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Kauai Garden Tours

Garden activities.

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Garden Tours on Kauai

Kauai is very aptly dubbed The Garden Isle, as most of its land is covered with lush rainforests and unspoiled mountain ranges.  And in living up to its moniker, Kauai is one of the world's best places to take a garden tour.  Prepare to marvel at the most massive living collection of native Hawaiian plants; connect with nature as you learn about ancient agricultural practices and contemporary conservation efforts; or take a breathtaking sunset tour followed by a delicious dinner as the sun disappears into the Pacific. Whether you choose a self-guided tour or prefer the company of a knowledgeable guide, you'll surely love these serene Kauai Garden Tours.

— article continued below —

Recommended Kauai Tours

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KAUAI FARM & GARDEN TOURS

• Information

Kauai is nicknamed “The Garden Island” for good reason. Doing a Kauai Farm or Garden Tour is such a neat way to get in touch with the natural aspects of the island.

See our tour offerings below and let us know which outing is the best fit for you. Choose from Botanical Gardens, Fruit Orchards and Chocolate Farms Tours. Explore the lush beauty of Kauai with Botanical Gardens, Chocolate and Pineapple Farms, Taro Patch Tours, Tropical Forest Hikes and maybe even a Train Ride while you’re at it.

Train Ride, Plantation Farm Tour & Tropical Forest Hike

Limahuli Garden Preserve

Smiths Tropical Paradise

Chocolate Farm & Fruit Orchard Tour

Allerton Valley Garden Tour

North Shore Botanical Garden

Kauai Plantation Railway

Limahuli Garden in Kauai, Hawaii: The Complete 2024 Guide!

Garden lover planning a visit to Kauai? Be sure to put Limahuli Garden on your itinerary for the island!

One of the best botanical gardens in Kauai , Limahuli Botanical Garden is located on the island’s scenic north shore. In fact, visiting the garden is one of the best things to do on the north shore of Kauai .

Limahuli Garden is home to numerous native and culturally-significant plant species, in an authentic Hawaiian setting. If you are interested in native Hawaiian plants , you won’t find a better place in Kauai to see and enjoy them!

While Kauai has several gardens you can visit — it’s nicknamed the Garden Isle, after all — our favorite Kauai garden is Limahuli. There’s something about walking this garden on a misty north shore morning that’s quintessential Kauai.

Not only does Limahuli Garden boast impressive plant collections, the setting is also spectacular. At the very top of the walk, you’ll enjoy views out to the Pacific Ocean!

For garden enthusiasts, nature lovers, photographers, and history and culture buffs, visiting Limahuli Garden is without a doubt one of the best things to do in Kauai .

In this article, we describe how to visit Limahuli Garden — what to see and do in the garden, how to get there, and the best time to visit.

Visiting Kauai? The only way to get a real feel for the rugged beauty of this incredible island is through a helicopter tour! Top Kauai Helicopter Tours

Some links on this page may be affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. For more details, refer to our disclosure .

A Brief History of Limahuli Garden

The 1,000-acre property in Limahuli Valley where Limahuli Garden is located was bought by Ms. Juliet Rice Wichman in 1967. Ms. Wichman was a Hawaiian conservationist and botanist known for her work in preserving Hawaiian culture.

In 1976, Ms. Wichman, who had been restoring the valley in the intervening years, donated 17 acres closest to the Pacific Ocean to the National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG), and Limahuli Garden was born.

Today the NTBG manages Limahuli Garden, along with McBryde Garden and Allerton Garden on the south shore of Kauai.

In 1994, the remaining 985 acres were also donated by the Wichman family to the NTBG, creating Limahuli Preserve.

Limahuli Garden and Preserve holds numerous treasures, both in terms of plants and wildlife and cultural and archaeological sites.

>> Book these 5 star rated, highly popular, Kauai Tours now!

Things to See and Do in Limahuli Garden

A walking trail in Limahuli Garden leads you through the various exhibits. You’ll get a booklet with a map at the entrance with your paid admission.

The trail is 0.75 mile long, with an elevation change of about 200 feet. Note that there are many steps.

We’ve highlighted some of the areas of Limahuli Garden here, but you’ll find more to see when you explore!

Canoe Garden

Near the entrance is the “canoe” garden, that houses plants that were important to the Hawaiian civilization that once flourished here.

These plants were brought to the valley long ago by the Polynesian peoples that settled here: the plants were used for food, medicine, shelter and more.

You’ll see several varieties of taro on the terraces, as well as ti, with its waxy leaves, sweet potato, turmeric, and more.

Medicine Garden

Right next to the Canoe Garden is the Medicine Garden, where you’ll find plants prized for their therapeutic value. The garden includes native, canoe, and modern plants.

Plants in this garden are changed from time to time, but look for aloe, māmaki  (a native plant that’s used to regulate blood pressure), comfrey, ‘olena (a Polynesian canoe plant), and noni , also a Polynesian import.

Plantation Garden

In this part of Limahuli Garden you’ll find many of the plants that you typically associate with Hawaii, like plumeria, pineapple, or papaya.

The plants in this garden were brought to Hawaii in the Plantation Era, most of them less than 200 years ago, when immigrant workers from countries like China, Japan, the Philippines, and Portugal arrived to work in the sugar plantations.

Look for the sweetly fragrant plumeria, used to make lei , mango, papaya, colorful bird of paradise, bright orchids, ginger, and heliconia.

You’ll also find vegetables like daikon, bok choy, Chinese broccoli, tatsoi, and tangerine.

Limahuli Stream

Limahuli Stream flows through the garden and is a wonderful place to just sit for a few minutes, soaking in the beauty and tranquility of this place.

The stream starts at the top of Limahuli Valley and plunges in an 800-foot waterfall before reaching the valley floor.

Limahuli Stream is home to all five species of native Hawaiian freshwater fish!

Walking down to the stream isn’t advised.

The Hala Plant

The hala plant is native to Hawaii but was also brought here by the Polynesians.

The leaves of this plant were used by the Polynesians to make sails for their canoes, so it was an important plant for them! The leaves were also used to make woven baskets, mats, and other household items.

The hala is a striking flowering plant, with male and female trees producing different types of flowers. The flowers on female trees look like pineapples!

Archaeological Site

This area contains rocks believed to have been part of a home or a cultural use site built by ancient Hawaiians.

Stones are the building materials used by Hawaiians to build homes, heiau or sacred sites, terraces to grow crops, and more.

Native Forest

Possibly one of the most exciting parts of Limahuli Garden is the Native Forest Walk.

Here you will find the re-creation of a Hawaiian mesic forest, made possible by removal of alien trees from the area.

Today you won’t find such a forest in the wild in the lowlands of Hawaii, and you’d have to go up into the mountains to find one.

Some very rare plants have been nurtured here for educational purposes: some of them are extinct in the wild, or very few remain.

Nearby you can also walk through an invasive forest!

>> Book these 5-star rated, highly popular, Kauai tours now!

‘Ōhi’a Lehua Trees

The ‘ohi’a lehua tree is revered in Hawaiian culture, and often referenced in song and poetry. The unopened buds, flowers, and leaves are used to make lei.

The tree bears beautiful crimson flowers. You can find honey made from the blossoms in the garden gift shop.

‘Ōhi’a lehua trees in Hawaii are being damaged or killed by fungal pathogens. Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death has been detected at various places in Kauai.

Fortunately, the trees at Limahuli are safe so far.

Toward the end of your walk through Limahuli Garden, you will come to a hale , a traditional Hawaiian house built to resemble one from an ancient complex.

The hale is built from strawberry guava, a modern tree, and thatched partially with loulu , a native Hawaiian fan palm.

Limahuli Garden Gift Shop

Be sure to stop by the garden gift shop on your way out!

From botanical themed stationery to jewelry, soap, candles, and other gifts, you will enjoy browsing the shop for souvenirs to take back home.

We picked up some plumeria hair clips that we love!

Getting to Limahuli Garden

Limahuli Garden & Preserve is located in the valley of the same name in the northwest part of the island of Kauai. It is just under 7 miles west of Hanalei.

If you have a rental car, you can drive to Limahuli Garden on your own. Take Kuhio Highway west almost to the end of the road. Limahuli Garden comes up just before Haena State Park , which marks the end of the road (see map ).

Parking at the garden is tight, and walk-ins may not always be accommodated, so please read the tour reservation information below. A parking spot is included with the advance online purchase of a tour.

You can also take the North Shore Shuttle to Limahuli Garden. Advance reservation of a tour is not required if you have a shuttle voucher you can show at the entrance, and you also get a discount on the garden admission.

The North Shore Shuttle runs between the Waipa Park and Ride Haena State Park Shuttle stop along the Kuhio Highway and Haena State Park.

Seats on the shuttle sell out quickly so buy your shuttle ticket as soon as you know your dates.

Limahuli Garden Hours

Limahuli Garden is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8.30 a.m to 4 p.m. Last check-in is at 2.15 p.m., when the entrance gate is shut.

Limahuli Garden Tours and Reservations

You can visit Limahuli Garden on a self-guided tour or a guided tour. We’ve visited both ways.

The guided tour was great for our first visit: the docent was knowledgeable and answered lots of questions!

The Limahuli Garden guided tour is led by a docent and is 2.5 hours long. Online reservations are mandatory for guided tours, whether you plan to drive or use the shuttle. If you plan to drive, request a parking space with your booking.

Guided tours are only offered Tuesday and Thursday, at 9 a.m. Check-in is at 8.45 a.m.

The guided tour is restricted to ages 13 and older, and costs $60.00 per person. For residents of Hawaii, the fee is $40.00 per person, and for NTBG members, $45.00 per person.

If you arrive by the North Shore Shuttle, you receive a discount of $5.00 off the ticket price.

Limahuli Garden can also be visited on a self-guided tour. A minimum of 90 minutes is recommended, but we usually spend 2 to 3 hours.

Online reservations are highly recommended if you need a parking spot. If you arrive without a reservation, you may be turned away if a parking spot isn’t available. You can also arrive by shuttle and walk in.

Self-guided tour slots start at 8.30 a.m. and the last departure is at 2 p.m.

The self-guided tour costs $30.00 per person for ages 13 and up. Kids 12 and under are free. For residents of Hawaii, the fee is $10.00 per person, and for NTBG members, entrance is free.

We recommend checking operating hours and fees on the official garden website right before your visit.

The Best Time to Visit Limahuli Garden

Limahuli Garden is open year round for guided and self-guided tours.

The north shore of Kauai tends to receive a lot of rain in the winter months (between November and March), so summer is the best time to visit from a weather perspective.

If you do visit during the winter, try to pick a relatively dry day if your itinerary allows!

Summer is also the time when plumeria is in bloom and you can smell the sweet fragrance of the flowers.

Map of Limahuli Garden and Preserve, Kauai

Tips for Visiting Limahuli Botanical Garden in Kauai

Reserve your tour ahead of time if you need parking.

Although Limahuli Garden will try to accommodate walk-ins, parking is limited and we’ve never arrived to plenty of vacant spots.

If touring this beautiful garden is on your Kauai bucket list, definitely plan on reserving a tour ahead of your visit. It’s required if you want to join a docent-led tour and also a must if you need a parking spot.

Allow plenty of time

If you plan to tour Limahuli Garden on your own, allow at least two hours (the garden recommends a minimum of 90 minutes).

We love plants and usually spend a morning in the garden (3 to 4 hours). There are benches to sit and relax for a bit and the views are great everywhere you look.

Plus, there’s lots to read in terms of signage (and a very informative guide book), and many, many plants, trees, flowers, and fruit to admire and photograph.

Arrive early

It’s cooler in the mornings, and that’s our preferred time of day to visit Limahuli.

Once it gets hot, the uphill walk can get a little uncomfortable.

Bring a refillable water bottle

Stay hydrated as you explore!

There’s a water station by the visitor center where you can fill up your water bottle.

Wear comfortable walking shoes

You’ll need comfortable walking shoes with good grip for the gentle uphill trail in Limahuli Garden.

The walk can be a little muddy if it’s rained recently or raining when you visit.

Bring a rain jacket or poncho

It can rain any time in Kauai! No matter when you visit, be sure to carry a rain jacket or poncho when exploring outdoors.

Many times during our stays on the north shore it has started raining hard with little warning and then dries up completely after a bit.

Without a rain jacket, you may get drenched if you’re caught in one of these frequent showers!

Use bug spray

Limahuli is a tropical garden with some shady areas.

Be sure to use bug spray before you start your exploration of Limahuli Garden, to minimize the potential for bites.

Wear sun protection

Parts of the trail are exposed, so sun protection is a must: sun hat with broad brim, sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm with SPF.

We also wear clothing that’s UV resistant if we know we are going to be outdoors for an extended period of time.

Do not expect cellphone coverage

Cellphone coverage can be spotty or non-existent. Download or print your reservation information prior to arriving at the garden so you have it readily available.

The Best Kauai Tours

Have you booked these top Kauai guided adventures yet?

Sunset catamaran tour of the Na Pali Coast (relatively more stable ride, insane views on good weather days!)

Doors-off helicopter tour of Kauai (unobstructed views, chance to see more of the island than you can by land, no middle seats!)

Kayak on the Wailua River plus hike to a waterfall (a super fun activity for active travelers, albeit a little muddy sometimes!)

Raft trip to the Na Pali Coast plus snorkeling (prepare to get wet on this exhilarating adventure!)

Eurocopter ECO-Star helicopter tour over Kauai (the most booked Kauai helicopter tour on Viator with close to 2K reviews and a 5-star rating!)

Entire Kauai Island Air Tour (super popular, less expensive than a heli tour, large bubble windows for flightseeing!)

Renting a Car in Kauai

The best things to do in Kauai are scattered all over the island.

Public transport options on Kauai aren’t great, so if you want to explore the island beyond your base, you’ll want to book a rental car for your Kauai trip.

We always use Discover Cars to book Kauai car rentals . They search across a variety of rental car companies, both budget and brand, to offer you the best deals, AND they offer free cancellations. Plus, there are no hidden fees.

>> Check availability and prices on Kauai car rentals now!

Lihue Airport-Hotel Shuttle

Not planning to pick up a rental car at Lihue airport? Pre-arrange round trip transfer from the airport to your hotel and back!

This shared shuttle serves hotels or vacation rentals in Princeville, Kahala, Poipu, Kapaa, or Lihue, and then back again. It’s convenient and inexpensive, and saves time and hassle!

>> Check prices and availability for shared round-trip airport transfer in Kauai now!

Where to Stay in Kauai

Depending on whether you want a vacation rental with more room and the option to cook some of your meals, or you want a resort or hotel experience, and depending on which part of Kauai you want to choose as your base, you have a variety of options.

Since you’ll likely want to base in a couple places on your trip to Kauai, we suggest starting your search for Kauai accommodations by browsing vacation rentals on VRBO .

We have stayed in VRBO rentals in both Poipu and Princeville and find that the choice and quality are generally great.

>> Look for a Kauai vacation rental on VRBO now!

Want detailed recommendations for accommodations in Kauai? Check out our comprehensive guide to the best places to stay in Kauai !

More Kauai Travel Inspiration

Considering a trip to the Garden Isle in Hawaii? You’ll definitely want to check out some of our other comprehensive Kauai travel and attraction guides!

If you are a first-time visitor to Kauai, start by discovering  the best things to do in Kauai ! From beaches and botanical gardens to cliffs, canyons, and waterfalls, Kauai has it all, and our round-up lists all of Kauai’s must-experience activities and attractions.

Planning to split a week between Kauai and another island? We have a 3 days in Kauai itinerary article you must read to help flesh out what you would like to see and do!

Learn about the best things to do in Hanalei and Kauai’s scenic north shore , the best things to do in Poipu and Kauai’s south shore , and the most exciting things to do on Kauai’s Coconut Side or east side .

Read our in-depth guide to visiting the Na Pali Coast of Kauai . We give you the full scoop on the best ways to visit this stunning coast in the remote northwest of the island.

Discover our round-up of the nine spectacular  state parks in Kauai , which house some of Kauai’s most treasured natural wonders.

We also have visitor’s guides to popular parks like Waimea Canyon State Park , which protects the namesake canyon, nearby Kokee State Park , and the remote but beautiful Polihale State Park .

Also check out  the ultimate guide to visiting Haena State Park  on Kauai’s north shore, and a full guide to hiking the epic  Kalalau Trail .

Check out our round-up of  the most beautiful waterfalls in Kauai , from waterfalls you can view from the road to falls that require hiking and falls that are best seen from a helicopter or sightseeing flight. We also have an article on everything you need to know to visit Secret Falls Kauai on an exciting kayaking and hiking tour.

Read our guide to Wailua River State Park to discover two easy-to-access Kauai waterfalls, and our trail guide for the easy hike to Ho’opi’i Falls . We also have an article on the best Kauai waterfall hikes .

And if a helicopter tour is part of your plans for Kauai, read our article on the  top-rated helicopter tours in Kauai !

Hiking enthusiasts will want to read our article on the best hikes in Koke’e State Park : the trails here are some of the best hikes in Kauai !

We have detailed trail guides for the most popular Koke’e hikes, from the scenic Canyon Trail to the top of Waipo’o Falls , to the epic Awa’awapuhi Trail , challenging but very rewarding!

Also discover the best hikes in Waimea Canyon State Park , and the best hikes on Kauai’s north shore .

We also have a trail guide for the  Mahaulepu Heritage Trail  on Kauai’s scenic south shore, an article on how to hike the Sleeping Giant Trail , and a guide to the Kuilau Ridge Trail , one of the easy hikes on Kauai .

Get the scoop on the  best botanical gardens in Kauai , from Limahuli Garden on the north shore to McBryde and Allerton Gardens on the south shore.

Read our guide to the best  swimming beaches on Kauai , from Hanalei Bay on the north shore to Poipu Beach on the south shore!

We also have a guide to the best snorkeling beaches on Kauai , a round-up of the best Kauai north shore beaches , and an article on the best Kauai south shore beaches !

And if you love watching the sun go down in a burst of color, be sure to read our article on where to go for the best sunsets on Kauai !

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• Stroll, Part 2
• Self-Guided
• Waimakai Walk
• Family Tour
• Hoaloha Day
• Playtime Special
• Splash & Play

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

From a bird's eye view the Formal Garden is a resplendent jewel.

. . . in all shapes and sizes!

Unique landscapes

. . . await you.

Planting for the Future

An abundance of beauty.

Na ‘Āina Kai Co-founders Joyce & Ed Doty

Welcome to Na ‘Aina Kai (“Lands by the Sea”) Botanical Gardens, Sculpture Park and Hardwood Plantation.  Reservations are REQUIRED to see the Gardens.

Joyce and Ed Doty, the founders of Na ‘Āina Kai, developed their extraordinary artistic and horticultural vision based upon their strong love for the land and the people of the tropics. Today, the mission of this not-for-profit organization continues to be multifaceted, strengthening the firm foundation upon which the gardens were conceived. Na ‘Āina Kai strives to …

• Ensure its future sustainability through investment in forestry. And share what we learn to encourage others to invest in forestry for Hawaii’s future. • Practice natural resource conservation based on sound scientific principles. • Preserve the land and natural resources for future generations of visitors from the Hawaiian Islands and around the world. • Provide an ever-evolving array of natural wonders and human-crafted artistic creations. • Offer enchanting venues for private, corporate, and cultural events.

Na ‘Āina Kai Botanical Gardens 4101 Wailapa Road Kilauea , Hawaii 96754 Phone: (808) 828-0525

Gift Shop Hours

• Monday 8:30am-4pm
• Tuesday 8:30am-4pm
• Wednesday 8:30am-4pm
• Thursday 8:30am-4pm
• Friday 8:30am-3pm

(Closed Saturday, Sunday and all major holidays)

© 2020 Na ‘Āina Kai Botanical Gardens All Rights Reserved

Advanced reservations required. We DO NOT offer self-guided tours or general admission. Book Now!

Private Tours

Quick Details

• Clock Times: 1:30 p.m.
• Calendar Availability: Mon, Tues & Fri
• Info Check In Time: Please arrive 30 minutes before tour time
• Hour Glass Duration: 3 hours

Join us for a Private Tour of Kauai botanical gardens

Our three-hour Kauai walking tour covers every corner of Princeville Botanical Gardens. It includes fruit and honey samples, as well as a chocolate tasting!

Private Tours must be reserved at least 3 days in advance. Please call us to book.

• Chevron down Cancellation Policy
• You can cancel up to 72 hours before the start time of your tour.
• Cancellations made within 72 hours of the tour will still be charged full price.
• Chevron down What To Bring
• Light, long-sleeve shirts or ample covering for possible mosquitoes
• Good walking shoes
• Mosquito repellent
• Water bottle
• Chevron down Important Reminders & Notes
• Participants should be moderately mobile. Our Kauai botanical garden tours proceed at a leisurely pace and the total distance is slightly over a mile. The terrain includes uneven paths, steep steps, and several steep inclines.
• Due to the terrain, we regrettably cannot accommodate wheelchairs, walkers, or motorized scooters.
• Please warn us in advance if anyone in your party has any health concerns. Visitors with asthma or other health conditions may find areas of the tour strenuous.
• Tours start on time.
• Our gates open 30 minutes before tour time.
• Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your tour is scheduled to begin.
• Parking is inside the property, just follow the signs. NO parking out on Ahonui Place.
• In wet weather, you can expect to get your shoes a little muddy. Come prepared for a “walk in the woods.”
• We have mosquitos! Please bring repellent if you have concerns.
• Note: Self-guided tours are not available. You must reserve a place on a tour to visit our gardens.
• Chevron down Weather
• Tours are RAIN OR SHINE. In rainy conditions, our gardens are muddy. Please bring good walking shoes, a rain jacket, and umbrella.

Related Tours

• Hour Glass 3 hours
• Calendar Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri
• Clock 9:30 a.m.

Princeville Botanical Gardens and Chocolate Tour

ADVANCE RESERVATIONS REQUIRED . We DO NOT offer self-guided tours or general admission.

We DO NOT provide transportation to or from the gardens. 

Garden Island Chocolate

Chocolate farm in kauai, hawaii, chocolate tour & tasting · $99, monday through friday | 9:30am.

The chocolate tour and tasting is a three-hour guided educational adventure where you learn all about the cacao tree and see how chocolate is made from the cacao fruit (cacao pods). Learn about permaculture, sustainable farming, and exotic fruits on this delectable chocolate tour.

— India Arie, Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter

— Jim & Penny Ressler, Alaskan Folks

— Denise Hucka

— David Pierce

— Martha Girdany

— Amber Misgen

Taste the Aloha!

Taste the aloha on a chocolate farm tour in kauai.

During your Kauai chocolate farm tour, we sit down to an extensive chocolate tasting (20 types of chocolates), all Hawaiian grown and made. We keep the percentages of cacao high (85%) to ensure the health benefits. If you like dark chocolate, you’re sure to love this tour.

We also make a hot chocolate in the traditional Latin American style with fresh ground chocolate liquor, fresh whole vanilla pods, fresh ground allspice, fresh coconut meat and coconut milk, and local honey (no cane sugar). Sample and savor the best chocolate on all the Hawaiian Islands on a tour with Garden Island Chocolate!

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Kayaking Kauai: Paddling the Garden Island of Hawaii

T he island of Kauai is the only place in the gorgeous state of Hawaii that has navigable rivers besides the Wailuku River in Hilo on the Big Island . In open water, a paddle along the rugged and lush background provides the perfect setting for a day at sea. Turtles, dolphins, and whales may swim alongside you. On land, you have more activities than you can fit on a vacation but having a truly Hawaiian experience may make you want to move here. Kayaking around Kauai is a unique adventure and something to be added to your Kauai vacation!

In this guide to kayaking around Kauai, keep in mind that the rivers and bays can also be wonderful places for stand up paddling (SUP). We’ve even seen people SUP surf on the eastern shore, so have fun with it! If we didn’t include your favorite spot for kayaking on Kauai, please leave a comment or send us a note . We’re always happy to share from others too!

Safety Note: the Island of Kauai is in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. There are remarkably strong and unpredictable currents. Only experienced kayakers with the appropriate sea kayak and safety gear should be paddling in the open water. When in doubt, sit it out!

Check out our 5 Day Kauai Itinerary here!

Easy Kayaking Spots in Kauai

With so many activities on the Island of Kauai geared toward tourists, there are tons of spaces to experience a leisure paddle. Whether you’re a beginner or intermediate kayaker you won’t have any issues finding a place to paddle on an island full of lush rainforest and beautiful beaches. While the paddling in Hawaii may look similar to kayaking in South Florida , the reefs and rivers are VERY different and extra beautiful in their own ways.

Anahola Beach Park 

Anahola Beach Park is another gorgeous spot for kayaking in Kauai. The park is located on the east side of the island and offers beautiful views of the ocean. With a reef protecting the bay this is a great place to explore calm waters and jump in for a snorkel. Paddling will allow you to explore the hidden coves and surrounding beaches. There are also several hiking trails nearby if you want to explore the area further.

Where to launch: Anahola Beach Park Anahola, HI 96703 (there are several beach parking areas to launch from)

Huleia River in Lihue (Nawiliwili)

Huleia River is an off-the-beaten-path just outside the Huleia Wildlife Refuge. Located on the island’s eastern portion it’s a popular route for paddlers wanting to experience the natural beauty of Hawaii on the water. Birdwatchers will enjoy the Menehune Fish ponds, a haven for exotic birds.

Where to launch: Nawiliwili Small Boat Harbor Nawiliwili, HI 96766  

Wailua River in Kapa’a

The opportunity to float past the thick rainforests of Kauai creates a memorable experience. The Wailua River is the island’s longest river starting at Mount Waialeale. The calm waters provide a great paddle for beginner kayakers and take you to the 100-foot Uluwehi Falls.  Paddling Magazine created a detailed post on your options in Wailua River.

The most popular attraction on the Wailua River is Fern Grotto, a natural lave rock formation that has hanging ferns and lush tropical foliage, watered and cooled by the nearby waterfall. If you kayak here, don’t be surprised if there are tons of tourists as it is a tourist attraction that can be easily accessed by a short boat trip. If you’re staying at the Kauai Shores Hotel or anywhere in Kapa’a, this is easy to get to!

Where to launch

• Wailua River Marina 3-5971 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746
• Wailua State Park Boat Ramp 161 Wailua Rd, Kapaʻa, HI 96746  

Experienced Kayak Spots on Kauai

The Na Pali Coast and South Shore are your best options if you are looking for a challenging open sea paddle. The weather and surf conditions can change quickly and can prove difficult for even the most season paddlers, especially on the long one-day Na Pali Coast trip. Treat kayaking Kauai on the open water as a dangerous paddling area even when it looks wonderfully calm. Similar to kayaking in the San Juan Islands of Puget Sound , there are strong currents and the proper gear, both proper boat and safety gear, is necessary.

Poipu Beach, South Shore

Poipu Beach is filled with marine life such as turtles. Kauai’s South Shore is a contrast in terms of weather, giving drier conditions on land. A paddle through Poipu Beach allows exploration of sea caves and a dramatic perspective of the cliffs facing the Pacific Ocean. Continue east from Poipu for a long sea kayak trip to Ezra’s Beach at the Makauwahi Cave Preserve. It’s amazing!

Where to launch:

• Poipu Beach Park , Koloa, HI
• Shipwrech Beach at Ainako Street Parking, Koloa, HI just past the Grand Hyatt

Lawai Bay, South Shore

Lawai Bay is a small inlet just west of the Allerton Gardens and has great waters for swimming but getting there can prove challenging. The area is home to mostly private property and the best access seems to be by a paddle. Launching from Kukuiʻula Harbor Beach a mile away you’ll be facing open sea. Check surf and weather conditions if you are going out for a paddle. 

To the west of the cove if you launch from the Small Boat Harbor is the Spouting Horn and to the east heads towards Lawai Beach.

Where to launch: Kukuiʻula Harbor Beach Koloa, HI 96756  

Na Pali Coast

The Napali Coast State Wilderness Park is on the northwest side of Kauai. Known for its dramatic sea cliffs, steep, narrow valleys, and cascading waterfalls this area is rugged. Exploring the 17-mile coast is no easy feat but is considered one of the most rewarding kayak experiences in the entire state of Hawaii. We’ve also explored on foot, hiking the Kalalau Trail and doing a doors-off helicopter tour around Kauai .

Expect sea sickness, large waves, and difficult wind conditions, and be prepared for a rough 12-14 hour day of intermittent paddling if you’re looking to navigate a solid portion of the Na Pali Coast. You’re go-to outfitter will likely be Napali Kayak Tours as it’s not recommended to tackle this paddling journey around Kauai on your own. 

Where to launch: Napali Kayak Tours OR 5-5075 Kuhio Hwy , Hanalei, HI 96714  

Kipu Kai Beach

Kipu Kai Beach is a large cove on the southeastern coast of Kauai. Tucked in between two ridges that drop straight into the ocean, access is all cut off by land. Most folks explore by private helicopter tours but those willing to paddle out, they’ll have a remote, sandy, Hawaiian paradise all to themselves. 

Where to launch: Nawiliwili Small Boat Harbo r Nawiliwili, HI 96766

State Park Kayaking Spots in Kauai

Kauai also known as the Garden Island has a rich biodiversity. Nature lovers and outdoor recreationists will have a large playground for their next adventure. The state park system is well developed and does a fantastic job protecting the rare beauty of Kauai.

Nu’alolo Kai State Park

Once a fishing village Nu’alolo Kai is now a state park. Nu’alolo Kai State Park is one of the most scenic coastlines in the state and is surrounded by a large barrier reef, perfect for water enthusiasts. The catch to getting here… You’ll have to paddle the Na Pali Coast which can be a challenging 2-3 hour paddle.  Once here you’ll enjoy archeological sites, native monk seals (they’re mean, do NOT approach) and breathtaking scenery.

Polihale State Park 

Polihale State Park is located on the west side of Kauai and is perfect for a paddle. The park offers stunning views of the ocean, as well as the nearby mountains. The park receives much fewer visitors than others and is a bit remote. Adventurers will be rewarded with a beach characterized by large sand dunes and the dramatic background of rugged green scenery. For a paddle in the area check out Napali Kayak .  

Haena State Park 

Haena State Park is tucked away on the north shore of Kauai. Also, known as the “end of the road,” this remote park provides tons of adventure with beaches, trails, and sea caves. This trip can be combined with the long-grueling Na Pali Coast trail (the Kalalau Trail as mentioned above) should you wish for the ultimate challenge. You MUST have reservations for accessing Haena State Park on land. MAKE RESERVATIONS HERE

If you want to paddle into Haena State Park, you can launch from Haena Beach Park and head west. Going around the points is a challenging paddle and you need to keep safety in mind AT ALL TIMES. PS: parking at Haena Beach Park can be difficult if you’re not there first thing in the morning.

Where to launch: Haena Beach Park HI-560, Kapaʻa, HI 96746  

Hanalei Bay, Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge

Kayaking in Hanalei Bay is a must-do while in Kauai. The bay is located on the north shore of the island and is well known for its beauty. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the mountains and coastline as they paddle around the bay. There are also several beaches to explore and plenty of opportunities to see wildlife. Check out local outfitter Kayak Hanalei for detailed information on the area. 

Where to launch: Kayak Hanalei or 5-5070A, Kuhio Hwy , Hanalei, HI 96714  

Recommended Kayaking Tours in Kauai

Combining a hike to Uluwehi Falls with a paddle through the Wailua River Valley gives the perfect introduction to the incredibly lush Hawaiian landscape. Book a combo kayaking / hiking tour here ! 

For those wanting to explore the underwater world of Kapa’a, the Hanalei River Paddle Tour is the perfect combination for paddlers. After paddling down the Hanalei River you’ll end up in the Bay Reef Lagoon surrounded by sea turtles and tropical fish. Book a combo kayaking / snorkeling tour in Hanalei Bay here ! 

When to Visit Kauai

The most recommended time to visit Kauai is in the fall and spring when the weather is most pleasant and the state isn’t completely packed with tourists. The rainy season generally runs from November to March, with January being the wettest.

Summer events in Kauai include the Koloa Plantation Days Celebration, the Kauai Marathon, and Kauai Mokihana Festival. But really, is there ever a bad time to find yourself on Kauai? Especially if you’re going to be kayaking and exploring the mountains, Kauai is always amazing.

Need to Know for Visiting Kauai

With so much to do you really need a week or two on the island. It’s best to rent a car and do so well in advance. Eat local, the food scene is great. Be sure to be safe and swim on beaches with lifeguards, the water conditions can be rough. If you’re going to do any of the challenging, open sea kayaking, get a reputable outfitter. We recommend a few above. Most importantly, get out there and take the opportunity to paddle this beautiful state.

We love talking about Hawaii and sharing all of our experiences. If you have any questions about visiting Kauai , Maui, Oahu , Molokai or the Big Island , please let us know. By the end of 2023 we’ll have been to them all and are happy to share. Leave a comment or send us a note if you need any help planning an amazing adventure!

Luau will Reopen on May 6th!

Aloha from Kauai!

Recent flooding in Wailua caused us to cancel our family’s luau for a few weeks. After assessing the work needed, we are planning to reopen the luau on May 6th. Online guest reservations will be available shortly.

THE WAILUA RIVER TOURS are operating on the normal schedule ~ Monday through Friday, with departures at 9:30am, 11am, 2pm and 3:30pm.

Mahalo for your kind words of support as we do the work to reopen soon… in the spirit of Aloha!

If you’re not able to make our luau during the time that we’re closed, we highly recommend experiencing a luau on the island.

Here is a listing of other luau on Kauai:

Kapaa/Wailua: Luau Kahikina (Monday, Tuesday and Thursday) Ahi Uila Fire Show (Tuesday)

North Shore: Tahiti Nui (Tuesday and Wednesday) Kanikapila (Friday)

Lihue: Luau Kalamaku (Tuesday and Friday)

Poipu: Auli‘i Luau (Monday and Wednesday) Grand Hyatt Luau Kauai (Wednesday and Saturday)

Last Update: April 19th, 2024

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