Kauai With Kids: The Ultimate Guide (2024)

Kauai is the lush, tropical paradise that most people think of when they dream about Hawaii. It’s the oldest of the Hawaiian islands, with a rugged, untouched beauty that calms the soul and makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. 

I’m a Hawaii travel planner and mom raising two kids on the island of Maui, and I’ve been lucky enough to explore Kauai with my family many times. (I was even married here back in 2016!) Here’s my best advice on a family vacation to the Garden Isle.

Should You Visit Kauai With Kids?

Personally, I think Kauai is one of the most magical places to explore with kids. Something about being immersed in nature makes my children happier and more content, which leaves me feeling more relaxed and joyful, too.

That said, Kauai might not be for you if you’re hoping for shopping malls and bustling nightlife. The island’s limited development means fewer large resorts and dining options compared to Oahu or Maui. Its lush landscapes also come with frequent rain, especially on the North Shore, which may not appeal to those seeking constant sunshine.

But if you’re looking for an island with a slower pace and relaxed atmosphere, Kauai is your spot. It calms my nervous system more than any other, and the people here truly live on “island time.” The beaches are some of the most accessible with kids, and the chickens? They run the island! (Seriously, bring a sound machine for 4 AM—they’re loud.)

Is Kauai Kid-Friendly?

Yes! Kauai is perfect for kids who love nature, adventure, and exploring off the beaten path. With its calm, shallow beaches, easy-access hiking trails, and outdoor activities like tubing, ziplining, and exploring waterfalls, there’s no shortage of fun. 

There’s a friendly, laid-back vibe in the community that reminds us we’re visiting someone’s home. The many family-friendly resorts, food trucks, and places to grab a shave ice make Kauai a stress-free destination with kids in tow.

How Many Days Do You Need on Kauai?

A week or more is ideal when visiting Kauai with kids. This gives you enough time to soak up all the island’s beauty and enjoy a balance of adventure and downtime. If you’re island-hopping, I recommend no fewer than 4-5 days before heading to another island.

Tip: If you’re visiting multiple islands, save Kauai for last. Start with a busier island like Oahu or Maui, then end your trip with the calm and relaxation of Kauai. By the time you arrive, island time will have fully kicked in, and you’ll be in the perfect mindset to let go and enjoy a slower pace of life.

Is Kauai Expensive?

Yes, like the rest of Hawaii, Kauai can be pricey, especially when you factor in accommodations and food (everything has to be flown in!). 

Kauai is actually the second most expensive island, right behind Maui. If you’re looking to save a bit, Oahu is generally the most affordable.

Here are a few ways to save money on your trip to Kauai:

• Stay in a condo: Condos with kitchenettes can save you money on dining out. VRBO is typically the way to go.

• Use points: If you have points saved up for flights or hotels, now’s the time to cash them in.

• Cook your own meals: You can save quite a bit by hitting up a local grocery store and cooking a few meals in your accommodation.

• Visit in the off-season: Traveling during April, May, September, October, and November can help you avoid peak prices and crowds.

Is Kauai Safe?

Yes, Kauai is one of the safest places to visit in Hawaii, and the crime rate is very low. That said, like anywhere else, it’s always a good idea to take basic precautions.

• Lock your rental car: When visiting popular tourist spots, especially beaches or hiking trails, lock your car and keep valuables out of sight.

• Ocean safety is key: The Pacific Ocean can be unpredictable, so always keep an eye on conditions, especially on beaches with rougher surf (common on the North Shore in winter).

Read about the safest kid-friendly beaches on Kauai.

What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Kauai?

Kauai has warm weather year-round, but it’s also known for being the rainiest Hawaiian island. That’s part of what makes it so lush and green!

Winter months (November-April) bring the most rain, especially on the North Shore, where ocean conditions can be rougher. If you’re visiting with kids during the winter, stay on the South Shore for calmer weather and waves.

For fewer crowds and better deals on accommodation, visit during the months of April, May, September, October, or November. If you’re tied to your kids’ school schedule, aim for late May or early June.

Do You Need a Rental Car?

Kauai’s natural beauty is best explored with the freedom of a rental car. While some resort areas like Poipu are walkable, having your own vehicle makes it easier to access remote beaches, hiking trails, and the island’s famous scenic drives.

Public transportation is limited, and taxis or ride-shares can get expensive. Renting a car ensures you can enjoy Kauai at your own pace, especially with kids in tow.

For more detailed tips, check out my Kauai Transportation Guide.

And for the best deals, I always recommend booking through Discount Hawaii Car Rental.

What Is There To Do on Kauai With Kids?

Kauai is packed with family-friendly activities that will keep everyone in your family entertained. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Kid-Friendly Beaches: A guide to our family’s favorites.

• Mountain Tubing Adventure: One of Kauai’s most popular tours! Float through Kauai’s historic irrigation system on a family-friendly tubing adventure that’s both thrilling and relaxing (5 & up).

• Na Pali Coast Catamaran Snorkel with Waterslide: Cruise the famous Na Pali Coast, where your family can snorkel in crystal-clear waters and zip down a waterslide straight into the ocean (3 & up to ride along).

• Beginner Surf Lesson: The town of Poipu has gentle waves, perfect for first-time surfers (8 & up)!

• Koloa 8-Track Zipline: This zipline tour in Koloa gives your family a chance to face your fears together and soar on 8 of the island’s longest ziplines (7 & up).

• Kauai Backroads ATV Adventure: Get muddy and explore the old sugar cane roads of Kauai on an ATV tour (5 & up). 

• Wailua River Cruise to Fern Grotto: This scenic boat tour that takes you through lush landscapes, offering Hawaiian music, hula dancing, and a visit to the iconic Fern Grotto (all ages, great for littles).

• Kauai Plantation Railway: An adorable, scenic train ride through Kilohana Plantation, complete with narrated history and opportunities to feed wild pigs and cows (my toddler’s favorite).

Keep exploring: Things to Do on Kauai with Kids.

What Is the Best Kid-Friendly Resort on Kauai?

Kauai is home to some of our favorite family-friendly resorts. Whether you’re looking for luxury or something more budget-friendly, these spots will treat you right:

• Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu: This spacious, luxurious resort has everything you need, from large suites to multiple pools, including a kid-friendly lagoon pool.

• Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas: A peaceful, family-friendly resort located on the North Shore, offering villas with kitchenettes.

• Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa: This large resort is a tropical playground, with a lazy river, water slides, and a sandy-bottom lagoon pool.

• 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay: The ultimate blend of luxury and sustainability, this eco-conscious resort is perfect for an elevated, relaxing escape.

• Kauai Shores Hotel: A budget-friendly, beachfront hotel on the East Side of the island, with a laid-back atmosphere and easy access to family-friendly Lava Lava Beach Club restaurant.

Read full reviews on these resorts: Where to Stay on Kauai With Kids.

What Part of Kauai is Best for Families?

Kauai is divided into four main regions: the North Shore, East Side, South Shore, and West Side. 

When visiting Kauai with kids, you’ll likely spend most of your time on the South Shore, thanks to its (mostly) predictable weather, easily accessible beaches, and family-friendly resorts. 

The North Shore is amazing in the summer with its laid-back surf vibe, but more rain and bigger swells make it less kid-friendly when winter rolls around.

If you’re looking to save money, you can often find cheaper accommodations on the East Side. This is also where the airport is located, and an easy access point for exploring the rest of the island.

Keep reading to decide which area is the best fit for your family!

North Shore

The North Shore of Kauai is really special. Known for its lush, jagged cliffs and the iconic Na Pali Coast, I often have to keep reminding myself I’m not starting at a green screen while I’m here. This is real life! 

It’s perfect for families who love nature and adventure, especially during the summer months, when the waves calm down and make it more accessible for little ones. In the winter, however, the North Shore can be much rainier, and the waves tend to get bigger, so it’s best suited for older kids or families looking for a quieter escape.

Hanalei

Hanalei’s small-town vibe, with local shops, food trucks, and friendly faces, makes it one of the most relaxing and beautiful spots on Kauai. This laid-back surf town is great for families who want to support small businesses and experience an authentic Hawaii vibe.

Located in a lush valley, the town is surrounded by towering green mountains and rolling taro fields.

The calm waters of Hanalei Bay are perfect for swimming with kids, especially in the summer months. Grab lunch on the pier at Pat’s Tacos or wander around the Hanalei Food Truck Park. Treat your kids to Wishing Well Shave Ice and do not miss a chance to grab a box of Holey Grail Donuts on your way out!

Head northwest on Kuhio Highway to explore the Maniniholo Dry Cave—a fun, quick stop (across from Haena Beach) your kids will love. Don’t skip Wainiha Country Market on the way, it’s a is great little spot with local snacks and souvenirs.

Kilauea

East of Hanalei, you’ll find the small town of Kilauea, a quiet, picturesque town known for its lush green landscapes and close-knit community. It’s home to the Kilauea Lighthouse, a must-visit for stunning ocean views, an easy loop trail, and potential whale sightings in the winter months.

This area has a more rural feel and a few hidden gems, charming cafes, and one of the best playgrounds on the island at Anaina Hou Community Park. This large space also has a skate ramp, mini-golf course, five-mile loop trail, and a weekly fire show!

Princeville

Princeville is an upscale, resort-focused town on Kauai’s North Shore, offering breathtaking ocean views, golf courses, and a peaceful atmosphere. The area has a more polished feel compared to the rest of the North Shore.

Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas is a standout, especially if your kids are younger. They offer spacious villas with full kitchens and separate rooms. Staying here means enjoying the comfort of home with thoughtful resort amenities. The scheduled activities and kid-friendly pools kept my kids entertained for hours.

Anini Beach is a nearby favorite of ours in the summer months. Its calm waters are perfect for toddlers to swim and snorkel safely.

East Side

Known as the Royal Coconut Coast, Kauai’s East Side is where you’ll find groves of palm trees, golden beaches, and a laid-back, local vibe. It’s also one of the more affordable areas to stay on Kauai, with a variety of budget-friendly accommodations and a good home base for exploring the rest of the island. 

Kapa’a

Kapa’a is one of Kauai’s bigger towns, with a fun mix of family-friendly restaurants, beaches, and shops. For budget-conscious families, Kauai Shores Hotel is a solid pick, and its beachfront restaurant, Lava Lava Beach Club, has plenty of space for the kids to run around while you relax. Fuji Beach (aka Baby Beach) is perfect for toddlers to splash in shallow waters.

Java Kai in downtown Kapa’a is a must-stop for a caffeine bagel combo, and if your family has a sweet tooth, head to Wailua Shave Ice for some fun flavors your kids will love. While in town, take advantage of Kapa’a’s great shopping scene. I love wandering around and finding locally-made products and souvenirs in cute boutiques. 

For a little adventure, the Kapa’a Coastal Path is a great, stroller-friendly walk with beautiful ocean views—perfect for a bike ride, too! (You can rent bikes from Hele On Kauai for the whole family.)

Wailua

Just south of Kapa’a, Wailua is rich in both history and adventure. It’s home to the Wailua River, where you can kayak to Uluwehi Falls or the lush Fern Grotto—a unique spot where ferns grow upside-down from the walls of a cave. If your kids are a bit older, kayaking the river is a fantastic way to explore the area. For families with younger kids, the Smith’s Fern Grotto boat tour is a more relaxed option that still lets you experience the Fern Grotto and beauty of the Wailua River.

Just a short drive away, ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls offers a stunning, easily accessible waterfall lookout, perfect for a quick stop with kids. And if your little ones need a break from the sun, Lydgate Beach Park is a family favorite with its giant wooden playground and protected swimming areas.

The nearby Napali Brewing Company is a great spot for parents to relax while your kids draw on the floor with chalk—we love this spot so much! When you’re ready for a sweet treat, Passion Bakery in Wailua is a must-stop for malasadas (only available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays). Try the Ube!

Lihue

Lihue is the main hub of Kauai, home to the island’s airport and several key attractions. While parts of Lihue might not have the same laid-back, tropical vibe as other parts of the island, it’s still worth a visit, especially if you need to stock up on essentials. You’ll find big-box stores like Costco, Target, and Walmart—ideal for grabbing last-minute snacks and souvenirs.

For a bit of family fun, Kauai Backcountry Adventures offers a thrilling tubing experience through old sugar cane irrigation ditches. This adventure is a big hit with both kids and parents, and it’s just the right mix of excitement and safety for older kids.

If you have toddlers or younger children, Kauai Plantation Railway is another must-do. It’s an easy, scenic train ride around Kilohana Plantation, where kids can feed wild animals and explore the historic grounds. My toddler still talks about this experience and asks when we can return.

Lihue is also home to Wailua Falls, one of Kauai’s most famous waterfalls, which is visible from a viewpoint. It’s a quick, stroller-friendly stop that gives you a taste of Kauai’s natural beauty without much effort.

For accommodation, Marriott’s Kauai Beach Club is a great family-friendly option. It offers spacious suites and easy access to Kalapaki Beach.

South Shore

The South Shore of Kauai is known for its sunny weather, stunning beaches, and family-friendly resorts. Have your phone ready to capture the iconic Tree Tunnel on the drive in!

This region is the most popular for visitors, thanks to its predictable weather and abundance of activities. It is a great choice for families who want to be close to the action while still enjoying a laid-back vibe focused on luxury and convenience.  

Poipu

Poipu is a resort town that is lively and walkable. Poipu Beach Park is a beautiful, calm bay where kids can safely swim and snorkel. This is also a great spot to catch the sunset, play on the playground, and see Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on the shore. Grab a casual bite across the street at Puka Dog, where you can enjoy a unique twist on the classic hot dog, Hawaii-style.

For resort stays, you can’t go wrong with Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa or Koloa Landing Resort. For oceanfront dining with stunning sunset views, make a reservation at The Beach House, a great place to celebrate a special occasion. If your kids are young, ask for a table outside!

Related: Where to Eat on Kauai with Kids.

Koloa

Koloa is a charming, historic community, just inland from Poipu and offering a glimpse into Kauai’s sugar plantation past. Its quaint, walkable streets are lined with local shops, cafes, and a few great spots to grab a quick bite.

A short drive to Spouting Horn Blowhole is an easy must-see, where water shoots into the air through a natural lava tube. Across the street, you’ll find Allerton Botanical Garden, a beautiful spot to explore and learn about native Hawaiian plants. 

If you’re traveling with babies or toddlers, Keiki Cove Beach is a safe, shallow spot perfect for little ones to splash around in. And the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail is a stunning coastal hike that’s doable for older kids and offers breathtaking views of the rugged shoreline. 

For a quick pick-me-up, Kauai Juice Co. in Old Koloa Town is a great stop for fresh, grab-and-go juices and snacks—perfect for fueling up before or after a day of exploring. For a treat, The Fresh Shave is the place to be! Check their Instagram for secret menu items before stopping by! 

West Side

The West Side of Kauai is known for its rugged beauty and laid-back, local vibe. This quieter region offers incredible outdoor adventures and is less developed than other parts of Kauai, with small, sleepy towns and fewer resorts. Still, it’s a must-visit for families seeking scenic drives, hiking, and off-the-beaten-path exploration.

Hanapepe

Often referred to as Kauai’s “biggest little town,” Hanapepe is a charming, artsy spot on the West Side. Known for its galleries and boutiques, it’s a great place to pick up local art and unique souvenirs. 

My kids are obsessed with walking over the historic Swinging Bridge, and our family adores Talk Story Bookstore, the westernmost bookstore in the United States.

Every Friday night, Hanapepe comes alive with its famous Art Night, where local artists display their work, and food vendors offer local treats.

Salt Pond Beach Park is just a short drive away. This calm, family-friendly beach is perfect for a picnic or a day of swimming. For a unique treasure-hunting experience, visit Glass Beach, where tiny fragments of sea glass can be found along the shore (Just don’t take any rocks back with you from Hawaii – it’s bad luck!)

Waimea

Waimea is a small, historic town on Kauai’s West Side, best known as the gateway to Waimea Canyon. The town itself has a laid-back, old Hawaii vibe, with plenty of local shops and eateries. For a place to stay, the Waimea Plantation Cottages are a fantastic option, offering a cozy, homey vibe while traveling with kids. 

If you’re here exploring Waimea Canyon with little ones, a visit to the red dirt waterfall is an easy stop (mile marker 23). The 0.3-mile Iliau Nature Loop is an easy hike offering panoramic views of the canyon. And, if you’re up for a longer drive, head to Koke’e State Park and check out the Kalalau Valley Lookout—it’s one of the safest and most stunning ways to see the Na Pali Coast from land with kids.

After exploring the canyon, you can stop by Waimea Pier to check out a black sand beach, followed by a treat for the whole family at Jojo’s Shave Ice (don’t forget a scoop of icecream on the bottom)!

Kauai With Kids Wrap-Up

The island of Kauai is one of my favorite places on earth, and sharing it with my kids is has been such a privilege. This island is great for families searching for nature, adventure, and laid-back island vibes. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, exploring lush valleys, or tubing down an old sugar plantation canal, Kauai will fill your cup.