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Kauai USA

Country: USA · Region: Hawaii · Currency: US Dollar

Kauai, the 4th largest Hawaiian island, is known as the Garden Island for its lush tropical landscape and natural wonders. As a cruise port at Nawiliwili, it offers beaches, scenic attractions, and a more laid-back experience than other Hawaiian islands.

Top sights

Waimea Canyon, Na Pali Coast, Hanalei Bay, Kilauea Point Lighthouse, National Tropical Botanical Gardens, Wailua Falls

Things to do

Wailua Falls
An elegant triple waterfall located a short drive from Lihue that appears as a double waterfall from the viewing area.
Kilauea Point Lighthouse
Built in 1913 with the largest lens of its kind, now located in a national wildlife refuge that is a nesting ground for diverse seabirds.
Hanalei Bay
A crescent-shaped bay on the north shore known for its sandy white beaches and world-class surf.
National Tropical Botanical Gardens
Three separate gardens (McBride, Allerton, and Limahuli) featuring native Hawaiian plants, endangered species, and imported specimens across the island.

Beaches

Poipu Beach
A sunny south-shore beach ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing with a rock bottom and abundant marine life including sea turtles and monk seals.
Lumahai Beach
A secluded, well-photographed beach between Hanalei and Haena accessible by a short tropical hike, featuring lava formations and caves to explore.

Where to eat

Kong Lung Center
Located in Kilauea, this center offers unique stores and restaurants.
Banana Joe's
A large fruit stand north of Kilauea on the mountain side of the highway.

Weather in Kauai by month

Averages from 2015 to 2024, not a forecast. Within about two weeks of a date, the live forecast above is the one to trust.

MonthAverage highAverage lowRainfallWet days
January72°F59°F5.3 in15
February71°F58°F6.0 in18
March71°F59°F7.9 in21
April73°F61°F7.0 in23
May74°F62°F6.6 in26
June76°F64°F5.6 in23
July77°F66°F5.5 in25
August78°F66°F5.3 in25
September78°F66°F4.9 in25
October77°F65°F5.6 in24
November74°F63°F5.2 in22
December72°F61°F6.9 in20

Getting around

Rent a car at Lihue Airport or take taxis, buses, or tour companies; the island's main attractions are concentrated along two highways from Lihue.

What to eat

Visit local restaurants and nook-in-the-wall bistros in towns like Hanalei, Hanapepe, and Kilauea; check out Banana Joe's fruit stand north of Kilauea.

Tips

Allow extra time for driving between Lihue and Kapaʻa due to traffic, and note that roads do not circle the island due to Waimea Canyon and Na Pali Coast.

Best for

Beaches, snorkeling, scenic hikes, natural wonders

More ports in Hawaii

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