Hawaii is one of those destinations that feel like you’re at an adult Disneyland: an abundance of activities, yummy food, everyone seems to be happy and site seeing out of a storybook. Last minute, we planned a little weekend getaway in-between work schedules to experience all Kauai has to offer. Originally I felt like 3 days and 4 nights were plenty, how much could a tiny island really have to offer anyway? I discovered this was far from the truth, and I’m counting down the days until I can revisit this magical little jungle island again.

Things To-Do

Filled with a variety of natural outdoor activities like hiking, boating, snorkeling, surfing, paddle boarding and all things ocean, Kauai is really known for the NaPali coast which can be explored via boat or foot. The zodiac boats are an excursion I definitely recommend, not only to view the gigantic coast while gliding over the ocean, but for wildlife spotting, cave hopping and a perspective below (instead of high up in a helicopter) to get the full effect on how big the majestic mountains really are. Heads up though, I expected a cute boat day with my sun hat and a gentle excursion, but instead I was introduced to these inflatable boats that are top speed with no handles. Instead, there are ropes strung along the edges and on the floor for you to “tuck your toes” and hang on. Expect to get wet, go fast and hold on for dear life.

Beach Hopping

Unfortunately because we only had 3 days, we were restricted on all the beaches I wanted to visit- there are tons! But the most popular spots are Hanalei Bay, Tunnels, Queens Bath and Secret Beach. Each one has it’s perks that separate them from the rest, but I would recommend choosing to enjoy Queens Bath at least once. This is a rocky tide pool with sweeping views of the coast and a spot to cliff jump with wild sea turtles. Brings towels and relax on the rocks, swim or site see on foot. If you have time to visit more, all of the beaches listed above are incredible. Pro tip: most of Hawaii beaches require a little hike to access them. I wore converse and felt more comfortable than flip flops!

Hiking

Kauai has endless trails ranging from easy to very challenging. We used the All Trails app to check out the hikes we would enjoy most, and this is a very immersive way to see the jungle and waterfalls it has to offer. Helicopter tours are extremely popular but they can be costly, short lived and don’t fully take you into nature. Usually they last a short 2 hours and even if you land at a waterfall, it’s for minutes. Hiking allows you to spend as much time as you’d like to look, swim or even jump into the natural waterfalls and immerse yourself into nature. Our guide, Tom at @kauaiadventurecompany, was absolutely spectacular. He was an amazing guide allowing us to pick the pace, how long we wanted to hike, and was informative on everything ranging from the hike, plants, fruit, rocks, etc. He really made this excursion a special experience. We recommend giving him a follow and reach out for your next adventure!

Restaurants

The top spots we enjoyed:

For coffee/quick breakfast

•Java Kai

•Hanalei Bread Company

For lunch

•Nourish Cafe (the most breathtaking views I have ever seen!)

For dinner

•Postcards - Modern American

•The Dolphin - Sushi

•The Bistro - Modern American

Where to stay

We personally rented a stunning ocean view Airbnb that was perfect! Located in Princeville, this cute and cozy little condo was perfect for relaxing in-between our island adventures.