Introduction
I didn’t expect to fall for Kauai the way I did. After visiting other Hawaiian islands, I assumed I knew what to expect: beaches, palm trees, poke bowls. But Kauai? It was different. Wilder. Greener. Somehow softer and more rugged all at once.
Over the course of a week, I chased waterfalls along the Napali Coast, got soaked on jungle hikes, and found secret beaches where it felt like time stopped. If you’re planning a trip and wondering how to see the best of the island, this 7 day Kauai itinerary has you covered—whether you’re flying in for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both.
Day 1: Arrival + North Shore Settle-In
- Pick up your rental car (you’ll need one!)
- Stock up on snacks and essentials in Lihue or Kapaa
- Head to Princeville or Hanalei for your stay
- Dinner at The Hanalei Dolphin—fresh fish and riverside views
Your first evening is best spent adjusting to island time. I grabbed a mai tai and watched the sky turn sherbet pink behind Hanalei Bay. Not a bad way to start.
Day 2: Hanalei + Secret Beaches
- Breakfast at Wake Up Café
- Explore Hanalei Town shops and galleries
- Spend the afternoon at Tunnels Beach or Hideaways Beach
- Sunset: Hanalei Pier
Hanalei is postcard-pretty but still feels local. Tunnels Beach had the best snorkeling I found on the island. If you’re up for a short (but slippery) trail, the descent to Hideaways is worth it for the peaceful cove.
Day 3: Napali Coast Boat Tour + North Shore Relaxation
- Morning Napali Coast catamaran tour (leaves from Hanalei or Port Allen)
- Snorkel, dolphin spotting, sea cliffs—it’s a must-do!
- Grab lunch after the tour (I loved Trucking Delicious food truck)
- Chill afternoon: Ke’e Beach or your hotel lanai
- Optional: Haena State Park visit (requires permit)
The Napali Coast is every bit as dramatic in real life as in photos. If you only splurge on one tour, make it this one.
Day 4: Hike the Kalalau Trail (or Just to Hanakapiai Falls)
- Secure permits in advance
- Bring: snacks, water, dry bag, sturdy shoes
- Hike to Hanakapiai Beach (2 miles) or Hanakapiai Falls (4 miles each way)
- Dinner: Bar Acuda in Hanalei (make a reservation)
I hiked to the falls and it was tough, muddy, and absolutely unforgettable. The trail hugs cliffs with sweeping ocean views and ends at a towering waterfall that felt like a scene from Jurassic Park.
Day 5: Waimea Canyon + South Shore Road Trip
- Early start to drive to the west side
- Stop at Waimea Canyon Lookout, Pu’u Hinahina, and Kalalau Lookout
- Light hiking at Canyon Trail to Waipo’o Falls
- Late lunch in Waimea Town
- Optional sunset at Polihale State Park (if conditions allow)
This was the longest drive day, but the canyon views? Wow. They call it the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” for a reason.
Day 6: Poipu + Spouting Horn + Beach Time
- Morning walk on the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail
- Explore Poipu Beach Park (good for snorkeling and turtles!)
- Visit Spouting Horn blowhole
- Lunch at Da Crack (a local favorite)
- Afternoon gelato at Lappert’s
- Sunset at Shipwreck Beach or dinner at Beach House Restaurant
South Shore has a drier climate and more resort vibes. It was the perfect wind-down after several big hike days.
Day 7: Wailua River + Fly Home
- Easy kayak or boat ride on the Wailua River
- Visit Fern Grotto or Opaekaa Falls
- Stop at Kapa’a for last-minute souvenirs
- Fuel up at Costco near Lihue Airport (best gas prices)
Depending on your flight time, you might squeeze in one last stroll or one more poke bowl before heading home.
Kauai Travel Tips
- Car rental: Book early—availability is limited and prices spike
- Permits: Needed for Kalalau Trail and Haena State Park
- Weather: Rain is part of the deal here, especially on the North Shore. Embrace it.
- What to pack: Reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, dry bag, layers for higher elevations
Where to Stay in Kauai
North Shore:
- Princeville Resort (for luxury)
- Hanalei Colony Resort (remote, peaceful, right on the beach)
South Shore:
- Koa Kea Hotel & Resort (romantic getaway)
- Grand Hyatt Kauai (resort-style amenities and lush grounds)
FAQs: 7 Day Kauai Itinerary
Is 7 days enough in Kauai?
Yes! A week gives you time to explore both North and South Shores, hike, relax, and take a few unforgettable tours.
What’s better: North or South Shore?
Both! I preferred staying in the North for its jungle scenery and beaches, but loved visiting the drier South for canyon views and food.
Do you need a car in Kauai?
Absolutely. Public transportation is very limited and many of the best spots require a car to reach.
What’s the best month to visit Kauai?
April to June and September to November strike a great balance between good weather and fewer crowds.
Final Thoughts
Kauai surprised me in all the best ways. It felt more intimate than other islands—like I had stumbled into something wild and wonderful. If you’re dreaming of a Hawaii trip with adventure, quiet beauty, and moments that stick with you long after you’ve left, this 7 day Kauai itinerary might just be the one.
