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Kauai Top Sights & Attractions

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Visit the top destinations on the island of Kauai and experience the towering sea cliffs of the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, romantic Fern Grotto and Wailua River, Hanalei Bay and more! Kauai, nicknamed "The Garden Isle," holds the record for being the wettest place on Earth and its rainforests are teeming with some of the world's most unique tropical flora and wildlife.
Kauai Top Sights & Attractions
Na Pali Coast
A visit to the Na Pali Coast along the northern shore of Kauai is like a trip through time, back to an ancient era when things were incomparably larger and somehow brighter. From mist-shrouded peaks down rippling, carved cliff faces to the waves that splash through arches and sea caves along the base, the Na Pali Coast is a sight to behold. While it is possible to hike a majority of the Na Pali Coast, boat and helicopter are the most popular ways to experience this incredible natural wonder.
Waimea Canyon
On the west side of the island of Kauai stands beautiful Waimea Canyon, a vast 3,500-foot deep canyon famous for its spectacular panoramic views of steep cliffs, rugged valleys, and breathtaking peaks. Views from the summit can stretch for miles, earning this island gem the title "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific". A variety of sightseeing tours will lead you to this beautiful landmark and its favorite scenic spots for the most picturesque vistas.
Fern Grotto & Wailua River Cruise
Accessible only by boat on the Wailua River, Kauai’s Fern Grotto is a lava rock cave draped in lush ferns, moss, and tropical plants. This natural wonder has long captivated visitors with its beauty and cultural significance. Enjoy a scenic river cruise with live Hawaiian music and storytelling, and enhance your experience by combining it with Smith’s Luau—one of Kauai’s most popular traditional Hawaiian luaus—for a truly memorable evening.
Manawaiopuna Jurassic Falls
Discover Kauai’s iconic “Jurassic Falls,” officially known as Manawaiopuna Falls, made famous by the Jurassic Park™ movies. Nestled in the remote Hanapepe Valley, this stunning waterfall is best seen by air. Choose from thrilling helicopter or airplane tours that soar over the lush landscape, offering unforgettable views of this legendary filming location. A must-do for movie fans, photographers, and nature lovers exploring the Garden Isle.
Lihue Town
Your Kauai adventure begins in Līhuʻe, the island’s commercial hub and home to Lihue Airport (LIH). Surrounded by top attractions, you can head north to Princeville or south to Waimea. Explore Kipu Ranch by ATV or zipline, kayak the Huleia River to a hidden waterfall, or take off on a helicopter or airplane tour from LIH for breathtaking aerial views of the Garden Isle. Līhuʻe is the perfect starting point for unforgettable Kauai experiences.
Lehua Crater
Lehua Crater is a sunken atoll and crescent-shaped islet just north of Niʻihau and west of Kauai. A Hawaii State Wildlife Sanctuary, it’s a top spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, with crystal-clear waters, sea arches, and vibrant marine life. Often visited on Niʻihau boat tours, Lehua offers a remote, uncrowded experience for ocean lovers. If you’ve snorkeled Molokini, Lehua is Kauai’s must-see answer to Maui’s famous crater.
Wailua River Adventures
Kauai’s Wailua River flows from Mt. Waialeale past lush jungle landscapes and hidden waterfalls, creating the perfect setting for outdoor adventure. Paddle a kayak through calm, scenic waters to explore secret falls and ancient sites, or take a relaxing boat cruise to the famous Fern Grotto. Whether you're chasing waterfalls or enjoying the ride, the Wailua River offers one of Kauai’s most rewarding nature experiences.
Poipu Beach
Poipu Beach is hailed as one of the best beaches in the United States, and with good reason. It's perpetually sunny weather and calm shallow water attract snorkeling fans, swimmers and vacationers of all ages. When most people close their eyes and imagine a beach in Kauai, they are thinking of Poipu Beach.
Hanapepe Historic Art Town
Hanapēpē, known as “Kauai’s biggest little town,” is a historic and artistic gem on the island’s south shore. Stroll through its plantation-era streets lined with art galleries, boutiques, and local eateries. Visit the famous Hanapēpē Swinging Bridge or explore the town’s vibrant Friday Night Art Walk. Rich in culture and small-town charm, Hanapēpē is a must-visit stop for travelers seeking a taste of authentic Kauai.
Wailua Falls
Wailua Falls, located near Līhuʻe on Kauai’s east side, is one of the island’s most iconic waterfalls. Easily accessible by car, this twin waterfall plunges over 80 feet into a lush gorge below and is especially stunning after heavy rain. A popular photo stop and a filming location from Fantasy Island, Wailua Falls is a must-see for nature lovers, offering dramatic views without the need for a hike.
Hanalei Bay
Experience the beauty of Hanalei Town and explore this island's gem graced with a rich history and peaceful green landscapes. From taro fields to the Hanalei Mountains, Lagoon and Pier, there are a few amazing tours and activities in Hanalei to choose from that will be sure to delight people all ages. See where the classic movie musical "South Pacific" was filmed or get easy access to the coast and cliffs of Na Pali or simply relax and experience the northern sunset that Hanalei is known for.
Opaekaa Falls
Opaekaa Falls is a beautiful, 150-foot waterfall found in Wailua. Known for being one of Kauai's most easily accessible waterfalls, you can view the majestic falls from a vista conveniently located on the side of Kuamoo Road. The name "opae-kaa" (shrimp-rolling) comes from the days when there were many freshwater shrimp in the stream, a lot of which would roll down the waterfall into the pool below. Opaekaa Falls flows year round, so it's worth visiting for anyone on the East Side.
Princeville Resorts
Explore some of Kauai's favorite tours & activities on the north shore. The Princeville Resort area features many popular attractions such as a shopping center, a golf course, Hanalei Bay, Princeville Ranch & a nearby heliport. From horseback riding, zipline courses & circle-island helicopter tours to surfing lessons that will have you hangin ten, a chance to work on your golf swing & a peaceful hike to a hidden waterfall, the North Shore of Kauai has much to offer.
Spouting Horn
This spectacular natural geyser forms when waves push under a shelf of volcanic rock, causing a pillar of water to rush upward. Blowholes like Spouting Horn, found elsewhere throughout Hawaii, are created when remnants of an ancient lava tube succumbs to tidal forces and erosion, finally producing an opening through which rushing sea water can emerge from. Visitors often enjoy the challenge of timing the perfect photo to catch a rainbow that flashes as the Spouting Horn erupts.
Kalalau Lookout
Kalalau Valley, one of the most beautiful valleys of the Na Pali Coast, is accessible only via an 11-mile hiking trail that begins in Haena State Park on the North Shore and continues along the Na Pali Coast. The Kalalau Trail is the only way to access Kalalau Beach, as boat landings aren't permitted. The Valley can also be viewed from Kalalau Lookout, located in Kokee State Park, or from a helicopter tour, most of which fly past the Na Pali Coast.
Kilauea Lighthouse
Visit the historic Kilauea Point Lighthouse & Wildlife Refuge, where you can enjoy breathtaking ocean views and observe native Hawaiian seabirds in their natural habitat.

Top-Rated Activities for Kauai

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Kauai Mountain Tubing Adventure – Float Through Jungle Tunnels & Canals
USD 176.96
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2

Smith’s Fern Grotto River Cruise with Live Hawaiian Music & Hula
USD 35.00
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3

Kauai ATV Waterfall Tour at Kipu Ranch - Off-Road 3-Hour Expedition
From USD 211.90
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4

Smiths Family Garden Luau in Kauai - Authentic Hawaiian Dinner & Show
From USD 30.00
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5

Wailua River Kayak & Secret Falls Hike - Guided Kauai Adventure
USD 149.00
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6

5-Hour Liko Kauai Catamaran Tour - Na Pali Coast Sea Caves & Snorkel with Lunch
From USD 214.35
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7

Private Kauai Doors On & Off Na Pali Coast Air Tour - Mauna Loa Helicopter
USD 359.00
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8

Kauai Helicopter Tour & Eco Adventure Flight from Lihue - Blue Hawaiian Helicopters

From USD 409.00
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9

Luau Kalamaku Kauai – Award-Winning Hawaiian Dinner Show with Fire Knife Dance
From USD 179.06
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10

3.5-Hour Na Pali Sunset Dinner Cruise with Open Bar on Holo Holo Catamaran
From USD 247.32
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11

Kipu Ranch ATV Tour – Scenic Ride Through Jurassic Park Film Locations
From USD 211.90
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12

Small-Group Napali Coast Boat Tour, Sea Caves, Snorkel & Lunch - Seiko Catamaran
From USD 235.89
(2)
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13

Kauai Island Tour - Hanalei, Kilauea Lighthouse, Chocolate Tasting & Movie Sites
USD 179.06
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14

Deluxe Na Pali Experience Snorkel Tour, Breakfast & Lunch - Holo Holo Charters
From USD 274.20
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15

Kauai to Kona One-Day Trip with Volcano Tour, Coffee Farm & Black Sand Beach - Aloha Sunshine
USD 617.79
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16

Holo Holo Super Kauai Snorkel Tour - Niihau & Na Pali Coast Adventure with Breakfast, Lunch & Drinks
From USD 338.72
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17

Hanalei River and Blue Lagoon Kayaking & Guided Snorkeling Tour - Kayak Kauai
From USD 144.99
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18

Snuba Tours of Kauai | Small-Group Guided Beach SNUBA Diving Tour at Lawai Beach
USD 125.84
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Discover Kauai Helicopter Tour from Princeville - Blue Hawaiian
From USD 459.00
(2)
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Hidden Valleys of Kauai Waterfall Swim, Kayak & Hike Adventure
USD 157.07

Latest reviews of Kauai Top Sights & Attractions

Smith’s Fern Grotto River Cruise with Live Hawaiian Music & Hula

Aging Infrastructure

2026/02/02 Others Husband

Last visited fern grotto in 1978. So disappointed we couldn’t walk up into cave as before. Sidewalks were broken and heaving up. Difficult to walk. Dangerous

Kauai Mountain Tubing Adventure – Float Through Jungle Tunnels & Canals

Tubing

2026/02/02 Couples Fun tubing February.

Cody and team were funny and attentive. The tubing was a blast. Definitely bring a long sleeve rash guard or if you get cold quickly seriously consider renting wet suit top. About 3 in our group of about 20 got quite col... more

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3.5-Hour Na Pali Sunset Dinner Cruise with Open Bar on Holo Holo Catamaran

Family vacation!!

2026/01/31 Families Hawai’i 2026

The crew was fantastic and the views were wonderful!!

Wailua River Kayak & Secret Falls Hike - Guided Kauai Adventure

Great adventure

2026/01/29 Couples KNC

Great time kayaking down the river. Fun and muddy hike to a beautiful waterfall. We had lunch there and a swim and then started the trip back. Harrison was our guide so knowledge and helpful. Recommend this fun adventure... more

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Kauai Mountain Tubing Adventure – Float Through Jungle Tunnels & Canals

Wonderful~!

2026/01/27 Couples B&A

Wonderful~! The whole trip was wonderful~! Guides and driver were funny and welcoming, knowledge about everything was great! Would do it again~! Tunnels were not confining for members of group who were worried about clau... more

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Smith’s Fern Grotto River Cruise with Live Hawaiian Music & Hula

Great Time!

2026/01/25 Couples Sue Sue

Enjoyed the music and dancing as well as the informative narration. The natural beauty of the river and grotto is spectacular. Walking through the Rain Forest area gave you a sense of peace.

Top Kauai Attractions & Sights | Book Kauai Tours, Activities & Things to Do with HawaiiActivities.com
Visit the top destinations on the island of Kauai and experience the towering sea cliffs of the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, romantic Fern Grotto and Wailua River, Hanalei Bay and more! Kauai, nicknamed "The Garden Isle," holds the record for being the wettest place on Earth and its rainforests are teeming with some of the world's most unique tropical flora and wildlife.