By Shannon Gomes
In my opinion, the North Shore of Kauai is the most beautiful location of all the Hawaiian Islands. Featuring lush, dramatic landscapes, incredible beaches to surf or snorkel in, and offering an overall laid-back island vibe, the North Shore of Kauai needs to be on your must-visit list. Plan to visit for at least 4-8 days. 😎
✈️ Fly in/out of Lihue Airport. Several major airlines, including Hawaiian Airlines, offers daily direct flights to Lihue.
🚗 Definitely rent a car (note: book well in advance online!) for pick-up at Lihue airport. If you have miles from an airline or credit card, look into to using your mikes towards your car rental. It’s approximately a 45-minute drive from the Lihue airport to the North Shore.
🏠 When staying on the North Shore, I recommend renting a condo or house either in Princeville or Hanalei – you can find the perfect place to stay on Airbnb or VRBO. If you prefer a hotel experience, Princeville has some great offerings such as the spectacular 1 Hotel () or the Westin Princeville.
💦 Start your trip off by renting equipment for the week to enjoy the ocean (snorkel, surf, boogie board, paddle board). Best rental spots are in the town of Hanalei including Kauai Surf Rentals and Kauai Surfboard Rentals.
🏄♂️ The best beach for surfing and boogie boarding fun is the popular Hanalei Beach. Parking will likely be your biggest challenge of the day so I recommend arriving early, bringing a picnic and staying for the day. Or, wait to the crowds leave and visit at sunset to enjoy the incredible view of Bali Hai with a 🍹in hand.
🤿 Love to snorkel? You are in luck! So many beautiful 🐠, sea turtles and more to view and swim with. Top snorkeling beaches in the North Shore include: Anini Beach, Hideaway Beach, and Tunnels Beach.
🚤 A must-do activity while on the North Shore is to go in a boat tour along the Na Pail coast – you will never forget it (trust me!). Definitely book your tour well in advance as this is a very popular activity and tours book up quick. Prepare to jump off the boat and snorkel at certain points and you can’t forget your camera! Check out your operators such as Na Pali Experience or Napali Coast Hanalei Tours.
💧Looking for some adventurous fun for the day? Go Mountain Tubing in the backcountry with Kauai Backcountry Adventures. Fun for the whole family, and lunch is included!
⛳️ Want to play golf in paradise? Travel with your clubs, and book a tee time at the spectacular Makai Golf Club in Princeville.
🥾 There is a ton of great hiking in the area, but for the more adventurous hikers there is nothing like Kalalau Trail. The 11-mile trail that stretches along the NaPali coastline starts at Kee Beach at the end of the road of North Kauai. Definitely wear hiking shoes/sandals with good treads (no 🩴 or tennis shoes!) and be sure no one has a fear of heights. It’s a challenging hike (bring plenty of water & snacks) and be extra careful at parts where you cross the river but if you are up for an epic adventure with outstanding views, this hike is a must-do.
🍣 Let’s talk food! Of course, there is a ton of fresh seafood to enjoy but the best spot is Hanalei Dolphin Restaurant, Fish Market, & Sushi Lounge. You can visit their fish market in the back to pick up a fresh catch of the day, poke or sushi to enjoy back at your own place or stay to enjoy at delicious meal at the restaurant. For a special night of some of the best sushi I’ve ever had, and a view like no other, I recommend booking a reservation at the Welina Terrace at the 1 Hotel. (Pro Tip: Book an early reservation so you can experience watching the most spectacular sunset while enjoying your sushi).
👩🌾 There are two fantastic Farmer’s Markets on the North Shore that you can’t miss featuring the best local produce, foods and local artisan goods of Kauai. Be sure not to miss the Princeville Farmer’s Market that happens every Saturday from 9:30am-12:30pm and the Hanalei Farmers’ Market that happens every Saturday from 9:30am-12pm.
🍹Want to experience old-school Hawaii vibes? You must to go to Tahiti Nui for local food, live music and fantastic Mai Tais. A visit to the North Shore isn’t complete without enjoying a Mai Tai and live music at Tahiti Nui – trust me!
🍧 You cannot fully experience Kauai without enjoying a (daily) shave ice. Refreshing and delicious, one of the best spots is Jojo’s Shave Ice.
🌺 Want to experience a traditional Hawaiian luau? Book a date in advance and drive to the town of Kapaa to enjoy the Smith Family Garden Luau. Don’t forget your camera and enjoy exploring the beautiful gardens before the show.
💆♀️ Looking to totally unwind? Book a massage or a couple’s massage at the Hanalei Day Spa. They offer plenty of services including a Beach-Side Massage. Pure bliss!
☀️ While you can enjoy all of the delights the North Shore has to offer year-round, some of the best months to visit are April – May and late August – October. Enjoy the magic and Aloha spirit of the spectacular North Shore of Kauai!
