, handmade crafts, teas, flowers, and other island specialties while supporting local farmers and artisans.

    Wednesday – Makai Music & Art Festival

    Spend Wednesday afternoon at the Makai Music & Art Festival in Princeville. Held every Wednesday from 1:00–5:00 p.m., this free event features live Hawaiian music, local artists, handcrafted goods, food vendors, and beautiful mountain views overlooking the Makai Golf Course. It’s an excellent way to experience Kauaʻi’s creative community.

    Local Business Spotlight

    If you make the drive to tunnels beach, look for a small roadside stand with some amazing cinnamon rolls for sale!

    Road & Travel Notes

    The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation has scheduled several roadway improvement projects through July 17 that may affect travel around the island. Visitors should allow extra time when driving, particularly in these areas:

    • Hanalei – alternating traffic due to paving and concrete work.
    • Kīpū to Kōloa along Kaumualiʻi Highway – nighttime lane closures for pavement striping.
    • Kalāheo – periodic daytime and nighttime lane closures.
    • Waimea Canyon Drive – continued reconstruction work with daily closures on portions of Route 550. Access to Kōkeʻe State Park remains available via Kōkeʻe Road from Kekaha.
    • Wailua and Kapaʻa – intermittent lane closures for pavement marking and maintenance.

    Planning an early morning departure for scenic drives remains the best strategy to avoid both traffic and afternoon clouds.

    Weather & Ocean Conditions

    This week’s weather continues the classic Kauaʻi summer pattern:

    • Highs generally in the low-to-mid 80s.
    • Comfortable trade winds.
    • Brief windward showers, mainly overnight and during the morning.
    • Plenty of sunshine across South Shore beaches, including Poʻipū.

    Morning remains the ideal time for snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and beach walks before afternoon breezes become stronger.

    Always check posted ocean conditions before entering the water, and remember that conditions can vary significantly from one beach to another.

    Recommended Day Trip

    Spend a full day on the North Shore. Begin with breakfast in Hanalei before visiting Hanalei Bay and nearby scenic overlooks. Continue to Princeville to browse local shops and enjoy the Makai Music & Art Festival if you’re visiting on Wednesday. Finish the afternoon with a leisurely drive toward Kīlauea Lighthouse before returning for dinner overlooking the ocean.

    Visitor Tip of the Week

    Kauaʻi is best experienced at a slower pace. Build flexibility into your itinerary, stop at roadside fruit stands when you see them, and don’t hesitate to pull over for scenic viewpoints. Some of the island’s most memorable experiences are the ones you never planned.

    Have a wonderful week enjoying everything the Garden Isle has to offer. 🌺

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    Kauaʻi Weekly Visitor Update

    July 6–12, 2026

    Aloha! If you’re visiting Kauaʻi this week, you’ve arrived during one of the island’s best seasons. Summer is in full swing, bringing warm temperatures, refreshing trade winds, and long daylight hours that make it easy to fit in everything from beach mornings to sunset dinners. While brief showers are always possible—especially along the North Shore—they’re typically short-lived and help keep the island’s famous landscapes lush and vibrant.

    This Week’s Events

    Monday – Anahola Farmers Market

    Start the week with a visit to the Anahola Farmers Market on Monday afternoon from 3:00–6:00 p.m. You’ll find locally grown produce, tropical fruit, baked goods, handmade crafts, fresh flowers, island honey, and plenty of opportunities to meet local farmers and artisans. It’s one of the most authentic weekly gatherings on the island.

    Tuesday – Community Hula Lessons

    Visitors are welcome to join free community hula lessons at Hale Līhuʻe on Tuesday afternoon. Whether you’ve never tried hula before or simply want to experience an important part of Hawaiian culture, all ages and experience levels are welcome.

    Wednesday – Makai Music & Art Festival

    Spend Wednesday afternoon at the Makai Music & Art Festival in Princeville. From 1:00–5:00 p.m., enjoy live Hawaiian music, local artists, handcrafted goods, food vendors, and beautiful mountain views overlooking the Makai Golf Course. Admission and parking are free.

    Thursday – Free Hula Show & Craft Fair

    The Hilton Garden Inn Wailua Bay hosts a free hula performance accompanied by local artisans and craft vendors Thursday afternoon. It’s an easy and enjoyable way to experience Hawaiian music, dance, and locally made artwork in one stop.

    Friday – Aloha Friday Art Night

    Wrap up the week by visiting Aloha Friday Art Nights at Hale Līhuʻe. Local artists, musicians, writers, and creators gather for an evening of live entertainment, art, food, and community. Visitors are encouraged to stop by and experience Kauaʻi’s creative side.

    Saturday – Downtown Līhuʻe Night Market

    One of the week’s largest community events is the Downtown Līhuʻe 2nd Saturday Night Market, taking place Saturday evening on Kress Street. Browse more than 40 local vendors offering handcrafted goods, food trucks, baked treats, live music, and family-friendly entertainment. It’s an excellent opportunity to support local businesses while enjoying a lively island atmosphere.

    Local Business Spotlight

    This week’s recommendation is to spend an afternoon exploring Kauaʻi’s locally owned markets and craft fairs. From handcrafted jewelry and woodwork to locally roasted coffee and tropical jams, you’ll discover souvenirs with genuine island character while directly supporting Kauaʻi’s artists, farmers, and small businesses.

    Road & Travel Notes

    Road crews continue maintenance work across portions of the island. Travelers should allow additional drive time, particularly if heading toward:

    • Princeville and Hanalei
    • Kapaʻa and the East Side
    • Waimea Canyon and Kōkeʻe State Park

    Expect occasional lane closures and reduced speeds during daytime work hours. If you’re planning a scenic drive, leaving earlier in the morning usually provides the smoothest travel and clearer weather.

    Weather Outlook

    This week continues the classic Kauaʻi summer pattern:

    • Daytime highs in the low-to-mid 80s
    • Comfortable trade winds
    • Brief passing showers, mainly on windward slopes
    • Plenty of sunshine across much of the island

    Morning hours remain ideal for snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and beach walks before afternoon breezes increase. As always, check posted ocean conditions before entering the water.

    Recommended Adventure

    Dedicate a full day to the North Shore this week. Begin with breakfast in Hanalei, explore nearby beaches and scenic overlooks, continue through Princeville for the Wednesday Makai Music & Art Festival if you’re visiting midweek, and finish the evening at the Saturday Night Market in Līhuʻe if your schedule allows. It’s a wonderful mix of scenery, culture, local food, and island hospitality.

    Visitor Tip of the Week

    Summer is one of Kauaʻi’s busiest seasons, but the island still rewards those who travel at a relaxed pace. Pause at roadside fruit stands, stop for spontaneous waterfall photos, and leave room in your itinerary for unexpected discoveries. Those unplanned moments often become the highlights of a Kauaʻi vacation.

  • Visitor Update, June 15th-21st 2026

    June 15–21, 2026

    Aloha from the Garden Isle! Mid-June is one of the most enjoyable times to be on Kauaʻi. Trade winds are keeping temperatures comfortable, daytime highs are generally in the low-to-mid 80s, and while brief showers remain possible—especially along the North Shore and mountain areas—most visitors will find plenty of sunshine between passing clouds.

    Whether you’re spending your days on the beach, exploring small towns, or chasing waterfalls and canyon views, this week offers a great mix of community events, local culture, and classic Kauaʻi adventures.

    This Week’s Community Highlights

    Makai Music & Art Festival

    One of the island’s most enjoyable weekly gatherings takes place at the Princeville Makai Golf Club. The Makai Music & Art Festival features live local music, artists, vendors, food, and a relaxed North Shore atmosphere. It’s an excellent way to spend an afternoon while supporting local makers and musicians.

    Saturday Farmers Markets

    Saturday remains one of the best days to experience local Kauaʻi life.

    Popular markets include:

    • Hanalei Farmers Market
    • Princeville Farmers & Arts Market
    • Grove Farm Farmers Market in Līhuʻe

    Expect fresh tropical fruit, locally roasted coffee, baked goods, handmade art, island-grown produce, and plenty of opportunities to meet local farmers and artisans.

    Arts, Music & Cultural Experiences

    Throughout the week, visitors can find Hawaiian music performances, hula shows, artisan fairs, and community gatherings around the island. Princeville, Kapaʻa, Līhuʻe, Kīlauea, and Waimea all offer opportunities to enjoy live entertainment and cultural programming.

    Local Business Spotlight

    This week’s recommendation is to spend part of your trip shopping local rather than relying solely on resort stores or mainland chains. Kauaʻi’s small businesses are one of the island’s greatest strengths, and you’ll often find the most memorable gifts, artwork, food, and coffee at local markets and independent shops.

    The Saturday farmers markets remain among the best places to discover authentic Kauaʻi-made products while supporting local families and entrepreneurs.

    Road & Travel Notes

    Visitors should continue allowing extra drive time throughout the island. Ongoing roadway maintenance and periodic lane closures can affect travel on several major routes, including:

    • Kūhiō Highway on the East Side and North Shore
    • Kaumualiʻi Highway near Līhuʻe and Kōloa
    • Portions of Waimea Canyon Drive

    Traffic delays are usually manageable but can become more noticeable during commute hours and around popular visitor destinations. If you’re planning to visit Hanalei, Hāʻena, Waimea Canyon, or Kōkeʻe State Park, giving yourself additional travel time is recommended.

    Weather Outlook

    Trade-wind weather remains the dominant pattern this week. Visitors can expect:

    • High temperatures generally between 77°–87°F
    • Brief passing showers, especially windward and mountain areas
    • Comfortable breezes across much of the island
    • Good beach weather on most days

    Early mornings continue to offer some of the calmest ocean conditions for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and beach walks. As always, check local ocean conditions and heed posted warnings before entering the water.

    A Great Day to Plan This Week

    Start your morning with coffee and breakfast in Hanalei, followed by a scenic drive through the North Shore’s lush valleys and lookouts. Spend the afternoon exploring Kīlauea and the surrounding coastline, then head to Princeville for live music, local art, and sunset views over the mountains.

    It’s a wonderful combination of scenery, culture, and local flavor that captures much of what makes Kauaʻi special.

    Visitor Tip of the Week

    The best Kauaʻi days often aren’t the ones packed with the most activities. Leave room for spontaneous stops at beaches, food trucks, roadside fruit stands, scenic lookouts, and local events. The island tends to reward travelers who slow down and embrace its relaxed pace.

    Mahalo and enjoy another beautiful week on Kauaʻi. 🌺

  • Weekly Kauai Update: June 8th-14th 2026

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    Aloha from Kauaʻi! Trade winds are expected to keep the island comfortable this week, with the typical pattern of brief showers favoring windward and mountain areas while many leeward beaches enjoy long stretches of sunshine. If you’re staying on the North Shore, keep a light rain jacket handy for passing showers. South Shore visitors can expect excellent beach weather most days. 

    This Week’s Island Highlights

    Friday Night Art & Community in Līhuʻe

    One of the best local experiences this week is Aloha Friday Art Night at Hale Līhuʻe. Local artists, musicians, writers, and makers gather for an evening of art, creativity, food, and community. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience Kauaʻi beyond the resort areas and meet local residents in a relaxed setting. 

    Farmers Markets Worth Visiting

    If you’re looking for fresh fruit, local crafts, and authentic island flavors, consider adding one of these Saturday morning markets to your plans:

    • Princeville Farmers & Arts Market
    • Hanalei Farmers Market
    • Grove Farm Farmers Market in Līhuʻe

    You’ll find local coffee, tropical fruit, baked goods, handmade gifts, and plenty of opportunities to support small Kauaʻi businesses. 

    Live Music Around the Island

    Several popular venues continue to host free or low-cost live music throughout the week, including performances in Kapaʻa, Kīlauea, Princeville, and Waimea. Sunset music sessions remain one of the easiest ways to enjoy Kauaʻi’s laid-back atmosphere after a day of exploring. 

    Local Business Spotlight

    This week’s recommendation is simple: spend part of a morning at one of the island’s farmers markets rather than a chain store. Many of Kauaʻi’s small businesses—from coffee growers and fruit farmers to artists and bakers—depend heavily on visitor support. The quality is often outstanding, and it’s one of the best ways to take home something uniquely Kauaʻi. 

    Road & Travel Notes

    Visitors driving around the island should continue allowing extra travel time, especially on the North Shore. HDOT continues periodic work along portions of Kūhiō Highway, including areas near Hanalei and along the East Side corridor. Nighttime work and occasional lane restrictions may affect travel times. 

    A few helpful reminders:

    • Leave extra time when driving to Hanalei, Hāʻena, or Kēʻē Beach.
    • If visiting Waimea Canyon or Kōkeʻe State Park, check road conditions before departing.
    • Sunset traffic can be heavier than many visitors expect on the North Shore and East Side. 

    Weather Outlook

    June continues to offer some of the island’s most comfortable weather. Trade winds are expected to dominate the forecast, bringing occasional windward showers while keeping temperatures generally in the low 80s. No significant weather impacts are currently anticipated. 

    For beach days:

    • North Shore beaches may experience occasional passing showers.
    • Poʻipū and the South Shore remain excellent choices for sunshine.
    • Morning hours continue to offer the calmest conditions for snorkeling and paddle activities.

    Always check local ocean conditions before entering the water, as surf and currents can change quickly.

    A Recommended Day This Week

    Start your morning with coffee and breakfast in Hanalei, spend several hours exploring the North Shore beaches and lookouts, then head toward Kīlauea for an afternoon visit near the lighthouse area. Finish the day with live music and dinner on the East Side in Kapaʻa. It’s one of the best ways to experience several sides of Kauaʻi in a single day without feeling rushed. 

    Mahalo for spending part of your vacation on the Garden Isle. Slow down, leave a little extra room in your schedule, and let Kauaʻi set the pace.

  • Weekly Update June 1-7, 2026

    Photo: U.S. Geological Survey / Public Domain

    This Week on Kauaʻi

    June 1–7, 2026

    Aloha and welcome to Kauaʻi. Whether this is your first time on the island or a return trip to a favorite place, this week has a nice mix of community events, local food, handmade goods, and a few practical travel notes to keep in mind while you explore.

    Top Events This Week

    Kauaʻi Pride Parade & Festival

    Saturday, June 6 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Līhuʻe | Free

    Kauaʻi Pride returns to Līhuʻe this Saturday with a colorful parade along Rice Street followed by a community festival at the Historic County Lawn. The parade begins at Vidinha Stadium at 10:00 AM and ends near the Historic County Building Lawn, where the festival continues from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

    Expect music, community booths, local organizations, family-friendly activities, and a welcoming island celebration. This is a great way to experience Kauaʻi beyond the beaches and see the community come together in the heart of Līhuʻe.

    Good to know: Temporary road closures are expected in Līhuʻe from about 9:30 AM to 11:15 AM, including portions of Hoʻolako Street, Rice Street, and Umi Street. Plan extra time if you are driving through town Saturday morning.

    Kauaʻi Made Saturdays at Kauaʻi Shores

    Saturday, June 6 | 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Kauaʻi Shores Hotel, Kapaʻa

    After a beach day or a slow afternoon on the east side, stop by Kauaʻi Made Saturdays at Kauaʻi Shores Hotel. This local craft fair is a simple, relaxed way to browse handmade gifts, island-made products, art, and souvenirs while supporting Kauaʻi makers.

    This is a good option if you want something more personal than a standard souvenir shop. Look for locally made items, small-batch goods, and pieces that tell more of a Kauaʻi story.

    Recommendation: Pair this with an early dinner or sunset walk in Kapaʻa.

    34th Annual Taste of Hawaiʻi

    Sunday, June 7 | 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM | Smith’s Tropical Paradise, Kapaʻa

    Taste of Hawaiʻi is one of the island’s standout food events, bringing together chefs, beverages, music, and community fundraising in a beautiful tropical setting. The event is held at Smith’s Tropical Paradise in Kapaʻa and is designed as an all-inclusive food and drink experience.

    For food lovers, this is the highlight of the week. It is a chance to sample a broad range of flavors, enjoy live entertainment, and experience one of Kauaʻi’s best-known culinary gatherings.

    Recommendation: Make this your Sunday afternoon plan. Arrive hungry, wear comfortable shoes, and give yourself time to enjoy the grounds at Smith’s Tropical Paradise.

    Easy Local Experiences

    Visit a Farmers Market

    A Kauaʻi farmers market is one of the easiest ways to experience the island like a local. Look for fresh fruit, flowers, baked goods, local snacks, and handmade products. If you are staying somewhere with a kitchen, this is a great place to pick up breakfast fruit or simple ingredients for the week.

    What to try: Local bananas, papaya, rambutan if available, fresh greens, banana bread, and island-made sauces or jams.

    Catch Live Music

    Kauaʻi has a relaxed live music scene, especially around Kapaʻa, Līhuʻe, and resort areas. Many restaurants and community spaces host casual evening music. It is worth checking nearby venues when deciding where to have dinner.

    Recommendation: Choose one night this week for a slower dinner with live Hawaiian music. It is one of the easiest ways to settle into the pace of the island.

    Practical Travel Notes This Week

    Road Work on Koʻolau Road in Kīlauea

    Single-lane closures are scheduled along Koʻolau Road in Kīlauea through June 6 from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, weather permitting. If you are heading toward the North Shore, allow a little extra drive time and follow posted signs or flaggers.

    Pride Parade Road Closures in Līhuʻe

    On Saturday, June 6, temporary road closures are expected in Līhuʻe from approximately 9:30 AM to 11:15 AM for the Kauaʻi Pride Parade. If you are flying in, picking someone up, or driving through Līhuʻe that morning, it is smart to leave early.

    Hurricane Season Begins June 1

    Central Pacific hurricane season begins June 1 and runs through November. Most visits are not affected by major storms, but it is always good to be aware. Keep an eye on local alerts, follow official guidance if weather changes, and know where your basic supplies are located.

    Pool Schedule Update

    Kapaʻa and Waimea swimming pools have moved into summer schedules, and Kapaʻa Pool has reopened after repairs. This can be a good option for families looking for a simple, low-key activity away from the beach.

    Our Pick of the Week

    If you only choose one bigger event this week, make it Taste of Hawaiʻi on Sunday. It offers food, music, and a lively community atmosphere in one of the prettiest event settings on the island.

    For a casual Saturday plan, visit the Kauaʻi Pride Parade & Festival in Līhuʻe in the morning, then stop by Kauaʻi Made Saturdays in Kapaʻa later in the afternoon.

    However you spend the week, slow down, leave extra time between stops, support local businesses when you can, and enjoy the Garden Isle.

  • Best Places for Dinner in Kapa’a

    Paco’s Tacos Cantina

    This is our pick for most authentic sit down Mexican food on the island. Located right in the middle of old Kapa’a town, this is a perfect place to grab dinner, do some shopping, and grab a dessert after as well.

    Hours: 11am – 9pm (Thursday – Tuesday)

    Closed on Wednesday

    Travel Time: 9 min

    Price: $20-$30 /Person

    Lava Lava Beach Club

    We are lucky at Islander on the Beach to be located right next door to one of the best ocean view restaurants on the island. Just head out of our unit onto the beachfront walking path and you’ll be there in just a few steps. We love the live music, yard games, and beach swing. Some of our favorite meals include the LLBC burger and the baby back ribs.

    Hours: 7am – 9pm (Daily)

    Happy Hour 3-5pm

    Travel Time: 1 minute walk

    Price: $30-$50 /Person

    Chicken in a Barrel BBQ

    Chicken in a Barrel is, by far, our families favorite spot to walk to from islander on the beach and have a meal that everyone is certain to love. Every BBQ option is delicious, and we are particular fans of their loaded fries. They always have a friendly staff and have three locally owned locations on the island. The Kapa’a location even has a large selection of beer on tap.

    Hours: 11am – 8pm (Daily)

    Travel Time: 3 minute walk

    Price: $10-$20 / Person

    Hukilau Lanai

    Located in Kauai Coast Resort at the Beachboy

    Just a short walk along the oceanfront boardwalk, Hukilau Lanai is located just to the North of Islander on the Beach. It features open- air dining with garden and ocean views, and specializes in fresh local island cuisine. Reservations are suggested, and you’ll find the vibe to be casual-elegant.

    Hours: 5pm – 9pm (Daily)

    Travel Time: 5 minute walk

    Price: $40-$90 / Person

    Bobby V’s

    Located in the Coconut Marketplace, this popular family-friendly Italian spot features pizza, pasta, and several vegan / gluten free options as well. Take advantage of indoor or outdoor dining, and choose from a massive collection of bourbon and other drinks.

    Hours:11am – 9pm (Daily)

    Travel Time: 3 minute walk

    Price: $30-$40 / Person

    Napali Brewing Company

    Brew pub known for its hand-crafted beers, local cuisine, and live music. You’ll find it to be a relaxed family-friendly environment, with delicious fish and chips and other pub food selections.

    Hours: 11am – 9pm (Daily)

    Travel Time: 3 minute drive

    Price: $20-$30 / Person

    Oasis on the Beach

    Located at the Waipouli Beach Resort

    The Oasis gives an upscale oceanfront dining option that features sustainable, farm-to-table Hawaiian cuisine. Has great open air dining with beautiful ocean views. Live music on Wednesday really sets the mood!

    Hours: 4pm – 9pm (Monday – Tuesday / Thursday – Saturday)

    3pm – 9pm (Wednesday)

    Closed on Sundays

    Travel Time: 3 minute drive

    Price: $50-$100 / Person

  • Our “Go To” Breakfast Spots in Kapa’a

    One of the great reasons to stay in Kapa’a is the abundance of places to grab a quick breakfast or coffee, as well as some great sit down options. Below are the places we find ourselves visiting the most for breakfast.

    Island Country Market

    Just steps from our condo, the island market is located at the north end of the coconut marketplace. We found it be an extremely convenient and affordable option to start the day. It offers pre-made breakfast bowls, or you can order from a large breakfast menu at the deli. There is also a selection of pastries, including delicious malasadas, along with your typical grocery store options.

    The market also includes a stand alone coffee shop, with multiple blends of coffee and specialty drinks. Overall a great source of convenient food for your entire trip.

    Hours: 7am-8:30pm Daily

    Travel Time: 2 minute walk

    Price: $5-$15 / Person

    Imua Coffee Roasters

    Awarded best coffee house in Kapa’a in 2023,2024, and 2025. This small shop just steps outside the Islander lobby is known for its house roasted beans, plant-based options, and “Aloha Spirit” atmosphere. We love the gluten free options, especially the banana bread, but make sure you get there early or they will sell out.

    Hours: 7am – 11am (Saturday and Sunday)

    7am – 1pm (Monday – Friday)

    Travel Time: 1 minute walk

    Price: $5-$15 / Person

    Haole Girl Sweets

    A popular farm to table bakery known for its handcrafted pastries with fresh locally sourced ingredients. We love their macadamia nut sticky buns and gluten free mango bundt cake! Great variety of sweet treats and allergy friendly options. You can also get your morning coffee here as well.

    Hours: 7am – 1pm (Tuesday- Sunday)

    Closed on Mondays

    Travel Time: 6 minute drive

    Price: $5-$15 / Person

    Java Kai

    Arguably the most well know breakfast option on our list, Java Kai checks the box with coffee roasted on site and fresh pastries made daily in the shop. You can grab a quick coffee and pastry to go, or sit down and enjoy one of their delicious menu options. We recommend heading here first thing in the morning or the line can sometimes get a little out of control. Anyone with allergies will love their gluten free and vegan options as well.

    Hours: 6am – 5pm (Daily for Coffee, Smoothies, and Pastries)

    6am – 2pm (Daily for breakfast and lunch)

    Travel Time: 8 minute drive

    Price: $10-$20 / Person

    Want Donuts? Check out: Island Craves or Holey Grail Donuts

    Island Craves

    Tons of options here, but we’ve found they are best for donuts or other pastries, including malasadas.

    Hours: 6am – 7pm (Monday – Wednesday, and Friday – Sunday)

    6am – 1pm (Thursday)

    Travel Time: 6 minute drive

    Price: $3-$8 / Person

    Holey Grail Donuts

    These amazing donuts are made with the Hawaiian super food Taro. They have a very well known location in Hanalei as well as their food truck in Kapa’a.

    Hours: 7am – 2pm (Daily)

    Travel Time: 11 minute drive

    Price: $5-$10 / Person

    Kountry Kitchen

    American breakfast and brunch spot known for its hardy portions, island inspired comfort food, and casual atmosphere. If you’re looking for a filling sit-down meal to start your day, with endless cups of coffee, this is the place for you. We particularly enjoy their famous macadamia nut pancakes with coconut syrup, as well as their amazing breakfast omelette.

    Hours: 7am – 1pm (Thursday – Monday)

    Closed Tuesday and Wednesday

    Travel Time: 10 minute drive

    Price: $10-$20 / Person

    Lava Lava Beach Club

    Right next door to the Islander on the Beach, you’ll find one of the best breakfast views on the island. We always love the vibe of Lava Lava, as well as their gluten free and vegan options. The perfect way to start your day if you’re looking for a nicer breakfast with an even nicer view.

    Breakfast Hours: 7am – 11am (Daily)

    Travel Time: 2 minute walk

    Price: $20-$25 / Person

  • Our Favorite North Shore Beaches In Kauai

    In no particular order these are the favorite beaches we’ve had a chance to explore so far in Kauai. Even with multiple trips its hard to fit in all the amazing beaches Kauai has to offer, but this is a great place to start.

    Hanalei Bay

    It’s hard not to mention Hanalei Bay right off the bat. It is the location that led us to fall in love with Kauai and the North Shore, and it’s definitely a place you want to spend a good amount of time at.

    Highlights:

    • Incredible views of the mountains overlooking the bay.
    • Iconic boat pier to walk out on.
    • Public restrooms and beach shower for sand.
    • Lots of public parking.
    • Shallow gradual entry and small waves make this a great spot for kids
    • Proximity to shopping and food in Hanalei

    Downsides:

    • The popularity: really the only challenge here is how crowded it can get during certain times of the year. Parking can become a challenge, but the beach is plenty big enough to spread out and find a good spot to enjoy the beauty

    Kalihiwai

    Definitely one of our kids favorite beaches, Kalihiwai features a river that runs into the ocean with shallow water, rocks to climb and jump off of, and a rope swing! This is a great lower occupancy beach to enjoy beautiful views, play in the surf, or relax in the river stream.

    Highlights:

    • Low traffic, only a handful of people have been there when we have gone.
    • Kid friendly
    • Easy Parking

    Downsides:

    • No public restrooms
    • No outdoor shower

    Sealodge

    A unique beach experience that is only accessible from the Sealodge. Although all beaches are public, the Sealodge Beach is about as close as we’ve come to a private beach due to the limited access to it. About a 10 minute hike down from the unit will bring you to the beach which has beautiful views and good snorkeling.

    Highlights:

    • The seclusion – its common to be the only ones down at the beach
    • Good snorkeling – you can see colorful fish and even turtles not far from shore
    • Fun hike down to the beach

    Downsides:

    • Hike down to beach can be challenging. If you are not able to climb steep inclines or lower yourself down rocks it may be best avoided, especially after a rain.
    • The reef and rock start almost immediately which does not allow for great swimming conditions
    • No public restroom or shower – however you are just minutes from your home

    Ke’e

    One of the better known beaches on Kauai, Ke’e has breathtaking sunset views over the Napali Coastline. We’ve enjoyed snorkeling and swimming at Ke’e beach, and when possible try to make this a stop every trip. The challenge is that Ke’e beach requires a pass in order to visit and these passes typically sell out very quickly.

    Highlights:

    • Beautiful sunset views
    • Great snorkeling and swimming
    • Amazing mountain views
    • Public restrooms and showers

    Downsides:

    • Can be challenging to acquire the required parking or shuttle pass
  • Best Restaurants for Dinner in Kauai

    Best Restaurants for Dinner in Kauai

    Kalypso Island Bar & Grill

    Location: Hanalei

    Style: American grill/Mexican

    Hours: M-F 11am-8:30pm, Sat 9am-8:30, Sun 8am-8:30pm

    Price: $20-30/person

    Great island vibe with a variety of food options, making it a solid choice to meet everyone’s preferences. Our kids love drawing on the chalkboard wall while they wait for their food. We particularly love the loaded nachos, which is big enough to share!

    Tahiti Nui

    Location: Hanalei

    Style: Seafood/Pizza

    Hours: 12pm-9pm Daily

    Closed Saturday

    Price: $20-30/person

    Our personal favorite for a pizza dinner. Often has live local music, and a great selection of cocktails, especially known for their Mai Tai.

    The Terrace Hanalei

    Location: Hanalei

    Style: Seafood/Grill

    Hours: 11am-9pm Daily

    Closed Wednesday

    Price: $30-50/Person

    One of the best mountain views for dinner in Hanalei. We recommend going early so you can enjoy the view as much as possible before the sun goes down.

    Bar Acuda

    Location: Hanalei

    Style: Small Plate “Tapas”/Primarily Local Seafood

    Hours: Tue-Sat 5:30pm-9:30pm

    Closed Sunday and Monday

    Price: $50-100/Person

    Tidepools

    Location: Koloa(At the Grand Hyatt)

    Style: Upscale Hawaiian Cuisine, Seafood/Steak

    Hours: 5pm-9pm Daily

    Price: $50-100/Person

    Reservations Required

    Although quite a hike from the North Shore, this is a great option if you want to have a memorable high end dinner. Amazing service, steaks, and scenery will make for a very special evening.

    Dukes

    Location: Lihue

    Style: Seafood/American Grill

    Hours: Mon-Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 9am-10pm

    Price: $30-60/Person

    Lava Lava Beach Club

    Location: Ka’paa

    Style: Seafood/American Grill

    Hours: 7am-9pm Daily

    Price: $25-60/Person

  • Top Lunch Spots on Kauai’s North Shore

    Top Lunch Spots on Kauai’s North Shore

    From a budget friendly perspective, we recommend the idea of utilizing a cooler and packing lunches while you explore the islands beaches and trails. However, we also know we’re going to want to eat out for lunch as well, so here are some of our personal favorites.

    Federico’s Fresh Mex Cuisine

    Style: Mexican

    Location: Hanalei

    Hours: M, TH, F, Sat, Sun 11am -8pm

    Closed Tuesday and Wednesday

    Price: $10-20/person

    Great open air seating to grab lunch in Hanalei. Bonus points if you order the loaded fries after hiking the Kalalau Trail.

    Palate Wine Bar & Restaurant

    Style: Pizza, Sandwiches, Salads

    Location: Kilauea

    Hours: M, W, TH, F, Sat 12pm-7pm, Sun 1pm-7pm

    Closed Tuesday

    Price: $18-30/person

    Palate is a smaller, intimate restaurant just south of Princeville in Kilauea. Flatbread pizza or salad are popular choices, and the meatball sandwich is highly recommended. Everything here is fresh and made in the open kitchen just a few feet from where you sit.

    Big Nick’s

    Style: Burgers

    Location: Hanalei

    Hours: 11:30am – 5pm (Daily)

    Price: $15-$30 / Person

    Locally owned restaurant known for its burgers, Hawaiian BBQ plate lunches, and sandwiches. The owners are Hanalei natives, adding to the local charm. By far the best burger we have found on the island…highly recommend!