One of the most rugged islands in Hawaii, Kauai has earned its “Garden Island” moniker. Rainforests cover much of Kauai, and many parts of the island are accessible only by boat or plane. To experience Kauai at its best, you’ll go sailing along Na’Palli Beach, soar high over Waimea Canyon, and explore the rough terrain at Kipu Ranch – all while enjoying the calm atmosphere of the island of Kauai. while taking. Here’s how to make the most of 48 hours on Kauai.
How To Spend 48 Hours on Kauai
Day 1: Morning
10 a.m.: Finding out where to stay in Kauai is key. With only one road circling around the island where you stay, your travel time has a significant impact on various activities. Kauai’s rugged nature means that there is also a diverse assortment of accommodation options. If you want to communicate with nature, Waimea Plantation Cottage is an excellent choice.
Each cottage is a mini-home with a full kitchenette, living room, and veranda. Grilles come with some cabins, and Kauai’s natural landscape surrounds each one. A black sand beach is located on the edge of the property.
If you’re looking for a little more luxury and pampering, Kauai Beach Resorts is the way to go. The hotel has its own beautiful beach as well as multiple pools, hot tubs, and even a water slide for the kids, a daily gourmet breakfast buffet as well as a lounge bar, and a pool bar, so You are never too far from Hawaii. Signature Mai Tai.
Once you check-in, have a healthy breakfast at Little Fish Coffee. This local coffee shop offers Kauai-grown coffee beans and healthy papaya and acai bowls. The menu also includes bagels and other sandwiches if you want a little more fuel.
11 a.m.: Waimea Canyon is a necessity for every visitor to Kauai. It is called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. This 3,600-foot-deep canyon is 14 miles long and a mile wide and is truly a sight to behold. As you drive through the state park, there are many opportunities to pull over and take photos along the way at various lookouts. For those wanting a more intimate and personal experience with the canyon, there are several hiking trails for both beginners and experienced hikers. Different trails will take you to the top of the canyon or to the top of Waipo’o Falls for a spectacular view.
Day 1: Afternoon
1 p.m.: If you choose to go hiking through the canyon, even on a short hike, you’ll be covered in red dust. So a casual lunch spot is a way to go. Porky’s is a quick sandwich counter that offers Hawaiian pulled pork prepared in the style of your choice. If you want to experience the freshest hit on the island then Fish Express is the place to go. They also have other traditional Hawaiian options such as lau lau, and pork cooked in taro leaves.
3 p.m.: For more stunning landscapes, head to Kipu Ranch Adventures. This privately-owned cattle ranch operates guided ATV tours across 3,000 acres. If the incredible views aren’t enough, the company guides are incredibly knowledgeable about the terrain and the history of the ranch and Kauai in general. You’ll get a one-of-a-kind idea as you learn how animal husbandry has played a big part in Kauai’s history.
Day 1: Evening
7 pm: Experience a local flavor at Eating House 1848. Named Hawaii’s first restaurant, Eating House 1848 follows in the footsteps of its predecessor, serving dishes made only with local ingredients. Merriman’s Fish House is another great farm-to-table restaurant that was a driving force in the expansion of Hawaiian farming beyond pineapple and sugarcane.
9 p.m.: Let’s be frank: Kauai isn’t known for its nightlife. Most establishments close by 10 p.m., but if you need to indulge or dance until late into the night, the Trees Lounge in Kapa has live music until 12:30 a.m., and Rob’s Good Time Grille hosts a live sports event. There is a bar which remains open till 2 pm. am.
Day 2: Morning
9 a.m.: Jawa Kai, a local surf-themed coffee shop, has an array of breakfast options and quick service—ideal for fueling up before a long day of adventure. Have a hearty power bowl filled with eggs, bacon, pesto, mozzarella, beets, and sprouts.
10 a.m.: If ever there was a place to take a helicopter trip, it is Kauai. Much of Hawaii is used for nature reserves and agriculture and is not publicly accessible, so to really take all of Kauai’s rugged landscape, you have to do it from the top. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters offers air tours to the most remote parts of Kauai. Pilots can fly you through the Waimea Valley, over mountains, and into huge potholes. Their highly trained pilots are well educated on the history and landscape of Kauai and give lots of references along the way.
Day 2: Afternoon
12 p.m.: Visitors often flock to Kauai’s North Shore, which is filled with stunning beaches, quaint towns, and celebrity homes. Much of this area was completely submerged after the devastating storm in 2018. It reopened in July of 2019, and since then, locals have been striving for more sustainable tourism in the small community. They have set up a shuttle that will drop you off at the end of the route – the very popular K’E Beach in Hena State Park. Permits are now required for visitors and must be purchased in advance.
3 p.m.: You can stop in several small towns along the North Shore for local fares. Some favorites are Tiki Iniki Tiki Bar & Restaurant, Hanalei Taro & Juice Company for some healthier options, or Trucking Delicious. Locals love this permanently parked food truck; There may be wait times during lunchtime, but it’s worth it.
Day 2: Evening
4 p.m.: Head back to the south end of the island for Blue Dolphin Charters’ Na Pali Coast sunset dinner cruise. One of the true gems of Kauai is the stunning Na Pali beach. It is challenging to reach on your own, so a tour or dinner cruise is one of the best ways to experience this natural beauty. The tour will head up to the Na Pali Coast and take you up close and personal with a few waterfalls. Dinner is served on the boat, and an open bar means you are guaranteed a good time. You’ll be out on the water to watch one of the best possible sunsets.
8 p.m.: If you’re in the mood for another night, you have a few options. Mahiko’s Lounge is a charming jazz bar that’s open until 10 p.m., and Keoki’s Paradise is primarily a restaurant but does have a bar that runs until 11:30 p.m.
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