Young man enjoying view into Waimea CanyonVisiting Kauai for the first time? Its diverse terrain – from gorgeous white sandy beaches and jagged sea cliffs to waterfalls and botanical gardens – makes for a nature-lovers Eden. Obviously, we aren’t going to be able to fit everything in this seven-day itinerary, but that just means you’ll have to come back and continue exploring this island of bliss.

Day 1: Get settled and be a beach bum at Poipu Beach

Poipu beach is one of the world’s best beaches. Here, you can swim with sea turtles, watch sea lions sunbathe, and explore paddle surfing. Shoot a round of golf nearby or take a surf lesson. And don’t forget to attend a luau for a true Hawaiian island experience. The nearby Spouting Horn is another fantastic site where you can watch this natural wonder spew sea water into the air.

Day 2: Visiting Kauai‘s NaPali Coast

Kalalau trail in Kauai, Hawaii

NaPali Coast is a must-see, jaw-dropping seascape with jagged, emerald valleys, and cliffs along turquoise waters. It’s only accessible by air, boat or by hiking the Kalalau Trail (permit required). This spectacular coastline will leave you in awe! Experience a dolphin or whale watching adventure (season permitting) on a catamaran.

Snorkel through the North Shore and marvel in the beauty of NaPali’s secluded beaches, natural waterfalls, and sea caves, while sharing the ocean up close with tropical fish and sea turtles. Or, you may choose to get a grand view of NaPali Coast from above by booking a helicopter tour.

Day 3: Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park

Get an early start and take a scenic drive along the west side of the island to Waimea Town‘s Waimea Canyon (the Grand Canyon of the Pacific) and Kokee State Park. The canyon is a dramatic sight to behold, with several scenic lookouts into the valleys of the NaPali Coast. Bird lovers, hikers, and sightseers will love wandering around Kokee. Drive to the end of Highway 550 and soak in the breathtaking lookout into Kalalau Valley. Feeling adventurous? Cross skydiving off your Bucket List with a world-class diver.

Day 4: Hike into Kauai’s jungle 

Kauai Wailua RiverPaddle into the lush jungle along the Wailua River, hike to a waterfall and enjoy a picnic lunch on a kayak or tubing tour. Need for speed? Book an ATV tour and ride through private ranch land. You may recognize the stunning vistas from films such as Jurassic Park, Raiders of The Lost Ark, and Pirates of the Caribbean. Don’t miss getting deeper into Kauai’s interior by scheduling an exhilarating zipline tour across the world’s tallest and longest zipline.

Day 5: Visit Princeville and Kauai’s North Shore 

On your way to Princeville, stop and take a photo of Kilauea Lighthouse (you may even spot a whale). Kauai’s North Shore offers beautiful beaches perfect for surfing. Book a horseback and hiking tour or check out the Princeville Botanical Gardens. Three days a week the gardens give a tour treating you to homemade chocolate, honey, seasonal fruit samplings, and more.

Day 6: Time to pamper yourself at the Koloa Landing Spa

Spa at Koloa LandingBeachside spa services anyone? Enjoy a Lomi Lomi, hot stone or one of several other massages at the Koloa Landing Spa®. Or, you may choose to do a little shopping at the local boutiques. The Kauai Museum is also a sight to see and is filled with many historical treasures and unique Kauai gifts.

Day 7: Plan your Hawaiian vacation itinerary

There is truly so much our island can offer visitors. Let our experienced Kauai Resort concierge help you plan your itinerary today. Give us a call at 808-240-­6609.