Imagine waking up to a view of golden-sand beaches or walking hand in hand in lush green gardens admiring exotic bird and plant species. When you honeymoon in Kauai, this is your reality.
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Is Kauai a Good Place for a Honeymoon?
Kauai is a quiet, relaxed island and one of the best places for a romantic getaway. It’s easily accessible and has much to offer, regardless of your preferences. Fondly known as the Garden Isle, Kauai is the perfect place to enjoy pristine beaches, lush green mountain forests, and scenic walking and hiking trails.
What Activities Can You Do on a Kauai Honeymoon?
Kauai is the mecca of outdoor activities for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. You can explore this charming and unconquered island through numerous activities such as:
- Hiking at Waimea Canyon
- A boat ride along the Napali coast
- Horseback riding
- Helicopter tours
- Zipline lining
- Bike riding
- Romantic walks
- Water activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, and whale watching
What Is the Best Month to Visit Kauai?
The best time to visit Kauai is between April and October. These months have little rainfall, which is perfect for exploring the outdoors. Generally, this mystical island has warm weather throughout the year—however, November to March experience high rainfall.
Is a Kauai Honeymoon Expensive?
Kauai is generally expensive since it’s isolated from the US and is among the most popular Hawaiian Islands. On average, an 8-day trip for two may cost $4,000-9,000. However, you may spend less or more depending on your time of visit, type of food & accommodation, and excursions.
How To Plan a Budget Honeymoon in Kauai
- Visit free public beaches. Beaches inside state parks charge a nominal fee.
- Explore free and cheap activities such as walking, birdwatching, hiking, and sightseeing.
- Rent a vacation rental/Airbnb and live like a local.
- Cook some meals and carry packed lunches. Groceries are cheaper in local markets allowing you to save on food.
- Eat local at the farmers’ market, cafes, and food trucks.
- Check out honeymoon packages for flights and accommodation.
- Explore budget-friendly accommodation in less touristy areas, including condos and inns.
- Use public transport instead of renting a car.
5 Best Towns to Stay In Kauai
Although Kauai may not have bustling cities like Honolulu, it has some of the most welcoming towns for the perfect getaway with your significant other. You’ll find luxurious and budget-friendly accommodations and excursions for a memorable experience. Here are the five best towns to consider:
Princeville
This is one of the most scenic towns on Kauai’s north shore. It’s perfect for luxury-seeking couples with luxurious hotels, spa treatments, holiday homes, villas, and stunning golf courses. Hanalei Bay is a scenic and peaceful beach and the largest on the north shore. Drive 30 minutes to the Nā Pali Coast to see where Jurassic Park was filmed—marvel at the lush landscape and spectacular ocean views.
Activities include:
- Snorkeling at Pali Ke Kua Beach
- Sightseeing at Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge
- Hiking at Hanalei Valley or the Kalalau Trail
- Sightseeing from an aerial view on a helicopter tour
- Taking pictures as you wade through the crystal-clear waters of the queen’s bath tide pools
Where to stay: Hanalei Bay, Princeville town, Kilaulea
Lihue
Lihue is Kauai’s capital city gateway because it’s home to the island’s airport. It has many shopping centers and is a great starting point. One of the most traditional and iconic luaus takes place here, the Luau Kalamaku. In addition, it has some of the most beautiful beaches.
Activities include:
- Enjoying lazy days and watersports such as swimming and surfing at Kalapaki Beach
- Exploring Koloa’s old town
- Visiting the Kauai Museum to learn about local culture and history
- Enjoying local cuisine from the numerous street food carts
Where to stay: Puhi, Nawiliwili, Hanamaulu
Kapaa
Located in East Kauai, it’s the largest town on the island. It’s a popular honeymoon destination, especially on a budget, with its affordable accommodation and excursions. It has excellent walking and hiking trails along picturesque beaches and mountains.
Activities include:
- Hiking Nounou mountain and walking the spacious beaches
- Water sports such as swimming and windsurfing
- Boat riding and kayaking at Wailua River
- Sightseeing at Fern Grotto and Opaekaa Waterfalls
- Horseback riding at Esprit de Corps Riding Academy
- Biking along the coastline
Where to stay: Wailua, Kapaa town, Anahola
Poipu
Poipu is the best place along Kauai’s south shore. This city has excellent surf, underwater caverns, and lifeguards on duty. Apart from the breathtaking white-sand beaches, you’ll enjoy the awe-inspiring views of Manawaiopuna Falls (Jurassic Park Falls) and Kahili Mountain.
Activities include:
- Swimming the crystal clear waters at Poipu Beach Park
- Taking photos with the seals
- Romantic walks in the Limahuli Garden and Preserve
- Exploring the Maha’ Ulepu Trail
- Surfing at Shipwreck Beach
Where to stay: Poipu Beach
Waimea
Like the Big Island, Kauai has a Waimea on its west coast. It has the best scenery, with the incredible Waimea Canyon and the famous Napali Coast. It is rich in paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) history and is the first place Captain James Cook set foot in 1778. Honeymooners prefer this side since it’s less popular, quiet, and less crowded.
Activities include:
- Hiking Waimea Canyon State Park (the Grand Canyon of the Pacific) for incredible views of its reddish hues and rock formations. You can also admire the scenic waterfalls and the Pacific Ocean.
- Boat riding along the Napali Coast for the island’s most stunning views
- Camping and sunbathing at the tranquil Polihale State Park Beach
- Enjoying Hawaiian seafood such as fish tacos and shrimp
Where to stay: Napali Coast, Kekaha, Waimea
What Is the Best Way to Travel to Kauai?
The best way to travel to Kauai is by flight. It’s about six hours from the east coast and twelve hours from the west coast. You can get direct flights to Kauai’s Lihue airport or have a layover in Oahu’s Honolulu airport, followed by a short flight to Kauai.
Other alternatives include landing at Kahului Airport (Maui) or Kona international airport (the Big Island) and proceeding to Kauai.
Traveling Within Kauai
Kauai has two major highways making it easy to get around by car. The most popular ways to get around the Garden Island include the following:
- Rental car: The best way to enjoy this island is by renting a vehicle for easier and faster movement between towns.
- Public transport: Kauai has a cheap bus system with limited time and routes.
- Private shuttles: You can usually find shuttles to provide short trips at Lihue airport.
- Taxis: You can take a cab, Uber, or download the local app, Holoholo.
- Biking: You can rent a bike if you don’t mind slow travel. Motorcycles and scooters are also available for more speed.
- Walking: You can walk to various places, such as nearby beaches, mountains, and waterfalls.
What Types of Honeymoon Accommodations Are Available in Kauai?
Kauai is diverse when it comes to accommodation types. The best part is you’ll find excellent places to suit your budget and honeymoon fantasies. Here are the most popular:
- Honeymoon resorts: Perfect for couples looking to splurge for a royalty treatment. They feature spas, golf courses, and private poolside cabanas.
- Luxury hotels and condos: Many have fitness centers, swimming pools, and pool bars.
- Mid-range hotels: They have excellent services, including breakfast and common areas.
- Vacation rentals: These are fully equipped with kitchens where you can make meals.
- Beachfront cottages: Look on Airbnb or vrbo for private rental homes with ocean views.
What Type of Food Should You Try in Kauai?
Kauai’s dishes include a mixture of different cuisines from across the world. Kauai residents come from different ethnicities, each bringing their culinary skills and traditional foods, which have evolved into unique Kauai dishes. The most popular include:
- Poke: A must-try raw fish dish made of tuna or tako fish (octopus) sliced into cubes and seasoned. It’s usually served as an appetizer/salad.
- Poi: A staple in Kauai made from mashed taro roots and resembles mashed potatoes. You can eat it as a dessert or as baked bread.
- Lomi lomi: A popular fish dish made from salted salmon and usually served with tomatoes and sweet green onions.
Are There Any Cultural Experiences to Include in a Kauai Honeymoon?
In addition to the magnificent white sand beaches and scenic hiking trails, Kauai has a rich culture encompassed in its music, dance, food, and festivals. Here are three great ways to learn more about Kauai’s culture:
- Immerse yourself in the spirit of aloha: Once you land on this island, you’ll notice a change in mood. In Kauai, everybody is happier and more friendly since they’re raised to always find the good in people. So, eliminate the bad vibes and say aloha to this tranquil island.
- Luau and hula dance: A luau is a Hawaiian feast, and Kauai will give you the best experience. It involves food, song, and dance and usually starts at sundown by the beach. Apart from dancing the hula, it’s the perfect place to try all the local delicacies.
- Mokihana Festival and Lei Day: Mokihana is an annual (September) Kauai festival that lasts eight days. It involves celebrating local art, and artists open their doors to the public. And on Lei Day (May 1st), everybody wears a lei in the spirit of aloha.
What to Pack For a Honeymoon in Kauai
Packing for a Kauai honeymoon shouldn’t be complicated since it’s usually warm (except during the rainy months). Generally, the island is casual, so what you pack depends on your preferences. Some basics you should include are:
- Casual wear
- Light rain jacket
- Beach essentials (hat, sunscreen, swimsuits, etc.)
- Hiking gear
- Documentation (driving license, passports)
- Water shoes
- Backpack
- Water bottle
- Portable charge
- Personal medicines and toiletries
- Mosquito repellent
Is Kauai Safe to Visit?
Kauai is a safe place to visit since there’s a low crime rate. However, always stay alert to protect yourself from the unexpected. Remember the following:
- Mind your belongings at all times.
- Honor beach precautions and warning signs.
- Don’t get into deep waters if you don’t know how to swim well.
- Avoid touching, feeding, or scaring sea animals.
- Avoid deserted areas, including hiking trails, as much as you want privacy.
- Always choose comfortable hiking trails, especially if you’re a beginner.
- Avoid hiking in the rain.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit Hawaii?
US citizens do not need a visa to visit Kauai. The Hawaiian Islands are part of the United States, so your government-issued ID is all you need.
Bonus Tips For Your Kauai Honeymoon
- Hawaii has two official languages, Olelo Hawai’i and English.
- Many people remove their shoes before entering a home.
- Plastic bags are banned in Hawaii. Bring your own canvas or nylon shopping bag.
- Hawaii uses the USD.
- Never refuse a lei; unless you are pregnant and handed a closed lei. Click here for more lei etiquette.