Close your eyes and imagine gorgeous waterfalls, lush greenery, and mountainscapes… this is Kauai. Aptly nicknamed “The Garden Island,” the fourth largest of Hawaii’s islands encompasses laid-back aloha vibes. It’s also the perfect trip for families with kids.
The abundance of activities to do and places to visit is enough to excite parents and keiki (the Hawaiian word for “children”) alike! If you’ve been waiting for the moment to visit Hawaiian Air and book those tickets, this is it.
Kid-Friendly Attractions in Kauai
Little fans of Thomas the Tank Engine will get a kick out of riding on the Kauai Plantation Railway at Kilohana. The tour takes riders through tons of plants and fruit groves, provides a narration on the history of the plantation, and lets riders get off to pet and interact with the farm’s animals, like pigs, goats, and sheep.
Kauai is home to three of Hawaii’s top 15 golf courses (if you need a reason to convince your partner), but for the littler pros, check out the mini golf course at Anaina Hou Community Park. The course is amongst a garden that interweaves information about the story of the island’s people and its indigenous flora and fauna.
The town of Hanapepe wasn’t intended to be a kid attraction, but with the success of Disney’s Lilo & Stitch, kids will be excited to see the quaint town that inspired the film. Nicknamed “Kauai’s Biggest Little Town,” the main street includes an old swinging bridge, a vintage bookstore, and Midnight Bear Breads, a great stop for a sweet snack. And, of course, a photo in front of the Lilo & Stitch mural is a must-do.
Outdoor Activities in Kauai for Kids
Photo credit: Koloa Landing Resort
With nearly perfect weather, ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s year round, there is so much to explore in the great outdoors! I recommend renting a car while there so that you can take your time exploring this gorgeous island.
Kauai is home to Waimea Canyon, or, as most people refer to it, “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Drive to the lookout point to get sweeping views of the canyon and Instagram-worthy family photos.
While the island has eight waterfalls, the Ōpaeka’a Falls and Wailua Falls are the most accessible, with lookouts right along the main road.
For the more adventurous kiddos (and slightly older ones), there are helicopter rides available where you can get aerial views of these locations plus so much more, including the island’s Nāpali Coast, a rugged coastline full of natural beauty — much of which can not be visited by foot. If your family isn’t one for heights, take a tour of the coast by boat. Many boat tours, like this family-run one on the Amelia, offer snorkeling as well.
Kauai is also home to the only navigable rivers in Hawaii. Take advantage of this and kayak the Wailua River. Families with younger children can take a guided river paddle tour, while more active families with older kids can take a kayak tour that includes an at-times challenging hike to the breathtaking Sacred Falls.
For a zipline adventure, kids (and adults) 7 and up should visit the longest zipline on the island, Koloa Zipline. The three-and-a-half-hour adventure consists of eight lines that soar above what was once Hawaii’s first sugar plantation. The company also offers a tandem zipline for kids who need a bit more parental support.
Continuing on with the adventurous kind, Kauai Backcountry Adventures leads a Mountain Tubing Adventure, in which kids ages 5 and up (and up and up as it’s an adult favorite activity here as well) can coast down the gentle flowing waters, through open canals and tunnels dug amongst this former plantation land. The same company also offers a zipline tour for kids ages 12 and up.
For a way to explore on land, rent a bicycle and ride along the 7.6-mile Ke Ala Hele Makalae trail in Kapa’a, on the island’s eastern side. The path is paved and separate from the highway, making it great for kids. If you prefer to walk, or even have a stroller in tow, you can take in the scenic views along the coast by foot as well. Begin the trail at Lydgate Beach Park (off Nalu Road).
If you are looking for a beach day, Lydgate Beach is also ideal for families, as it has a swimmable pond area and a playground. Baby Beach in Koloa is another great bet. With easy access, small tidal areas that kids can wade in, and — if you’re lucky — turtle spotting, this is another family-friendly beach. Similarly, Poipu Beach, just minutes down the road, is a similarly popular spot.
Best Eats for Kids in Kauai
Pizza that holds up to NYC standards is hard to believe, but it’s true. JP’s Pizza has gotten quite the buzz for its standout selection of pizzas, all made by 19-year-old Xavier John Paul Machado (AKA JP), a pizza prodigy! The small spot is takeout only.
Duke’s Kauai is a quintessentially Hawaiian restaurant. There is the main dining room and the Barefoot Bar, which is steps from the beach if you want a more casual spot. Kids will love their famous Hula Pie, but be prepared for that sugar high. (Hey, it’s vacation!)
For a pinch of sophistication but still kid-appropriate, try Rumfire at the Sheraton Kauai. The spot offers oceanfront views, a menu filled with fresh seafood and steak options (I suggest getting a duo so you can have both), and a keiki menu with a few basic plates for pickier eaters.
You’ve probably been told to get shaved ice if you visit Hawaii, right? To make that happen, head to Hee Fat General Store in Old Kapa’a Town. Shop your way through the store to reach the shaved ice stand. The homemade natural fruit flavors in the syrup make these ices stand out.You’ve probably been told to get shaved ice if visiting Hawaii, right? Head to Hee Fat General Store in Old Kapa’a Town to make that happen. Shop your way through the store to reach the shaved ice stand. The homemade natural fruit flavors for the syrup make these ices stand out.
For dinner and a show, there is no more family-friendly activity that comes to mind than a luau. Visit Aulii Luau Luau for one that takes viewers on a journey through the island’s heritage and offers a traditional luau buffet.
Where to Stay With Kids in Kauai
Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu
I recommend staying on the south side of the island, as it is the driest part of the island. (Kauai is the rainiest of the Hawaiian islands.) It is also home to Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, my top choice for families visiting Kauai.
The resort caters to kids; the moment they arrive, they are invited to join the Kauai is for Kids Scavenger Hunt. Additionally, the property has tons of kid-friendly activities like a s’mores night and lei-making classes. There are also fields with soccer nets, volleyball nets, and one to play mini golf on. All of this means more time for Mom and Dad to relax by the pool or sneak in a spa treatment. And speaking of pools, they are the centerpiece of this property. There are three in total, and they include waterslides for kids, a keiki splash pad, and a quieter, more hidden adults-only one.
Lastly, our family loved that all the rooms (and they have everything from studios to a four-bedroom penthouse) have their own washer and dryer, as well as kitchens complete with cooktops, microwaves, and refrigerators.
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