Kauai Vacations

The Garden Isle at its greenest. Kauai is Hawaii’s wild, lush corner — the cathedral cliffs of the Nā Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon and the beaches of Poipu and Hanalei.

Kauai is the oldest and greenest of the main Hawaiian Islands — less built-up, more dramatic. Its crown jewel is the Nā Pali Coast, a wall of emerald cliffs best seen by boat, helicopter or the Kalalau Trail; inland, Waimea Canyon earns its “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” nickname. Add the surf town of Hanalei, the sunny resorts of Poipu, waterfalls and the Wailua River, and you have Hawaii’s most scenic island. A travel specialist matches the right resort, tours and timing.

Why Vacation on Kauai?

The Nā Pali Coast

Emerald cliffs by boat, air or trail.

Waimea Canyon

The “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”

Lush & uncrowded

Hawaii’s greenest, least-developed isle.

Beaches & surf towns

Poipu sun and Hanalei charm.

Where to Go on Kauai

North Shore

Hanalei, Princeville & Nā Pali.

South Shore

Poipu’s sunny beaches & resorts.

West Side

Waimea Canyon & Polihale.

East Side

Wailua River, falls & the Coconut Coast.

Popular Kauai Experiences

Nā Pali Coast boat or helicopter tour
Waimea Canyon & Kokeʻe lookouts
Poipu Beach & the South Shore resorts
Hanalei Bay & the North Shore
Wailua River, Fern Grotto & waterfalls

Ready to plan your Kauai vacation?

Tell us your dates, shore and resort style and we’ll match the perfect trip. Get up to 5 free, no-obligation quotes from a Hawaii travel specialist.

Get up to 5 Kauai quotes!

Or contact a Hawaii travel specialist »

Why Smart Traveler?

Smart Traveler is a service of the travel division of Best of the USA, Inc. Entrust your trip to seasoned professionals specializing in cruises, tours, vacation packages, all-inclusive resorts and international airfares. With over 50,000 travel advisors in our growing database, we’re sure to have the experts right for your travel needs!

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Kauai Vacations — Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kauai known for?

The Nā Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon and lush, uncrowded scenery — it’s Hawaii’s “Garden Isle,” greener and less developed than Oahu or Maui.

Which side of Kauai should I stay on?

Poipu (south) is sunniest and resort-rich; Hanalei/Princeville (north) is lush and scenic; the east side is central and convenient. A specialist advises.

How do I see the Nā Pali Coast?

By catamaran or Zodiac boat, by helicopter, or on foot via the Kalalau Trail — a specialist arranges the tour that fits you.

How do I get a quote?

Request up to 5 free, no-obligation quotes from a Hawaii travel specialist and compare resorts, shores and dates.